There has been a growing demand for condominiums in Klang Valley over the past decade. The growth and development in this urban area have created ample job opportunities, causing an influx of working adults who require housing.

With their central location, accessibility, and myriad facilities, condos have become incredibly popular among these urban dwellers. As such, investing in condos can be very lucrative for investors.

Here are some tips for choosing the right investment condo in Malaysia.

Factors Making Malaysian Condos a Prime Investment Opportunity

Condos are an ideal choice for those looking to buy an investment property in Malaysia for many reasons, including:

• Condos are often strategically located with easy access to expressways and in proximity to commercial hubs, transport networks, and amenities. This location advantage makes condominiums very attractive to potential renters. For example, LBS Bina’s Prestige Residence has everything residents may need – educational institutions such as SJK(C) Bukit Serdang and SMK Taman Desaminium, and shopping amenities like AEON Mall Taman Equine and Giant Hypermarket – all just a stone’s throw away.

•  The Malaysian property market offers competitive pricing compared to global property markets.

• Condos can provide strong rental yields for investors, especially in key cities. Many working adults in urban areas prefer staying in condominiums due to their attractive location and facilities, which boost demand and rental yields.

Evaluating the ROI on Condo Investments in Malaysia

For investors, a crucial aspect of purchasing a condo as an investment property is evaluating its potential return on investment (ROI). The ROI for properties is typically derived from rental yields and property appreciation.

Luxury condominiums strategically positioned in prime locations hold significant potential for generating high rental income and experiencing property appreciation. The key to securing a favorable ROI lies in making informed choices, particularly in selecting the right condo in the optimal location. This strategic decision-making process is essential for maximizing returns on your investment in the property market.

Tips to Consider When Buying a Condo for Investment in Malaysia

Doing comprehensive market research is vital before undertaking a significant investment such as purchasing a property. Here are some important things to consider when buying a condo for investment:

• It’s all about location. Investors should identify prime locations based on potential growth and future development plans. For example, up-and-coming areas with increasing commercial activities and public transport links are a great choice.

•  Investors should look into property valuation and the factors that influence it to avoid purchasing a condo at an inflated price. To safeguard your ROI, you need to make sure that you pay a fair price for your property.

• There are also legal and regulatory aspects to keep in mind during the buying process. For example, making sure that a strata title is obtained for your high-rise investment is crucial as it provides proof of ownership.

Purchasing your condo investment property from a reputable developer like LBS Bina will save you a lot of headaches by ensuring a smooth transaction process.

Diverse Condo Investment Properties for Varied Investment Goals

There are different types of condominiums available for investment in Malaysia. The type of condo you invest in will depend on your budget and investment goals.

Standard condos with basic amenities are cheaper and can garner a fairly good rental income, making them suitable for those who want to secure modest additional income over the long term.

Luxury condominiums with fully equipped amenities, on the other hand, tend to be more expensive but have great potential for high rental yield and property appreciation. This is a good choice for investors with the intention of reselling their property at a profit.

SkyLake Residence, LBS Bina’s new investment condos for sale, offers the best of both worlds – all the elegance and facilities of a luxury condominium coupled with an affordable price tag.

Begin Your Condo Investment Journey with LBS Bina Now

Here are two key takeaways to bear in mind when buying a condo for investment in Malaysia:

1. Always go for a reputable developer with a stellar track record to ensure quality construction.

2. A well-located condominium with easy access to amenities can boost the desirability of a condo unit for both rental and resale purposes.

Start your investment journey with strategically located luxury condominiums by LBS Bina, a trusted developer in Malaysia. Contact us today to learn more.

Malay Reserve Land, also known as “Tanah Rizab Melayu”, is one of the privileges granted to Malays in the Malaysian constitution. These properties are an excellent choice for Malay home buyers looking to purchase their dream home.

However, confusion about Malay Reserve Land often hinders buyers from exploring this option. Here’s a guide to help you learn more about Malay Reserve Land and why it’s a good choice for Malay home buyers.

