The Future of
Global Real Estate

Buying a home is already a big undertaking, but just when you think that’s complex enough, starting a house renovation project can be an exciting journey that quickly turns into a nightmare without proper planning.Renovating isn’t just about picking tiles and colour swatches. It’s a full-blown construction project that requires planning, vigilance, and a whole lot of patience.Whether you're dealing with a new house or an old house, here are 5 things you must know before you get started renovating!Essentials to know before starting the handiworks!Set a Clear TimelineSign a Contract with a Payment Timetable and BudgetHire a Reputable and Certified ContractorMonitor Renovation Progress CloselyInspect the Completed Work Before Final PaymentFAQsSet a Clear TimelineThe first and most essential step is to have a realistic and detailed schedule in place.Renovation projects can sometimes take longer than expected due to weather, supply delays, or unforeseen structural issues, but that doesn’t mean your building process should run endlessly.Before any work begins, sit down with your contractor or architect to clearly outline the project schedule, including when each stage is expected to begin and end.Having these checkpoints not only helps you track progress but also keeps everyone accountable.It’s also easier to spot red flags when things start falling behind without clear explanation.Having a timeline gives you the structure to address delays early instead of being caught off guard halfway through.Sign a Contract with a Payment Timetable and BudgetNever begin a renovation without a proper contract that includes a payment timetable and a clearly defined renovation budget.The contract should cover all aspects of the project: scope of work, itemised renovation costs, types of materials, labour, services, and terms for dealing with delays or defects.The payment schedule should be milestone-based—for example, a portion paid upon completion, another at the halfway point, and the rest only after final inspection.This protects you from potential abandonment or subpar workmanship.Paying everything upfront is not advisable, no matter how friendly or convincing the contractor may seem.It's also highly recommended to save some extra money in advance to cover unexpected costs.Hire a Reputable and Certified ContractorChoosing the right contractor goes far beyond a few social media reviews or a friend’s recommendation.Always hire a contractor registered with both the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) and the Companies Commission of Malaysia (CCM).CIDB registration ensures the contractor has met national standards and is legally allowed to perform renovation works in Malaysia.One of the most important things to check is their CIDB grade, which determines the maximum value of the project they’re authorised to undertake.For example, a Grade G1 contractor is only allowed to take on projects valued up to RM200,000, while a Grade G7 contractor has no tender limit and can handle projects of any scale.Here's a breakdown of the CIDB grades and their tender limits:CIDB GradeTender LimitG1Not more than RM200,000G2Not more than RM500,000G3Not more than RM1 millionG4Not more than RM3 millionG5Not more than RM5 millionG6Not more than RM10 millionG7No limitAlways ensure that the contractor’s CIDB grade matches the scale of your renovation.A contractor with a lower grade taking on a larger job than they’re certified for is a red flag.In addition to registration, review their past projects, visit their website, and speak to previous clients if possible.A well-established contractor should have no problem providing references or a portfolio.Monitor Renovation Progress CloselyOnce the project is underway, your involvement doesn’t stop there.Closely supervising the renovation process is crucial to ensuring the work reflects what was agreed upon.Visit the site regularly, take photos, and keep an open channel of communication with your contractor and renovation team.It also shows your contractor that you're paying attention, which tends to keep standards higher. Using tools like a browser-based project tracker can also help.You’ll also want to focus on key areas like bathrooms, bedrooms, room layouts, door fittings, and the placement of windows.Determining your preferred interior style and how to create a comfortable space is something best done in advance.Having a designer on board can help you visualise your dream home and decide on the right furnishings and furniture.Inspect the Completed Work Before Final PaymentOnce your house renovation is declared complete, resist