1. ASTM Introduces Climate-Resilient Due Diligence Standard
On September 4, ASTM International unveiled E3429-24, the “Property Resilience Assessment” (PRA), to complement traditional due diligence by incorporating future climate-risk factors—such as floods, wildfires, hurricanes, and extreme heat—through hazard identification, site-specific evaluation, and resilience strategy planning. The new standard has already gained adoption from major players including Intertek and RWDI, and endorsements from industry groups like ULI and Nareit. It aims to bolster risk management, underwriting, and climate-disclosure compliance for investors, developers, insurers, lenders, and regulators.
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2. $1.1 Trillion in Texas Real Estate at Climate Risk
A report by Realtor.com and Insurify warns that more than $1.1 trillion in Texas property is exposed to extreme weather threats—floods, hurricanes, and wildfires—with $12 trillion nationwide facing similar dangers. Despite the magnitude of the risk, awareness and preparedness remain low. Experts highlight a mismatch between perceived and actual risk levels, particularly around flooding. The report also criticizes political setbacks to climate research and regulation, emphasizing the need for accurate data and proactive mitigation.
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3. Boom in Branded Residences for Ultra-Luxury Buyers
The luxury branded-residence market continues to expand rapidly. Once dominated by hotel brands like Four Seasons or Ritz-Carlton, this high-end niche now includes fashion and automotive names like Ferrari, Fendi, and SHA. Valued as lifestyle communities rather than mere investments, these developments often center on themes like wellness, sports, or longevity. Demand for such branded residences is forecasted to grow from about 611 schemes today to over 1,000 by 2030, commanding price premiums of around 33% and attracting affluent buyers seeking curated experiences.
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4. China’s Home Price Decline Slows—but Market Still Weak
A Reuters poll (conducted Aug 26–Sep 3) estimates that new-home prices in China will fall 3.8% in 2025, an improvement from a previous forecast of –4.8%. A further 0.5% decline is expected in 2026, with modest recovery of around 2% growth forecast for 2027. Despite supportive policies such as reduced mortgage rates and down-payments, structural challenges—like high inventory, weak demand, and stalled projects—continue to weigh heavily on the market. Analysts suggest strong government intervention will be necessary to absorb excess supply.
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5. Spanish Real Estate Investment to Surge ~20% by Year-End
According to projections from Cushman & Wakefield, Savills, and Deloitte, Spanish real estate investment is expected to rise nearly 20% by the end of 2025, reaching approximately €17 billion. This optimism is driven by healthy GDP growth (~2.6%), controlled inflation, and declining interest rates. Investment hotspots include residential (“living” sectors like rental housing, student and senior living), hotels, offices, and retail. Notable corporate moves include Neinor’s takeover bid for Aedas and the acquisition of Livensa by Nido for €1.2 billion.
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6. Serviced Residences Gain Traction in India
Serviced residences—fully furnished, hotel-style apartments with management services—are gaining popularity as second-home investments in India. Driven by evolving urban living patterns and investor interest, these properties appeal to developers, private investors, and hospitality brands. Their appeal lies in hassle-free ownership, attractive amenities, and flexibility, especially in vacation and urban markets.
