| Built-up | Configuration | Price |
| 1,306 sq. ft | 2+1 bedrooms | From RM1.2mil |
| 2,001 sq. ft | 3+1 bedrooms | From RM1.75mil |
Iskandar Puteri is a flagship economic zone in Johor, offering a unique living/investment opportunity for both local and international buyers seeking luxurious waterfront living. Let’s explore the three developments’ distinct charms and see how they compare.
Q: I’m a Singaporean looking for a waterfront condo in Johor and near Educity / Marlborough College. I’m quite interested in Southern Marina Residences at Iskandar Puteri. Is it a good option for my family?
I did some research and shortlisted two other projects as well—Puteri Cove Residences and Pinetree Marina Resort. I chose these two because they’re both within a 5-minute radius of Southern Marina Residence. As for connectivity to Singapore, they are about a 15-minute drive to the Second Link CIQ in Johor.
Also, all three projects are similar in size (1,300 sf or 2,000 sf) and can comfortably accommodate my family. Apart from the distance to the Second Link CIQ, I’m wondering about the other aspects that I should consider. I’m looking at move-in-ready or completed projects as I want to move in quite soon.
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Hello there, neighbour! Before we delve into the three projects you’ve shortlisted, let’s first explore Iskandar Puteri, formerly known as Nusajaya. As a key component of Iskandar Malaysia, Iskandar Puteri covers just 4% of the total area but stands out as one of the region’s most recognised developments.
According to a report, Iskandar Puteri witnessed the highest proportion of foreign demand, mainly from Singaporean nationals and permanent residents (PR).
As a Singaporean, you’ll need to look into the minimum value requirement for properties that foreigners can purchase. For more information, refer to our guide on this and the latest news on Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H).
Iskandar Puteri caters to diverse demographics, offering business districts like Medini and family-friendly enclaves like Eco Botanic. But its waterfront properties deserve a closer look for those seeking luxury and leisure.
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Since Southern Marina is your first choice, let’s consider that first. Southern Marina is located within the integrated waterfront enclave of Puteri Harbour, Johor. It is fringed by three marinas: The Private Marina, Puteri Harbour Mega-Yacht Marina, and the Public Marina.
The 12.5-acre mixed development will feature premium condominiums, residential towers, hotels and serviced apartments, and a retail podium. The first development phase, Southern Marina Residences, has been completed, comprising two residential towers overlooking the straits.
According to Google Maps, Southern Marina Residences is located about 26km from the Johor-Singapore Causeway and the Bangunan Sultan Ibrahim (BSI) CIQ Complex and about 14km to the Sultan Abu Bakar CIQ Complex (Second Link CIQ).
Now, let’s review its positives.
The developer: Southern Marina Residences is developed by Southern Marina Development Sdn Berhad, a joint venture between three esteemed partners: PPB Group Berhad, Kuok Brothers Sdn Berhad, and Khazanah Nasional Berhad.
Nearby amenities: The development’s proximity to Educity (6.8km / 10 minutes’ drive), Gleneagles Hospital Medini (3.1km / 5 minutes’ drive), Kota Iskandar (2.3km / 5 minutes’ drive), and the Puteri Harbour International Ferry Terminal (600m / 2 minutes’ drive) provides you with convenient access to education, healthcare, entertainment, and travel options.
Its proximity to other hotspots is as follows:
- Johor State New Administrative Centre – 3km / 5 minutes
- Legoland Malaysia – 4.3km / 7 minutes
- Puteri Harbour – 5.3km / 8 minutes
- Sunway Big Box – 6.2km / 9 minutes
- X Park Sunway Iskandar – 7km / 10 minutes
- Columbia Asia Hospital – 13.2km / 17 minutes
- Johor Centre Business District – 24km / 26 minutes
- Singapore CBD – 52km
Low density: Southern Marina Residences has a total of 456 units over 2 towers. If tenure is important to you, you’d be happy to know that the development is also freehold.
Spacious, luxurious layout: Southern Marina Residences is move-in ready. As you’re looking for units to fit your family, the 2+1-bedroom (1,306 sq. ft) and 3+1-bedroom (2,001 sq. ft) units would suit your needs, with more space for everyone.
Additionally, units will come with at least two car parking lots and come equipped with imported European-branded appliances such as Bosch, BUÉNOS.
- Waterfront lifestyle: Southern Marina Residences offers views of the Johor Straits, making it perfect for those whose property checklist includes a waterfront setting.
- Private and exclusive: Southern Marina Residences also prioritises security with a 4-tier system, providing a safe and private living environment for you and your family.
- Incentives: The developer offers a free Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA), loan legal fees, and a chance to win a Tesla Model 3 upon booking. This adds a touch of uniqueness to the ownership experience.
However, you should consider these points as well:
- Price point: While “affordable” is relative, Southern Marina falls into the premium category within Iskandar Puteri. Due to low density, offering a higher spec of kitchen appliances and bathroom fittings. With prices starting from RM1.2 million for a 2+1-bedroom unit, you should compare it to other options in your shortlist.
