Just to be clear, in case someone comes to this thread on page 3 and draws the wrong conclusion about the rental multiplier. The rental multiplier does not set the property value. It is just a crude indicator to the level of property prices, i.e. overpriced (bubble) or under priced (depressed). I have heard figures of 200-300x being used to describe a sensible level, but that is of course subjective. I have only heard it used in this way, for the domestic property market.
As for leasing values of commercial property, that is a totally different market. People buy commercial property with the aim to earn/rent it out usually, and not as an investment. About 5 years ago we were quoted commercial property rents in Kunming (not in prime locations) that were higher than they were in comparable districts (not prime locations) in Shanghai. I cannot suggest reasons for this particular form of madness, except just dumb avarice.
Kunming new home sales plunge
Posted byPersonally, I do not see a huge re-adjustment of prices anytime soon.
The reason is that a lot of this property was bought for investment and is not used for homes. Many are undecorated and will remain so. Many Chinese are still looking to buy a bargain, but again as a possible investment.
No-one is in a hurry to sell, except developers. Unless the banks get heavy with them, and a red envelope usually cures that, they will not drastically drop prices to sell units. In fact if they did it would affect their equity, as the housing stock would be worth a somewhat less on paper.
Many private owner here have 2 or more properties. I know one guy with over 30. Many local companies also own properties, also mostly undecorated. The only thing that would force people to sell would be if there was a recession that hit China and people needed to liquefy their assets. Property prices could then tumble due to a rush to sell before the bubble burst, and this would become a self fulfilling prophecy.
But most Chinese will play the long game.
my 2 cents
Recipe: Spicy taro and greens
Posted byI would like to see more recipes like this.
Simple recipe for a common local food.
There are many fresh foods that I have not seen before and am not sure what to do with them. I am sure I am not alone.
There are also some dishes that are more palatable for foreigners, than others.
Perhaps GoK could open up to submissions of simple recipes from other writers.
Getting Away: Xishan
Posted byWent there last week. Did not see what happened at ticket office, but if you get the chair lift (I enjoy the ride) they make you buy tickets for Long Men (Dragon Gate) as well. Even if you don't want to go to Long Men.
Chinese college freshmen increasingly unfit
Posted byPS
The comment about kids going to the doctors during military training in the article. There is nothing wrong with the kids, this is a 'sick note' culture developing. "Mummy, I don't want to go to school today. My tummy hurts".
Chinese college freshmen increasingly unfit
Posted byThere is no emphasis on sport in schools. Yes kids to physical jerks every day, but it is not strenuous. Also, participating in a real sport will lead to improved physical dexterity (as well as strength), and for team sports kids will learn to be part of a unit that works together, something missing at the moment.
All of this will require taking time out of the classroom learning schedule. What many people here don't acknowledge is study burn out, taking time out of class for sport can and does improve classroom performance.
Not everyone will excel at sport, but all who do it will benefit in many ways. Not just in fitness.