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Rents Cool Down in Q1 2025, Easing Pressure on Tenants | Juwai IQI

Malaysia’s rental market is finally showing signs of slowing down after more than a year of rising prices!  According to a new report by real estate group Juwai IQI, average home rents either stayed the same or dropped slightly in the first quarter of 2025. The report shows that the average rent across Malaysia fell from RM2,052 in Q4 2024 to RM2,020 in Q1 2025. This is the first time in over a year that rent prices didn’t go up, which is welcome news for many Malaysians, especially those living in big cities like Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur, which had some of the biggest rent increases last year, is now seeing prices level off.  This means less pressure on renters who have been struggling to keep up with rising living costs. What’s Behind the Change? Juwai IQI Group CEO, Kashif Ansari, explained the trend clearly: “What we’re seeing is a healthy cooling-off period after an aggressive rental surge in late 2024. Economic indicators remain strong, but the market is adjusting as supply and demand find new balance.” He also added,  “Stable rental prices bring predictability. That’s good not just for tenants, but also for developers and property investors looking to plan long-term.” Juwai IQI Group CEO, Kashif AnsariKashif mentioned that while the general rental market is slowing, luxury properties are still in demand, especially in areas like the Klang Valley.  He said, “Economic indicators remain strong, but the market is adjusting... while rents have slowed down, demand in the luxury and high-end rental market remains resilient.” Why This Matters This slowdown in rent growth could help ease the cost of living for many people.  With prices no longer climbing as fast, renters may find it easier to plan their finances and manage other expenses. Looking Ahead Juwai IQI believes this trend could continue through the year, depending on inflation and interest rates.  If the market stays balanced, renters and landlords alike can expect a more stable year ahead. Juwai IQI was featured in The Malaysian Reserve. Juwai IQI is the world-renowned property company that provides insights on property, locally and globallyClick below to get more expert property insights from our blog!MORE INSIGHTS

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Malaysia’s OPR Reduced to 2.75% After Two Years of Stability

Version: CN, MYOPR 2025: Latest updatesAs of 9 July 2025, Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) announced its latest revision to the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR), reducing it from 3.00% to 2.75%. This marks the first rate cut in two years.Previously, BNM had maintained the OPR at 3.00% since its 25 basis point hike on 3 May 2023.With this adjustment, the ceiling and floor rates of the OPR corridor are now set at 3.00% and 2.50%, respectively.Overnight Policy Rate (OPR)OPR 2025: Latest updatesWhat is Overnight Policy Rate (OPR)?Why is the OPR system in place?What does this mean to home buyers and businesses?Is This a Good Time To Buy a Home?What is Overnight Policy Rate (OPR)?Before we dive in deeper, let's have a look at what OPR is all about.The Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) is an overnight interest rate set by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), which determines the interest rate for financial institutions to lend funds to one another. Depending on the bank’s lending activities as well as the customers’ deposits and withdrawals, banks have varying levels of cash reserves on a daily basis. Thus, banks with a cash shortage often borrow from banks with larger cash reserves in order to balance the available levels of cash, which in turn ensures a stable banking system.Why is the OPR system in place?Maintaining this balance is crucial to keep financial systems functioning, as well as meet the liquidity requirements set by BNM. To ensure banks have a steady amount of available cash, the interest rates fixed by the OPR provides a structure for monetary direction on a national scale. Due to its significance in banking operations, the OPR can affect the economy in various ways, including employment and inflation.What does this mean to home buyers and businesses?A higher OPR means that the borrowing cost will become more expensive for consumers. Banks will revise the costs following the increase in OPR by BNM, resulting in higher interest rates for home buyers and businesses. The higher cost can limit personal and commercial access to capital.A lower OPR, on the other hand, brings the opposite result. 