Singapore is a country that has always been well-known for its alluring property market. For investors and property buyers alike, Singapore poses as an attractive location with its stable economy and political stability. However, when it comes to property investment, one important aspect that needs to be taken into consideration is the yield potential of the property. Property yield is the rental income generated from a property in comparison to its market value.
In this blog, we will delve into the factors that affect property yields in Singapore, how property yields are calculated, and why it is crucial for property investors to have a good understanding of it.
What is a Good Rental Yield in Singapore?
According to data from 2019, a typical rental yield for residential properties in Singapore ranges between 2 to 3%. Most residential properties have a net rental yield of around 2.3%, while commercial properties have a net rental yield of about 3.3%, with a range of 3 to 5%. It’s important to note that the net rental yield calculation can vary among property investors, based on their preferred ways of factoring in expenses such as mortgage interest rates and maintenance costs. While a good rental yield can be an indicator of the profitability of a property, it’s best to view it as a general gauge of a property’s asset rather than a strictly scientific tool. Increasing a rental yield can be achieved by lowering property costs, increasing rental income, or a combination of both.
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Hillview Rise
99 Years
535 Units
TOP 2027
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Lentor Gardens Residences
99 Years
530 Units
TOP 2027
Understanding Rental Yield in Singapore
Understanding rental yield is essential for property investors in Singapore. It helps them determine the potential return on investment for a property. There are two types of rental yield: gross rental yield and net rental yield. Gross rental yield is calculated by dividing the annual rental income by the property’s purchase price or market value and multiplying the result by 100. Net rental yield, on the other hand, provides a more accurate representation of the property’s actual return on investment.
To calculate net rental yield, yearly operating costs such as property tax, maintenance fees, and insurance are deducted from the gross rental income. The net annual rental income is then divided by the property’s purchase price or market value and multiplied by 100.
Property location, type, market conditions, condition and maintenance, and property management and expenses are important factors that affect rental yield. To maximize rental yield, investors should invest in prime locations, renovate and maintain their properties, engage in effective property management, and diversify their investment portfolios. A good rental yield in Singapore varies depending on the location, property type, and market conditions.
Generally, a rental yield of 3 to 5 percent is considered healthy for residential properties, while commercial properties typically have a higher rental yield. By understanding rental yield, property investors can make informed decisions to maximize returns on their investments.
Gross vs Net Rental Yield: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to rental yields, it’s important to understand the difference between gross and net rental yield. Gross rental yield is the amount of rental income a property generates compared to its purchase price, without taking into account ongoing expenses such as maintenance, taxes, and mortgage interest. On the other hand, net rental yield includes these expenses, giving a more accurate representation of the property’s actual profitability.
To calculate gross rental yield, divide the annual rental income by the property price and multiply by 100. For example, if a property generates $36,000 per year in rent and the total price is $1.2 million, the gross rental yield would be 3%. To calculate net rental yield, deduct the total costs from the annual rental income and divide by the property price, then multiply by 100. It’s important to note that net rental yield isn’t always entirely accurate, as some costs aren’t fixed, like mortgage interest rates or maintenance expenses that can increase over time.
Understanding rental yields is crucial for landlords and property investors, as it helps determine a property’s profitability and potential return on investment. A good rental yield for a residential property in Singapore is typically between 2 to 3%, while commercial properties usually have a higher net rental yield of around 3.3%. Factors that affect rental yields include rental market demand, economic circumstances, and the stability of the rental market. By taking all these factors into account, landlords and property investors can make more informed decisions when it comes to purchasing and managing their rental properties.
How to Calculate Rental Yield for Your Property
Calculating rental yield is an important aspect of property investment in Singapore. To calculate the net rental yield for your property, first determine your probable rental income and work out your gross rental income over 12 months. Then, deduct operating costs such as property tax, maintenance bills, and commission fees. To calculate the net rental yield, subtract your expenses from your gross rental income and divide the result by the property value, then multiply by 100%.
This will provide a clearer picture of your property’s profitability. Keep in mind that calculating rental yield based on gross rental income alone is too simplistic, as it does not take into account hidden costs such as wear-and-tear, utility bills, and property depreciation.
For long-term rentals, it is recommended to use net rental yield as it provides a fuller picture of rental property investment. Additionally, consider investing in properties located in areas with strong rental yields or high growth potential, and keep an eye on resale and new launch properties to determine which may give better rental yield or investment gains in the long term. By taking these factors into account, investors can make well-informed decisions regarding their property investments.
What is a Good Rental Yield in Singapore?
The rental yield for residential properties in Singapore has an average of 2.5% per annum, but this can vary depending on location and demand. It is important to consider both gross rental yield and net rental yield, as the latter takes into account maintenance, rental, taxes, and other costs. Many property investors prefer a rental yield of at least 6% to combine with capital appreciations for higher profits.
To calculate gross rental yield, divide the annual rental income by the property purchase price and multiply by 100. For net rental yield, add additional expenses to the equation, then divide by the total cost for property. It is important to note that rental yield is just one factor in property investing, and capital growth and property prices can also play a crucial role. Therefore, serious investors should take the time and effort to hunt for optimal investment properties that can yield higher returns. Ultimately, a good rental yield is a general gauge of a property asset and should be viewed as such.
What Determines Rental Yield in Singapore?
