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Conservation shophouses have emerged as one of the top alternative real estate asset class over the past decade in Singapore. Besides their finite supply and vintage charm, they are among the few asset classes in Singapore that allow foreigners and companies to own boutique buildings at a palatable quantum.

Transaction volumes hit a peak of $1.9 bn in 2021 before declining on high financing costs, record price points and most recently, overhang from the $3 bn money laundering case. CBRE Research believes the underlying fundamentals for shophouses remain solid, notwithstanding certain challenges in the near term.

This report looks at the past, present and future for conservation shophouses, and recommends actionable strategies for investors.

The beginning of this year saw occupiers in Australia exhibit a more cautious approach due to the sharp rental increases witnessed over the past two years and an increase in new supply. However, demand has picked up in Q2 2024 and the number of transactions is set to increase over the next three to six months.​

In Japan, logistics demand is holding firm in regional cities. After putting expansion plans on hold six months ago, many occupiers are now moving ahead with leasing new space. However, rising vacancy is prompting landlords to fill space as soon as possible to tenants from any sector.​

Sentiment in Vietnam remains positive, backed by the government’s success in boosting the country’s ties with key trading partners, which continues to lure manufacturers from these countries to set up production bases. Factory space continues to attract strong demand, led by the electronics and automotive sectors along with traditional commodities.​

Despite the current subdued mood in mainland China, optimism is building for an eventual recovery. Several major brands have been seen seeking opportunities to optimise store networks in what is still a tenant-favoured market. Many retailers are looking to operate in a network emphasising one major flagship store per city.

Korea continues to witness a solid rebound in international visitor arrivals, which is driving up consumption and leasing demand. More demand for pop-up stores has been observed in emerging commercial districts including Seongsu, Hannam, and Dosan Park due to tight availability.

Vietnam continues to attract strong interest from foreign brands, particularly those from mainland China. More shopping malls are undergoing renovations to create space for new market entrants and provide a more memorable experience for shoppers by utilising new designs such as bigger atriums.

Mixed signs of economic recovery in mainland China weighed on investment activity this quarter. Transactions mainly focused on small lump sum assets, the bulk of which were sized at between RMB 100-500 million. Discounted assets, especially in the retail and office sectors, are expected to drive investment in the coming months.

Investment sentiment in Singapore is less negative compared to six months ago, with value-add capital turning more active since the turn of the year. Retail and hospitality properties are expected to offer more opportunities in the coming months, underpinned by solid fundamentals.

India’s investment market continues to see buoyant activity. Strong consumption is translating to solid fundamentals in the retail sector, boosting investor interest. Investment demand in the office sector has also picked up over the past six months, with domestic office funds and Singaporean capital being most active.