2020 recorded the lowest OPR rate at 1.75%. Learn how a lower OPR can affect the property market here.The increase in OPR results in:1. Higher monthly installment paymentsThe higher interest rates make the cost of borrowing more expensive, resulting in a hike in monthly installment payments.2. Longer loan tenureThanks to the increase in the monthly installment amount, the repayment period will be extended if the old sum is maintained.Since most housing loans in Malaysia are Full Flexi Loans or Semi Flexi Loans, this means that your monthly payment will fluctuate with the rise and fall of OPR.The chart below shows a rough idea of the changes in monthly payments if OPR increases: Previous interest rate - 3%Current interest rate - 3.2%Future interest rate - 3.5%Monthly installment amount increase RM500KRM1924RM1980RM2066RM56++RM600KRM2309RM2376RM2479RM67++RM700KRM2693RM2772RM2893RM79++Credit: Andy Foong, IQI Real Estate NegotiatorNote that this information is only for reference – interest rates and percentages vary from bank to bank. Please check with your bank for the latest updates.Is This a Good Time To Buy a Home?Rates are expected to hike up by year end as BNM focuses on ensuring a sustainable recovery of the Malaysian economy. Knowing this, it’s safe to say that this is a good time to leverage on this opportunity and start purchasing property before rates start going up again. It's high time we start investing, so if you're interested in getting connected with the experts in the property industry, drop us your details and we will connect you as soon as possible![hubspot portal="5699703" id="85ebae59-f425-419b-a59d-3531ad1df948" version="undefined" type="form"]Continue reading:Bank Negara’s Unchanged OPR Ensures Housing Market Stability Guide To Finding The Right Home Loan: Flexi, Semi-Flexi Or Fixed Term, Which Is The Best For You?Real Estate 101: Navigating Home Financing through Loan-to-Value and DSR Explained

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What Is Loan-to-Value (LTV) and How It Affects Home Loans in Malaysia

If you're planning to buy a home in Malaysia, Loan-to-Value (LTV) is one of the most important terms you'll come across. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to invest in property, knowing how much banks are willing to lend compared to the property's value can help you plan smarter.All you need to know about Loan-to-ValueWhat Is LTV?Loan-to-Value Formula:LTV Limits in MalaysiaWhy LTV MattersLower LTV (e.g., 70–80%):Higher LTV (e.g., 90% or more):What About DSR (Debt Service Ratio)?DSR Formula:Aisha’s Story: A Simple LTV + DSR ExampleWhich Banks in Malaysia Offer the Best Terms?How to Improve Your Approval OddsSummary: LTV at a GlanceTips to Improve Your LTV & Loan OutcomeWhat Is LTV?LTV stands for Loan-to-Value, and it's a percentage that shows how much of the property price the bank will finance. The rest is your responsibility—usually paid as a down payment.Loan-to-Value Formula: ? Loan-to-Value (LTV) Formula Formula: LTV (%) = (Loan Amount ÷ Property Value) × 100 Example: If you borrow RM450,000 for a home valued at RM500,000, LTV = (450,000 ÷ 500,000) × 100 = 90% LTV Limits in MalaysiaFirst & Second Homes: Up to 90% LTVThird Home Onwards: Maximum 70% LTV (per Bank Negara’s policy to curb speculation)The more homes you own, the lower your allowable LTV, meaning you’ll need to pay more upfront.Why LTV MattersLTV doesn’t just affect how much you can borrow—it also affects your interest rate, loan approval, and whether you’ll need mortgage insurance.Lower LTV (e.g., 70–80%):Seen as lower risk by banksCan qualify for better interest ratesOften doesn’t require insuranceHigher LTV (e.g., 90% or more):Higher risk for banksMay come with higher interest ratesMay require insurance or stricter approval conditionsWhat About DSR (Debt Service Ratio)?While LTV measures how much you can borrow based on property value, DSR (Debt-Service Ratio) measures how much you can borrow based on your income and existing commitments.DSR Formula: ? Debt-Service Ratio (DSR) Formula Formula: DSR (%) = (Total Monthly Debt Obligations ÷ Monthly Income) × 100 Example: If you earn RM10,000 and have total debts of RM3,000 per month, DSR = (3,000 ÷ 10,000) × 100 = 30% Banks use this to ensure you won’t be overwhelmed by debt after your loan is approved.Aisha’s Story: A Simple LTV + DSR ExampleAisha found her dream apartment for RM500,000. With a 90% LTV, she could borrow RM450,000. But the bank also looked at her DSR:Monthly income: RM10,000Other debt (car loan + personal loan): RM3,000DSR = (3,000 ÷ 10,000) × 100 = 30%The bank allowed a 50% max DSR, so she had 20% (RM2,000) room left for her home loan.Result? Although LTV allowed a RM450,000 loan, her DSR only supported about RM400,000 in monthly repayments—so she adjusted her budget.Which Banks in Malaysia Offer the Best Terms?Maybank: Great for tools and DSR/LTV calculators onlinePublic Bank: Known for low-interest rates and stable lending practicesCIMB, RHB, and Hong Leong: Often offer seasonal promos and flexible packages? Tip: Compare rates and LTV policies from at least 3 banks. Also check whether you're eligible for first-time homebuyer incentives.How to Improve Your Approval OddsBefore applying for a home loan:✅ Do❌ Don’tPay all bills and loans on timeApply for too many loans at onceCheck your CCRIS reportMax out credit cardsReduce existing debtsBe a guarantor unless necessarySummary: LTV at a GlanceTermDescriptionLTVHow much the bank will lend vs. property valueHigh LTVLower down payment, higher riskLow LTVHigher equity, better interest rateDSRMonthly debt obligations vs. monthly incomeBest PracticeBalance LTV and DSR for approval successTips to Improve Your LTV & Loan OutcomeBoost your down payment — lower LTV = better interest rate.Reduce debts — improves both your DSR & loan approval chances.Keep an eye on CLTV — especially if you plan a second mortgage or home equity line.Compare lenders— Maybank and Public Bank frequently have flexible LTV/DSR calculators, while promos from CIMB, RHB, and Hong Leong may offer attractive rates.Looking for advice or help on your home loan application? We want to hear from you by submitting your info down below, our agent will guide you step by step![custom_blog_form]Continue reading:What is Debt-To-Service Ratio (DSR) in Malaysia & How It Affects Your Home LoanWhat can you do if your home loan is rejected?Is purchasing a home during the COVID-19 crisis the right decision?

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Japan Real Estate Market 2025: Trends & Investment Guide

Japan’s property market stands firm in 2025 as a compelling location for real estate investment in Asia. Undergoing a transformative period surrounding demographic change, Japan’s utilising the growing foreign interest and sustainability initiatives to create a resilient and stable property market. Here’s a rundown of Japan’s Market Insights to help you make informed decisions about your investments. Key Takeways:Japan’s Economy: The GDP in Q1 2025 shows at -0.2%, a slower pace than what was estimated, largely due to the tariffs from the United States. Real GDP is projected to grow by 0.7% in 2025.Japan’s Development: Addressing sustainable and smart housing development, as well as the redevelopment of large areas of vacant homesJapan’s Job Market: A stable 2.5% unemployment rate, but an exceptionally high employment rate for new graduates at 98%, with wage increases across sectors to incentivise employment. A high demand in tech, finance & services.Japan Real Estate: Increased interest from foreign and domestic investors, especially in the commercial market due to stable returnsTable of contentsJapan’s Economic StateAnalysts forecasts for 2025What’s keeping Japan’s economy ticking in 2025?How Is Japan’s Real Estate Market Performing in 2025?Tokyo property trendsIQI’s View on Japan’s Real Estate OpportunitiesFAQs About Investing in Japan Real EstateJapan’s Economic StateEconomic OverviewJapan’s economy is recovering with Q1 GDP at 0.0% (after -0.2% dip), projected to grow 0.7%–1.2% in 2025 depending on the source.Private consumption and investment remain solid despite global headwinds; domestic demand is the key growth driver.Inflation moderates to around 2.4%–2.8%, and wage growth supports spending.Yen weakness (¥150–160/USD) gives foreign investors a 20–30% price advantage.Japan entered 2025 with cautious optimism, experiencing both risks and opportunities as they bounce back post-COVID and deal with uncertainties pertaining to global politics and economies. As of mid-2025, Japan remains the world’s fourth-largest economy, with nominal GDP projected at approximately USD 6.9 trillion for 2025.In Q1 2025, Japan’s economy showed renewed resilience, with their GDP recorded as 0.0% quarter-on-quarter, improving slightly from a -0.2% contraction in early 2025. Exports faltered due to global tensions but consumption figures revised upwards, with private consumption, comprising more than half of Japan’s economy, grew 0.1% where it was predicted to be flat in the initial reading. The capital expenditure component of GDP (private