Top 10 Profitable Condo Deals Over the Last Five Years – Market Magic

Top 10 Profitable Condo Deals Over the Last Five Years – Market Magic

Why Most 2017 Condo Buyers Are Still Smiling

We’ve all heard the doom‑and‑gloom stories about 2017 purchases—but the truth? Most people who bought then are now on a happy‑money pension.

Lost vs. Gained – The Numbers Don’t Lie

  • Losses were real, but they’re dwarfed by the gigantic gains.
  • Take a look at the markdown below and you’ll see the real picture.

Big Picture: Condos Are Killing It

Condos exploded in value this year. Why? A tighter supply of private homes and a “stay-at-home” surge during the pandemic tossed serious good‑work onto the market.

Standout Performances

Even in this gold rush, a handful of units shone brighter than the rest. Here’s the top lucrative sales since 2017:

  • Unit 301 – +$500K
  • Unit 410 – +$470K
  • Unit 115 – +$430K
  • Unit 220 – +$410K
  • Unit 320 – +$400K

Bottom line: If you bought a condo in 2017, you probably didn’t lose a single dollar you’d regret. Congrats, living the dream!

Deriving the data

Top 10 Profit‑Making Property Deals from 2017

Same eye‑catchers, but with the added bonus of actually making bank. Below are the most lucrative flip‑in‑five‑years listings that were purchased in 2017 and sold sometime after. The figures are a snapshot of real transactions, not just price‑per‑square‑foot estimates.

The Nassim – The Big Bang (Gain: $6.0 M)

  • Buy: 19 Feb 2018 – $13.998 M
  • Sell: 25 May 2022 – $20.0 M
  • Size: 4,069 sq ft
  • Yield: 43 % gain, ~9 % annualised

Juniper at Ardmore – The Maverick (Gain: $3.25 M)

  • Buy: 4 Apr 2017 – $7.0 M
  • Sell: 5 Jan 2022 – $10.25 M
  • Size: 3,520 sq ft
  • Gain: 46 % overall – ~8 % annualised

Boulevard 88 – The Pocket Rocket (Gain: $3.12 M)

  • Buy: 6 Jun 2019 – $9.38 M
  • Sell: 12 Jan 2022 – $12.5 M
  • Size: 2,777 sq ft
  • Percent gain: 33 % (12 % annualised)

Leedon Residence (Top 1 – Gain: $2.90 M)

  • Buy: 10 Oct 2017 – $9.6 M
  • Sell: 13 Jul 2021 – $12.5 M
  • Size: 4,704 sq ft
  • Annualised: ~7 %

Ardmore Park – The Reliable Sort (Gain: $2.73 M)

  • Buy: 24 Apr 2019 – $9.5 M
  • Sell: 5 May 2022 – $12.23 M
  • Size: 2,885 sq ft
  • Gain: 29 % (~9 % annualised)

The Nassim – Smaller Win (Gain: $2.60 M)

  • Buy: 6 Feb 2018 – $10.4 M
  • Sell: 26 Oct 2021 – $13.0 M
  • Size: 3,122 sq ft
  • Annualised: ~6 %

Tomlinson Heights – Solid Sharpshooter (Gain: $2.10 M)

  • Buy: 26 Apr 2017 – $7.5 M
  • Sell: 30 Mar 2022 – $9.6 M
  • Size: 2,745 sq ft
  • Percent gain: 28 % (~5 % annualised)

Leedon Residence – Medium‑Range (Gain: $1.875 M)

  • Buy: 12 Sep 2017 – $13.125 M
  • Sell: 25 Jun 2021 – $15.0 M
  • Size: 7,007 sq ft
  • Gain: 14 % (~4 % annualised)

New Futura – The Mid‑Tier (Gain: $1.824 M)

  • Buy: 25 May 2018 – $9.1758 M
  • Sell: 14 Jun 2021 – $11 M
  • Size: 2,691 sq ft
  • Growth: 20 % (~6 % annualised)

Aalto – The Steady Performer (Gain: $1.728 M)

  • Buy: 28 Jun 2017 – $3.5 M
  • Sell: 27 Nov 2020 – $5.228 M
  • Size: 2,443 sq ft
  • Annualised: ~12 %

Holt Residences – The Reliable Rise (Gain: $1.45 M)

  • Buy: 23 Feb 2017 – $2.58 M
  • Sell: 28 Apr 2022 – $4.03 M
  • Size: 2,067 sq ft
  • Percent gain: 56 % (~9 % annualised)

That’s the scoop on what the market is rewarding. These numbers don’t just show how price‑per‑square‑foot moved—they tell a story about the strength of Singapore’s residential real‑estate engine. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting, the above deals illustrate a proven path to profit: buy wisely, hold through the market, and sell at the peak.

