I just been to the site and showroom. I can give you my opinion of how the site is progressing. I am pleased with the actual unit of the property. I love the kitchen, bathroom, and washrooms. The master bedroom is very nice. The workmanship seems to be very good. The size of the unit is big and I like the windows in the unit all around which allows a lot of sunlight in and a good view outside as well. The infinity pool is definitely a disappointment and the landscaping is still developing. I believe this will take time to develop and once it does, the result will be more pleasing. You cannot compare apples and oranges for those who say that it is not a 1.3 million development. This is definitely not Setia V Residences quality but that is minimum of 2.6 million. After all, prices are increasing every year for all properties. I been to Breeza and also By the Sea but still I feel that the unit in Ferringhi Residence is by far superior if you compare the units together. I do hope that Mah Sing makes the improvements to the washroom open wall and also to the site as they suggested themselves. I am cautiously optimistic with the whole development and cannot wait to see the finished quality in the end of 2015.

@Alan
That is a huge statement to say FR is better than By The Sea.

I believe one is with sea view and beach front. FR doesn’t.

I like FR too but was disappointed by the show unit.

Layout of the unit is good. I like the kitchen too. It is a proper kitchen and wash area.

However, the ground floor unit (means no lobby or security), ugly post box, ugly stair case…..i have nothing against the unit but the layout of the building itself.

Over all if you are paying above RM1 million, you wouldn’t want a building that feels like a LMC.

We have plenty of LMC in Penang with building infrastructure such as FR.

@Alan
I think it is a bit far fetched to compare FR with By The Sea.

FR has no sea view or beachfront.

FR has a higher density because it is from an abandoned project. So all the semi-Ds from previous developer will also share the same facilities with FR.

I am not too sure how you rated FR as more superior because you didn’t state what makes it more superior compared to the Brezza or By The Sea.

However, i don’t see how FR can be more superior than By The Sea because i visited both show rooms and the quality are different.

SDB uses ferruni italian tiles that are as expensive as the pricing for marble and Mah Sing uses the standard ordinary tiles.

Even the toilets looks better at By The Sea.

However, i prefer Mah Sing’s kitchen because it is more practical compared to SDB.

All things aside, we should compare the concept and location.

By The Sea wins hands down. Sea view, natural river and beachfront. Safe to say the only residential beachfront property at Batu Ferringhi golden mile.

I don’t own any of this developments. Just my analysis after visiting both show rooms.

@Ray and Mr. Teh

I agree with some of the points that you are making however I am actually talking about the actual unit itself in terms of how I like my unit to be. I love the space inside, the kitchen, the washroom, and the master bedroom and the ensuite bathroom. The windows all around is great for sunlight and view. They layout of the unit is very good and with 3 bedrooms and 3 bathroom/toilets that will do me and my family completely.

Compare that with the unit of By The Sea for example. 1 master bedroom and the other a much smaller bedroom/study room. The kitchen is poor given that it is completely open concept with living room. If you cooked day in day out, the living room will not only smell, but will be possibly stained by cooking/eating. The only thing impressive is the balcony and the sea view however since the initial launch of By The Sea, the limited sea view units have all been snapped up and leaving all the non sea view units left. Yes the beach is right outside the development but for the PSF for the space I am getting, I much rather have Ferringhi Residence as I do not envisage myself going to the beach every day. Yes, the price of FR is expensive now but if you compare the initial early bird prices with By the Sea and Ferringhi Residence, I think FR was much better priced per PSF.

The concept itself, yes I agree that By The Sea wins hands down. The infinity pool and the attractions at FR are a disappointment. In terms of building layout, yes I was also disappointed with the building inside with the lifts and the stairs but to me, that is not that important. The look from the outside is actually quite good, especially if they are changing the orange colours to the dark wooden colours as suggested.

To me, the most important thing is the unit itself as that is where I will spend most of my time in. The landscaping is important too to me and therefore I do hope that in 3 years time, the landscaping will have improved considerably once everything is completed.

Like I said, my own opinion entirely and I am happy with my purchase for now. This may completely change if I discover poor workmanship and leaks once the unit is complete but given Mah Sing is a tier 1 developer in the top 10 in Malaysia, I sure hope they know what they are doing.

@Alan

Well said Alan. I agree with you as well. In terms of pricing, By The Sea is really expensive.

For own stay, FR would be a better choice for its practical unit layout.

However, for rental returns, By The Sea would be more promising.

Thanks for sharing your opinion.

Less than 20 units left for sale. DIBS will continue this year and stopped in 2014.
Consruction progressing well…completion expected in early 2016….yikes! Flippers pay 30% RPGT…

That means approximately just over 90% of units have been sold. Its certainly encouraging signs in light of some of the criticism hurled on this development. Personal view is the perception on DIBS has been rather harsh. Not all who have subscribed to DIBS are speculators, some have been genuine buyers taking advantage of a lower entry cost. Hopefully, FR will be fully sold and we will have a harmonious community making FR our respective dwelling. Wishing the best for those who have purchased and for those who will be purchasing the remaining units.@donkeykong

The comments and constructive criticism here are mature and I sincerely hope mahsing will take the feedback here to improve. Regardless of the initial negative impression of the show village, the fact remains this is one of the lowest density development ie 200 units in 10+ acres of freehold land.

Believe MS planning to make some improvements after the initial feedback but doubt any chance to infinity pool.

I’ll go visit them in a month or so to check out what’s changing. Did notice the glass door between wet and dry kitchen has been removed and buyers will not be getting the glass door anymore. No mention of replacement/compensation for glass door removal.

so now they charge higher and give lesser.

