Verticus at Balestier
Verticus is the latest freehold condominium located at Jalan Kemaman, off Balestier Road. Indicative price is from $8xxK. Thus, the price will be from estimated $18xxpsf onwards, based on the smallest 1-bedroom of 441 sq ft. Official guide prices will be announced soon. Stay tuned!
Indicative price as per below:
· 1-Bedroom from $8xxK
· 2-Bedroom from $1.2xxM
· 2+Study from $1.4xxM
· 3-Bedroom from $1.7xxM
It comprises a single 28-storey residential tower with a total of 162 units only. Units range from 1-bedroom to 4-bedroom penthouse. Unit sizes from 441 to 2,045 sq ft. It will be completed in December 2024. 1 to 1 car park will be allocated to every unit.
I like the facts that despite not-so-big land size, the architect (or rather the developer) is able to “squeeze” in plenty of condominium facilities to all residents. That includes a tennis court, a 30m lap pool, leisure pools, sky gardens and roof top garden etc. Love it, except for the gym. It is way too small although the view will be fantastic at 14th storey.
Branded appliances are from De Dietrich, Brandt. Smart home system is a MUST now for new launches, this will also come for free with the purchase with optional features (to be paid by purchaser).
Soilbuild Group is the developer who also developed other condominiums in Balestier area in the past, such as The Mezzo, Montebleu.
Verticus 维雅轩 Location
Verticus condominium is located in the heart of Balestier along Jalan Kemaman and next to the famous Balestier Plaza and Shaw Plaza. Ok, both are quite rundown but expect some renovations to be carried out on these two developments soon.
It is within walking to Whampoa estate, Toa Payoh central and a few bus stops from Novena Square & Toa Payoh MRTs. But nearer to home, Fairprice Finest, Starbucks, Subway etc are located in Zhongshan Mall. Besides all these, Verticus condominium is also surrounded by many eateries, food centre and restaurants. Furthermore, there are many shops in the Whampoa estate as well as Whampoa Makan Place.
For family with young kids, some reputation schools are located nearby such as Hong Wen School, CHIJ Primary & Secondary Schools etc.
Verticus 维雅轩 Floor Plans
As mentioned above, the smallest 1-bedroom is 441 sq ft which is quite standard in the market now. The size of all units in Verticus are generally quite generous. I was expected smaller unit sizes but I was wrong. In general, all bedrooms can fit a queen-sized bed. An enclosed kitchen & bathroom with windows can be found in 2+study and bigger units.
For those who want to avoid west sun (totally), only stack 7 (1-bedroom), stack 8 (2-bedroom) & stack 6 (2+S) can be considered. URA’s approved balcony screen may solve your problem. If not, high-quality outdoor blind can do a good job to block the sun as well.
What caught my eyes is the layout of 2+1 bedrooms unit. Basically, it is dual key unit comprises a 2-bedroom unit together with a 1-bedroom unit (see floor plan below). If you notice, a wall can be erected to make the junior master bed area an enclosed space that provides privacy. So, it is ideal for both family stay and for investment. You know what? No west sun for this type of unit.
Investment Opportunity
Balestier is a quirky, eclectic neighourhood yet rich in heritage.
Some prospective home buyers will still give it a miss. There are a few reasons to this. First of all, it is too far from MRT, this is one of the most important criteria when buying property in Singapore especially to those who do not drive. However, it is still quite convenient in getting around from Balestier as there are many shuttle bus services to Novena & Toa Payoh MRTs as well as direct ride to City Hall and CBD in Raffles Place. Private hire car is also other option that residents can consider.
Some people may find the neighbourhood looks rundown & messy. True also. However, I believe the transformation or rejuvenation plans by government in the future may solve the problems. Many older developments were already replaced by the new ones. Zhongshan Mall is one of the best examples. It looks modern yet with many lifestyle facilities that made it a popular spot to visit in Balestier.
Red light district in Balestier? I believe there are some activities behind the door. But, not noticeable. Kinda sunset industry in Balestier vicinity, I think.
Nevertheless, Balestier might be the top choice of renting a place for some young professionals, expatriates who work in medical hub, Novena areas due to cheaper rent compared to Novena areas. With PSF still below $2000psf in Balestier compared to average $26xxpsf (Neu at Novena) in the heart of Novena, meaning rental market in Balestier area will stay strong. Lower rent does not mean lower rental yield! [Updated] The rental yields of some of the newer developmenrts in Balestier can fetch more than 4% per annum. In District 12, Kallang Riverside can fetch up to 4.58% per annum (Note: Based on transactions in the last 6 months, source: www.squarefoot.com.sg)
A rough check on squarefoot.com.sg, the newer condominiums in this area can hit $2,1xxpsf a few years ago. But generally, the average PSF is around $1,7xxpsf. Most resale asking prices are also hovering around $1,4xxpsf to $1,7xxpsf, a few of them are more than $2,000psf. So, based on estimated of $1,800psf at Verticus condominium, is priced to sell in 2020. It is more affordable than Novena area. Maintenance fee will be updated in near future.
Freehold property is also a gem in Singapore. Now you have the opportunity to own a freehold property in the central part of Singapore (RCR, rest of central region) with reasonable price in today market.
Show flat will be opened for viewing on 8th February. 3 show suites are available: Type A1 (1-bedroom), Type B1 (2-bedroom) & Type C1 (3-bedroom). Visit Verticus 维雅轩 website for more information and download the e-brochure. Contact Melvin at +65 91694922 now.
View Verticus 维雅轩 video here.