A strong advocate in being able to deliver the impossible, there is nothing that John would not delve into.
How long have you been in the real estate industry, and what are some memorable moments in your career?
I was very fortunate to be able to study in the United Kingdom. My career started there once I had finished my studies. Two years later, I decided to move back to Singapore, and this is where I had the opportunity to join Colliers International. I have been part of their Capital Markets and Investment Services team since 2016.
I am a strong advocate in being able to deliver the impossible, and there is nothing that I would not delve into. My portfolio focuses on a range of transactions and serves a versatile clientele of investors from institutional fund managers, local developers, and family offices.
I have closed transactions from large collective land sales, commercial buildings, JTC properties, hotels and shophouses. There is no opportunity too big or too small. Investors can, at any point in time, be looking at investing in a various types of property. The ability to see the bigger picture and to marry opportunities with the specific profile of the investors is crucial.
Every transaction comes with their own set of government procedures, rules and regulations and when everything comes together, on completion, that is definitely the best part of the job.
What are some of the current challenges investors are currently facing?
Undoubtedly, the recent pandemic has become the most pressing factor in current market sentiment as we see a lot of uncertainty. The Office market is changing, and occupiers do not view the office space the traditional way anymore. Notably, this is also impacting the dynamic in the capital markets industry, and we have to be creative in the way we go out to market.
Thankfully, there has been a slow uptake and return to a "new" normalcy with positive headlines of effective vaccines.
How do you invest in relationships to build a strong connection with your clients?
I have forged many invaluable connections from all my successes. I'm also fortunate that some investors have even turned into friends.
It is my practice to touch-base with investors regularly and update them on new market trends and recent changes. This enables investors to plan for their next investment opportunities and ultimately accelerate their success.
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