The Hype at One Marina Gardens: Great for Long-Term Gains, But Is It Right for Short-Term Play?
There’s no denying the buzz around One Marina Gardens.
Located in the heart of the Marina South transformation, it’s positioned as the crown jewel of a brand-new waterfront district — the first mover in an area that’s expected to become the next Bayfront lifestyle node.
But as excitement brews and prices start at around $2,800 psf, we’ve been asked a lot lately:
“Is this a good short-term investment? Can I profit in 3–8 years?”
Our honest answer?
It depends — but probably not in the short term.
Because in our personal opinion, property is not like crypto or stocks.
It’s not about chasing hype. It’s about entering with purpose, and more importantly, having the power to hold.
Here’s why we believe One Marina Gardens is a long game, not a quick flip.
1. The Marina South Transformation Is Still in Early Days
Yes, the potential is massive — think another Marina Bay in the making.
One Marina Gardens is the first plot in this transformation, surrounded (for now) by undeveloped land, construction, and yet-to-be-launched plots.
But herein lies the key: first plots require patience.
• The full ecosystem — retail, F&B, entertainment, green corridors — will take years to come alive.
• In the short term, residents may feel the effects of being early adopters: limited amenities, dust, and ongoing works.
• Leasehold nature means that the countdown clock has already started. Buyers will ask: Is it worth paying a premium for a 3–8 year old leasehold in an area still transforming?
This transformation will shine — but likely only after 8–12 years, when the full vision materializes.
2. Will Rental Income Justify the Investment in the Short Run?
Let’s talk numbers.
At a $1.2M entry price for a 1-bedroom unit, and assuming a monthly rental of ~$4,000, you’re looking at a gross rental yield of around 4% — before factoring in buyer stamp duties, maintenance, interest costs, and vacancy periods.
While 4% may seem healthy, the question is:
• Can this yield consistently cover your mortgage and ownership costs?
• Is the tenant pool strong now, or only after Marina South is more established?
• Will supply from upcoming plots flood the market in the next 3–5 years?
For investors hoping to rent now, sell soon, the numbers may not be as attractive as they first appear.
3. The Future Exit Strategy: Who Will Buy at $3,200 PSF?
If you plan to exit in 3–8 years, ask yourself:
• Will your unit at $2,800 psf (now aged 3–8 years) still look compelling to buyers at $3,200 psf?
• What if newer plots are launched nearby with fresh leases and possibly more competitive pricing?
• Would buyers prefer a brand-new unit in the same area instead of your resale, especially if the area is still in mid-transformation?
Short-term resale buyers typically want one of two things:
1. A discount — unlikely if you’re aiming for capital gains
2. A “move-in ready” environment — which may not yet exist in the early years of Marina South
This puts pressure on your exit price and timeline.
So… Is It Still Worth Buying?
Yes — if you have holding power and a long-term view.
Here’s what One Marina Gardens does have going for it:
• First-mover advantage in a rare, planned district
• Proximity to CBD, Gardens by the Bay, and the Marina Coast
• Massive upside in 10–15 years once the full transformation is realized
• Prestige factor: There are only so many Marina addresses in Singapore
In 10–15 years, when the dust settles and Marina South becomes the vibrant waterfront city it’s meant to be, One Marina Gardens will likely hold its price well — and even grow.
But if you’re looking for a quick flip or short-term capital gain, it might be wise to pause — or look elsewhere.
The Bottom Line:
“Don’t buy into hype. Buy into strategy.”
If you’re in it for the long game — for growth, for legacy, for positioning — One Marina Gardens could be a gem.
But if your goal is a fast exit, you may find yourself competing with newer, fresher stock down the line.
Want a second opinion before you commit?
Let’s have a real, numbers-first conversation — no hype, just clarity.
– David & Audrie, The Real Estate Couple for Couples
