By Wilfred Pilo
KUCHING, Mac 3: Radium Properties Sdn Bhd (Radium Properties) director Raymond Tay reveals that more than 50 to 60 per cent of their latest project, Lotus Residence Kuching which features 33 double-storey terrace units, has been sold as home buyers continue to seek investment value.
Tay said that landed house buyers always want to know that their purchase is a good investment as most buyers have only one chance in a lifetime to own a property and a place called home. Thus, his company aims to fulfil buyers’ expectations and is very transparent in selling its projects.
“We informed our agent acting for us to disclose to interested buyers as many details (as possible) of how our properties are constructed and especially materials used so later there will be no complaints,” he told reporters at the launching of the Lotus Residence showhouse at 9th Mile today.
Tay elaborated that as the developer, they wanted to make Lotus Residence Kuching as though it is also their own house.
“So that is what we expect if we are a buyer too. Any minor thing that needs changes, and if there are little differences, we will fix them. We do not ask for an additional payment.”
“I hope the buyers are happy with the house they bought from us,” he added.
Tay also hoped the banks could give house buyers 90 to 95 per cent financing, especially first-time home buyers.
“They can afford the monthly instalment, but it is hard to collect money for a deposit as it depends on the cost of the property. Some resort to borrowing from their parents, but it is too burdensome.
“Maybe the government could do something to assist, especially first-time home buyers,” he said.
Sarawak Federation of Chinese Associations (SFCA) president Dato Richard Wee, who is also a Radium Properties shareholder-cum-director, echoed similar sentiments as Tay, and opined the government should take the lead in helping first-time home buyers.
“The government should make housing more affordable and reachable, especially for young people, as the down payment is always a burden.”
Wee lamented that property prices have become inflated over the years.
“Even now, if the bank can finance 90 per cent (of the purchase price), a house buyer needs to come with a 10 per cent deposit.
“If the house is a few hundred thousand and up to a million (ringgit), you have to save a long time, but worst, by the time you have the saving, the property price soars again further.
“So it is like the adage of a dog chasing its tail,” he said. — DayakDaily