What is Malay Reserve Land and How Does it Differ from Regular Property?

Malay Reserve Land refers to land that can only be sold to and owned by Malay Muslims.

One of the major benefits of purchasing a property in a Malay Reserve Land in Malaysia is that you get to enjoy cheaper prices compared to other similar properties in the area. The cost of Malay Reserve Land is generally lower, translating into more affordable property prices for buyers.

There is a common misconception that because property prices are lower, the properties on Malay Reserve Land are somehow subpar compared to others. This, however, is completely untrue. When you purchase property from a trusted developer like LBS Bina, exceptional quality and design are guaranteed.

The Benefits of Malay Reserve Land Compared to Bumi Lots

People often think that Malay Reserve Land is just another term for Bumi Lots, but this isn’t the case; there are distinct differences between the two.

Bumi lots can only be sold to the Bumiputera community in Malaysia, which comprises Malay Muslims, the indigenous people of Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak, and non-Malay Muslims. This differs from Malay Reserve Land, which can only be sold to Malay Muslims.

It is almost impossible to release ownership of a Malay Reserve Land to a non-Malay, unless another piece of similar land of equal value is provided as a replacement. Bumi lots, however, can be sold to non-Bumi buyers under certain circumstances.

Exploring How LBS Bina Balances Land Development with Cultural Preservation

In its commitment to harmonize land development with cultural preservation, LBS Bina presents a thoughtful exploration of housing projects tailored for Malay home buyers in Malaysia.

For those seeking to invest in property, LBS Bina introduces several Malay Reserved Land housing projects, exemplifying a delicate balance between modern development and the preservation of cultural heritage. Among these projects, KITA Sejati and KITA Bestari stand out as integral components of the KITA @ Cybersouth development.

These meticulously planned developments provide a diverse range of double-storey terrace houses, single-storey terrace houses, apartments and townhouses, catering to the preferences and needs of Malay home buyers. Nestled within a gated and guarded township, KITA @ Cybersouth is not just about acquiring a property; it is a visionary concept designed for families aspiring to realize their dream home while fostering a strong sense of community.

Prime Amenities and Lifestyle at this Malay Reserve Land Project

LBS Bina’s impressive Malay Reserve Land project provides easy accessibility to expressways such as Putrajaya-Cyberjaya Expressway, Maju Expressway (MEX), South Klang Valley Expressway (SKVE), and Damansara-Puchong Highway (LDP), making it easy for you to move around the Klang Valley area.

The strategic location of KITA @ Cybersouth ensures residents have convenient access to a range of amenities, including shopping centres like D’Pulze Shopping Centre, educational institutions such as UiTM Kampus Dengkil, and healthcare facilities like Putrajaya Hospital. This location strikes a harmonious balance between convenience and serenity, offering residents the best of both worlds. Residents can also enjoy a wide array of facilities such as gymnasiums, swimming pools, playgrounds, and BBQ lounges.

It’s the perfect place for those who want the perks of city convenience along with the tranquillity of a suburban paradise.

KITA Sejati & Bestari: Your Dream Properties on Malay Reserved Land in Malaysia

LBS Bina is committed to developing Malay Reserve Land and building quality homes for Malay property seekers. Our properties, with their unique blend of convenience and serenity, are a great choice for those looking to put down roots and create a lifetime of family memories.

Check out KITA Sejati and KITA Bestari to find your dream home today.

Buying your first home is exciting! However, the process of securing a housing loan can be nerve-racking. More and more Malaysians are experiencing challenges in securing housing loans, which makes the process all the more daunting.

However, the best way to tackle this issue is to learn about the options available to you and make an informed decision that best suits your financial situation. Here’s what you need to know about the housing loans available in Malaysia:

Understanding the Basics of a Housing Loan and Its Interest Rates in Malaysia

Housing loans are funds borrowed from a financial institution to help you cover the cost of purchasing a home. Borrowers then repay these funds over a certain period, with interest.

There are typically two types of housing loan interest rates, namely fixed rates and variable rates. For fixed rate loans, the interest rate remains the same throughout the loan period.

