Like all new realtors when I started out, I had to decide where and what to focus on.
- Should I start at a busy and huge HDB estate?
- Or should I direct my attention to a location or an area I am familiar with?
- Perhaps the estate I was living in back then?
Well, I did none of the above.
Instead, I plunged head first into an area that I hardly ventured to before joining the industry – Tanjong Rhu.
Back then, my manager decided that we should specialize in an area or for that matter, one single development first.
I really have to thank her for choosing Tanjong Rhu. I grew to love this unique waterfront residential enclave.
And this first love will always have a special place in my heart.
That’s why after so many years, I remain very much active in the area.
The Origins of the Tanjong Rhu Name
Tanjong is defined as “cape” or “point” in Malay while the word Rhu originated from the casuarina trees. Hence the name suggests there used to be reclaimed area where there were many casuarina trees.
And being new to Tanjong Rhu, I had to work extra hard to learn about the area. And what better way than to walk around and explore every nook and cranny?
I still remember the day I walked from the start of Tanjong Rhu Road (from the cross junction of Fort Road and Meyer Road), all the way to Rhu Cross where Costa Rhu (the biggest development) in Tanjong Rhu is located.
Tanjong Rhu’s Transport Connections
The first project that came to view was the ever impressive Waterside with its sizable land size. Then I walked past the Singapore Swimming club, which I later realised many of my clients are members of.
Across the street, there is a small cluster of freehold apartments (beside Dunman High School) like Crystal Rhu, Emerald East and Palazzetto and La Ville etc (which has since been successfully enbloc). These are low density developments and unfortunately not on most buyers’ radar.
Yet, there are gems among these properties, especially for the two developments at the end of the Cul-De-Sac, with side or back gates that provide more direct access to Jalan Batu Hawker Centre and Market.
All these I learnt in my subsequent years, as this was not a part of Tanjong Rhu I focused on in my early years.
Do remember this was before the announcement of the Thomson East Coast Line (we are all eagerly anticipating the new Tanjong Rhu Station and Katong Park Station), and the Circle Line (Stadium and Mountbatten Stations) were also not in operation.
Only 1 public bus service (158) ply the area, so having direct access to Mountbatten road is an invaluable attribute. With the new Katong Park MRT Station operational in 2024, residents at this cluster will enjoy unprecedented convenience.
An Underrated and Overlooked Hawker Centre
I also always make it a point to recommend buyers/ tenants to the Jalan Batu Hawker Centre and Market. This lesser known market and the nearby shops, were one of my favourite areas to explore and hang out in-between viewings.
Most people flock to the ever popular Old Airport Road Food Centre (which I’m also a fan of), but Jalan Batu is just as lovely and less crowded in my biassed opinion.
From here, I strolled to the notably “exciting” part of Tanjong Rhu.
The beauty and appeal of Tanjong Rhu at that moment was apparent, at least to me. This private enclave was so serene and certainly a lovely sanctuary to return to in the evenings, after a long day of work.
The Defining Condo Developments of Tanjong Rhu
The first development I came by here was Camelot. I later discovered it was the priciest of the lot, and consisted mainly of bigger units with spectacular views of both the Kallang Bay and the sea.
Then came some of the older developments in the area like Tanjong Ria and Casuarina Cove. And as I ventured further, I saw the newest kids on the block – Water Place and Sanctuary Green.
Their newer designs stood out from the rest. But it was Pebble Bay by their right, that was my favourite – because of its location beside Tanjong Rhu bridge. To me back then, it cut a striking and stunning silhouette along the river at night. And it was just synonymous with Tanjong Rhu.
Moving on, I came to the oldest development in the area – Parkshore. Many wondered why this was the only freehold plot in this cluster. I have no answer for this.
My guess – it was one of the first plots of land to be sold, and CDL got really lucky. Unlike the rest of the developments in this area, Parkshore has a modest site area, and does not boast of good sea/ bay views. That said, it will forever stand out with its freehold status.