Rental yield in Singapore varies depending on several factors. Firstly, location plays a significant role in determining rental yield. Properties that are situated near urban centers tend to have higher rental yield compared to those in suburbs or rural areas. Secondly, the type of property is also important. For instance, studio units or one-bedroom units tend to have higher rental yields than three-bedroom units. Thirdly, demand and supply in the area also impacts rental yield. An oversupply of rental properties can lead to decreased rental yield, while a shortage of rental properties can lead to increased rental yield. Lastly, government policies such as rental restrictions, property tax, and cooling measures can impact rental yield.
It is important for property investors to consider these factors when calculating rental yield. By doing so, they can determine whether a property investment is worth their time and money. However, it is important to note that rental yield is not the only factor to consider when investing in property. Other factors such as potential capital appreciation and the cost of financing should also be taken into account. By considering all of these factors, property investors can make informed decisions and maximize their returns.
The Relationship between Property Price and Rental Yield
When it comes to buying a property, it’s important to understand the relationship between property price and rental yield. Rental yield is essentially the return on investment that a property generates in rental income. The higher the rental yield, the more profitable the investment. Properties that are more expensive tend to have lower rental yields, while cheaper properties tend to have higher rental yields.
There are two types of rental yield, gross rental yield and net rental yield. Gross rental yield is the percentage of rental income generated in relation to the purchase price of the property, while net rental yield takes into account additional expenses such as maintenance costs and property taxes. Generally, a good gross rental yield is above 5%, while a good net rental yield is above 3%.
It’s important to find the balance between property price and rental yield that works best for your investment goals. A cheaper property with a high rental yield may require more maintenance, while a more expensive property with a low rental yield might offer long-term capital gains. Ultimately, it’s important to consider all factors and make a well-informed decision based on your individual financial situation.
Pros and Cons of Focusing on Rental Yield for Property Investing
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can generate strong cashflow | Requires significant upfront investment |
| Can outperform index funds | Potential for real estate investments to lose money |
| Can grow income stream quickly | Risk of correlation to the stock market |
| Provides passive income | Property management can be complex |
| Additional tax benefits with depreciation and cost segregation | Rental income may not be consistent |
| Ability to use leverage to acquire property | Risk of vacancy and tenant turnover |
| Limited supply of land leads to tendency to appreciate | Property value may depend on market conditions |
| Can be a perfect work-from-home business |
When it comes to property investing, rental yield is an important factor to consider. On the one hand, focusing on rental yield allows investors to maximize their cash flow and potentially achieve a positive return on investment. This is especially important in markets with low capital appreciation potential. Plus, rental income can provide a steady source of income for investors, which can be particularly attractive for retirees or those looking for passive income streams.
However, there are also potential downsides to focusing solely on rental yield. For one, properties with high rental yields may be located in less desirable areas or may require significant maintenance and upgrades. Additionally, high rental yields may be unsustainable in the long term, particularly if interest rates rise or the local rental market becomes oversaturated.
Ultimately, rental yield should be one of several factors that property investors consider when making investment decisions. Location, property type, market conditions, and personal financial goals should also be taken into account. By conducting thorough research and analysis, investors can find the right balance between cash flow, capital appreciation potential, and risk management.
The downtrend in Historical Rental Yield in Singapore
Historically, the rental yield in Singapore has been on a downtrend. According to Square Foot Research, the average rental yield for residential properties in Singapore is around 2.5% per annum. This trend could be depressing for some property investors who are looking for higher returns. However, it is essential to note that rental yields are highly dependent on the location and demand for rental units. Therefore, it is crucial for serious property investors to put in the effort to hunt down optimal investment properties that could generate higher yields.
Jeff, a property investing trainer, prefers to invest in markets with rental yields of at least 6%, on top of capital appreciation. Jeff believes that Singapore property investors should globalize their portfolio and use the BRRR process of buying, refurbishing, refinancing, and repeating to achieve financial freedom. It is important to keep in mind that rental yield only forms part of the equation for property investing, as property prices play a greater role than rental yields in some cases. Additionally, rental yield does not include capital appreciation or resell value of a property, which could also contribute to the overall profit of an investment property.
Jeff’s BRRR Process for Property Investing
Jeff, a property investing trainer, suggests a process called BRRR for achieving financial freedom. BRRR stands for Buy, Refurbish, Refinance, and Repeat, which is the basic requirement for determining whether a location is worth investing in. He believes that serious property investors should look beyond rental yield, which is just a part of the equation to property investing. It is important to consider the property price, as finding a cheap property can increase yields. The second factor to consider is that rental yield does not include capital appreciation or resell value of a property.
With the right approach, an investment property could appreciate in value over time and might even be able to sell it for a good profit if it undergoes an enbloc process. Therefore, Jeff prefers to hunt for rental yields of 6% on top of capital appreciation. He encourages investors to expand their portfolio globally and to search for optimal investment properties that fulfill two requirements: high capital growth and positive cashflow, with rental yields substantially higher than the mortgage interest. Jeff’s BRRR process, alongside these requirements, could help investors achieve financial freedom through property investing.
Globalising Your Property Portfolio for Higher Rental Yields
Globalising your property portfolio can lead to higher rental yields and greater diversification. Investing in overseas properties provides the opportunity to tap into different markets and reap the benefits of varied economies.
However, it is important to approach this strategy with caution. One must conduct thorough research and due diligence to ensure the legality and viability of the investment. Additionally, maintaining a global portfolio requires effective management techniques to oversee the properties without the need for frequent travel.
For investors who have the ready capital and are willing to take on some risk, a well-managed global property portfolio can generate steady cash flow and long-term returns. By expanding beyond Singapore, investors can access a wider range of opportunities and reduce the risks associated with relying solely on the local market. With the right knowledge and strategies, globalising your property portfolio can lead to financial success.