the urge to rush in and sign off.Take the time to thoroughly inspect all the work done.Look for common issues like uneven finishes, hollow-sounding flooring tiles, faulty lighting, leaky plumbing, or electrical works that don’t match the specs.If possible, get a second pair of eyes—either a friend with renovation experience or a professional inspector, to help identify flaws you may overlook.Document everything through photos and video, and flag anything that needs rectification before making the final payment.Once full payment is made, it’s significantly harder to get the contractor to return and fix outstanding issues.Also, don’t forget to account for smaller details such as painting, tools left behind, or the need to rebuild or extend areas due to poor planning.In conclusion, the more prepared you are, the less likely you’ll spend unnecessary money.At the end of the day, every renovation comes with effort, cost, and emotional investment.But with proper planning, the right team, a clear contract, and patience, you can complete the project with far less stress. After all, your dream home is worth it!FAQsWhat is the meaning of house renovation? House renovation means improving or updating a home to make it look better, work better, or both. It can include things like repainting, replacing floors, or upgrading fixtures.What is the difference between renovation and remodel? Renovation is making something old look and feel new, while remodeling is creating something new from something old. If you're just updating finishes and fixtures, you're renovating. If you're changing the layout or structure, you're remodeling.What is the point of renovation? Renovation is done to improve how a space looks or works. The main goal is to update or refresh a home, often with a more modern design.Every dream home starts with the right property. Whether you're renovating an old house or buying one with endless potential, our trusted agents are here to help you find the perfect place to begin. Enquire below now to get started![hubspot portal="5699703" id="85ebae59-f425-419b-a59d-3531ad1df948" type="form"]Continue Reading:How much do you need to renovate your house in Malaysia? 2025Renovating vs. Remodelling Home: What Are The Differences? A Beginners Guide to Buying Home Insurance in Malaysia

Relaxing the CIES to Safeguard the Northern MetropolisHong Kong’s residential property market has endured a three-year downturn, marked by a structural oversupply of housing units. While lower housing costs and increased availability align with social objectives, this environment has created a critical challenge—a contraction in the future development pipeline and a sharp erosion of governmentland revenue.The number of units on disposed sites (ready for imminent construction) plummeted by 33% year-on-year to about 12,000 units in 2024.Government land premium income collapsed to about HKD 4 billion in the first three quarters of FY2024/25—a fraction of both last year’s HKD 13.9 billion actual income and this year’s HKD 33 billion target.If left unaddressed, relying on market self-correction risks perpetuating a downward spiral of asset devaluation, stalling urban renewal projects, and jeopardizing strategic initiatives such as the Northern Metropolis—a cornerstone of Hong Kong’s long-term economic and social development.The Northern Metropolis, envisioned to house 2.5 million residents and generate 650,000 jobs, demandsunwavering commitment from developers. However, their participation hinges on confidence in future demand and returns. With demand-side headwinds intensifying—sticky U.S. interest rates dampening price recovery prospects and population growth lagging—developers are increasingly reluctant to commit capital to large-scale projectsThis hesitancy creates a vicious cycle:Prolonged oversupply suppresses developer margins, reducing their capacity to invest in future projects.Falling land premiums strain public finances, limiting critical infrastructure investments for the NorthernMetropolisActivating Demand-Side Mechanisms to Resolve Structural OversupplyThe solution to the current market stalemate lies in activating demand-side mechanisms. We propose the following targeted refinements to enhance the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES):Full recognition of residential property investments – Allow 100% of residential property investments to counttoward the HKD 30 million eligibility threshold under the CIES.Remove price restrictions on residential property investment – Eliminate the HKD 50 million valuationrequirement for residential properties under the CIES.DOwnload now!

