In Conversation with the Elite: Doris Tan’s Journey from Banking to Becoming a London Real Estate Veteran
At Berkeley Group, we take immense pride in our Premier Club — an esteemed cohort of our most distinguished agents, celebrated for their unwavering excellence and leadership in the real estate industry. Today, we are honored to introduce Doris Tan, affectionately known as the "Queen of London Properties" within the Singapore overseas property market. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades, Doris has navigated the realms of banking and real estate, establishing herself as a leading agent in international property expertise. Join us as we explore insights on global investments and uncover the motivations driving unparalleled passion for real estate. Welcome, Doris and thank you for doing these quick 10 questions with us! Before jumping into the 10 questions, tell us about yourself: I'm a proud mother of three successful boys who studied in the UK. My career in the real estate industry began in the '70s when I lived and worked in London. After returning to Singapore in the '80s, I joined Lloyds Bank and Hill Samuel. At Hill Samuel, I held the position of director, overseeing the provision of mortgages to high-net-worth individuals purchasing properties in seven countries: New York, London, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Hong Kong, and Malaysia. In 1995, I was made head of international property sales at Hill Samuel, a role that allowed me to fully utilize my expertise and passion for international real estate investment. As a banker, I could structure loans and advise on tax matters, which made me a market leader in this area of business, instilling confidence in my clients and colleagues. In 1998, the Asian Financial Crisis hit Asia, and the bank had to refocus on its key business, banking; therefore, the property arm was closed overnight. During this period, I had the opportunity to consider running my own agency, and I gave up private banking to be my own boss. DST International Property Services was founded in 1999. During this period, I successfully sold many properties, especially in London, and was even referred to by many investors as the “Queen of London Properties.” DST had a good run from 1999 until 2011, when JLL purchased my company. I was retained by JLL for four years, helping them grow the business. In 2016, I left JLL to join another consultancy firm before leaving in 2019. In 2019, I joined Benhams and Reeves Singapore, where I have been leading the international property sales department ever since. 1. What sparked your interest in international property? My interest in international property was sparked during my time in London in the '70s when I provided mortgages for London properties. This experience ignited my curiosity about London properties. Upon my return to Singapore and my role at Hill Samuel, where we provided mortgages to seven countries, my passion for international property was further fueled. 2. What keeps you motivated after 30 years in the industry? International properties allow me to learn about the various taxes involved in buying properties in different countries. My main objectives and motivations are the diversity of clientele and understanding their needs and goals. 3. Why did you transition from banking to property, and how has it affected your career? Banking gave me the basics of learning how to make money for high-net-worth individuals, and property is one of the products for capital gains and preservation of wealth, which is a natural progression from private banking. 4. What advice do you have for new property investors? For new investors, the basic rule is to buy within your means. Understanding that property is the only product the bank can lend against, leveraging at a good age to build your portfolio is key. Another important rule is to buy well, meaning an exit plan must exist. 5. How does being a part of the Berkeley Premier Club feel? I feel very honored and a sense of achievement to be recognized. 6. What are some of your favorite Berkeley Group development, and why? Over the years, I have represented Berkeley in many of their projects. The following are my favorites: a. 375 Kensington High Street Located along Kensington High Street, although not on the main thoroughfare, this project was among the first to offer state-of-the-art facilities and amenities. During the initial launch, properties included a parking space, making it very attractive to buyers. b. Chelsea Bridge Wharf This development features a beautifully designed landscape, close to Battersea Park. It is situated across the River Thames from the heart of Chelsea, adding to its appeal. c. Corniche Designed by renowned architect Norman Foster, this development stands out with its creative design, curved units, and balconies offering views of the Houses of Parliament. d. Riverlight Another stunning development along the River Thames, Riverlight offers sweeping views of both the East and West riverbanks. Designed by renowned architect Richard Rogers, this project has been both successful and well-priced. e. White City Living White City excels in connectivity, being close to three major tube stations and adjacent to Westfield Shopping Mall. The landscaping of the entire gardens and setting creates a sense of space and openness that is second to none. f. Oval Village Close to Zone 1 Central London, this site has been transformed into a lively place to live, making it another successful project by Berkeley. g. Silkstream This development is priced well for its location and will be stunning once completed. The inclusion of a 24-hour Sainsbury's below the development adds convenience, and its location along Hendon High Street provides easy access to Central London via Edgware Road. h. Bow Green With its excellent location and design, Bow Green offers a more accessible alternative to White City in the East. It is an excellent investment opportunity. 