@donkeykong

Hi Sir, did you bring this up to the Mah Sing Management? That way we can get an answer. I plan to be in Penang in two weeks time and will surely drop by the site. It will be my first visit. Is there anybody at the Site office for us to refer to for any questions? @donkeykong

I will be in Penang this weekend, intend to visit the site. I have asked MS about built-in fiber optic line for unifi, double cable lines for new astro setbox, etc. Latest response was that they are still deciding on contractor for the telecommunication etc. I was told that we can request for minor adjustments (e.g. additional wall plug, etc) during contruction and pay for them. You just need to write in as early as possible.

Please update after your visit..thanks

@Block_R

Visited the site, the landscaping probably has improved, not as bad as I thought.

Was told the launch date was rush by management and the contractors were forced to complete furnishing the show units within weeks. Apparently some of the outer walls were not completed in time for launch but has been smoothened during our visit.

We highlighted the workmanship inside the show unit and was assured that the final product will be better. Even the current parking lots will be modified as I complained that they are too narrow.

For the mailbox, they have identified a separate area within the ground floor to build it. Not sure if this is the results of our continuous feedbacks

For the show unit at Batu Maung, I remember there is platform on top of the washing and dryer. The show unit at BF doesn’t have this. Was told they are still working on finalising these details. I will ask MS if they intend to modify the current show unit to reflect any further changes.

In addition, Precinct 3 is going to be commercial development as MS cannot get approval for high rise next to the hill. Precinct 2 is going to be high rise instead of low density condos like Precinct 1.

Personally, the commercial development could be good – if businesses are food and services. If residential, then could further increase the population density. For Precinct 2, normally high rise will have their own facilities such as gym, swimming pool, etc. I am checking with MS to confirm this as I think it will be unfair to share our facilities with so many units from high rise development.

The remaining unsold units within Precinct 1 will be the last few low density development within BF for some time to come. The developers will probably take a step back to see the impact from budget in the short term.

I still prefer By the Sea because it is located just next to Park Royal and Hard Rock Hotel.

Who cares about the mosque? Did hard rock or park royal give a shit? No.

Besides that they are building a boutique hotel next to by the sea soon.

Only beachfront project along that golden mile.

So there is no comparison with FR.

Different concept and location.

Ok, so go and buy what you desire lah. Nobody is twisting your arm. Are you drunk and stating your opinion in the wrong project blog? @royce

I was reading the comments on this blog and everyone seems to be comparing these 2 projects. So, I decided to give my point of view after viewing both projects. My conclusion, these 2 projects are of a very different concept and location. You can’t compare diamonds with crystals. You cant compare hotel grade locations with housing locations. This is my point. Both has its own benefits.

Please don’t feel offended, it is just a non bias analysis. Provided if you are a sales person from Mah Sing then I feel sorry for your attitude.

The only thing million ringgit feel about FS is the Mah Sing promotional video. A look at the lobby and everyone can see it is no different from that of a LMC. The lifts are pathetically small. The floor tiles are cheap and basic as are the open staircases.

Given that many of the buyers are buying these units are a holiday home, there small LMC type postboxes will be stuffed to the brim with leaflets and since it is located under the staircase in the lobby, it is pretty obvious that MS do not intend to have a card entry unless they are going to give a card to the postman.

Batu Ferringhi is a high crime area and one of the critical selling points is security.

I have no issue with the unit itself but to equate FS to BTS qualitywise is really laughable. The MS senior management has obviously not bothered to make a field trip to FS.

Poor taste and that is to put it mildly. FS is certainly no resort – for now.

From all the comments so far, no one is saying FR and BTS are comparable. Alan above was talking about the unit design itself as FR is probably more suitable for family compared to BTS. I am OK with all comments that BTS is better than FR and hence higher pricing for better quality tiles, better design, close to beach, etc. Some people love the high life with hotels and great entertainment next door, some people just like peace and quiet next to the hill.

When most people comparing between them, they must have visited both sites and well aware of differences in quality and price. The question is “does the better quality/location/view in BTS justifies the higher price?”. There is no right answer as everyone is entitled to his/her opinion/preference.

Personally it’s ok for royce to state opinion but it’s equally fine for Bochap to do the same. Don’t think anyone was or should be offended and hopefully I am not offending anyone now

Im visiting the site next weekend. Hopefully will able to see some good progress. Is there a person dedicated to answer our questions at site?

Ferringhi Residence and By The Sea is the same as boxes like shape with
flatted factory rooftop.

@Bochap
You seem to be more disgruntled from the way you comment.

Anyways, both projects are obviously different. Just like what most have said earlier about FR and BTS. Both are of a different locations and different feel and concept.

If you look at their infinity pools. The one at FR is pathetically small and the one at BTS is a proper infinity pool on a raised deck that overlooks the beach and the horizon.

That itself, Mah Sing can’t get it right. What more can you expect from Mah Sing.

Not to mention, their landscaping is just average if you were to compare it with E&O’s Quayside landscaping. That is top notch world class.

FR has its on concept and its on price tag that is much cheaper compared to BTS or Quayside.

So i wouldn’t compare. If you have the money and would want the best, then go for BTS.

Otherwise, if you have a budget and prefer something else then go for FR. I believe most locals will go for FR because it is more affordable.

Those buying BTS are those group of people with more then 3 or 4 properties already. Different group of buyers. It is more of a lifestyle and status to them.

Just like YTL’s Shorefront that will be launching soon. The same group of buyers for BTS would most likely buy Shorefront too because they can easily afford it.

Perhaps you guys should try dining at Ferringhi Garden or Rasa Sayang’s Ferringhi Grill or perhaps Hard Rock’s pizzeria at the beach and maybe you will understand why BTS is certainly more superior.

Location, location and location.

i have to agree with you that the infinity pool for FR is very small. Cannot imagine fitting more than 5 people in it. At first i thought it was the water feature.

