“All these factors will have an influence on the behaviour of market players at large, the real estate industry, in particular, buyers’ sentiment and business confidence.”

According to Napic data, the residential overhang situation took a downturn in 2014.

“There were 11,316 overhang units worth RM5.9bil, up by 16.3% in volume and 56% in value. Johor, which held 21.9% of the national overhang, saw its overhang increase to 2,483 units, up by 8.5% due to higher unsold terrace and serviced apartment types.”

Chua expects an overhang increase in 2016.

On a cautionary note, the agency also indicated some (negative) points, namely, fast growth in household debt, high indebtedness of the private sector, the weakest credit growth (since 2009) as well as weak governance.

Napic, in its general outlook for the local property sector in 2016, said the economic and financial environment (both local and global) would be even more challenging this year.

Echoing Napic’s report, Chua said the residential property sub-sector would be experiencing further softening in 2016 in view of the various internal and external uncertainties.

According to Napic, major states such as Johor and Penang saw substantial declines in new launches, down by 42.8% (9,428 units) and 47.5% (2,348 units), respectively.

Fewer property launches seen due to softening market and bleak household sentiment.

Post removed.Why?