1. The Nassim

Nassim Hill – Singapore’s Uptown Dream Home

Where It’s Located

18 Nassim Hill, District 10

Developed by Nassim Hill Realty – a top-tier name in the city’s property scene.

Key Figures

  • Freehold lease since 2015
  • Only 55 units – you’ll literally see the whole building in a single glance

Largest Sales Highlight

One of the standout sales happened on 25 May 2022: a spacious 4069 sq ft unit wrapped up for $13.998 million, after being bought for $20 million, netting a hefty profit of $6 million – that’s a 43 % gain!

Why It’s Hot

The Nassim boasts bedrooms so roomy that even the smallest apartment is almost 2,000 sq ft, while the biggest spans more than 9,000 sq ft. Think of it as living in a luxury penthouse with a personal palace.

Located not exactly on the bustling Orchard Road axis, but only about a six‑minute drive away, it offers the perfect combo of convenience and calm. A quick stroll down Nassim Hill Road brings you to Tanglin Mall – a shopper’s paradise that’s less than five minutes on foot.

And for those whose feet still need a certain rhythm, the new Orchard Boulevard MRT (part of the Thomson‑East Coast Line) is just a seven‑minute walk away, so you’ll never miss a beat.

Market Buzz

In recent years, size matters – and Nassim’s generous units will have the affluent crowd lining up to snag one. With a total of only 55 units, the exclusivity factor is no joke. That’s why, so far, every top profit transaction has exceeded the seven‑figure threshold, proving those units aren’t just big, they’re big fat.

2. Boulevard 88

Meet Boulevard 88 – The Orchard’s New VIP

Location: 86 Orchard Boulevard, District 10
Developer: Granmil Holdings Pte. Ltd.
Lease: Freehold
Top Project Status: 2023 Launch
Units: 154

Why the Sub‑Sale Star is Shining

  • Date: June 6, 2019
  • Unit Size: 2,777 sq ft
  • Transacted Price: $9.38 million
  • Purchase Price: $12.5 million
  • Profit: $3.12 million
  • Per Cent Gain: 33 %

Still in the Works, Yet Already a Hit

Even while construction dust is still fresh, this sub‑sale unit is proving the project’s irresistible charm.

Design – A Smart Nod to Marina Bay Sands

It pulls inspiration from the iconic Marina Bay Sands, but don’t think the architects had copy‑cat vibes – Moshe Safdie, the mastermind behind several master plans, did the heavy lifting.

Rooftop Paradise & First Edition Hotel

At the 29th floor, you’ve got an Infinity Pool that screams luxury, and the building also hosts Singapore’s first Edition hotel. Talk about double the buzz!

Age Contrast – Why It Matters

Nearby classic condos like St. Regis (2008) and Cuscaden Residences (2002) are older, giving Boulevard 88 a fresh‑in‑the‑now edge. Park Nova is a close competitor, but nothing beats the sweet novelty factor.

Why Prices Are Tight (And You Should Care)

In the busy Orchard hub, a brand‑new property is a premium pick. While mass‑market launches fling out smaller units fast, luxury buyers chase bigger spaces and are ready to pay top dollar.

Boulevard 88’s 4‑Bedroom Glory

All 50 four‑bedroom units sold in just one and a half years – a milestone, especially as the lowest‑priced unit snapped up at $9.6 million. That premium is a sweet spot for ambitious buyers.

Convenience Factor for Families

Forum The Shopping Mall is a two‑minute walk, great for parents with premium childcare options nearby. Need more shopping spree? ION Orchard is just a relaxed six‑minute stroll.

3. Ardmore Park

Ardmore Park: The Epitome of Orchard Luxury

Picture a 10‑minute stroll from Orchard Road that feels like a quiet oasis. That’s Ardmore Park – the golden standard by which every other luxury condo in the area is judged.