Anyways, i heard Mah Sing will be changing the lobby, the post box and the orange steel decorations. However, i am doubtful they will change the lobby because the ready blocks of A,B and C are still the same. Don’t tell me they are going to knock down the 3 blocks and rebuild the lobby again? That is not going to happen, so its all just sales talk to me.

Changing the post box is not that difficult. Just bring it down and replace with a better looking one. Simple job.

Same goes for the orange steel decorations, that is easily changed as well.

As for the landscaping, apparently what you see now is suppose to be the best part of the whole development with the most landscaping. The landscaping will be concentrated around Block A,B and C of this development. If what you see now is suppose to be the best concentrated part for their landscaping….i guess there is nothing much left to expect since what you see is supposedly the best part of their entire landscaping. This is according to their sales person. I am not simply making it up. Hence, the salesperson claims there is a premium for block A,B and C because of the landscaping.

Block P, Q, R,S,T are cheaper because their landscaping are not that great. Sales person said that.

Don’t give up yet folks, the ‘flying carpet’ is meant to be the key landscaping feature. Wait for it.

Just back from the site. All works stop !! The workers said Health Dept came and give a STOP WORK order on Wed because of water/rubbish everywhere……haiz how long then ?

Talk about these developers big or small all are the same. Only in name
and a lot of stupid people believe and trust them.

Are you sure and armed with facts that site received stop work order? Was in contact with Mah Sing staff momentarily ago and the person said he is not aware of such thing. Either the Mah Sing person is not informed yet or the stop work order is just another below the waist attack by a person for some reason is not happy with FR.

Confirmed, I was a site this morning, no work stop order. Its just absurd, people who are unresponsible in their ways, stating inaccurate statements in this blogsphere. The landscape is improving but will take time to mature. The car parks is just at the beginning stage of construction, and I was told by the site office people, it will be as close as per the brochure in terms of asthectics. As for the infinity pool, yes, agreed its not the largest I have seen, but certainly its sizeable and can more than 5 people ( again unfair staement by some folks in this blog). Potential changes to design are (as per adviced by site office folks) are the orange grill, the much spoken about post box and a remote chance of the lobby area ( may be a minor tweak). I also took the opportunity to view the alleged LMC stairs, agreed it may not be the stairway to heaven but it certainly not as bad as what some folks have been saying. Never really understood what some folks are saying when they say ” does not look like a million ringgit apartment staircase”. Is there such a thing? A myth like Kraken? The perimeter fence will have CCTV at every 50 meters interval. Agreed on nothing much can be done with lobby as per Royce’s note above. 31 units still available with not a single unit sold yet for Block A. Purchases range from Malaysians, Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, UK, Shanghai and Macau. I was informed a number of them are for the Malaysia My Second Home programme. Maybe in by end of next year, we the buyers of FR will have a better feel for the place, the landscaping would have covered more ground. I think its only fair to judge these development in about a years time when more blocks are up, landscaping is more mature and the so called tweaks in design (if ever) are implemented.

Just repeating my last paragraph above …

“Personally it’s ok for royce to state opinion but it’s equally fine for Bochap to do the same. Don’t think anyone was or should be offended and hopefully I am not offending anyone now :)”

At work, I categorise info into one of the four groups below:-

1. Facts:- when it comes to facts, there should be no dispute, e.g. infinity pool is small, landscaping not up to expectation for most people.

2. Acceptable opinions:- at the same time, we should respect each other opinions (which only time will tell), e.g. landscaping will take time to mature, royce’s doubtful that MS will change the lobby.

3. Ignored opinions:- however, opinions should not be unreasonable, e.g. definitely more than five person can fit into the infinity pool.

4. Rubbish:- as for ww comment on stop work order, the person probably has some issues in the brain!

Have a great Sunday folks.

The reason why I said 5 was because if 5 people were to swim in laps it would pretty much occupy most of the available space in that pool.

If 5 were to just sit there obviously it will be able to take more then 5.

However, I am rating the pool based on its functionality. Hence I said 5. I am sure if we were to just sit or float in that pool it can take 15.

It is not a proper or decent pool. I am just trying to state this point.

Are you a pool expert? I believe more than 5 can do laps. Im not a pool expert but I do swim regularly. Anyway what kind of pool size would make you happy? How many people should be able to do laps?. Be positive and wait for a bit more more time to see if this development is worth its value. Hammering it down from the beginning is not helping anybody. Hammering senselessly is even more deploring. If in one years time, if things are not as per your satisfaction, I can totally understand. Right now chill and let it develop…@royce

Mr.sales person.

I dont think the swimming pool is going to get any bigger. It will be the same size.

I am not a swimming pool expert but the pool at my house is bigger than FR’s infinity pool.

So I am just sharing my experience. No need to be so protective until you reveal your position.

This is a space to share, so please take criticism constructively.

Ms. I have a swimming pool in my house,

Im not in sales, so, its established you are not a clairvoyant nor your powers of deduction is something to be proud off. Are you a sales person from another development causing mayhem here in FR blogsphere? You still have not answered the question, what size of swiming pool would make you happy? You need to take a chill pill as if you can lambast, please expect and take lambast reciprocally in a similar positive fashion.@royce

By stating the facts about this so called infnity swimming ticks you off.

Btw, don’t take it too personally. I am not lambasting the swimming pool nor anyone or anything. I believe all the existing buyers would agree with me that the pool is too small.

Your defensive nature of the pool, not to mention your hard stand and sensitivity towards my factual and constructive feedback gave away your position as a bias sales person or someone who has his vested interest

Please refer back to existing block R owner’s comment. Point 1: there should be no dispute over the fact that the pool is small and the landscaping is not up to expectation. These are facts pointed by existing owners.