Most people associate Tanjong Rhu with the waterfront developments like Costa Rhu and Pebble Bay, and in my opinion rightfully so.
But that is not to say the rest further up should be forgotten.
While most of the projects in Tanjong Rhu are on a 99-year lease, it is the ones at the start of the road at The Waterside, the smaller apartments (above) and Parkshore (no direct seaview or bay view) that are freehold properties.
Diehard proponents of freehold projects can still consider that cluster and the standalone Parkshore.
Another aspect I love about Tanjong Rhu would be the diversity of the condominiums. Each project stands out. The area has so much character. Costa Rhu, the largest development in the area, can be seen clearly from the Central Business District and the Shears Bridge/ ECP.
I’ve fond memories “shopping” at Costa Rhu’s mini-mart which used to serve residents, before Leisure Park Kallang and Kallang Wave malls were completed.
Today, we not only have 2 malls, but a thriving and vibrant sport hubs and Gardens by the Bay, East – connected to East Coast Park, Marina Barrage & Gardens by The Bay.
Sanctuary Green Was My Starting Point
It was a tough decision. After combing through transactional data history, I decided to focus on Sanctuary Green. Prices were very competitive, with very healthy transactions for both resale and leasing.
What sealed the deal for me was its diverse floor plans. I realised that Sanctuary Green has the most diverse floor plan options in Tanjong Rhu.
This also meant that I had to spend more time studying the strengths and weaknesses of the different unit types.
This was a choice that I never regretted. Here, I forge many meaningful friendships and long term partnerships. I have had clients who moved from one development in Tanjong Rhu to another.
There is just something unique and irreplaceable here.
The big field between Costa Rhu and Pebble Bay used to be a spot for informal softball practices, and the bay area offers the perfect way to unwind after a long day with a jog or a relaxing stroll.
My family has also spent many evenings in the area, while waiting for me to end the day.
That said, many of my clients did have to move for their children as none of the Tanjong Rhu projects lie within 1-2 km of any Primary Schools.
This, I believe, is the only shortcoming and consideration for families looking at this area.
BTO flats to be launched in Tanjong Rhu in June 2024
In Sept 2023, there was news that some land plots will be released in the Tanjong Rhu area to build new homes.
Exciting times ahead. We can no longer assume prime land would be reserved for private housing.
These are likely to be Prime Location Housing (PLH) BTO flats where the MOP is 10 years.
I’ve heard a Riveredge resident complained about upcoming constructions for the BTO and how it will “spoil” her view for a few years.
It’s unpleasant no doubt since the BTO plot sits right in front of Riveredge – a standalone condo for the longest time.
Yet, I do think it’s good to have development and this part of Tanjong Rhu does have older HDB flats, so it makes sense to rejuvenate the area with new BTO flats, so younger residents would be attracted to the area.
Source: https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/property/bto-flats-tanjong-rhu-holland-village-go-sale-june
From what I can see, these PLH BTO units will have a great view in a location that is at the RCR area.
My thoughts? These units will be highly sought after.
For those who prize location with great views, I think a BTO here will be a great choice.
The guide prices will be very interesting but various grants will probably make it less painful.
That being said, do remember the various restrictions on PLH BTO flats – so do consider the fact that a flat here might be your “forever” home.
I hope the land planners will continue to keep the Tanjong Rhu – closer to the soon to be completed Tanjong Rhu MRT station – as it is – a lovely, exclusive private enclave that is synonymous to this part of Tanjong Rhu, coveted for its waterfront or sea view.
Expanding From Being “The Tanjong Rhu Agent” To The Rest of Singapore
FB showed me this memory recently.
I look at this 2012 photo with a slight cringe now. This was 12 years ago.
An entire zodiac cycle! Haha.
Looking back, I realized I learnt so much over the years from managing rental tenancies to helping clients transact a unit here.
Each interaction, each negotiation in this area really contributed to my overall experience and knowledge.
Now, while I have expanded beyond Tanjong Rhu, this place will always be special to me.
I can’t wait to see its transformation when the new Tanjong Rhu Station is fully up and running.
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