Not for distribution to U.S. newswire services or dissemination in the United States. TORONTO, July 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Flagship Communities Real Estate Investment Trust (the "REIT") (TSX:MHC.U; MHC.UN) announced today a cash distribution of US$0.0517 per REIT unit for the month of July 2025, representing US$0.62 per REIT unit on an annual basis. Payment will be made on or about August 15, 2025, to unitholders of record as of the close of business on July 31, 2025. Distributions paid to Canadian un ...

Core Insights - The real estate market is experiencing a significant downturn, with both property prices and rental rates declining simultaneously [1][3][5] - The average rental price in 50 key cities dropped to 35 yuan per square meter per month in June, reflecting a 0.27% month-on-month decrease and a 3.71% year-on-year decline [3][5] - The rental market is facing increased supply, with a notable rise in long-term rental apartments and affordable housing options, leading to further pressure on rental prices [8][10][11] Rental Market Dynamics - The rental market has been in a prolonged slump since 2025, with a cumulative rental decline of 1.37% in the first half of the year [5] - The employment situation for graduates is challenging, leading to a preference for lower-priced rental options and shared accommodations [6][7] - The supply of rental properties is increasing, with 288 new projects and approximately 117,300 new units entering the market in the first half of 2025, marking a 2.97% year-on-year growth [8][9] Impact of Affordable Housing - The supply of affordable rental housing has surged, with 104,523 units available, representing a 14.11% increase year-on-year [9] - Affordable housing options are priced significantly lower than surrounding market rates, creating competitive pressure on traditional rental markets [10] Buyer Considerations - Homeowners should be cautious, as holding onto properties with low appreciation potential may lead to losses in both property value and rental income [12][13] - In cities like Guangzhou, the proportion of second-hand homes sold for under 2 million yuan has increased by 13 percentage points year-on-year, indicating a shift towards lower-priced properties [14] - Rental yield considerations are crucial, with recommended rates of 2.5%-3% for first-tier cities, 3%-4% for second-tier cities, and at least 4% for third and fourth-tier cities [17][18] Strategic Decision-Making - The real estate market is complex, and the decline in rental prices is just one aspect of a larger picture [19] - Both homeowners and buyers need to make informed decisions based on market changes to secure advantageous positions [20]

Core Viewpoint - The current real estate market is challenging for sellers, with properties losing value rapidly, leading to a trend of price reductions to attract buyers [1][3]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - Properties valued at 800,000 may drop to 700,000 by year-end if not sold, indicating a significant depreciation in value [3]. - There is a peculiar trend where certain investors are specifically targeting old top-floor apartments, willing to purchase them at low prices [5][7]. Group 2: Investment Strategies - These investors buy old top-floor units at a low cost, renovate them, and then market them as attractive properties, often using misleading narratives about their previous ownership [5][7]. - The renovation process often involves subpar materials, leading to potential health risks for future occupants [7]. Group 3: Buyer Motivations - Old apartments often come with school district advantages, making them appealing to parents willing to invest in their children's education [9]. - Noise reduction is a significant factor for buyers, as top-floor units eliminate disturbances from neighbors, enhancing living comfort [13][15]. Group 4: Property Features - Old top-floor apartments are typically the cheapest due to their lack of elevators and potential water leakage, but these issues can be mitigated through renovations [17]. - Many top-floor units come with exclusive rooftop terraces, which can be transformed into desirable living spaces [17]. Group 5: Considerations for Buyers - Buyers should consider the geographical location and school district benefits when purchasing old top-floor units, as these factors greatly influence property value [20][22]. - It is crucial to verify property rights and ownership documentation, especially in older neighborhoods where legal issues may arise [23][25]. - Parking availability is another critical consideration, as many older communities struggle with parking space, leading to conflicts among residents [26][28].