Perhaps Mah Sing can redesign the pool and make it bigger. This should be your positive reply if you are on the same boat as the existing owners.

Instead you hurl accusations towards me for giving constructive feedbacks.

It is not about what size of the pool that would make me happy. Everyone is saying the pool is way too small.

Try visiting other condos. Even Desa Embun Emas swimming pool is bigger than FR.

I agree with Royce. The pool is really small and pathetic. I visited the project before and my first impression of it was not impressive at all. Anyways, price wise those who bought below rm1 million a year ago already made money. However subsale wont be easy. There is no sea view.

You think your views are constructive. Its rather utopian. Looks like you are speculator, the type many first home owners loathe. Have a house with a swimming pool (apparently bigger than FR’s), yet buy FR. After buying, then make negative comments, but cant accept anything people say to you. Its all one way street. No point referring to Block R, who is not a benchmark or a supreme being that the person’s views are considered right. You are reffering because it suits your agenda. Typical humans with agenda, when it suits them, then its not to be questioned.

Block R – nothing against your views, I respect it. I also respect your principles as you have demonstrated time and time again, which is agree to disagree. You have done it in a very mature way. My hats off to you. Hope to buy you a cup of coffee when we have moved into our homes in FR.@royce

I agree with you on Speculators. This people treats first time owners like me like gum under the shoe. All these speculators. Im owner in Block T. Who cares if swimming pool can fit more than five people who are doing laps? If you asked the person who claims to have swimming pool in the house, chances are its hardly used, its more a status symbol to show they can have a pool in the house. Enough discussion on this matter. Lets the construction guys do their job. I want a home to stay in that is peaceful and the community leaving in harmony. Cant wait for the drama when residence decide to form residence comm. and want to control management.@Stupendous. Buyers

Peace… putting aside the landscape and pool issue, this development is still a very low density project ie 200 units in 10+acre freehold land. Cannot find anymore in new launch

Peace….Love All, Serve All. Everybody is entitled to an informed opinion. Lets all agree to disagree respectfully. Agree with fr on low density development. Hopefully the planned Tg. Bungah-Bt. Ferringhi highway will be completed by 2018 as it will help our logistics in terms of time and accessibility.

No hard feelings everyone but i have to agree with royce.

The swimming pool is small whether you like it or not. It is a fact.

His criticism or point of view is constructive. He is just stating the obvious.

Read if you like my opinion below. Opinion is aplenty, so stay relax, OK.

There is a swimming pool and the pool is not big. I look forward to a stunning landscaping within FR as sold to me by Mah Sing’s management and staffs. I won’t be able to say much about its landscaping until 2016.

The buildings are 5 storey condo villas and I can see that it has 4 levels including ground level. However, FR’s swimming pool will never appear to be an infinity pool. Why bother selling it as an infinity pool in the first place? Just called it a “swimming pool” &^T#?*(!.

Is it a swimming pool? Definitely Yes. Does it look like an infinity pool? Definitely No.

Did I buy a unit of FR?
Yes.
What do I like about FR?
– Quay Side has too few rooms (based on the available units and current unit price).
– 10+ acre land size shared among 200 unit of condo villas and a few units of semi-D’s.
– Nice landscaping (I hope it doesn’t disappoint me later).
– Fully furnished, well almost.
– Quality air (I prefer BF area than B. Pulau).
– I can’t afford to own any property more expensive that FR.
– Penang is an Island.

@Itisanisland
Well said my friend. I like how you keep things real.

peace. i am block u owner.

Was on site. Blocks T and U are already up to the fifth floor structure wise, Block S is currently up to the first floor. I was informed by the sales office girl that Mah Sing is exploring the idea for producing a list of additionals that they can provide for a fee later on. These additionals are mainly for the number of power points required and the astro point that requires two cables and not one as per current design specs. The orange grill facade will be redisgned and their architects are exploring options for modifications for the lobby area. They confirmed the post box will be redesigned or relocated. Street lights within FR are not LED lights, I have asked if they could change it, I got the answer ” we will look into it”. I was also told ” comeback by mid next year and the landscape will look more impressive”, lets see. Its certainly one area Im hoping will be impressive.

@ben..hi blockmate

@BlkU..hi first time meet my blockmate………..

@The League of Shadows

The astro point should not be an additional item, it should be incorporated into the design spec now. By the time this project is completed, it is unlikely Astro will have any old setbox with one cable and MS cannot expect all units to hack walls in order to conceal two cables required for new setbox.

Things to remove:- old cable point for TV antenna and (especially) copper telephone line and point.

Stairs are for emergency use and suggest we put door according to BOMBA spec. Personally I am not concern about the “look” of the stairs, more so if it is behind door.

For the lobby, maybe keycard entry?

According to my understanding, it is possible to setup RA now if majority owners agree to it. Thru RA committee, it could be more effective to negotiate with MS but we would need volunteers and this is probably the most difficult part.

@Block_R

I don’t think they will be giving us key card entry for our lobby. It is not stated in the S&P. Hence, they are not obligated to provide that. I believe the only security we will be getting is the guard house and our front door. Besides that, the lobby is rather simple and small. The only ventilation for the lobby is from the outside.

By right, they should leave the ground floor empty without units. Residential living should start from level 1 onwards. Nevertheless, it is too late now for the architect to modify their plans.

A friend of mine have wrote in to Ms. Faith of Mah Sing enquring if the lobby can be converted into a card entry system. She is the person to address if you have feedbacks or comments for FR. To her credit, she replied very promptly, but she also replied the standard answer which is “thank you for your feedback, we will check with our project department and revert back”. Well, positively, its been asked and Mah Sing has replied saying they will look into it. Lets hope Mah Sing will ponder upon our feedbacks and implement some of them.@Block_P

Confirmed they had a stop work order by the Health Department last week as well. I spoke to the people on site who were working there.