Written by, Mannu Bhazin, Country Head of IQI India. India’s luxury real estate market is undergoing a significant transformation, with branded residences emerging as the new gold standard for affluent buyers. These high-end homes, developed in collaboration with global hospitality and lifestyle brands, offer a seamless blend of five-star living and premium real estate.As the country’s high-net-worth individual (HNWI) population continues to rise—expected to grow from 797,714 in 2022 to over 1.65 million by 2027—the demand for ultra-exclusive, fully serviced residences is surging. This shift is set to propel the branded residences market to an estimated $5 billion by 2025.Unlike conventional luxury apartments, branded residences command a significant premium, often 30-40% higher than standard offerings due to their exclusivity, limited supply, and world-class amenities. These homes do not just promise luxury; they deliver an entire lifestyle experience, offering:Concierge servicesPrivate chefsWorld-class spas and wellness retreatsAccess to elite clubsThe integration of AI-powered security, biometric access, and 24/7 management ensures that residents enjoy an unparalleled level of safety and convenience. Many investors, particularly NRIs and HNWIs, view these properties as an attractive asset class, benefiting from superior capital appreciation and impressive rental yields.With branded residences from names like Taj and Marriott boasting an annual rental increase of up to 18%, they are increasingly seen as inflation-resistant assets with strong long-term returns.Beyond luxury, the appeal of branded residences lies in their ability to provide a hassle-free living experience. Unlike traditional real estate investments that require extensive maintenance, these properties are managed by top-tier hospitality brands, ensuring seamless upkeep and enhanced property value.Developers are also pushing the boundaries of personalized living, incorporating:Smart home technologyPrivate elevatorsWellness-centric featuresThese residences cater to an elite clientele that values exclusivity and convenience.India’s growing appetite for luxury real estate, fueled by rising disposable incomes and an evolving consumer mindset, is reshaping the country’s property market. Branded residences are no longer just about prime locations—they are about experience, service, and legacy.As this segment gains momentum, it is redefining the very essence of homeownership in India. For those seeking an investment that blends sophistication with long-term value, branded residences represent not just a place to live but a statement of lifestyle and success.The Tech Revolution Reshaping India’s Real Estate IndustryIndia’s real estate industry is poised for an unprecedented transformation, projected to reach a $1-trillion market valuation by 2030.This growth is being fueled by:Cutting-edge PropTech innovationsProactive government initiatives such as the Smart Cities Mission and the Digital India campaignWith technology becoming a cornerstone of real estate, developers, investors, and homebuyers alike areexperiencing a paradigm shift in how properties are built, managed, and transacted.Technology Driving Innovation in 2024The integration of:Artificial Intelligence (AI)The Internet of Things (IoT)Blockchain technologyHas revolutionized the real estate sector, introducing new levels of efficiency, security, and customization.AI-powered analytics are enabling personalized property recommendations based on search history, market trends, and consumer behavior, allowing buyers to make more informed decisions.Virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) property tours have minimized the need for physical visits, making real estate exploration more accessible and immersive than ever before.IoT-driven automation is redefining modern living spaces—smart thermostats, automated lighting, and advanced security systems are no longer luxury add-ons but critical features that enhance convenience and energy efficiency.Sustainability: A Key Driver of ChangeWith eco-conscious buyers seeking greener alternatives, developers are incorporating:Solar powerSmart water management systemsEnergy-efficient construction materialsThe focus on automation means that property owners spend less time managing their assets, as AI-powered virtualassistants now:Handle maintenance requestsOptimize energy usagePredict repair needs before they ariseThis shift is not only enhancing the homeownership experience but also making commercial real estate moreattractive to investors looking for high-tech, low-maintenance assets.Policy Reforms & Market TransparencyGovernment policy reforms are shaping a more transparent and investor-friendly market:The Real Estate (Regulation & Development) Act (RERA) continues to instill confidence by ensuring accountability and compliance.State governments are accelerating the digitization of land records through initiatives like the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP).Online title verification and reduced bureaucratic hurdles are eliminating inefficiencies, making propertytransactions faster and more secure.A Smarter, More Agile, and Future-Ready MarketWith data collection, analytics, and AI-driven insights becoming integral to decision-making, developers andinvestors can now:Better assess market trendsMitigate risksIdentify high-yield opportunitiesThe government’s push for a digitally enabled real estate ecosystem is reinforcing India’s position as a globalleader in PropTech adoption.As trust in technology grows and stakeholders continue to embrace innovation, India’s real estate industry is not just expanding—it is evolving into a smarter, more agile, and future-ready market.Download now!