Key Facts

  • Location: 9 Ardmore Park, District 10
  • Developer: Marco Polo Developments Pte. Ltd.
  • Lease: Freehold
  • TOP (Top of the Project): 2001
  • Units: 330

Record‑Breaking Sale

Ardmore Park’s most lucrative deal landed on 24 April 2019:

Date Unit Size Transacted Price Purchase Price Profit Percentage Gain
24 Apr 2019 2885 sq ft $9.5 mn $12.23 mn $2.73 m 29 %

Why the World Loves Ardmore Park

  • Double‑storey clubhouse – Think VIP lounge for the whole building.
  • Beautiful landscaping that spills into the adjacent Ardmore Park – Nature meets luxury.
  • Security that remembers who you are and can personally greet you. It’s like having a personal bodyguard who also knows your name.
  • Close to a third of the units are owned by foreign buyers, making it the go‑to spot for expats.
  • Wonderfully convenient: a quick 10‑minute walk to Scotts Road, a stone’s throw from Goodwood Park Hotel and Far East Plaza.

Living in Harmony

Ardmore Park sits in an exclusive enclave. For those who crave the buzz of Orchard Road but want a break from traffic and noise, this condo is the sweet spot. Renting here pays off too – average rents hit about $5.22 psf at the moment.

Rumor has it that buyers often need to outbid the official valuation to secure a unit. It’s a true windfall for both homeowners and landlords alike.

4. 336 River Valley

336 River Valley – The Unexpected Fortune of Somerset

At first glance, 336 River Valley looks like just another nondescript office block in District 9. But hidden beneath its plain façade lies a story that could make any real‑estate buff grin.

Quick Snapshot

  • Location: 336 River Valley, District 9
  • Development Year: 1984
  • Units: 28
  • Lease Type: Freehold
  • Notable Sale: July 4, 2018 – 1,539 sq ft unit sold for $2.388 mn after a $4.5 mn purchase, pocketing a $2.1 mn profit (a whopping 88% gain)

The Deal That Made Heads Roll

In March 2018, a buyer popped into the scene, and by July, they were walking away with a $1.57 mn profit in just four months. How is that possible?

The secret sauce was an “en bloc” purchase by the Far East Organisation. They paid a staggering $124.1 mn for 27 of the 28 units—averaging about $2,574 per square foot. The remaining unit, cleverly priced to account for 12% Seller’s Stamp Duty, landed at roughly the same per‑square‑foot rate of $2,573. In other words, the buyer was in the right place at the right time and reaped a massive return.

Why 336 River Valley Is More Than Just a Block

  • It’s a 10‑minute walk from popular hubs like Orchard Central, Orchard 313, Orchard Gateway, and the Somerset MRT station.
  • Access to UE Square is equally convenient.
  • While this isn’t a headline‑making property, its story showcases how proximity and timing can turn a plain building into a hot real‑estate catch.

So next time you stroll past 336 River Valley, spare a second to imagine that four‑month magic. It’s a reminder that even the unassuming can sparkle when the right deal hits.

5. Holt Residences

Holt Residences – The Hot Spot in District 10

Location: 5 Holt Road, District 10
Developer: CPC Ventures Pte. Ltd.
Lease: Freehold
Top Price: $2,000 psf
Units: 46

Record‑Breaking Sale (April 28 2022)

  • Size: 2,067 sq ft
  • Sold for: $2.58 million
  • Purchased at: $4.03 million
  • Profit: $1.45 million (56 % gain)

Why Everyone’s Talking About Holt Residences

Prime spot? Absolutely. It sits right opposite the Malaysian High Commission – talk of prestige! And if you’re school‑bound, Alexandra Primary School is just an eight‑minute stroll away – no extra coffee run needed.


Nearby Hubs
  • Great World City: 11‑minute walk – catch the new MRT station and enjoy the renovated mall.
  • Valley Point Mall: 4‑minute walk, home to a Cold Storage.

But, let’s be honest – the area can feel a tad crowded with the traffic of other condos like The Horizon nearby. It’s a “populated” vibe, but hey, vibrant neighborhoods make for lively stories.

Why Buyers Went “High” on Price

The market’s been on a joyride. In 2021, similar units hovered around $3.3 – $3.5 million, and the prices kept climbing. You could almost hear the numbers shouting, “Up‑up‑and‑away!”

What’s the Competition Like?

Comparable units in the region, such as those at Valley Park or Trillium, whispered prices of over $2,000 per square foot. That’s the benchmark that pulled the price up.

So if you’re hunting for a spot that screams “luxury” yet stays close to all the urban perks, Holt Residences may just be your next chapter. Happy house‑hunting!

6. The Interlace

The Interlace: Singapore’s Most Talkative Skyscraper

Picture a building that’s 99‑years old, 1,040 units inside, founded in the glittering year of 2013, and still turning heads in 2022. That’s The Interlace, sprouting proudly at 180 Depot Road, District 4, courtesy of Ankerite Pte. Ltd.