Sure@James

I visited the showroom this weekend.

I believe the concept is there. Low dense community living with proper landscaping that is waiting to mature.

The swimming pool is just a small glitch in their design.

The only thing that you can really say about this project is the view. It doesn’t come with a sea view. So, for those sea view lovers, they will certainly give this a pass.

Perhaps we can wait for Mah Sing’s future sea view condos.

So…..all said, is this a good investment project?

Not at the current price level. You are paying a premium of 40% compared to a year ago.

Not a wise investment if you ask me.

Simple mathematics. If you were to buy at RM1.5 million now. Do you think you can get RM8000 rental for that location? Obviously not.

Just take a look at your surroundings. There are so many flats and semi-Ds around that area. Not to mention Mah Sing will be launching their 3 blocks of condos (600 over units) very soon.

In total, you will have a thousand more units to consider around that area.

Is it a good investment? No.

I think we should put an end to this tic for tact situation.

Everyone should stop calling each other names.

If you want to debate please do so by providing facts.

From the previous post, i can tell that Bo Chap, Sam Pat Lang, Ciao Lang and Stupendous Buyer started firing people personally instead of debating it constructively.

Please stop this, you are giving this project a bad name.

Hi all, any updates on:

1. Total units sold?

2. Site progress?

3. If Mah Sing has agreed on some of the changes we have requested?

Why is there no site progress update on the Ferringhi residence website? Last update was on October. Poor website management. Got latest update from sales office, unsold units went up from 31 to 33 units as banks did not approve loan for some applicants. Can anyone update site progress? Especially those who are in Malaysia, more specifically Penang.

Wishing the FR community a very Happy New Year….wishing the best to all for 2014…

happy new year FR community

Wow, just got newsletter, saw that this development has won an award. Congrats!!

Can anyone share their latest visit experience?

Hey folks, heard this place now is 1,000 psf. True?

It seems the balance few units of 1510sf are rm1000psf before 10+3% rebate, no dibs

Looks like rebate quantum is increasing? What is the +3% for? @fr

Hi all, can anyone share their views on the construction progress, landscaping progress and the overall feel/look of the development?

Hi all, can anyone share the site progress update? Thank you in advance.

Dropped by for a quick visit. Construction progressing smoothly, some blocks have yet to complete the walls for the highest floor. The sales office indicated that project MAY complete (with VP) by mid 2015 (April was mentioned but no guarantee). Not surprising since most sales have DIBS before banned by BNM. Didn’t have time to chat for more details but I saw about 30 units still available – almost ten due to difficulty to get bank loan. “Unofficially”:- achieved targeted sales, so not doing as much marketing as other projects.

FR is currently doing a revamp of the lobby area of their show unit. Let’s hope they take into account the negative comments of the owners and do a better job than the very poor effort the first time round.

The much maligned positioning of the low cost flat post boxes under the staircase should be the first to go.

Any update? Based on the billings, stage 2d has been completed (roughly 55% mark). Please provide picture update of the landscaping if possible. Interested to know how it looks like after these few months.

Any update on the revamped on lobby area? Looks better? @TLB

@Bane

No idea. Have not been there for a while but it should all have been finished by now.

post boxes right next to the front entrance

my only comment is they look small and and and …… (not sure what to say)

https://onedrive.live.com/redir?resid=40CE980C019FAAE2!166&authkey=!ACCA48Bh8QcT_18&ithint=folder%2c

Main contractor targeting to complete all major substructure and finishing works by end of this year, so landscape contractor can start their work discipline or scope. Exciting times….looking forward to move in to this fabulous place.

Sorry typo, it should be superstructure and not substructure

Hey buyers, did this project just won the Asia Property Awards? It looks like it but was wondering why Mah Sing did not announce anything about it.
http://www.asiapropertyawards.com/southeastasiapropertyawardsmalaysia

Mahsing did well with the sales..not many left unsold, and lowest now is 1.3+mil after rebate. Landscaping will be very crucial here

Calistoga, this project won the award few months back. I received a newsletter about the award at that time.

Fr, there are 26 unsold units, some due to loan rejection. The lowest (cheapest) unit after rebate is about 900 psf now (from speaking with onsite sales). Agree with you about the landscaping.

Note that Precinct 2 has lots of soil sitting on top of the ground. My understanding is that this is to compact the ground before any construction work can begin.

Block_R, this award is different. I believe the award that you mentioned is the Best Residential Enclave Award. Are you referring to this or the Asia Property Award? Anyway, doesn’t really impact anything. Having another 26 units left over is not very encouraging.

However, hopefully Precinct 2 & the expressway will be open soon.

Property awards in Msia means nothing about the project. As long as you’re willing to pay the award organisation a hefty fee, they will honour you with an award. Simple as that.

The vast majority of the sales were made before the site was opened to the public. The clown who designed the swimming pool should be sacked.

Management should put more effort in the landscape eg. Designs can be made on the plain outside wall where new post boxes are now relocated. More thought should also be put into the security of the individual blocks.

Don’t like the pool? Burn it down! Best Residential Enclave Award? Burn baby burn!!!!!

Hows the progress at site? Billing is quite advanced already

last visit 2 weeks ago. from outside, seems like all blocks are ready, painted, etc. current work is more on the surrounding.

Was informed unofficially that delivery could be as early as July or latest by September, depending on approval and certification. Anyone else here bought for own stay?

bought for own stay

All structures up….landscaping and infra works now.

Am an agent and ready to pounce….