In today’s fast-paced real estate market, agents need innovative tools to stay competitive. ChatGPT, a powerful language model by OpenAI, is one such tool that’s transforming the way real estate professionals work. From creating compelling property listings to managing client communication, ChatGPT offers a range of solutions that streamline tasks, saving time and boosting productivity.What is ChatGPT?ChatGPT is an AI language model designed to generate human-like text. By processing user inputs, it provides highly relevant, context-aware responses. For real estate agents, this means having an efficient assistant capable of assisting with content creation, marketing, and client communication.How ChatGPT Enhances Real Estate Operations1. Crafting Eye-Catching Property ListingsCreating an engaging property description can be time-consuming. ChatGPT allows agents to quickly generate compelling listings that highlight key features and benefits. Simply input property details, and ChatGPT will transform them into an attractive, market-ready description.2. Creating Effective Telemarketing ScriptsReal estate agents rely heavily on telemarketing to connect with clients. ChatGPT helps by generating customized scripts for different situations, ensuring effective communication with potential leads.3. Generating Content for Blogs and Social MediaAn active online presence is crucial in real estate. ChatGPT can help agents write informative blog posts on market trends, real estate tips, and investment advice. It can also create catchy social media posts to drive engagement.4. Drafting Professional Video ScriptsVideo marketing is essential for showcasing properties. ChatGPT can assist by creating clear, concise scripts for property walkthroughs, market updates, and promotional videos. This ensures the content is both professional and engaging.5. Streamlining Client CommunicationChatGPT can handle repetitive client communication tasks like responding to emails and answering frequently asked questions, ensuring timely and professional responses.Why Use ChatGPT in Real Estate?Time Efficiency: Automates routine tasks like writing descriptions and replying to inquiries, giving agents more time to focus on closing deals.Enhanced Marketing: Helps create high-quality, customized marketing materials that stand out in a competitive market.Cost-Effective: ChatGPT provides an affordable alternative to hiring additional staff or outsourcing content creation.Competitive Edge: Using AI-powered tools like ChatGPT helps agents maintain a competitive edge by improving productivity and output quality.How to Use ChatGPT in Real EstateSign Up: Create an account with OpenAI to access ChatGPT’s features.Provide Detailed Prompts: Input property details or content ideas for specific tasks, like writing a property listing or blog post.Refine the Output: Review and tweak the generated content to match your brand’s tone and style.Integrate into Daily Tasks: Make ChatGPT a part of your daily workflow to improve efficiency and quality.ChatGPT and Image Creation: The New Trend in Real EstateRecently, ChatGPT has expanded its capabilities beyond text, including the ability to generate stunning images. This new feature is gaining viral attention, especially in real estate, where visuals are crucial. Agents can now create eye-catching property images, virtual staging, and even marketing materials using ChatGPT’s advanced image generation tool.This innovative use of AI allows agents to easily produce high-quality visuals that complement their property listings, providing a more engaging and interactive experience for potential buyers.ConclusionBy incorporating ChatGPT into their operations, real estate agents can save time, reduce costs, and enhance their marketing efforts. Whether you’re crafting listings, creating content, or communicating with clients, ChatGPT’s AI-powered solutions can help you stay ahead of the competition in an ever-evolving market.Download Free ChatGPT For Real Estate E-Book Here!How to Use ChatGPT in Real EstateStep 1: Create an AccountSign up for ChatGPT through OpenAI’s platform to access its features.Step 2: Input Relevant PromptsStart with clear and detailed prompts. For example, provide property details to generate listings or describe the content you need, such as a blog post on real estate trends.Step 3: Refine the OutputReview the generated text and make adjustments as needed to suit your brand’s tone and requirements. ChatGPT allows you to refine queries for more accurate results.Step 4: Integrate into Daily TasksUse ChatGPT regularly to handle tasks like writing, brainstorming ideas, or managing client communication. Consistent use helps improve efficiency and output quality.ConclusionChatGPT is revolutionizing the real estate industry by offering practical, AI-powered solutions for agents and marketers. From creating property listings to enhancing client communication, its applications are endless. By adopting ChatGPT, real estate professionals can save time, cut costs, and deliver exceptional service, ensuring long-term success in a competitive landscape. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to transform your real estate business—start leveraging ChatGPT today! If you are passionate about real estate and want to become a real estate negotiator empowered by technology, join IQI now by filling out the form below![hubspot portal="5699703" id="c063034a-f66d-41ab-881b-6e6a3f275c33" type="form"]