demand) expanded 1.1% in Q1, though economists had expected 1.3%. For the broader economy, this signals a cautious but positive shift toward recovery, supported by internal demand despite external hindrance. For domestic investors, the boost in consumption and capital spending suggests improving business and consumer confidence, which may support further economic momentum. As for foreign investors, the combination of economic stabilisation, potential monetary policy adjustments, and relatively attractive real estate and asset prices in Japan could present timely entry points into a market that is showing signs of bottoming out and gradual strengthening.Source: ReutersAnalysts forecasts for 2025IMF: The IMF expects Japan’s economy to expand 1.2% in 2025, after they experienced a 0.1% increase in 2024 owing to private spending. Headline inflation is projected to flow to 2.4% in 2025 from 2.7% last year. "After three decades of near-zero inflation, signs are growing that Japan's economy can reach a new equilibrium with inflation sustained at the Bank of Japan's 2% headline inflation target and growth at the 0.5% potential," the IMF said1.OECD: Slightly more optimistic, OECD predict real GDP is projected to grow by 0.7% and 0.4% in 2025 and 2026 respectively. Driven by domestic demand as wages rise, supporting private consumption. Headline consumer price inflation at 2.8% this year, converging to 2% next year2.Bank of Japan: Revised its fiscal‑year 2025 growth outlook down to between 0.5% and 1.1%, settling around 0.5%, citing impacts of U.S. tariffs3.What’s keeping Japan’s economy ticking in 2025?Private ConsumptionHousehold consumption has been surprisingly robust, with Q1 2025 marking the fourth consecutive quarter of rising consumption, thanks to steady wage gains of 2.3% as of April 2025, and improved employmentInvestment MomentumDespite global headwinds, business investment remains solid—buoyed by corporate profitability and strong order backlogs in machinery, digital transformation, and green sectors.Inflation and Policy SupportHeadline inflation has seen a modest decrease from its peak of 4% in January 2025, standing at 3.6% in April. This is driven by energy and food price acceleration as subsidy effects fade. TourismWith inbound tourism projected to surpass 33 million visitors in 2025 (JNTO), there is a booming interest in short-term rental properties, especially in Tokyo. This could be a lucrative opportunity for investors as hotels comprised 47% of foreign transactions in 2024. TradeJapan’s government is preparing its “summer” economic outlook for 2025, and is expected to revise its GDP growth forecast downward from 1.2% to below 1.0%, reflecting weakening global demand amid U.S. tariffs. Additional subsidies targeting energy, gas, and gasoline will roll out progressively through 2025, as detailed in an OECD report. Digital ExpansionThe Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) is expanding tax incentives and direct subsidies for firms investing in AI, robotics, biotech, semiconductors, and renewables. They have also set an intellectual property strategy to maximise their capital through the use of artificial intelligence. Social and demographic incentivesIn response to demographic decline, new reforms aim to increase labour participation among women, seniors, and skilled foreign workers. These include childcare expansion, reskilling programmes, and visa relaxations.Expanding outside the regionGovernment support for regional cities includes infrastructure grants, affordable housing schemes, and incentives to relocate companies outside Tokyo. These measures enhance the appeal of emerging investment hubs like Fukuoka, Sapporo, and Nagoya.How Is Japan’s Real Estate Market Performing in 2025?OverviewJapan’s real estate market is stable, with commercial deals up 30% YoY in 2024.Tokyo leads, but Osaka, Fukuoka, Nagoya, and Sapporo are rising stars due to infrastructure and regional incentives.Rental yields: Tokyo ~3.4%, Osaka ~4.5%, Sapporo ~5%, with nationwide avg. at 4.2%.Property prices rising steadily; Tokyo condos average ¥110 million (~$800K).Occupancy rates high, with central Tokyo below 5% vacancy and strong rental growth.It’s worth noting that 37% of Japan’s population is in Tokyo, with prefectures like Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka experiencing internal migration in recent years due to stabilising prices and easier entry points. Foreign investors are important too, primarily coming from North America, Europe, Singapore, Hong Kong and South Korea. According to UNCTAD's World Investment Report 2024, Japan