Felix Ooi
felix@supremeproperties.my

I am willing to sell ,my property is 1500 sf

@Penang Property Showroom

Last Progressive Payment requested by developer. Guess completion pretty soon.

I went to the site that day, looks like almost completion. Flying carpet and some of the landscaping is still not yet complete.

I had a look at site too. The buildings look ok. I hope they will do a good job in landscaping, as this will be very important for the resort feel

Anyone bought Block B here?

Anyone bought a unit in Block S?

I have a unit @ Block S. Bought additional car park too. Hope the end result of this project is up to my expectation.

Anyone has any updates on the completion works, especially the landscaping works. Anyone seen the much lauded flying carpet?

End result is nice but what you all should be worried about would be the future 4 blocks of affordable housing next to this project. 800 over units? Good luck.

Ermm, I thought the project next to FR would be FR 2??

pretty sure the next project is FR2 and not the affordable housing.

I believe the affordable mentioned is more on Mixed Development of Service Apartment, Mall, Condo and affordable homes. They are located nearer to the main road. i guess it going to take years for this to become reality.

The latest progress photos is now in FR website

@fr
Thank you for sharing that the latest photos info are on the FR website. Just viewed it. Looks like there is at least 2-3 months of external works to be completed. Shaping up well though.

Mahsing has sent out letters for TNB deposit..handover soon

Paid the TNB and PBA deposit. Hopefully OC soon.

That’s good news. Can’t wait to reno and move in end of year.

I did not receive anything….when was it sent out?

Hi Calistoga, the letter was dated 26th June but i only received it a week before Raya. They gave us until 17th July to make the payment. Else we will need to deal direct with TNB and PBA later.

Ditto here, only received the letter that was dated 26th June a week before Raya. Hopefully, they will consider extending the submission of our payment date as Raya week, not sure any of the courier guys would have delivered mails. Anyone knows the target date for TOP or CSC? Looking forward towards moving in and enjoying the serene environment the soft and hard landscaping offerings within the FR neighbourhood.

Few weeks ago i had a look at FR. There wasn’t much landscaping at that time hence not much resort feel. But i can see its a low density environment and it has good potential ..

Once the 800 over units and 4 blocks of affordable housing comes up, it is going to be hard to have that resort feel. The plan is confirmed and it is just a matter of time.

Heard that the FR2 launch will be tomorrow. Indicative pricing is about RM700/sqft. Pretty decent pricing but given that FR1 is so low density, there is no comparison…

Previously the sales people mention for FR2, smaller units 1000psf but will have usual mahsing big rebates..lets see how they will launch it

I was told by a bank offier in Penang that FR 2 is MYR 745 per sqft.

FR 2 won’t be launched until December this year, the units will not consist as many fixtures and furnishing as FR, and generally, FR 2 development consists of smaller units. It is a high density development as you are all aware, hence the per square foot price is expected to be below RM 700. The construction company’s marketing arm has yet to establish the price per square foot yet. It could be around RM 700 per sqft or marginally higher due to higher material prices in-lieu of GST and its upward impact to prices generally. Essentially, the price per soft is still up for a decision in the offing with no clear indication yet.

Mahsing is known to start low price in prelaunch for few units and increase very quickly after they hit certain volume. For FR they started below 600psf for size 1510sf and now the few units left are about 870psf after rebates

Yeah you are right fr, indeed that seems like their commercial strategy. Apparently, 20 units still unsold for FR. Hopefully it will be 100% sold out before CPC.

For my case, letter requesting payment for TNB and PBA deposit was sent to old address even though I informed them last August about new address. Was told due to system error???

Please update here on future correspondences from Mahsing. Just want to make sure I don’t miss out on anything – worry another system error. Appreciate it.

I did not receive the letter either and i went to the Mah Sing office to get it done myself. They can even email you the official letter and you can sign and fax back to them if you are not physically in penang.

saw more and more postings to sell FR, anything from 1.3m till 2m. i believe the 2m is the showroom fully furnished.

Ringgit has been weakening. If foreigners are buying, their payment in USD/SGD/GBP etc will be lower. Landscaping is critical here for resort environment (i still doubt Mahsing can deliver good landscape)..with nice mountain view and walkable to beach, I believe this FR can be a nice place to stay.

@CR
Where are the postings? Would like to view them. Thanks.

check out iproperty.com.my, there are 5 units for sales

@Block_R
Thank you. Have checked the listings. Can anyone share an update on the landscaping works, especially the flying carpet?

Recently met few friends based in Singapore. They are very keen to invest in completed properties in Ferringhi area due to SGD strength. (somehow they are less enthusiastic on iskandar..)
Eager to get FR keys soon..

The overall project looks pretty good from outside. from what I heard and see, MS is trying to make it to look grander than what we saw a few months back. Anyway, lets see it for sure when we get the keys.

Spoke to a MS sales person via the phone to check if intercom has been installed, he said yes. Can anyone confirm if the intercom system has been installed?

Received the notice of delivery of vacant possession today.

@Block_R
excellent news. what is the date for delivery? i am yet to receive the notice.

Date of delivery was back in 28th July but you need to clear all outstanding payments and banks must pay the final progressive payments before MS can issue a clearance letter. Banks have a due date of 25th August.

The notice will include invoices for insurance, quit rent, service charge and sinking fund which we need to pay.

From past experience, bank normally release payment within two weeks of receiving notice. I suspect we should get the clearance letter during third week of this month and proceed to key collection.

One more point, the notice included a letter to bank to stop DIBS responsibility due to MS. Effective from 29th July, the borrower is responsible for all interest and instalments due.

The notice was sent by registered and normal mails, so I suspect you should receive by this Friday at the latest. If not, you should contact MS office directly, ask for Encik Nazili.

