Seoul Gets New Cross Hash Towers Skyscraper

The Cross # Towers in Seoul, South Korea

First Published Date: October 17, 2016

A Danish architectural firm BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group) has recently announced a new skyscraper project in Seoul, South Korea that will add a new dimension to the world of skyscrapers. Their new project "The Cross Hash Towers" or "The Cross #Towers" will push the limits of building skyscrapers with these gravity-defying towers in
this modern age.

These two towers, 214 meters and 204 meters high, will be 21,000 square meter cross-hatched interlocking building with its ability to accommodate 600 residences and amenities such as a library, gallery, and kindergarten. The two towers will be connected by bridges at different levels, such as street and sky levels. The upper and lower bridges will have sky gardens on them and will offer breathtaking views of Seoul’s skyline.

Author/Copyright: Ahmed Dawn www.adawnjournal.com

The Cross Hash Towers will be positioned next to the future development zone Yongsan business district in Seoul. The tower suites will have a unique design to optimize spectacular views and sunlight. Also, at the ground level visitors at the arrival deck will be able to see the impressive links above and the submerged plaza beneath them.

Due to the Yongsan business district’s height restrictions for skyscrapers, architects came up with this unique design of these two towers – adding two bridges between them. For sure, Seoul’s skyline and skyscraper portfolio will change dramatically upon completion of The Cross # Towers.

The World’s Riskiest Real Estate Bubble City

Canada’s Vancouver Tops List

First Published Date: October 25, 2016

The recently-published UBS Global Real Estate Bubble Index 2016 ranks cities across the globe that are considered top real estate bubble risks and Vancouver tops the list this year. There are a total of 18 cities that made it on to this year’s bubble list.

According to the report, there are several factors working together to make Vancouver the world’s riskiest bubble city such as higher Asian demand due to the weak Canadian dollar, loose credit conditions, accelerating mortgage growth rate, etc.

Because of the higher foreign demand, the local government recently implemented an additional property tax for foreigners to buy in Vancouver – making it a higher risk property market because of the higher chances of price correction.

Author/Copyright: Ahmed Dawn www.adawnjournal.com

The report also names some other riskiest global property markets such as London, Stockholm, Sydney, Munich and Hong Kong. Some of the fairly-valued property markets are in Singapore, Boston, Milan, and New York. And real estate value in Chicago is actually undervalued.

Home prices in top-risk cities have increased on an average by 50 percent since 2011. The rate of increase at other major cities is only 15 percent.

On a separate note, Canadian site globalnews.ca reports (based on numbers provided by Chinese realty website Juwai.com) that foreign buyers are not flocking to Seattle and Toronto, instead of Vancouver, since the new additional foreign tax implemented in Vancouver.

There was a staggering 81 percent drop in Vancouver buying inquiries from August 2015. However, Seattle and Toronto real estate inquiries were up by 143 and 142 percent. Toronto has seen the highest searches in August for the last three years. Other Canadian cities foreign buyers have an eye on after Toronto are Calgary and Ottawa.

Bargaining A Beach Property In Malaysia

Malaysia Beach Properties Real Estate

First Published Date: August 31, 2016

Beach properties anywhere in the world are hot and no, it is not because of the weather. When it comes to Malaysia, the beach properties become a little too hotter. It is the best chance especially for foreign investors to reap five star luxuries at two star prices. Though a rapidly growing real estate market of South East Asia beach resorts in Malaysia are still low cost option, not to forget that the beaches of Malaysia are some of the best in the world. Add to this the impeccable service available on most Malaysian beaches, the friendly locals, the high standard of living which is on par with that of any European city, it is little doubt that Malaysian beach resorts have gained the repute of favoured tourist destination.

For years now Thailand and Malaysia have been popular tourist destinations but it is only recently that Malaysia is being taken seriously as real estate hotspot as it is safe from the "ring of fire" that leads to natural disasters like volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and tsunamis. Malaysian beach properties not only hold lesser risk but with the government actively encouraging investments from foreign quarters these are providing greater rewards. The government has introduced new property laws that are buyer friendly, providing tax incentives for better foreign investments and also fast tracking approvals of licenses so that the government and international developers can mutually benefit from the booming real estate market.

