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bargains buys. Unless there was a genuine need to buy for personal use or they considered the prices to be very attractive, most held back on buying or tried to anticipate the “lowest” entry point.

So, is now a good time to buy properties in general?

DAVID NG: Yes. We’re living in an extended period of low interest rates to leverage on, and the COVID-19 uncertainty has developers launching at very attractive prices. And all this is in the backdrop of the massive rejuvenation in key centres of Singapore, especially in the Core Central Region.

We have a lot of property price data from the SARS and H5N1 influenza period that shows many buyers holding out during times of uncertainty. But those brave enough to buy were able to pick up bargains.

Singapore’s foundation is very stable with significant savings, strong financial regulations, and a vision of its future in The Masterplan that has been proven to pan out. The authorities have many levers to control the property market such as the Additional Buyers Stamp Duty, Sellers Stamp Duty and Loan-to-Value limit.

LOW PO YU, Senior Marketing Director at ERA Realty Network: Property is closely linked to the stock market, which has dipped significantly. Landlords have dropped commercial rent and businesses are impacted. Most buyers’ focus is on keeping safe and healthy, and not on viewings right now. This also means that if you have researched well and already know what you want, you have lesser competition.

Finally, given the current uncertainty, what are your tips for property investors?

JOE TNG: Investors should just go ahead to buy a property if it is of good value and offers good returns. From the buying patterns I observed during the SARS and financial crises, investors pulled back on purchases but those who bought still made a fair amount of money in the long term.

LOW PO YU: Look for good value. I would recommend looking for undervalued strategic locations that have robust potential, like those that are in line with government plans and will welcome new MRT lines.

ISMAIL GAFOOR: Investors who bought during previous crises have benefited in terms of capital appreciation for the mid- and long-term. There is a window of opportunity available for people who are savvy in planning ahead.

“look for undervalued strategic locations with robust potential.” low pow yu, era’s senior marketing director on the best approach to buying real estate