For variable rate housing loans in Malaysia, on the other hand, the interest rate varies depending on the Base Rate (BR). A decrease in the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) set by Bank Negara Malaysia can lead to lower variable housing loan rates and vice versa.

Types of Bank Loans for Homebuyers in Malaysia

Banks offer various types of housing loans to cater to the diverse financial needs and preferences of borrowers, including:

Basic Term Loan

With basic term loans, you pay a fixed monthly installment throughout the loan period. This makes it easy for you to plan your finances as there are no changes to the monthly installments.

However, this type of loan lacks flexibility as you cannot make additional payments to reduce the loan principal and interest. In fact, banks often charge a penalty if you want to settle the loan early. 

Semi-Flexi Loans

Semi-flexi loans are the most common type of housing loan offered by banks in Malaysia. They offer more flexibility than basic term loans. You can make additional payments to reduce the loan principal and interest whenever you have extra money.

You can also withdraw these additional payments if you are strapped for cash. However, withdrawals may be subject to the bank’s approval and processing fees. 

Also, the interest rate for semi-flexi loans may be higher than basic term loans, but you can try to shop around for the best rate.

Full-Flexi Loans

As the name suggests, flexi-loans are incredibly flexible. Just like semi-flexi loans, you can make additional payments to reduce the loan principal and interest at any time. These additional funds can be easily withdrawn without any hassle when you are in a pinch.

However, flexi-loans often incur a small monthly maintenance fee, which is an additional cost to you. Also, the interest rates for these loans are typically higher than basic term loans. Do take note that flexi-loans are not offered by many banks in Malaysia.

Islamic Loans

Unlike the conventional loans listed above, Islamic loans based on Shariah principles do not charge interest. Instead, Islamic housing loans work on the basis of a partnership.

You and the bank jointly purchase and own the property, with the bank having a higher ownership holding. You then pay the bank in installments until you acquire full ownership, almost like a rent-to-own concept. The bank earns a profit by selling its share of the property to you at a higher price than it originally paid.

You don’t have to be a Muslim to apply for Islamic housing loans; it is open to all Malaysians.

Government Housing Loans

Lembaga Pembiayaan Perumahan Sektor Awam (LPPSA) offers this special loan for civil servants. With government housing loans, you can opt for a longer loan tenure (up to 90 years of age) to reduce your monthly installments and enjoy a fixed interest rate of 4%. 

Refer to the LPPSA website to calculate your loan eligibility.

Factors to Consider Beyond Housing Loan Interest Rates for Your Dream House

While securing a housing loan is a pivotal step in the property buying process, several other crucial factors warrant careful consideration when selecting your dream home. Beyond the housing loan interest rates, aspects such as location, amenities, accessibility, and property size play pivotal roles in making an informed decision.

The location of your prospective home is not just about proximity to work; it also involves assessing the neighbourhood, nearby facilities, and the overall ambience. Accessibility is another critical factor to weigh. Consider the proximity to public transport, major highways, and essential services. 

Property size is a personal preference that aligns with your lifestyle and future plans. To assist your decision-making process, make a comprehensive list of what you are looking for in a home. This list will serve as a valuable guide, allowing you to prioritize your preferences and find a property that not only fits your financial goals but also aligns with your lifestyle and aspirations.

Progressing Toward Your Ideal Property in Malaysia

Securing an advantageous loan to purchase a quality property is every homebuyer’s dream. Having a clear idea of what you want in a home and shopping around for the best rates will help you turn this dream into a reality.

LBS Bina offers a diverse selection of residential properties throughout Malaysia, catering to buyers searching for their dream home. One notable project is KITA @ Cybersouth by LBS Bina, featuring a range of options such as KITA Mekar – Double Storey Terrace House, KITA Bestari – Townhouse, and KITA Sejati – Serviced Apartment.

 Check out LBS Bina’s website to learn more.

