This week on New Launch Studio Review, Shawn from PropertyLimBrothers talks about Arena East Residences, a new freehold development nestled just a short 3-5 minute walk from Katong Park MRT on the Thomson-East Coast Line. This boutique project sits in the heart of District 15, on the former La Ville site, this en-bloc redevelopment features 17 units spread across two towers linked by a sky bridge.

The non-PPVC nature of the project allows for flexible internal reconfiguration, with several walls designed to be hackable. Many layouts come with features like naturally ventilated bathrooms and household shelters, even for the 1- and 2-bedroom units—an uncommon trait in larger developments. The mid-size scale of the project also brings lower MCST fees, which should add to its appeal for both investors and homeowners.

Price-wise, expected launch prices range from $2,600 PSF to $2,700 PSF, making it competitive among both freehold and leasehold new launches in the East. Entry quantum begins at around $1.3M for 1-bedroom units, scaling to $3.3M for 4-bedroom layouts. With healthy rental demand observed in neighbouring projects like Fulcrum and The Line @ Tanjong Rhu, Arena East is well-positioned for investors seeking proximity to town and transformation zones. Will it have the same desirability?