For years, the “10% down-payment rule” has been one of the biggest psychological and financial barriers to homeownership in Malaysia. The assumption was simple: no large cash reserve, no entry. Budget 2026 changes that narrative, placing greater emphasis on financing accessibility rather than affordability alone. With enhanced policy tools now in place, aspiring homeowners may…
Johor’s property market continues to expand, but the focus is shifting from pure growth to infrastructure readiness. According to Kashif Ansari, Co-Founder and Group CEO of Juwai IQI, the defining issue shaping real estate decisions is no longer just location or pricing, but access to electricity and water. As highlighted in coverage by Astro Awani…
As inflation eases and interest rates gradually decline, 2026 is shaping up as a more supportive year for real estate capital. Forecasts point to modest but resilient global growth, improving affordability, and a recovery in transaction volumes, particularly in markets where demographics, infrastructure spending, and policy reforms align.
1. Interest Rates and Buyer Activity …
Dubai has transitioned from an emerging property market to a globally relevant destination for real estate capital. For affluent and high-net-worth investors in ASEAN, it now features a diversified international property allocation strategy due to its macro stability, tax-efficient structure, global demand base, and robust fundamentals.
Political and economic stability are among Dubai’s foundational…
Australia’s housing market delivered solid gains in 2025, with national home values rising 8.6%, adding around $71,400 to the median dwelling price, the strongest annual growth since 2021.
All capital cities and regional markets recorded increases, led by Darwin (+18.9%), while Melbourne saw the smallest rise at 4.8%. However, momentum began to cool in December,…
Looking ahead to February 2026, market sentiment continues to strengthen as confidence builds on the more stable footing established at the start of the year.
Easing financial conditions, clearer interest rate direction, and resilient economic activity are helping investors and homebuyers move from caution to action. Across many markets, transaction activity is gradually improving as…
Dubai property investment is one of the most significant investment decisions that can enrich your portfolio. But before you do that, know these 9 things first!
Written by Nelson Li, Head of IQI Hong Kong
Office Sector
Hong Kong’s Grade A office market posted a strong performance in October, with net absorption reaching 293,300 sq ft—driven by continued consolidation and a flight-to-quality as tenants capitalise on attractive lease terms.
Notably, Migao Group Holdings expanded its footprint, leasing over 10,000 sq ft at Cheng Kong Center II in Central.
Vacancy rates continued…
Written by Manu Bhazan, Country Head of India
India’s retail sector is entering a period of structural transformation, driven by rising disposable incomes, rapid urbanisation, and growing demand for premium consumer experiences.
These forces are positioning India as one of the strongest retail growth markets globally.
India’s Tier 1 cities led retail rental growth in the APAC region. Galleria Market recorded…
Written by Junaid Hamid, Head of IQI Karachi Pakistan
Pakistan’s real estate market is entering a new growth phase heading into 2026, supported by urban expansion, infrastructure development, digital adoption, and policy reforms.
These structural shifts are reshaping demand across residential and commercial segments.
Rapid urbanisation in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad continues to push housing demand higher, particularly in…