Author/Copyright: Ahmed Dawn

With numerous beaches Malaysia offers plenty of opportunities to invest in real estate. The West coast has luxury island retreats, the east coast happens to be the ultimate diving destination, Sarawak and Sabah states in Bornea has an eco-friendly appeal, Sepang not only has the F1 grand prix circuit attraction but coined as the "Gold Coast" it is the weekend getaway resort for many people, Port Dickson is a holiday home to many Singaporeans and with its high profile projects is also a favourite with other international developers.

But what is it that makes beach properties in Malaysia a better deal than elsewhere or as compared to past? The government recently abolished the capital gains tax on property purchase in Malaysia thus the investor can save in a major by investing in real estate in Malaysia. Over 15 years foreigners investing in Malaysian properties can get 70% mortgages. Foreign buyers will not have any restrictions on renewing leases after 99 years. Foreigners owning property in Malaysia will automatically get residency permit. So what more could one be asking for.

Currently Malaysia is offering the best investment opportunity as far as global property market is concerned. There are many factors that are encouraging this rapid development. These are rental yields, capital growth rate, government policies that are investment friendly, spurt in investments by corporate companies. This combined with increase in tourism and creation of newer better equipped luxury resorts all are heating up the property investment market of Malaysia. Intelligent investors will surely not want to be left behind as low cost opportunities especially in real estate industry don’t really last for too long

Real Estate In Chile

Chile Real Estate

First Published Date: November 6, 2016

Is it possible to buy property in a South American country where foreigners are protected by the same rights as citizens? Where the police force is known for its honesty and does not accept bribes? A country with the highest GDP per capita in that region, a member of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), A+ Sovereign Credit Rating, and one of the lowest risk countries in the world for foreign investments? If you are looking for such a country for real estate investments in South America, look no further than Chile.

Author/Copyright: Ahmed Dawn www.adawnjournal.com

In order to buy property in Chile, you don’t need to be a resident or even visit the country. Chile has the most developed real estate market in South America. The property market has remained fairly stable during the global economic crisis and has shown growth momentum. Although Chile is the world’s longest and narrowest country, stretching more than 4000 kilometers, the population and real estate volumes concentrate in the center region known as The Central Valley – where the capital, Santiago, is located. Thirty percent of the population lives in Santiago and it is the most visited spot by tourists. Also, Frutillar and Puerto Varas have become the fastest growing real estate markets in Chile and southern Chile.

Like anywhere else, you should be aware of some rules and regulations when buying property in Chile. Real estate agents are not regulated in Chile and it is advisable to hire a lawyer to perform real estate transactions in Chile. A title search must be conducted by a qualified attorney. Based on the title search, have the attorney draft a buy/sell agreement. Once completed, this agreement has to be signed in front of a CHILEAN Notary Public and then property has to be registered with the regional registry. You will also need a Chilean taxpayer ID number (RUT) to complete the whole process.

There are many investment or legal firms available to make your real estate expedition in Chile a breeze. Always do your research to find a firm that is reputable and meets your needs.

Real Estate In Brazil

Buying Property in Brazil – making hay while sun shines

First Published Date: May 29, 2016

With its fast expanding economy, Brazil is now being counted in the top 10 largest growing economies in the world (currently at the 9th position but quickly gaining in ranking). The Investment Grade bestowed on Brazil in 2008 has further boosted its economic position and the real estate in Brazil is selling faster than hot cakes.

Why Brazil?

Investment in Brazil accounts for more than 40% of the total GDP of South America. Major contributors to the economic upliftment have been the manufacturing industries and the production of ethanol, in which Brazil stands at no.1 position. The recent discovery of oil and gas reserves in the country catapulted the country’s self sufficiency in energy and also opened up the doors of economic

stability. The first thing that such stability and economic boom has on is the interest rates on loans which at present in Brazil are running at an all time low. With a controlled inflation level (in fact by maintaining the rate at 5.7%, President Lula has created an all time low record); the private sector industries are thriving with the flood of investment.