Why do we need to pay the service charge which is meant for July 2016 till Nov 2016? Is this a normal practice to pay more than a year ahead? July 2015 – June 2016 is free though base on SPA.

@philblue
read clause 6.2A on page 14 of “Deed of Mutual Covenants”

My block, Block S has apparently been changed by the Local Council, now its Block U. When I asked MS, they said the Council changed it and they have no idea. Anyone else who is a resident of Block S that is aware of this? For those who bought Block S, Please check the letter of VP from MS, where the attached site plan shows Block S is now Block U.

My understanding is that Tenaga or PBA does not allow the use of letter I and O to avoid confusion. So my block R has been changed to T. Blocks A to H remains the same. Original blocks I to M have the letter move up by one alphabet. Blocks N onwards move by 2 alphabets.

I hope this change will no impact the SnP or other legal documents. personally, i felt MS should only change the impacted Block (I and O). i chose block “S” because this alphabet has some sentimental value to me. Now i am stuck with “U”. sad

i am yet to receive any letter from MS. called them and they advised me to wait.

Postal address being different from lot number in SPA is ok. Some blocks have address xxx, jln ferringhi residensi 1, 11100 batu ferringhi, which i think looks good.

Fr, I have Jln Ferringgi Residensi 3, 11100 Batu Ferringgi in my letter.

Fr, which block is yours? I am still waiting for my letter which is most probably missing as I encountered the same thing on the utility letter.

From the layout in the letter, there are 4 jalans..those blks looping the carpet bridge is jln fr2, blk abc jln fr4, for blk r s t u v w some jln fr1 and some fr3. The club house is blk D. No blk O and I.

I don’t find our addresses on the unifi coverage page even though I was told by Mahsing that Unifi will be available.

Please go to https://www.tm.com.my/Home/Broadband/unifi/home/slof/Pages/Request.aspx

and register your interest in the service. If we have more requests, TM may give us higher priority if indeed there is no service now.

YES internet MAY be available. We are just outside its coverage area according to the website. I know people in Moonlight Bay using YES internet even though outside the coverage area.

i think it is way early in getting unifi coverage as the address is not even listed anywhere. Give it about 2-3 months and they will come in for a promotion. Anyone get the key yet?

cannot tahan the slow mail. called MS to send the notice over via email. after we collected the key, we can start to inspect the actual unit, right?

Don’t wait for the mails. I sent in request to change address last August and they still send to old address. I contacted them directly after reading that some of you received notices to pay Tenaga and PBA deposits. Ask MS to send via email to speed things up.

After all outstanding payments clear (including any progressive payments from banks), then can proceed to collect keys and inspect our units.

all payment made. waiting for an appointment to collect key. until now, the snail mail still yet to arrive..haha

anyone collected the keys? my appointment is on 24/8 as earlier slots were all taken up. do share some update especially on the landscaping. thanks

Wow, those must be cash buyers! My bank has yet to release the final progressive payments, so can’t make any appointment yet.

@CR
CR please let us know your views on the quality of the unit, fixtures installed in the unit, landscaping and overall ambience of the FR after your key collection on 24th. Congrats, hope to catch up for coffee as FR neighbours.

in iproperty and propertyguru, agents are quoting 1.28m for 1510sf. Still deciding whether to sell or rent any idea what rental rate is reasonable?

fully furnished the unit up, i believe 3k-3.5k rental might be possible.

that’s what being advertised in iproperty now, 3.5K rental and lowest of 1.28m for 1510sf.

for sales are 1510 sf and 1750 sf, i.e. lowest three floors. none for the top two floors.

Lowest for 1510sf is RM 1.28, what is the highest advertised so far? Anyone collected their keys here? Any comments on the unit, the surroundings and the quality of the fixtures?

after 2 weeks of receiving letters, anyone collected keys? any surprises?

CR mentioned 24th August was the date for key collection for him. Lets see what his feedback is.

Can anyone who has collected their keys confirm theres intercom in the unit to the guard house?

Just booked latest available alot of 4th Sep

Block_R, congrats. Do let us know your views on the quality of the unit, fixtures installed in the unit, landscaping and overall ambience. Also if theres intercom in the unit to the guard house.

why worry about intercom system to the guardhouse? If you don’t have one, just get one installed. It’s very cheap nowadays, with wireless technology.

sorry guys. i missed the 24th appointment. going later today for the key collection. will update later. cheers

Just collected the keys. According to Mah Sing, I am the 3rd owner collected. Very detailed site tour n collection process. Built quality is pretty good., All equipments are there as promised. Intercom confirmed exist. Landscaping above average but I guess it will take time for the plant, grass to mature. Can move in anytime.

@CR, thanks for the feedback. I have set low expectation for Mahsing product and hopefully when its my turn, I will have pleasant surprise. By the way, is the clubhouse/pool functioning? Security guards well in place?

Clubhouse is operating ie pool, gym n yoga room. Security access card is similar to smart tag. Electrical appliances brand is TEKA except the air conditioners PANASONIC. Unifi available upon subscription.

Sounds good so far, especially the Unifi. I need that for my work as well as connect all my security alarms/cameras to the Internet. Thanks. Will try to post some pics when my turn next week.

I was informed that there is an additional security improvement for each block. They are in the process of installing a security grill door at the front and rear entrance of the block which is accessible only to the residents of that particular block.

Block R – looking forward to view the pictures

CR – Thank you very much for the positive update and confirmation on the intercomm

JR – Thats good news. Hopefully the security grill door is done with taste and not for the sake of ticking the box

hi all buyers, the overall key handover is very nice done. The quality of the units are of high quality and the finishing is acceptable. Unifi is available on application and is given complimentary for 2years upon approval. (yes, you read it right, free!!). All rooms are with CAT6 network port.