7. Can you share a standout success story from your client portfolio? In the early days, our clients could sell before completion and assign their contracts, which made hefty gains. Most of the projects from Berkeley Group allowed them to make good profits from their purchases. Riverlight is one good example where my client purchased a two-bed property and sold it at a hefty profit before completion to one of the Saudi princesses. 8. What factors make London a prime investment destination? London remains a world-class city and a haven for investors. It is also known for its education and is one of the world's major financial centers. Additionally, there is no language barrier, and the legal system is similar to that in Singapore, making investment in London easy. 9. Why does London remain resilient despite economic challenges? London remains resilient because it is a diverse society with inhabitants from all over the world. Whenever there is uncertainty, London benefits as people tend to invest or park their funds in stable investment instruments like property in London, which can give approximately 5% gross rental yield. 10. What opportunities do you see for those seeking to expand their investment horizons, and how can one start? For new investors, one should look at some well-priced projects in London. The horizon may be longer based on the current world situation and interest rate hikes. They should consider longer completion projects in good locations, and the amount depends on their risk profile and investible amounts. One objective is to beat inflation in today’s market, and it is always good to stay invested with bank borrowings and leveraging. . As we wrap up our conversation, we're left inspired by Doris's wealth of knowledge and passion for international property. Her career and guidance mark her as a leader in the field. Whether you seek portfolio diversification or international ventures, Doris from B&R Singapore stands ready to assist. 📌You can reach Benham and Reeves Singapore through their website here. Stay tune for our next conversation with our Berkeley Premier Club Agent from Thailand.
Jun 24, 2024
White City Living – Elevating the Style of Living in London
There’s a reason so many high-net-worth individuals the world over choose to purchase real estate in London. Whether you’re buying property to take advantage of the capital’s impressive rental yields, need a comfortable yet stylish home in the city when on business or want a safe and convenient place for your child to live when studying at one of the UK’s best universities – whatever your reason, purchasing one of the many prime real estate options available in London could be a lucrative decision. And if you are in the market to invest in real estate in the capital, then you’re in luck, because one of West London’s brightest new neighbourhoods is ripe for the picking. Allow us to introduce you to the “what, where, why and how” of White City Living – the latest luxury development that’s elevating the style of living in London.
Nov 27, 2023
Property investment in London: A Guide to West Ham
Buyers have plenty of choices where it concerns property investment in London. With so many excellent residential areas from which to choose, it proves helpful to have a handy guide to neighbourhoods such as the ever-popular West Ham in East London. Situated in the London borough of Newham, TwelveTrees Park gives buyers and investors excellent access to top educational institutions, bustling shopping destinations, great travel infrastructure, and more. Discover why West Ham is an ideal location for buying and investing in London below.
Nov 27, 2023
Berkeley Group: Best of British Fair
Berkeley Group MEA & India, is proud to have been a partner of the British Business Group Dubai and Northern Emirates (BBG) for the annual BEST OF BRITISH FAIR on the Royal Lawns at the British Embassy in Dubai last month. We showcased a collection of handpicked UK investment opportunities to a very savvy crowd and met up with some of our key business partners at this celebration of all things British.
Nov 27, 2023
Berkeley Group Maintains Gold-Standard for Customer Service
Berkeley Group has once again been awarded the Investor in Customers Gold Award (IIC), a mark of trust and reassurance, which recognises the importance that Berkeley Group places on customers experience.
Nov 27, 2023
Buying a Property in London: Your Guide to Kennington
Buying a property in London offers endless benefits to homemakers and investors alike. The ideal purchase can offer an excellent return on investment (ROI) opportunity, with the location placing you at the forefront of London’s very best educational institutions, retail and entertainment facilities, renowned restaurants and more. Kennington is a vibrant town in London that is located just south of the River Thames, offering buyers a slice of suburban life in its leafy surrounds. We provide the perfect neighbourhood guide to Kennington and the benefits of buying a property in London below.
