What Makes a New Condo Attractive to Both Buyers and Renters

Dual appeal is rare but valuable. We break down the traits that make a project versatile and future-proof.

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Jul 3, 2025 - 10:28

What Makes a New Condo Attractive to Both Buyers and Renters

When developers launch a new condominium project, they often target both homeowners and property investors. But for a project to truly stand out in today’s competitive market, it needs to appeal equally to buyers and renters—two groups with very different priorities.

What features or qualities make a new condo desirable to both groups? Whether you're an investor seeking rental income or an owner-occupier planning for long-term value, understanding what drives universal appeal can help you make a smarter property decision.

1. Prime Location with Strong Accessibility

Location is the one factor that neither buyers nor renters are willing to compromise on. Condos that are:

Within 5 to 10 minutes’ walk from MRT stations
Near major employment hubs, commercial zones, or universities
Well-connected via expressways or transport nodes

…consistently attract interest from both markets.

Renters value reduced commute times, while buyers see location as a hedge against long-term depreciation. Proximity to malls, schools, and food options also increases a unit’s everyday convenience—boosting livability and tenant retention.

2. Functional, Efficient Layouts

While flashy showflat interiors draw attention, the long-term appeal of a condo lies in how the space works.

Buyers look for practical room sizes, especially in family-friendly units
Renters prefer easy-to-furnish layouts with clear separation between private and shared spaces
Investors want units that offer layout flexibility—such as dual-key configurations or study areas for remote work

Compact units with awkward corners or poor lighting may be harder to rent or resell, even in a newer development.

3. Modern Facilities That Add Daily Value

Swimming pools, gyms, and BBQ pits are now standard. What sets a condo apart are facilities that align with modern lifestyle needs, such as:

Co-working spaces or private meeting pods
Family zones with playgrounds and childcare centres
EV charging bays, bicycle parking, and parcel lockers
Rooftop gardens or wellness corners

These features appeal to both buyers looking for future-proof amenities and tenants who value lifestyle upgrades.

4. Reasonable Maintenance Fees

Attractive facilities are important, but costs matter too. High maintenance fees can deter both buyers and renters:

For buyers, it reduces the net return on investment
For tenants, higher fees may be passed on as part of rent
For owner-occupiers, it impacts long-term affordability

Condos that balance quality facilities with sustainable maintenance costs often retain better long-term value.

5. Sizeable Tenant Pool in the Area

Even if you’re buying for own stay, being in a location with strong rental demand is good for future exit options. Condos near:

Business parks (e.g., One-North, Changi Business Park)
Universities (e.g., NUS, NTU, SIM)
Healthcare hubs (e.g., Novena, Outram)

…often see high rental interest. This increases demand for your unit, whether you eventually decide to rent it out or sell it to an investor.

6. Thoughtful Unit Mix Within the Development

The overall composition of a condo affects both rental and resale performance. A healthy unit mix includes:

Studio and 1-bedrooms for singles and young couples
2- and 3-bedroom layouts for families
A limited number of premium units (e.g., penthouses or large 4-bedders)

Too many small units can result in price stagnation, while too few affordable options may limit rental appeal.

7. Reputation of the Developer

Buyers and renters alike prefer developments built by trusted developers with a track record of quality construction, timely delivery, and good management. Condos with fewer defects and better post-TOP maintenance tend to perform more consistently over time.

A well-managed condo also attracts renters, who rely on responsive MCSTs and clean common areas for daily comfort.

Conclusion: Balance Is Key

A condo that appeals to both buyers and renters offers the best of both worlds—livability and investment potential. It’s well-located, well-designed, fairly priced, and managed with long-term quality in mind.

Whether you plan to live in it, lease it out, or eventually sell, choosing a property with broad appeal ensures that you’re not just buying a unit—you’re buying into sustainable demand.