Property Hunter Magazine Issue 63- February 2015 | Page 31

property market, developers and property industry executives say Singaporeans are emerging as a serious player where properties are mainly purchased through developer seminars, exhibitions, and local agents.Australian properties are also making their presence felt at property expos in major cities in Malaysia. THE RISE OF AUSTRALIA Malaysian investors have a long association with Australia’s real estate market and the trend has been steadily growing through the years. Emil Andrawo, an Australian property consultant who has been actively exploring the Malaysian investor market, says the confidence in Australia’s property market is due to its sustained investment growth. “With over 25 years involvement in the Australian property market, I have come to the conclusion that real wealth in Australia has been achieved through long term investment in Australian properties,” opines Andrawo. “Malaysian citizens have traditionally invested in Australian real estate for lots of reasons, one of which is the safety of their investment, having very conservative and responsible governments of all persuasions, as well as the steady appreciation of the property values.” The larger, more dynamic cities on the east coast have enjoyed top billing for a while now but other cities, even in the western region, are picking up interest. “Sydney has had the biggest share, but recently Perth has started to fare well due to lower value properties than Sydney and what the city has to offer Malaysian students as far as courses and training, not forgetting how close Perth is to Malaysia, with direct flights to Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu.” “Long term, because property, like other investment products goes through economic cycles, usually between 8 and 12 years, during which property values usually double in value. “ Andrawo also attributes Australia’s stable economy and political climate in holding up steady interest amongst Malaysian investors in its property market. Perth WESTERN AUSTRALIA www.PropertyHunter.com.my 31