Why the hype is more than just a number

  • World Building of the Year – the global bragging rights that add a sprinkle of prestige.
  • Its unique “interlaced” design gives you a sense of moving through a living sculpture rather than just sliding into a condo.
  • Rumor mill says the 99‑year lease could be extended or somehow shielded by the award, but that’s pure speculation, folks.

Biggest deal in 2022 – the penthouse parties

Date Unit size Transacted price Purchase price Profit Per cent gain
Feb 3 2022 5,877 sq ft US$4.75 mn US$6.10 mn US$1.355 mn 29%

This isn’t your average corner‑office. Think of it as a luxury penthouse with a sec‑tax to brag about its 5,877 sq ft of space. The 29% upside shows just how much value these mega‑units are collecting in a pandemic‑phoned market.

Location love notes

  • Mapletree Business City – 7 minutes away, perfect for the office‑to‑home commuter.
  • One‑North tech hub – 8 minutes away, a magnet for techies and media pros.
  • Queensway & Alexandra – a quick 4‑minute drive to hot malls like Alexandra Central, Anchorpoint, and Queensway Shopping Centre.
  • Heads up: no MRT station nearby, so you’ll be bus‑only (or driving) for the foreseeable future.

Bottom line

If you love a blend of architectural bragging rights, spacious luxury, and proximity to Singapore’s rising business centres, The Interlace is the place to be. With profits sliding from a modest US$110k to a staggering US$1.355 mn, investors and home buyers alike are finding that this triple‑crown building is worth its weight in (and then some) gold.

7. The Sail @ Marina Bay

Glengary’s Giant: The Sailing Story of 6 Marina Boulevard

Picture a condo that feels more like a tiny city than a single tower – that’s 6 Marina Boulevard, located smack‑dab in District 1. The developer? Glengary Pte. Ltd.. The lease? 99‑years. And the top‑most floor? A whopping 2008 square feet of luxury. With 1,111 units at the ready, it’s a real playground for buyers who love a bit of frenzy.

Profit‑Punching Highlight

Here’s the kicker: a recent sale that turned the tide for investors.

  • Date: December 14 2021
  • Unit size: 2,099 sq ft
  • Transacted price: $4.85 million
  • Purchase price: $3.5 million
  • Profit: $1.35 million
  • Percent gain: 39 %

That’s a fat win! But the sailing ship doesn’t always follow the straightest course.

The Rollercoaster Move

Take October 2020, for instance—a 33 % loss of $920,000 on a unit. The condo’s value can be as unpredictable as the tide: one moment you’re riding a wave of profit, the next you’re feeling a rough patch. No wonder it’s known as the “heartbreaker” of the housing market.

It’s a Love‑Hate Affair

Buyers either swoon over the panoramic city view and prime location or get cold feet because of the high unit count and dense environment. It’s a classic “worth the hustle?” debate that plays out every time someone touches the listing.

Is it for those who can endure the heart‑of‑the‑CBD buzz? If you thrive in a packed, energetic locale where rush‑hour traffic is just another part of the day’s soundtrack, this place is for you. If silence and solitude are your gold, you might want to look elsewhere.

Top‑Notch Connectivity

And let’s not forget the accessibility of this property: you’re within easy reach of four MRT lines.

  • Downtown MRT: three minutes’ walk
  • Shenton Way & Raffles Place: 10 minutes’ walk
  • Lines served:
    • East West
    • North South
    • Thomson‑East Coast
    • Downtown

Just a five‑minute walk brings you to Marina Bay, keeping you well‑within arms’ length of all the shopping and dining you crave.

So whether you’re chasing a script of stellar returns or a high‑energy lifestyle, the Sail’s got a ticket for every kind of traveler. Just remember – the better the view, the higher the sea‑finance, and the need to ‘keep your feet on the ground’ becomes paramount during the stormy nights. Enjoy the ride, sailor!