was the 19th-largest recipient of FDI globally, with an inflow of USD 21.4 billion, down from USD 34.1 billion one year earlier. The real estate sector totaled approximately USD $436 billion in 2024, with economists predicting it to rise in coming years. The average nationwide land price rose about 2.7% in January 2025 and office, retail, logistics, and residential segments in urban centers are seeing the most inflows. In 2024, commercial real estate deals soared: $23.6 billion by mid-year—a 30% increase from 2022. Foreign capital comprised roughly 27% of total transactions, up from 21% five years ago. This recovery signals the slow strengthening of Japan’s property market, as it is the strongest gain they’ve had since 1991. Japanese currency shows at 150-160 yen per USD – which means a 20-30% purchasing advantage for foreign buyers (compared to 5 years ago). Due to the weakened yen, foreign investment is over $10 billion, with a 45% increase in Q1 2025, showing the continued interest from foreign buyers.A recent survey of real estate professionals revealed that 70% hold a positive outlook on current market conditions—the most favorable sentiment reported in the past five years. Many anticipate robust investment opportunities on the horizon. Notably, 31% of experts now believe Tokyo’s property prices will reach their peak in 2025, up from 25% the previous year, indicating growing confidence among both domestic and international investors that the market upswing may persist. The legal and tax environment of Japan aids in this growing optimism. Japan’s property market is one of the most open in Asia, with minimal restrictions on foreign ownership and clear legal procedures, making it exceedingly beneficial for international investors. Ownership RightsForeigners can purchase freehold property in Japan without any citizenship or residency requirements.Title registration is transparent and legally protected, with lawyers or judicial scriveners (shiho-shoshi) typically handling documentation.Taxes and FeesReal estate acquisition tax: 3–4%Residential property and land have a 3% tax rateCommercial property has a higher rate of 4%Stamp tax: Ranges from ¥10,000 to ¥480,000, depending on the property priceIncome:Rental income is subject to progressive tax (5–45%), with deductions allowed for depreciation, maintenance, interest, etc.Withholding tax for non-resident individuals is 20.42%, 10.21% for residents imposed at the time of property acquisitionFinancing & ManagementForeigners may access mortgage financing through select Japanese and international banks, typically requiring 30–50% down payment.Property management firms are widely available and often bilingual, charging 3–5% of gross rental income.Tokyo property trendsResidential pricesTokyo’s property price index rose 8.14% in January 2025, with inflation-adjusted growth around 3.95%, which means there is strong demand and factors leading to a positive increase in market conditionsThe average new condominium in Tokyo’s 23 wards will cost over ¥110 million ($800,000) in 2025. While this is a slight dip, it remains near all-time highs.Rents & OccupancyIn Q4 2024, average mid-market rent in Tokyo’s 23 wards (its municipalities) hit ¥4,332/m² (US $29/m²), up 1.3% QoQ (quarter on quarter) and 6.4% YoY (year on year). The core central five wards averaged ¥5,250/m² (US $35), growing 6.7% YoY. Occupancy rates rose to 96.6% (23 wards) and 97.2% (central five)Vacancy in central Tokyo is now below 5%, with net effective rents rising ~3% YoY (CBRE Japan, Q2 2025).Rental YieldsNationwide average gross rental yield stands at 4.22% in Q1 2025, slightly down from 4.33% in Q2 2024. Studio/apartment yields in the Tokyo central five wards average 3.7% per CBRE data. Combined capital and income returns in Tokyo commercial assets reached about 4.8% by mid-2024, up from 4.4% in 2023.Tokyo’s central wards yield is 3.44%, compared to 4.47% in Osaka and 4.96% in Sapporo. This disparity reflects Tokyo’s status as Japan’s most mature and in-demand market for investors seeking steady returns and capital preservation.Payback:With yields in the 3.5–4.5% range, investors typically recover their capital in 22–28 years, factoring in rental growth and cap rate compression.These property trends highlight the growing interest in Japan’s urban landscape, especially in the wards where there is a focus on redevelopment. For example, the Nakano ward, a site focused on station area projects, saw land prices increase by 16.3%, and popular tourism hubs such as Shibuya climbing exceptionally high by 32.7% in a year. For institutional investors