Introduction
Good day everyone! In today's YouTube video, I want to discuss five new projects launching in 2025 that are within walking distance to the RTS (Rapid Transit System). As many of you know, I'm a big fan of Johor Bahru (JB) projects near the RTS. This is crucial because, just like in Singapore, people always seek convenience and easy access to transportation. The RTS is especially important as it connects to Singapore, making the stations along this line highly significant.
Importance of Proximity to the RTS
-
Convenience: Living near the RTS means easy access to transportation, reducing the need for long drives and potential traffic jams.
-
Connection to Singapore: The RTS is the main link between JB and Singapore, making properties near the stations more attractive for commuters and investors.
Criteria for Walking Distance
When we say "walking distance," we define it as under a kilometer. This ensures that residents can easily reach the RTS station on foot.
Project 1: The Genrise (Former Hotel Central)
-
Location and Developer: Formerly Hotel Central, located behind Grand Blue Wave Hotel. Bought by a private developer from Kuala Lumpur (KL).
-
Details:
-
732 units on approximately one - acre freehold land.
-
Distance to RTS: About 700 - 800 meters.
-
Pros:
-
First to introduce the dual - key one - plus - one layout, which is popular for rental purposes.
-
Pricing around 1000 ringgit per square foot, which is considered fair.
-
-
Cons:
-
Small project with only one block, resulting in limited facilities such as a small swimming pool and gym.
-
Blocked views from most units, and the unblocked side faces west, which means exposure to the hot sun.
-
Foreigners must buy units above one million ringgit; no exemption for smaller, lower - priced units.
-
Uncertainty about the private developer's financials, which could potentially lead to project delays.
-
-
Proposed Link Bridge: There is a proposed link bridge, but its construction is not yet confirmed.
-
Project 2: Summer Suites (Former FGJB Connoisseur Food Court)
-
Location and Developer: Formerly a popular food court opposite RNF. Developed by a JB - based private developer.
-
Details:
-
Freehold project with 748 units on a 1.4 - acre land.
-
Distance to RTS: Around 850 meters, close to The Genrise.
-
Pros:
- The developer also built V at Summer Place, known for its funky and lifestyle - driven design. Similar design elements are expected in Summer Suites.
-
Cons:
-
Small site with only one tower, leading to limited facilities.
-
Blocked views from most units.
-
Uncertainty about the private developer's financials.
-
Unclear if foreigners can buy units below one million ringgit.
-
-
Proposed Link Bridge: A proposed link bridge, but its completion is not guaranteed.
-
Project 3: Exim's Project (Former RNF Sultan Jaya Parking)
-
Location and Developer: Former RNF parking lot, taken over by Exim, a well-known developer in KL.
-
Details:
-
A large, triangular - shaped seven - acre site.
-
Two phases with three blocks each (total six blocks).
-
One block in Phase 1 will be an Airbnb tower managed by an operator, and two blocks will be residential.
-
Expected to have at least 2,000 units, potentially reaching 3,000 or more.
-
Pros:
-
Big site, allowing for a wide range of facilities even for smaller unit owners.
-
Exim is known for its modern and funky design, which is popular among Malaysians and Singaporeans.
-
Good track record in Malaysia, with completed and under-construction projects in KL, Penang, and now JB.
-
Proposed to be a mixed - development with a retail component downstairs.
-
Closer to RTS and CIQ (about 600+ meters).
-
-
Cons:
-
Triangular site may pose design challenges.
-
Not obvious road access for cars.
-
Proposed link bridge, and the approval process is uncertain.
-
-
Pricing: No information yet, but likely around 1000 ringgit per square foot.
-
Project 4: R&F Princess Cove Phase 3
-
Location and Developer: Next to R&F Princess Cove Phase 1, developed by RNF Guangzhou.
-
Details:
-
A large 10.9 - acre site with over 4,000 units.
-
Freehold, like all RNF projects.
-
Pros:
-
Solid track record with Phase 1 and Phase 2, providing confidence to buyers.
-
Connected to Phase 1 via a link bridge, giving access to the shopping mall.
-
Focus on sports concepts in Phase 3, with proper basketball and badminton courts.
-
-
Cons:
-
High-density project, which may not be preferred by some.
-
Some units face the track, and others may be blocked by future projects, resulting in limited views.
-
The design in Phase 3 will be different from previous phases, aiming for a simpler and more local - friendly look.
-
-
Project 5: Sunway Integrated Development
-
Location and Developer: Right on top of the RTS station, developed by Sunway Group, a well-known Malaysian conglomerate.
-
Details:
-
Three residential towers and one tower for a hotel plus service suites.
-
An integrated mall downstairs with healthcare and education components, connected to the RTS station.
-
Pros:
-
Best location among the five projects, directly above the RTS station.
-
Reputable developer with a diverse range of businesses.
-
-
Cons:
- Expected to be the most expensive, with an estimated price of 1800 ringgit per square foot.
-
Conclusion
In my opinion, the top three projects are Sunway Integrated Development, R&F Princess Cove Phase 3, and Exim's project. I prefer big projects and integrated developments as they offer more convenience and better long-term value. However, the choice depends on individual needs, budget, and preferences. Let me know your thoughts in the comments below. If you're interested in buying any of these projects, I'm a property agent in Johor Bahru and can assist you. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to my YouTube channel for more interesting content. Thank you!