The Developer View 2024

#49 Live Panel: The Developer View with Justin Brown Abadeen and Iwan Sunito from One Global Capital

The Urban.com.au Market Insights Live Sydney Event, in partnership with Archistar, recently featured a compelling discussion on the evolving dynamics of the real estate market, particularly focusing on the perspective of the off-the-plan developer in 2024. Hosted by Urban.com.au CEO Mike Bird, the panel included insights from industry experts with Justin Brown from Abadeen Group and Iwan Sunito from One Global Capital.

• Market Performance and Buyer Demographics: Both panelists acknowledged the challenging nature of the past few years in the Sydney market. Justin Brown highlighted the emergence of the "Bank of Mom and Dad" as a significant segment, with parents investing in property for their children. Despite the difficulties, there's confidence in Sydney's market compared to other states.
• Changing Dynamics: Rising construction costs and reduced buying capacity were noted as challenges not just in Sydney but across Asia. Government policies and global economic factors, including the situation in China, were cited as influencing market dynamics.

• Shifts in Buyer Preferences: There's a shift in buyer preferences, with Indians becoming prominent purchasers, especially in the Northwest sector. Developers are adapting to cater to this changing demographic.
• Impact of Immigration: Changes in immigration patterns, with a significant influx of Indian immigrants, are reshaping housing demands. This shift may require adjustments in government strategies and developer approaches.

• Development Challenges: Developers face challenges such as increasing costs, stringent regulations, and limited land availability. The discussion touched on the need for strategic site selection, effective branding, and navigating complex capital structures.
• Role of Non-Bank Lenders: Non-bank lenders like Maxcap and PH Capital have filled the void left by traditional banks, offering innovative financing solutions. While their services come at a cost, they provide an alternative for developers facing funding challenges.
• Future Outlook: Despite current challenges, there's optimism about Sydney's property market, driven by population growth and under-supply of housing. The discussion highlighted the importance of adapting to changing market conditions and maintaining a focus on quality and branding.