Recently, Mercu Jalil, an apartment complex nestled in the heart of Bukit Jalil, initiated the Vacant Possession (VP) process for its homeowners. This vibrant apartment boasts two blocks, each with 680 units, making a total of 1,360 units. With two distinct unit types, Type A at 1,000 square feet and Type B at 1,200 square feet, Mercu Jalil offers modern living on 5.43 acres of strata-titled land. What sets it apart is its strategic location, near major highways like KESAS Highway, Maju Expressway, and Bukit Jalil Highway, as well as close proximity to Tzu Chi Kuala Lumpur International School, Pavilion Bukit Jalil, and Alam Sutera LRT Station. The apartment complex also offers 16 facilities, with 9 on the ground floor and 7 on the 9th floor.

The VP process marks the handover of a vacant unit to homeowners, void of any equipment or furniture beyond what’s specified in the Sale and Purchase Agreement (SNP). However, before this transfer occurs, the developer must obtain the Certificate of Completion and Compliance (CCC) and ensure that water and electricity services are operational. In essence, this process assures homeowners that their new abode is ready and safe to occupy. Interestingly, Mercu Jalil has embraced a digital approach for the entire VP process, promoting sustainability by eliminating paper usage.

On October 6, 2023, Mrs. Alicia and her partner received the long-awaited call from LBS Bina to take possession of their new home in Mercu Jalil. It marked a historic day for the couple who had purchased their unit during the 2020 pandemic. This was their first experience buying from LBS Bina Group, and they chose Mercu Jalil after careful consideration of location, pricing, and offers. For them, the strategic location, excellent access to public transportation, and proximity to major highways were the key factors influencing their decision. The homeownership process proved to be straightforward, with Mrs. Alicia and Mr. Clarence only having to wait for the keys, as the housing project was still under construction at the time of purchase.

The couple’s unit is a Type A with 1,000 square feet of space and two parking spots, situated on the 36th floor of the A block, which boasts a total of 46 floors. They were delighted with the quality of the finishing and the breathtaking view from their elevated residence. They plan to hire contractors to inspect their unit for any defects or finishing issues, making full use of the 24-month Defect Liability Period (DLP), which began on September 7, 2023. Mrs. Alicia intends to personalize the unit to her liking and will move in once everything is in place.

Thrilled with their decision to purchase in Mercu Jalil, Mrs. Alicia and her family were further delighted to learn about the LBS Perks & Plusses loyalty program. This program rewards LBS property buyers with a range of privileges, including referral programs, cash rebates for second home purchases, early access to new project launches, and invitations to exclusive events. Members of this program also enjoy special offers and benefits from 39 LBS Perks & Plusses strategic partners, such as Watsons, Coway, Acson, Goodnite, and many more. The program is complimentary for any individual or corporate buyers who have purchased LBS properties or its subsidiaries with a minimum purchase price of RM150,000.

On October 28 and 29, 2023, LBS hosted a “Mini-Fest” for the LBS Perks & Plusses rewards program at Mercu Jalil apartment, Bukit Jalil. The two-day event featured a variety of engaging activities. One of the highlights was a lucky draw with prizes from Watsons, Gintell, Acson, and Goodnite. The event also included free gifts from strategic partners of the rewards program. With 16 strategic partners participating, homeowners collecting their keys at Mercu Jalil, Bukit Jalil added to the festive atmosphere. The event successfully introduced the LBS Perks & Plusses reward program to the homeowners under LBS Bina Group, offering a glimpse of the many benefits awaiting them in their new Mercu Jalil homes.

Management Fees and Sinking Funds are both familiar terms for those residing in condos and apartments, and they serve distinct purposes in the proper functioning and maintenance of high-rise buildings. However, what distinguishes Management Fees from Sinking Funds, and how are they determined? Why is it imperative for high-rise property owners to contribute, and what are the repercussions of non-compliance?

Every high-rise building is equipped with shared amenities that are accessible to all residents, such as elevators, sidewalks, swimming pools, gyms, and community halls. All of these amenities require meticulous maintenance and efficient management to ensure their smooth operation and functionality. Therefore, high-rise unit owners are obligated to make monthly payments for management fees and sinking funds. These funds are allocated specifically for the upkeep and preservation of common facilities, public assets, and essential services.

