KS Koh is the Chief Executive & Founder of Landscope Christie's International Real Estate which was established in 1995. Prior to that KS was Executive Director, Investment Agency at Savills HK. Before Savills he was valuation manager with JLL. 38 years’ experience in HK real estate. In recent years KS also covered UK, Thailand and Japan markets.

WILLIAMS MEDIA sat down with KS Koh to gather some insights into his property journey and experiences in the Hong Kong real estate market. 

What are some of the defining moments in Hong Kong's real estate/expat history?

1997 handover to China when there was capital outflow and expat exodus, from when the market slid for 6 consecutive years with the accumulated price drop (residential) of up to 70% until 2003. 2003 was a turning point when price started to climb up all the way till now.

Where are the key emerging markets/sectors that people should be looking into in Hong Kong that you think will have an upside?
Currently mainstream residential and office properties are taking a hit in both rentals and prices. The only bright spot is industrial / logistics (industrial properties are no longer used for their original purpose as most are converted to commercial-related uses).

Why did you first start working in the property industry?
By chance, I was lured to JLL as it provided sponsorship for RICS qualification.

How do you best help a Luxury residential buyer?
We employ only the best and most experienced salespersons in the industry. The average experience of our sales team is 15 years in luxury market. The sales team are supported by a team of dedicated property professionals with the most up-to-date listings.

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How do you best help a vendor selling their property?
A market-leading website with the most comprehensive listings in the luxury market that employs 3D imagery for virtual viewing experience. The Key, our proprietary monthly magazine (the only one in Hong Kong) showcases the best listings on the market and the print copy is distributed to 130,000 HNWIs in Hong Kong and China.

What advice would you have for those looking to enter markets like Hong Kong and set up business?
Be prepared for long-term business. Integrity, reputation and networking are important.

What are some of your most prominent/recent notable sales?
The sale of Hong Kong’s biggest house in 1997 for HK$728.8million and the sale of Hong Kong’s biggest apartment in 2000 for $162million.

What would you like to see changed in the industry in five years?
The quality of service provided by real estate agents needs to be improved to sustain the profession’s development.

What are some key opportunities in the marketplace at the moment?
As the major markets are headed for a downturn, investors should focus on good quality stock with good rental value.

Where is demand currently coming from?
The bulk of demand for residential comes from local younger generation (30’s to 40’s) and mainland Chinese who have settled down in HK. Almost any location close to mass transport are popular. Foreigners are priced out due to punitive stamp duty on non-permanent residents.

Where do you see the Hong Kong residential market in the next five years?
Continues its downtrend due to interest rate hike and increased supply.

For more information about the Hong Kong property market email KS Koh Chief Executive & Founder of Landscope Christie's International Real Estate via the contact details below.

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