focused on investing in larger scale commercial property, higher returns and long-term demand visibility is crucial. These sectors are key:Office & IndustrialFueled by ¥18.8 billion in corporate capital expenditure in Q1 2025, demand remains solid in urban hubs.Prime locations include Marunouchi, Shibuya, Roppongi (Tokyo), Umeda (Osaka)Attractions include long-term leases, stable occupancy, predictable incomeSome risks are that this sector is sensitive to business cycles and macroeconomic shiftsLogistics & Data CentresContinues to outperform due to e-commerce growth and digital transformation.Japan’s data center market is expected to nearly double by 2028, which would fuel development activity​. Key regions of investment include Greater Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya peripheries.Demand drivers include 5G, AI, and gamingSome barriers include the high capital requirement and operational complexityRetail & HospitalityBenefitting from post-COVID tourism rebound and domestic consumptionMain cities include Tokyo Kyoto, Sapporo, and FukuokaIQI’s View on Japan’s Real Estate OpportunitiesAs we move through 2025, Japan remains a rare combination of economic stability, open market access, and relatively affordable global real estate. It offers investors a sturdy legal framework, clear ownership rights, and a deep property market. With government incentives focused on development, tourism, and sustainability being proposed, Japan is a great location to invest for consistent rental income in urban centers, attractive capital appreciation in select growth hubs, opportunities due to currency, and diversification into an expanding property market. Tokyo continues to lead the way as a global city offering solid long-term returns, but cities like Fukuoka and Osaka are worth looking into as they are reshaping the narrative with regional innovation and somewhat attractive yields. Investors who commit to understanding Japan’s unique ecosystem will not only preserve capital, they may very well grow it, steadily and sustainably, in a country keeping strong with resilience and determination. Ready to Explore Investment Opportunities in Japan?Whether you’re a seasoned investor seeking diversification or a first-time buyer exploring Japan’s property market, our expert team at IQI Global is here to help you navigate Japan’s evolving real estate landscape.FAQs About Investing in Japan Real EstateWhere is the best place to invest in Japan? The best places to invest in Japan are Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka.Tokyo offers long-term capital growth, Osaka gives you higher rental yields, and Fukuoka is an emerging hotspot with rising demand and affordable entry prices. Your ideal location depends on your investment goals—whether you're looking for steady income, strong appreciation, or a balance of both.Is it better to use my Japan property for Airbnb or student rental? Both can be profitable, but it depends on the location and legal requirements.Airbnb works well in tourist-heavy areas like Tokyo, Kyoto, or Sapporo, but you'll need a proper minpaku license to comply with short-term rental laws.Student rentals are more stable and suit cities with large universities, such as Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka. They often come with longer-term leases and less turnover.Can foreigners buy property in Japan? Yes, foreigners can buy property in Japan with no restrictions on ownership.You don’t need to be a resident or citizen, and you can own freehold land and buildings just like locals. Legal procedures are straightforward, and many real estate firms offer bilingual support for foreign buyers.Is Japan a good country to invest in real estate? Yes, Japan is considered a safe and stable market for real estate investment.It offers clear ownership laws, strong demand in urban areas, and attractive pricing due to the weakened yen. Tokyo remains a top global city for property investment, and other cities like Osaka and Fukuoka are growing fast, providing opportunities for solid rental yields and capital appreciation.Start your Japan property journey today. Fill in your details and let our experts connect you with the right investment.[custom_blog_form]Continue reading:IQI Expands Presence In 21 Countries With Launch Of IQI Japan OfficesSurvey of Japan Digital Transformation (DX) progress in the Real Estate Industry 2021Top 15 Best Countries for Real Estate investmentWhy a strong dollar is bad for the Global economy - By Shan Saeed, Chief Economic ConsultantReferences:

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