Is Braddell View En Bloc Sale dream still alive?

En Bloc Feasibility for Braddell View

The potential for en bloc sale at Braddell View, one of the last HUDC estates to undergo privatization, is currently under consideration. As one of the largest estates in terms of land area, it is situated between Braddell and Toa Payoh, with easy access to Caldecott MRT on the Circle Line and Braddell MRT on the North-South Line. The walking distance to these stations ranges from 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the specific location within the estate. Many investors have purchased properties in Braddell View, hoping to tap into a promising real estate market that shows potential for growth and returns.

How Are Condos in Caldecott Performing?

From the data presented, it appears that investors are eyeing Braddell View for a profitable en bloc opportunity.

Cost of Land and Construction

Considering the en bloc potential, the estimated price exceeds $2 billion, which may pose a significant financial burden for a single developer. This estimate does not include construction costs, typically ranging from 20% to 30% of the land cost, adding approximately $500 million. Therefore, the total cost for land acquisition and construction could reach between $2.5 billion and $2.7 billion. Given this substantial financial requirement, few developers have the liquidity necessary to proceed alone. A Joint Venture (JV) may be the most feasible approach for developers interested in participating in the bidding process.

Personal Thoughts

Braddell View presents a solid investment opportunity for several reasons:

• Location: It is close to the Central Catchment Area and MacRitchie Reservoir.
• Environment: The area offers a peaceful and quiet setting ideal for family living.
• Tenant Pool: There is a good tenant base from nearby institutions like Mt Alvernia Hospital, Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH), and international schools such as St. Joseph's Institution International (SJI International).

However, I believe purchasing a property solely based on its en bloc potential can be risky. For example, if you invest $1.5 million and the estate does not undergo en bloc sale, you might end up with a property that has no tenants and limited upside potential, especially considering it was already 43 years old as of 2021.

Conclusion

Despite these concerns, Braddell View remains an attractive place to live and invest in for rental income. However, expecting a significant return from an en bloc sale may be more of a dream than reality—though dreams can sometimes come true.

Additional Information on Braddell View

MRT Stations Nearby:

• Caldecott MRT (CC17 TE9)
• Braddell (NS18)
• Marymount (CC16)
• Bishan (CC15 NS17)
• Toa Payoh (NS19)
• Upcoming Bukit Brown MRT (Circle Line)
• Upper Thomson MRT (TE8) on Thomson-East Coast Line
• Mount Pleasant MRT (TE10)

Schools Within Proximity:
Within 1 km:

• Marymount Convent
• Raffles Girls’ School
• Raffles Institution
• Kheng Cheng School
• SJI International School

Within 2 km:

• Guangyang Primary School
• Chij Primary (Toa Payoh)
• Guangyang Secondary School
• Chij Secondary (Toa Payoh)
• Beatty Secondary School
• Whitley Secondary School
• Catholic High School

Grocery Stores & Supermarkets:

• NTUC Fairprice at Toa Payoh Lorong 4
• Giant at Thomson Imperial Court
• NTUC Fairprice at Bishan Blk 510
• NTUC Fairprice at Junction 8
• NTUC Fairprice at Toa Payoh HDB Hub
• NTUC Fairprice at Thomson Plaza
• Sheng Siong Hypermarket at Lorong 7 Toa Payoh

Lifestyle Amenities:

• Riding for the Disabled Association of Singapore
• Singapore Scout Association
• Celebrities Resort Club
• Home TeamNS - Ah Hood Road Club House
• Toa Payoh Stadium
• Bishan Stadium

Braddell View is indeed one of the appealing places to live due to its lush landscape. If you want to learn more, let's grab a coffee!