These funds are collected and overseen by the Joint Management Body (JMB) before strata titles are issued, and responsibility for their management transfers to the Management Corporation (MC) after the issuance of strata titles.

What is a Maintenance Fee?

Maintenance fees serve as a financial resource that covers various foreseeable daily expenses, including cleaning, security, utility bills for the building, and the salaries of management and administrative staff. The management of a property entails substantial costs, and your monthly management fee is strategically structured to encompass these ongoing expenditures, as well as the costs associated with maintaining shared facilities and addressing minor repair needs.

Maintenance fees play an essential role in directly contributing to the maintenance and upkeep of common areas and facilities within a high-rise building. This diligent maintenance not only ensures the property’s visual appeal and operational efficiency but also acts to either sustain or boost property values. On the contrary, neglecting the maintenance of common areas can lead to a depreciation in property values.

Moreover, the routine maintenance funded through the collection of maintenance fees is instrumental in safeguarding the safety and security of residents. Timely repairs and maintenance of critical systems, such as fire alarms and elevators, substantially mitigate the risk of accidents and emergencies, thereby promoting a secure living environment.

How Management Fee calculated?

The maintenance fee is shared among unit owners, and fee varies by development projects. Some of the factors that determine the management fee are:

• Unit size: The larger unit, the more you will have to pay.
• Type of usage: Retail units cost higher than residential units
• Type of service: Typically includes security, cleaning, elevator maintenance, etc.
• Facilities: The more facilities, the more you will have to pay.
• Size and type of common area: The larger the common area, the more expensive it will be to clean and maintain. 
• Number of units: Owners who own units in a high-density development cost lower, or vice versa.

What is a Sinking Fund?

Sinking funds accumulate over time to provide financial resources for significant future maintenance and repairs. High-rise buildings require periodic updates and major repairs, such as repainting, roof replacement, or elevator modernization. Without a sinking fund, the cost of these projects may need to be covered by special assessments, which can be financially burdensome for residents.  Recurring expenses such as security services, cleaning services, utilities and elevators maintenance are required, monthly.

Sinking fund is important because it provides a financial support for future maintenance and repairs, promotes stable financial planning, preserves property values, prevents emergency situations, ensures compliance with regulations, and smooths fair cost allocation. It is a sensible financial tool that benefits both individual property owners and the overall health of the high-rise building or condominium.

How Sinking Fund Calculated?

The sinking fund cost is typically assessed at 10% of the total maintenance fees. Changes to this percentage can only be made during the Annual General Meeting. Even after a review, the minimum amount required must remain at least 10% of the management fee.

What Happens If You Don’t Pay Maintenance Fees?

It’s crucial to understand that when you contribute, everyone else is also fulfilling their financial obligations. If you are a unit owner in a strata property, you are obligated to pay both management fees and the sinking fund. According to The Strata Management Act 2013, the respective management body has the authority to determine, invoice, and ensure the collection of these fees. As you are legally required to pay maintenance fees, the management has the option to initiate legal action against you if you do not comply.

If you don’t pay it however, you might get stuck with the following penalties:

• Interest charges: The management can legally charge interest for any common charges outstanding.
• Lose voting rights: As an owner, you have certain voting rights under the JMB, but you lose those rights if you fail to pay the bills.
• Criminal charges: In the most extreme circumstances, you can be charged for failure to pay maintenance charges. 
• Seizure of assets: The Act lays out the right to seize movable assets in order to recoup moneys owed for overdue fees. 

OPR (Overnight Policy Rate) is the interest rate at which a central bank lends money to commercial banks in the overnight market. In Malaysia, the OPR is determined by the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of Bank Negara Malaysia, the country’s central bank. The OPR serves as a benchmark for other interest rates in the Malaysian financial system.