- Distance and accessibility: Southern Marina is a 15-minute drive to the Malaysia-Singapore Second Link, a 30-minute drive to the Tuas Checkpoint, and a 36-minute drive to the Woodlands Checkpoint.
Depending on your needs, factor in potential commute times, how often, and your preferred mode of transport when crossing the border. Tuas Checkpoint is located on the west side, closer to Jurong, while Woodlands Checkpoint is located in northern Singapore.
Both checkpoints are located near numerous tourist attractions.
- Tuas checkpoint – Legoland Malaysia, X-Park Sunway Iskandar, Sunway Big Box Retail Park
- Woodlands checkpoint – Johor Bahru City Square, Jalan Dhoby, Jalan Tan Hiok Nee, Mid Valley Southkey JB, JB city centre
Long-term investment: Strategically located in front of Puteri Harbour International Ferry Terminal, it has the potential to connect to Singapore in the future.
As per the positives listed above, you’ll be buying into a luxurious and convenient lifestyle. Plus, there’s the potential for better rental demand and capital appreciation for properties in a good area. Prime properties usually come with a “scarcity” value.
Puteri Cove Residences @ Puteri Harbour
Puteri Cove Residences and Quayside is an RM1.75-billion mixed-use development that sits on 340,000 sq. ft of freehold land fronting the marina. Quayside refers to a 79-unit commercial podium.
This flagship project by Singapore-listed Pacific Star Development was launched in October 2013.
Puteri Cove Residences comprises three towers: Tower 1 (Ambara), Tower 2 (Anila), and Tower 3 (Pan Pacific Serviced Suite). Both Tower 1 and Tower 2 have layouts of one-bedroom, two-bedroom, three-bedroom, and penthouse units containing four bedrooms.
Both the two- and three-bedroom units are dual-key units. For a family like yours, you can consider three-bedroom units or a penthouse for comfortable living.
Puteri Cove Residences has about 30 facilities, including a sky gymnasium, 50-meter lap pool, jacuzzi, tennis courts, spa, and yoga meditation deck that overlooks a private marina. It also has eight function rooms.
Based on listings on iProperty.com.my, 3-bedroom units for sale range from RM795,000 for 907 sq. ft. to RM1.29mil for 1,444 sq. ft.
Pinetree Marina Resort
This freehold development, launched in early 2013 by Tiong Nam Properties, comprises a residential and hotel tower.
Pinetree has 5 layouts. The Type C unit would be more comfortable if you have a family. It has 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, and residents will also enjoy views of the marina.
Facilities at Pinetree include a business centre, cafeteria, covered parking, gymnasium, jogging track, playground, sauna, swimming pool and 24-hour security.
According to listings on iProperty.com.my, 3-bedroom Type C units with 1,850 sq. ft. for sale start from RM2.08 mil.
Comparison at a glance
| Southern Marina Residences @ Iskandar Puteri | Puteri Cove Residences | Pinetree Marina Resort | |
| Developer | PBB Group, Kuok Brothers, and Khazanah Nasional | Puteri Cove Sdn Bhd | Tiong Nam Properties |
| Property type | Serviced Residence | Serviced Residence | Serviced Residence |
| Tenure | Freehold | Freehold | Freehold |
| Number of residential tower | 2 | 3 | 1 |
| Number of storeys | 32 & 34 | 33 | 25 |
| Number of units | 456 | 998 | 264 |
| Built-up | 769 sq ft – 2,001 sq ft | 650 sq ft – 2,303 sq ft | 674 sq ft – 4,378 sq ft |
| Price for 3-bedroom units | From RM1.2mil | From 1.07mil | From RM2.08mil |
Which one shall it be?
Location-wise, Southern Marina Residences couldn’t have been developed in a more prime area. Its low density means a more serene environment, while the spacious layouts allow each of your family members to have their “me” time!
Additionally, Southern Marina Residences faces a marina with nearby access to a ferry service to Indonesia. It’s unsurprising that you’re considering this project! Here are some of the contact details to help you get started:
- www.southernmarina.com.my
- +6012 969 8099 | +65 9123 2387
Ultimately, the decision depends on your priorities. Here are some questions to consider:
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend?
- Space: How much living space do you need?
- Lifestyle: Do you prioritise waterfront views or extensive amenities?
- Investment potential: Are you looking forward to the International Ferry Terminal connecting to Singapore Terminal?
You should also visit each development to compare the specific units and facilities in person, as that will provide the best insight into which option aligns with your family’s needs and preferences.
Ultimately, Iskandar Puteri’s diverse waterfront offerings provide a luxurious and convenient lifestyle for both local and international buyers. Whether seeking a permanent residence, a holiday retreat, or an investment opportunity, a perfect waterfront haven is waiting to be discovered.
All the best in your property hunt!
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