8. Martin Modern

Martin Modern: Where Luxury Meets a Riverfront Walk

Location: 10 Martin Place, District 9
Developer: Glengary Pte. Ltd.
Lease: 99‑year contract
Top floor: 2021
Units: 450

Biggest Profit‑Maker

Date Unit Size Transacted Price Purchase Price Profit Percent Gain
Nov 11 2021 1,733 sq ft $4.9 mn $3.753 mn $1.146 m 31 %

Why This Spot Is a Hot‑Spot

  • Just a four‑minute stroll to Robertson Quay, the nightlife darling of Singapore.
  • UE Square is only a nine‑minute walk away, offering everything from cold storage to play‑centers for the littles.
  • The area is a foodie paradise—Marco Pierre White’s The English House and Himonoya are right on the corner.
  • Riverfront vibes: the Singapore River hosts an assortment of high‑end eateries and classy bars.
  • The nearby Great World MRT station (11 minutes on foot, although a single exit makes the stroll shorter than it looks).

Who’s Renting Here?

Expats love the spot, and landlords crave the proven ROI. The unusually high price in the recent transaction? It’s probably because Martin Modern is a fresh project versus older gems like Oleanas Residence (1999) or Starlight Suites (2015). Plus, Martin Modern is a leasehold condo, while many neighbors boast freehold or 999‑year terms.

Bottom line: if you’re after a leasehold that delivers both charm and cash, Martin Modern is worth a quick walk‑through.

9. Coronation Shopping Plaza

A Rarity on the Rooftop of Coronation Shopping Plaza

Snapshot of the Deal

  • Location: 587 Bukit Timah Road
  • Developer: Information not disclosed
  • Lease: Freehold
  • Top‑of‑Building Year: 1979
  • Total Units: 20 residential lofts

Who’d Think to Buy a Unit Above an Old Mall?

Picture this: a modern, handsome apartment perched atop a mall that’s seen better days in 1979. It’s the sort of place most people would skip, yet the math makes it irresistible.

Transaction Highlights

Date Unit size Transacted price Purchase price Profit Percent gain
Sept 10, 2021 1,926 sq. ft. $2.8 mn $1.82 mn $980k 54%

With a 54‑percent jump, that’s a sizzling return. Who knew a rooftop above an old mall could be a golden goose?

Why It’s Surprisingly Sweet

Good schools are practically a walk away: St. Margaret’s and Nanyang Primary take about six minutes on foot. For the parents who dream of a Hwa Chong or Raffles Girls enrolment, the campus is just a kilometer out—nice, right?

And let’s not forget the perks below. Coronation Shopping Plaza still has an NTUC, a clinic, and a smorgasbord of tutoring centers to keep kids busy. Next door, Coronation Crown expands the retail playground, offering cafés and a few more dining options.

One‑of‑a‑Kind

So, why is this a “once‑in‑a‑blue‑moon” deal? Well, it’s rare for anyone to buy a unit perched atop a venerable, aging mall. Most people’d think of a standard condo block or a luxury apartment tower. But that’s what makes this purchase a little rock‑and‑roll in the real‑estate scene and a sweet spot for savvy investors.

10. Emery Point

Discovering the Hidden Gem on 18 Ipoh Lane

Developer: City Developments Limited (CDL)
Tenure: Freehold
Launch: 2003
Units: 51

Why Buyers Are Paying a Premium

See the one‑off sale that sent shivers down the real‑estate hulls: a 1,302 sq ft unit went for $1.6 million after being bought for $725,000. That’s a sweet $875,000 profit and a boost of 121 % in just a couple of years. In 2003, the same unit cost only about $600 psf, so the appreciation is a fire‑starter for any investor’s portfolio.

School‑Friendly Living

Picture this: six schools within walking distance—Tanjong Katong Secondary and Tanjong Katong Girls are a 7‑minute jog; the rest (Tanjong Katong Primary, Chung Cheng, Kong Hwa, and Haig Girls) are a quick 890‑meter hop. For families, that’s the kind of convenience that would make a mom feel like she just got a golden ticket.

Convenience Meets Comfort

  • KINEX is a five‑minute stroll away, with a Hao Mart and Guardian holding all the everyday essentials.
  • For those craving urban buzz, the Paya Lebar Quarter is just a 12‑minute walk—close enough to walk in, yet far enough to keep you from the butter‑butter of the commercial hub.

The Trade‑off: Density vs. Serene Spaces

Ipoh Lane is a bit snug when you start heading toward the HDB blocks near Haig Road. Some buyers wish for a little breathing room between projects. But remember: those “packed” vibes are part of the charm, offering the impossible-to-find connectivity and communal spirit that many locals adore.

In summary, 18 Ipoh Lane blends low‑price highs, great school access, and a walkable hub—fuelling buyers to pay over asking for a first‑class slice of family life, all while staying budget‑friendly compared to the Paya Lebar Quarter’s price tags.