To understand the OPR rates in Malaysia, you can follow these steps:

Stay updated with financial news: Stay informed about the latest developments and news related to the Malaysian economy, monetary policy, and central bank announcements. Regularly read reputable financial news sources, such as local newspapers, online news portals, or financial publications, to get insights into the current state of the OPR.

Visit the central bank’s website: Bank Negara Malaysia provides information on its official website about the OPR, monetary policy decisions, and related announcements. Visit their website and look for dedicated sections on monetary policy or OPR rates. This information is usually found in the “Publications” or “Monetary Policy” sections of the website.

Read monetary policy statements: Bank Negara Malaysia issues periodic monetary policy statements that provide details about the central bank’s decision on the OPR and the rationale behind it. These statements explain the economic conditions, inflation outlook, and other factors considered by the MPC in setting the OPR. By reading these statements, you can gain insights into the central bank’s thinking and factors influencing the OPR rates.

Analyze economic indicators: OPR rates are influenced by various economic indicators, such as inflation, GDP growth, employment data, and others. Monitoring these indicators can help you understand the direction in which the OPR may move. Look for reports on inflation, GDP growth, consumer price index, and other relevant economic data published by reputable sources like government statistical agencies or financial research institutions.

Seek expert opinions: Financial analysts, economists, and researchers often provide insights and analysis on the OPR rates in Malaysia. Follow renowned experts in the field who specialize in Malaysian economics or monetary policy. Their opinions and forecasts can provide valuable perspectives on the OPR and its potential impact on the economy.

Remember that OPR rates are subject to change based on economic conditions and central bank policy decisions. It is essential to regularly monitor the information sources mentioned above to stay updated on the latest OPR rates in Malaysia.

Are you done with paying high monthly housing utilities in Malaysia? Fret not. We have a few tricks up our sleeves that can effectively trim down your bills while comfortably enjoying your monthly utility bills. Here are some tips to help you reduce your monthly housing utilities in Malaysia:

Install energy-efficient appliances: One of the easiest ways to save money on your electricity bill is to replace your old appliances with new energy-efficient ones. Appliances such as refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines, and televisions consume a lot of electricity. By choosing energy-efficient models, you can significantly reduce your monthly electricity bills. Look for appliances that have a high energy rating and inverters, such as those with a 5-star rating.

Unplug unused appliances: Many would think that leaving the plugs in is negligible due to its minuscule electricity usage. Did you know that appliances such as chargers, televisions, and computers continue to use electricity even when they are not in use? Unplugging these appliances when they are not in use can help you save money on your electricity bill.

Make use of natural light: Make the most of natural light by opening up your curtains and blinds during the day. This will reduce the need to turn on lights, which can help you save money on your electricity bill. Additionally, sunlight can help kill bacteria and provide vitamin D, which is essential for your health.

Install energy-saving light bulbs: Energy-saving light bulbs, such as LED bulbs, use less electricity than traditional light bulbs and can last longer. Switching to energy-saving light bulbs can help you save money on your monthly electricity bill. Additionally, LED bulbs come in different colors and can be dimmed or controlled by smartphones, creating a unique and comfortable ambiance for your home.

Turn off lights and fans when you leave a room: It’s easy to forget to turn off lights and fans when you leave a room, but doing so can help you save money on your electricity bill. Turning off lights and fans when they are not needed will not only help you save money but also prolong the lifespan of the appliances.

Use air conditioning efficiently: Air conditioning can be a significant contributor to your monthly electricity bill. To use your air conditioner efficiently, set the temperature to a comfortable level, clean the filter regularly, and turn it off when you leave the house. Using a smart air conditioner controller or a timer can also help you save money.

Reduce water usage: Reducing your water usage can help you save money on your monthly water bill. Consider taking shorter showers, fixing leaky faucets, and using a low-flow showerhead. Additionally, using a rainwater harvesting system can help you save money on your water bill while being environmentally friendly.

By implementing these simple tips, you can significantly cut down on your monthly housing utilities in Malaysia and save money in the long run. Not only will you be able to enjoy a more comfortable lifestyle, but you will also be contributing to a sustainable future.