Core Viewpoint - Melbourne's property prices have been rising since April, with expectations to reach new historical highs before Christmas, driven by market confidence and anticipated interest rate cuts [1][3]. Group 1: Price Trends - Nearly 380 suburbs in Melbourne have seen property price increases over the past three months, with Frankston North and Brooklyn leading the gains [1]. - The median house price in Melbourne is projected to exceed AUD 1 million by December, currently sitting at AUD 979,979 [1]. - In June, the median house price in Melbourne rose by 1.6% compared to the same period last year [3]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The current market is characterized by a "fear of missing out" among buyers, contributing to increased competition [3][5]. - Record inquiry levels from buyers, including interstate investors, have been noted, indicating heightened market activity [5]. - Areas with median prices below AUD 1 million are experiencing intense competition among buyers [5]. Group 3: Suburb Performance - The highest price increases in the second quarter were observed in certain suburbs, with growth rates reaching 4%-5% [7]. - Specific suburbs such as Glen Huntly, Wandong, and Braeside have notable median prices, with Glen Huntly at AUD 1,507,058 and Braeside at AUD 1,530,522 [8]. - Frankston North's median price increased by nearly AUD 22,000 over three months, attracting various buyer demographics due to its community amenities [10]. Group 4: Buyer Demographics - First-time homebuyers, investors, and retirees are actively seeking properties in popular areas like Frankston North, driven by its proximity to beaches and quality infrastructure [10]. - The popularity of Collingwood is attributed to its closeness to the CBD and vibrant local amenities, with a median price increase of 3% [12]. - Williamstown North is favored for its lifestyle and affordability, appealing to young families and professionals [12].

Core Insights - The Shenzhen Housing and Construction Bureau announced the planned pre-sale of commercial housing for the third quarter of 2025, with 33 projects expected to enter the market, totaling a supply area of 1.3512 million square meters and 12,351 units [1] - Compared to the same period last year, there is a significant decline in commercial housing supply, with a drop of over 25% in both the number of projects and residential units [2] - The reduction in inventory is reflected in transaction data, with a year-on-year increase in pre-sale residential transactions, indicating a potential market recovery [3] Supply Overview - In Q3 2025, 33 commercial housing projects are set to be launched, with residential projects making up the majority at 31 projects, covering an area of 1.08 million square meters and 10,673 units [1] - The supply breakdown includes 2.51 million square meters of serviced apartments (129 units), 6.93 million square meters of commercial space (710 units), and 17.7 million square meters of office space (839 units) [1] - The main supply areas include Bao'an with 7 projects (3,364 residential units) and Guangming with 5 projects (1,702 residential units) [1] Year-on-Year Comparison - In Q3 2024, there were 44 projects with a total supply area of 2.0246 million square meters and 18,150 units, indicating a significant decrease in supply for Q3 2025 [2] - The residential supply area in Q3 2024 was 1.4912 million square meters with 14,955 units, showing a decline in both metrics in 2025 [2] - The downward trend in supply began earlier in 2025, with a notable reduction in the first half of the year [2] Market Dynamics - In the first half of 2025, the number of new residential units supplied was 13,877, down 28.6% year-on-year, with a supply area of 1.398 million square meters, reflecting a five-year low [2] - The average transaction price for new residential properties has decreased, but the decline is less severe compared to the previous year, indicating price stabilization [3] - The reduction in interest rates, with a 45 basis point drop in both 1-year and 5-year LPR, has led to increased promotional efforts by developers, making home purchases more affordable [3] Future Outlook - The current market conditions present a favorable window for potential homebuyers due to policy easing and lower costs [3] - There is an expectation for further policy measures to stimulate market demand, alongside improved market confidence due to easing trade tensions [3]

Core Insights - The Australian housing market remains resilient despite mixed economic signals, with national property prices holding steady [1] - The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) decided to maintain the official interest rate at 3.85%, disappointing borrowers under pressure [1] - Strong buyer demand and limited housing supply contribute to the stability of property prices across most regions in Australia [1] Interest Rates and Borrowing Power - The average annual salary for full-time workers in Australia has just surpassed AUD 100,000, impacting borrowing capacity [3] - A single individual earning AUD 100,000 can borrow an additional AUD 21,000 compared to earlier this year, under current interest rates of 5.75% [3][4] - A potential rate cut to 5.50% could further increase borrowing capacity, allowing a single income of AUD 100,000 to borrow up to AUD 512,000 [6][7] Impact of Rate Cuts - If a 0.25% rate cut occurs, a single individual earning AUD 100,000 could see an increase in borrowing power by AUD 12,000, allowing for a total borrowing capacity of AUD 512,000 [6][9] - The overall increase in borrowing capacity since the beginning of the year for potential buyers is up to AUD 33,000, opening new purchasing opportunities in various regions [9] Market Dynamics - Borrowers are encouraged to negotiate with banks or switch to lower-rate lenders rather than waiting for official rate cuts [8] - Currently, 35 lending institutions offer at least one loan product with rates below 5.50%, unaffected by the RBA's decision [5]

