1. The Market Is Moving Towards Real-Use Housing

Johor buyers are becoming more selective. Instead of asking only which property may increase in price, more families are asking practical questions:

• Is there enough space for children and parents?
• Can two or three cars be parked comfortably?
• Is the neighbourhood suitable for long-term family living?
• Can the house be renovated or extended?
• Will local families still want this property in ten years?

These questions generally favour landed housing. A terrace, cluster or semi-detached house is normally bought for a longer ownership period and for real family use, rather than only for short-term rental or speculative resale.

2. Landed Supply Is More Limited Than High-Rise Supply

One of the most important reasons landed homes receive attention is relative scarcity. High-rise development allows developers to build many units on a smaller parcel of land. Landed development needs substantially more land, roads and infrastructure for every home.

As a result, well-positioned landed homes near established amenities cannot be reproduced as easily as another apartment tower.

3. Price Trends Have Strengthened Buyer Confidence

Recent market data has shown stronger national price growth for terraced houses than for high-rise units. This does not guarantee future appreciation, but it helps explain why buyers are paying greater attention to landed properties.

The key reason is not simply price growth. Landed homes tend to have a large owner-occupier base. Families may continue buying when they need a larger home, even when the rental or short-term investment market slows down.

4. Families Are Prioritising Space and Privacy

A high-rise unit can provide excellent facilities and convenience, but many growing families eventually face limitations involving space, storage, parking and privacy.

5. JS-SEZ Is Creating A Family and Employment Story

The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone is expected to support business activity, investment and skilled employment in Johor.

Property demand created by economic expansion does not consist only of short-stay travellers. Managers, engineers, business owners and professionals relocating with their families may prefer larger homes in established townships rather than compact apartments.

This may benefit locations offering a combination of:

• Convenient access to employment areas;
• Schools and healthcare;
• Shopping and groceries;
• Gated or guarded neighbourhoods;
• Practical road connections;
• Larger homes suitable for long-term residence.

6. RTS Link Supports Landed Homes Differently From CIQ Condos

RTS Link will most directly benefit properties within the CIQ, Bukit Chagar and JB Sentral transport corridor. These locations are relevant for commuters, tenants and buyers who prioritise access to Singapore.

The wider landed market may benefit indirectly. Better cross-border connectivity can improve confidence in Johor’s economy, attract more businesses and support households that earn or conduct business within the Singapore–Johor corridor.

7. High-Rise Supply Creates More Competition

Johor’s high-rise segment remains important, but a larger future supply means individual projects must work harder to differentiate themselves.

A high-rise project needs a clear reason for tenants and future buyers to select it:

• Actual walking access to CIQ, RTS or JB Sentral;
• A strong commercial or integrated-development component;
• Good management and security;
• Efficient lift-to-unit ratio;
• Practical layouts;
• Competitive maintenance fees;
• A clear long-term or short-term tenant profile.

A generic high-density apartment located far from transport and employment may face more rental and resale competition than a well-located family terrace home.

8. Maintenance Fees Are Changing Buyer Calculations

Condominium owners need to budget for monthly maintenance fees and sinking-fund contributions. These costs support security, lifts, swimming pools, landscaping and common facilities, but they also increase the monthly holding commitment.

Landed owners do not necessarily have zero maintenance cost. Gated-and-guarded developments may charge security or clubhouse fees, while owners must also maintain the roof, exterior, drainage and private compound.

9. Which Buyer Should Choose Landed Property?

10. ENJ Landed Projects Buyers Can Study

11. High-Rise Projects Still Worth Comparing

Buyers who prioritise Singapore connectivity, rental demand and a smaller entry size should continue comparing selected CIQ and RTS projects.

• Causewayz Square Dover Tower near CIQ, JB Sentral and RTS
• Coronade Twins near RTS Bukit Chagar and CIQ

12. ENJ Final Recommendation

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are landed homes becoming more popular in Johor?

Landed homes provide more space, parking, privacy and family flexibility. They are also more limited in supply than high-rise units in many established Johor locations.

Are landed homes a better investment than condominiums?

Not automatically. A landed home is generally stronger for long-term owner occupation and family demand, while a well-located condominium may perform better for rental, transport access or lower-budget buyers.

Will JS-SEZ increase demand for landed housing?

JS-SEZ may support demand by attracting companies, skilled workers and relocating households. Families staying for longer periods may prefer larger homes near established townships, but the benefit will vary by location.

Does RTS Link benefit landed property?

RTS Link benefits CIQ and Bukit Chagar high-rise properties most directly. Landed homes may benefit indirectly through stronger employment, business confidence and household relocation within the wider Johor Bahru market.

Which Johor landed areas should buyers study?

Buyers may study mature and growing locations such as Permas, Dato’ Onn, Tebrau, Austin, Kempas, Iskandar Puteri and selected gated residential developments, depending on budget and daily travel requirements.

Is a high-rise condo still suitable in 2026?

Yes. High-rise projects near CIQ, RTS, JB Sentral, employment centres and integrated commercial developments can still provide strong convenience and rental flexibility.