Nov 27, 2023
Property Investment in the UK: A Guide to Reading
When deciding to purchase property in the UK, many buyers tend to only look at real estate based in London. Yes, the capital is filled to the brim with investment opportunities that hold the potential to produce good yields and even better returns, but when widening your search beyond just the city, you might be surprised to find a property that holds the same if not better possibilities. Today’s property investment guide focuses on Reading, a major UK university town situated on the River Thames beyond London. The Berkshire region boasts a thriving property market with great investment opportunities popping up nearly every day – one of which is the Berkeley Group-developed Huntley Wharf. Read on to learn why your buyers searching for property investment in the UK should set their sights on Reading, Berkshire.
Nov 22, 2023
Property Investment in London: A Guide to West London
Choosing where to buy or invest in property in London can sometimes be tricky, particularly when you are unsure of the various areas located throughout the capital city. However, property investment in London is ideal for those looking to purchase residential property in a diverse and well-connected location. Its rich history and plethora of must-see attractions make it popular among tourists and locals who also get to enjoy how well-connected London is to the rest of the world. As part of the Berkeley Group’s diverse portfolio, White City Living, The Green Quarter, and Royal Warwick Square are vibrant new developments located in West London. Find out more by reading our guide to West London.
Nov 17, 2023
Berkeley Group: A Leader in Sustainable Home Building
Over the last few years, sustainability has shifted from a voluntary trend that businesses could consider implementing to becoming a necessity that needs to be enacted upon. However, not all companies and organisations are doing their bit to futureproof the environment - which is why it’s important now more than ever for those leading sustainability in different industries and sectors, like us here at Berkeley Group, to champion green building and shows how important it is in the real estate industry and beyond. Put simply, gone are the days when sustainability was a niche interest of a select few. Today, everyone wants to go green. Consumers now demand and expect it in most, if not all, aspects of their lives – especially in their homes and places of work. And as sustainability is a topic and ideal that Berkeley Group holds close to its heart and seeks to achieve in every project we develop, we would like to explore the importance of building homes that can last not only a lifetime but forever.
Nov 17, 2023
What is the Cost of Property Investment in the UK?
Property ownership in the UK opens the door to many benefits for foreign nationals, whether providing a solid source of rental income or bringing highly-ranked educational institutions, popular retail and leisure facilities, renowned restaurants and great business and work opportunities to your doorstep. Regardless of why you are looking to buy, you will be expecting your asset to appreciate. Strong price growth forecasts (up to 21% over the next five years, according to Knight Frank) make London and the South of England attractive places to consider making an investment, but anyone who is thinking about purchasing property in London or the surrounding areas should first understand how much it could cost - after all, there are many other fees associated with the cost of property investment in the UK than just the purchase price. We’ve compiled a short guide of some of the costs you can expect when buying a home in the United Kingdom:
Nov 17, 2023
Is Property a Good Investment in the UK?
Investing in real estate is not always guaranteed a profitable outcome. In some cases, it can be a hit or miss venture and greatly depends on several different factors and influences, such as the state of the housing market, the economy, interest rates and, most importantly, location. The condition and price of a home can be easily changed, but its location cannot – which makes it all the more important to choose a neighbourhood, area, city or country that is seen as desirable to residents and tenants. A desirable location creates demand, and demand raises property prices. The condition and price of a home can be easily changed, but its location cannot – which makes it all the more important to choose a neighbourhood, area, city or country that is seen as desirable to residents and tenants. A desirable location creates demand, and demand raises property prices. In other words, the outcome of your property investment relies heavily on the location you choose to purchase real estate. In fact, it makes all the difference. So, the question we are posed with today is whether or not the UK is one of these ideal locations that offer lucrative investments in real estate – and the short answer is a resounding yes. But we know that’s not a good enough response. Today, we look at the reasons as to what makes property a good investment in the UK.
Nov 14, 2023
Property Investment in London: A Guide to Kensington & Chelsea
Kensington and Chelsea is one of the most sought-after areas for property investment in London. This exclusive borough is revered worldwide for its atmosphere, upbeat local lifestyle and culture. From its historic museums and high-end fashion outlets to its parks and concert halls, Kensington and Chelsea offer exceptionally strong demand for residential property, and making a property investment here can be a rewarding endeavour. Below, we provide an area guide to Kensington and Chelsea and discuss the benefits of investing in property at Royal Warwick Square, a luxury development by St. Edward, a proud member of the Berkeley Group.
Nov 14, 2023