On the other hand this economic boom and development has led to severe shortage of real estate in Brazil. While there is already a deficit of over 8 million housing units, the growing middle class is further crunching the demand and supply chain. The silver lining is the rise in availability of mortgaged real estate. In fact many Brazilians for whom owning a house was a distant dream, the economic independence combined with the mortgage products has opened new vistas.

International Standing

Brazil will be hosting the 2014 Football World Cup. There is little doubt on how such events can positively impact the host country’s developmental abilities. Such mega events mean sizeable increase in revenue from tourism and hospitality and huge investment ininfrastructure and tax base.

Some of the other facts that have helped the boom of real estate in Brazil are

· Affordable cost of living (just twenty percent of what you would spend to live in UK or Europe)

· Predicted increase in the property price by at least twenty percent

· Active encouragement by the government towards foreign investment

· Currency exchange receiving a favorable response which means foreigners will find it more lucrative to invest in Brazil

· Low maintenance costs of the properties

· Improved travel infrastructure – the air network between cities in Brazil is fast expanding and also many direct flights to US and Europe have been introduced

· Active encouragement of tourism – thanks to the dedication by the government tourism has increased by 100% with the creation of over two hundred fifty thousand jobs for Brazilians

· Warm and welcoming environment – Brazil has sunshine round the year with day time temperatures at a comfortable 27 degrees centigrade. Add to this natural beauty and fantastic scenery and Brazil is just a heavenly place to stay in. Brazilian people are known for their friendly nature and their rich culture what with all the vibrancy in the cities and the revelry at the carnivals and music festivals held each year with great pomp and fuss.

· The most important aspect, especially in today’s world would be the low risk that Brazil faces from international terrorism and war

Which real Estate in Brazil to invest in?

João Pessoa in north east Brazil with beautiful beaches and an exciting lifestyle provides many opportunities for the investors. Thanks to JPA international Presidente Castro Pinto Airport, João Pessoa has easy accessibility from all over the world as well as well connected to the other cities of Brazil. João Pessoa has a rich history still visible in the stunning architecture, ancient temples, historical finds and fine baroque structures.

Coming to the present era, João Pessoa is filled with beautiful white sandy beaches lined with palm trees as well as tiny islands. The highlights include Tambaa, Manaíra, surfing beaches like Oiteiro and Campina and the nudist Tambaba beach. Riding on the buggy strolls that connects to the beaches one can enjoy the mesmerizing sunsets or revel in the nightlife in the numerous bars and clubs. People with a green thumb will particularly find this part interesting – João Pessoa is world’s 2nd greenest city. The squares and parks keep the city center green and the residential areas are filled with ornamental and fruit plants and trees. One of the main sources of income here is the rapidly developing tourism industry and this natural beauty having the friendly and safe reputation is also a
hotspot for Brazilians to settle down in.

Another place worth exploring is the Queen of the plateau – Campina Grande. All round the year various cultural events are held here which is also the main attraction for most tourists visiting the country. One of the major events held here is the São João festival held over the whole month of June. Numerous little huts spring up in the city’s main park Parque do Povo during this festival where regional crafts and foods are on display and sale. The month of July is witness to the Winter Festival which features traditional singing, theatre, dancing, music, cinema and merriment. Another small festival that takes place in March is the Micarande carnival. But Campina Grande is not only about festivals. There is also an artificial lake in Boqueirão where swimming, boating and fishing takes place while the nearby forest region gives ample opportunities of mounting biking.

The other seaside town that is popular with investors is the pretty and quaint Jacumã. A sleepy fishing village, local and international tourists flock this town to enjoy the beautiful beaches which are rated amongst the best in Brazil. Jacumã has a tranquil cove setting and is especially child-friendly making it ideal for swimming and bathing and thus a favorite spot for holidaying families. There are also little sand dunes in the area where one can play skybunda (sliding on the dunes on boards). From the investment point of view, Jacumã is the place to lookout for as the government pumps in millions for improving the infrastructure and putting up shopping malls, supermarkets, golf courses and holiday resorts of international standards.