Fridge is a bit small but acceptable. Overall kitchen cabinets are done nicely but do check out the linearity (alignments). Landscaping is acceptable and provides the resort feels. Wish they would rear some fish at those water feature, though….

@Calistoga
Thank you for the feedback and inputs Calistoga. My wife and I are waiting for the call from MS to collect the keys. We will share our views as well.

Initially i bought this for investment but looking at the unit and resort feel, i plan to do some renovation (ceiling, light, paint, etc.) and make it a weekend home. my only grudge is the exposed water meter (external).

What is the market price now?

my appointment on 11/9 morning

Block S, if you have cleared all payments including the final progressive payments from bank (if any), then call MS instead of waiting for them to call you.

sctang, you can check iproperty dot com

Something has been planed for the exposed water meters. Those will be covered up.

Still a bit surprised (even though Calistoga mentioned above) – Unifi VIP 5 free for 24 months, must register by 28/7/2016. Specifically mentioned 60GB monthly download volume. Shouldn’t be an issue unless you download three movies per week.

27 months warranty for all the appliances which are TEKA brand. Most of us saw Electrolux washer and dryer in the show unit as well as Samsung??? fridge. These are all replaced with TEKA brand. No experience with this brand, so will see though the 27 months warranty is reassuring.

The guard who explained the security procedure to us was very friendly. If you register your guests with the guard house along with car registration number, etc, they will be allowed to enter without much fuss. For unregistered guests, they will escort to the front doors of residents!

Yet to switch on the water features in some parts. Gym is acceptable though the Yoga room a bit small.

The only major issue in my opinion is the car park. It’s too narrow.

I wrote to admin to request posting of latest site pics. Awaiting response.

Pics sent. Didn’t take too many as was in a rush towards the end to pick up kids from school. They have yet to clean the pool and to activate the water pump. Landscaping definitely need more time.

Pics above !!! Thanks Admin.

How to view the pics?

Go top of this page and scroll down slowly. You should see 12 pics contributed.

Where do you park your car then ? No swimming pool ?

@Block_R
Thank you Block R for sharing the pictures. Appreciate it. We just got a call today from MS for key collection, we wont be available in September, so it will be before mid October for us. We will share our views.

@Inconvenient

We park the car at the carpark. Swimming pool is there beside the clubhouse. Do check out the earlier pictures to get the whole picture of the project.

Overall exceed my expectation (which i didn’t put much expectation initially). Landscape needs more time to mature. Internal quality good. Units feel large coz high ceiling. This is really low density. I think many are not aware of this development as you need to drive in about 900m from holiday inn junction. And having the new huge seafronting starbucks is really convenient!

@FR

Been sending new office (located inside Starbucks) view to my clients past few days.

@Block_R

Thank you for the pics!

I think Quayside is a better buy if I’m looking for resort landscaping. If everything works out well, there will be an LRT station in the vicinity of Quayside. Plus all the up and coming development in this area, it’s going to be hot!

Anyone planning to move in soon?

Going to make a detailed defect inspection next weekend, one month for rectification before start renovation. Not doing much, so hoping to move in by Xmas.

Yesterday went to my unit, block U. Saw one owner same block ground level.

Tested all power socket n appliances. Anyone tested the water heater? I cannot seem to get hot water but maybe I didn’t switch on long enough.

@CR

Old fashion water heater for which you have to wait 5 minutes for the water to get heated up?

instant water heater is definitely more convenient but likely to consume more electricity

The best setup is one with a water tank and heating using solar energy and say around five person in the household. My last place has such setup and I probably turned on the electricity once a year when rained over two or more days. Other times, the solar energy is enough to provide hot water to all occupants.

@Block_R
Hi Did not see your picture sent.

@Block_R
Suggest sharing deflect list so that we can be aware what to look out for. Thanks

i have made one defect feedback on my 2nd car park and within 2 weeks, rectified. Plan to scrutinze the unit for defects this weekend

@Block V

It’s right on top of this page, after the Image Gallery.

Good idea to share defect list. Just thinking how to go about doing it in the most efficient manner. Normally I will take the pics and include them with the list. Good to attach small pieces of stickers with numbering correspond to the list so that nothing is miss out.

@CR

If u see a car parked at bay 369, give me a shout at my unit 1T-3A-02

I have issues with all the taps in all bathrooms. They are not secured properly to the basins and can be twisted sideway easily. Also some seem to be the wrong size, i.e. the tap body connecting thru the chamber just too small. While using, the water can flow between the gaps where the tap connects to the basin. I would expect right size and a thin piece of rubber to secure the tap in place.

I am submitting about 30 areas for defect work! Some are the same issues, just at different spots

Seems to be that the Mah Sing quality control people are sleeping.

Don’t get me wrong. Generally, the build quality is good. I just very picky to make sure that all areas painted

You can expect certain issues or oversights to happen. I know of properties in Klang Valley by a more reputable developer and many units facing aircon piping issues inside walls!!!

What I will be looking forward to is how MS going to resolve some of these more sticky issues like the tap. I am not an expert in plumbing, so will be eager to see how they going to solve this for all owners.

Trying damage control for the defects !!!!

I would have thought that the tap issues are something rather basic. The fact that they are there do not reflect well of Mah Sing.

After I have spoken out there will be no more defects as everything seem to be
alright and good !!!!!!!! Hahaha……hahaha……….haha………..

@FR Owner

Mah Sing is not known for luxury products. The only reason they are selling expensive properties in Penang is because they bought the land very expensive, thanks to their internal land sourcing dept. I was told massive undertable changed hands between the “agents”.

I have no clue on plumbing. Mah Sing really should get their people to check everyone of the 200 units there. It does their image no good when these sort of things gets highlighted in forums like this.