Property analysts expect Bidadari to be most popular housing area

Hu Jielan and Eileen Poh Channel NewsAsia 30 Aug 13;

SINGAPORE: Bidadari is expected to be the most popular of the three recently announced housing areas among home buyers due to the area’s convenient location.

Property analysts compared the area with Punggol Matilda and Tampines North and said that Bidadari’s city-fringed location and proximity to two MRT stations will work in its favour, especially among younger people.

The experts said that even its history as a cemetery is unlikely to ward off potential buyers.

Eugene Lim, ERA’s key executive officer, said: "I think by and large, most people have got around the superstition thing. And most of the buyers today are younger, and they actually look at the concept as a whole, the region as a whole, and are not very superstitious anymore."

Analysts expect Punggol Matilda to be the next popular choice among home buyers with its waterfront location.

While buyers can look forward to new urban design concepts in the three areas, analysts said they do not expect prices to differ much from the new flats in other locations.

PropNex David Poh & Associate Pte Ltd Managing Director David Poh said: "With new concepts, new designs and facilities, cost of construction will go up. But I don't think the price of BTOs (Build-To-Order) will go up because of this. The government has announced that they want to make BTOs affordable for any Singaporeans who want to buy a flat."

The Housing and Development Board (HDB) is seeking public feedback on development plans for the three housing areas.

Members of the public can view an exhibition showcasing the plans at HDB Hub Atrium till September 15.

- CNA/gn