Core Viewpoint - The real estate market in major cities is experiencing a significant downturn, with prices dropping and a shift in buyer sentiment from optimism to caution [1][2][3]. Market Trends - In June, the average price of second-hand homes in 100 cities across the country fell by 0.75% month-on-month and 7.26% year-on-year, indicating a broader market decline [1]. - Major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou are facing increased inventory, with Beijing's listings exceeding 150,000 and Shanghai surpassing 200,000 [1]. Buyer Behavior - The market is characterized by a price war, where sellers are advised to list their properties 10% to 15% below market value to attract buyers [2]. - Buyer sentiment has shifted to a "fear of losing" mentality, leading to increased market hesitation and a reluctance to purchase properties [2]. Government Policies - Government measures aimed at stabilizing the market have not effectively reversed the downward trend, serving only as temporary relief rather than addressing the underlying issues [3]. Investment Opportunities - For first-time homebuyers, the current market presents opportunities with more choices and stronger bargaining power, but careful financial planning is essential [5]. - Investors are advised to adopt a wait-and-see approach due to ongoing risks, while those under financial pressure may need to consider lowering prices for quick sales [5].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the various considerations and preferences associated with choosing different floors in residential properties, emphasizing that the concept of a "golden floor" is subjective and depends on individual needs and lifestyle choices [1][3][21]. Group 1: Floor Preferences - Ground floor apartments with private gardens offer unique advantages, such as outdoor space for relaxation and convenience for families with children and elderly members [5][7]. - The 3rd and 4th floors in older residential buildings are considered practical choices, balancing accessibility and comfort, especially for families [9][11]. - Top floors with loft spaces can provide additional usable area and often come at lower prices, while also offering privacy and scenic views [13][15]. Group 2: Cultural Considerations - Many buyers consider the cultural significance of floor numbers, with certain numbers symbolizing good fortune and prosperity in Chinese culture, influencing their purchasing decisions [18][19]. Group 3: Investment Potential - The article suggests that understanding the potential for property appreciation is crucial, with certain floors likely to retain or increase their value over time based on market trends and building improvements [9][17][23].

Core Insights - The real estate market is experiencing a stand-off between buyers and sellers, with active inventory increasing while delistings are also on the rise, indicating sellers' impatience with the market conditions [1][2][7] Market Dynamics - Active inventory rose 28.1% year-over-year, reaching a post-pandemic high, while delistings increased by 47% year-over-year in May, suggesting a growing trend of sellers withdrawing listings [1][7] - The ratio of delistings to new listings reached 13% in spring 2025, indicating that for every 100 new listings, approximately 13 homes were pulled from the market [9] Pricing Trends - The national median listing price remained stable at $440,950, reflecting a slight increase of 0.1% from the previous year, despite a significant number of price reductions [6][5] - In June, 20.7% of listings experienced price reductions, marking the highest share for any June since at least 2016 [5] Regional Insights - Inventory growth was observed across all four major U.S. regions, with the West seeing a 38% increase and the South nearly 30% [4] - Las Vegas and Washington, D.C. led the top 50 metros in active inventory gains, with increases of 77.6% and 63.6% year-over-year, respectively [4] Seller Behavior - Many sellers are holding out for peak prices, leading to a cautious approach in adjusting expectations, as they prefer to withdraw listings rather than lower prices [2][11] - The market has shifted from urgency to a more balanced dynamic, with both buyers and sellers recalibrating their strategies [11]

Core Insights - July is identified as the best time for buyers to purchase properties in various regions of Sydney, with potential interest rate cuts further enhancing favorable conditions for entering the market [1][3]. Group 1: Market Timing - Analysis from Ray White indicates that over the past decade, July has consistently offered the lowest average prices for buyers due to reduced competition [3]. - The report highlights that while autumn is generally the best time for sellers, summer tends to favor buyers, with some winter months also being advantageous for purchasing [1][4]. Group 2: Popular Areas - Key suburbs for potential buyers include Castle Hill, Blacktown, Greystanes, and Epping, which is known for its significant Chinese community [4]. - Other notable areas include Randwick, Bondi Junction, Paddington, Avalon Beach, Newport, and Liverpool, where seasonal price drops may be further influenced by anticipated interest rate cuts [4]. Group 3: Economic Factors - Richard Brown from Mortgage Choice Epping notes that the effects of recent interest rate cuts have not fully materialized, but high pre-approval numbers suggest an influx of buyers is imminent [6]. - Economic expert Rich Harvey advises sellers to consider autumn for property sales rather than the traditional spring, as competition among sellers is lower during this period [8][9]. Group 4: Buyer Behavior - Recent buyers, Richy Quinn and his wife, observed increased competition following interest rate cuts, which motivated them to expedite their purchase [11]. - Quinn's experience illustrates the urgency among buyers to act quickly to avoid heightened competition, reinforcing the trend of rising demand in the market [11].