One of the largest international property deals between Australia and China,
Connect MyProperty, will help Australian developers, builders and real estate agents to promote their properties through Chinese real estate giant E-House (China) Holdings Limited (NYSE:EJ).
The deal gives Connect MyProperty exclusive rights to operate the Australian property section of E-House’s overseas subsidiary real estate portal, SINA Hiawai, which is part of a larger portal that attracts 40 million hits each month.
Connect MyProperty is assisting Australian listed properties into overseas sales, including assistance with Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) approval.
Irene Zheng, SINA Haiwai Real Estate General Manager and Preston Richardson, Connect MyProperty Director, joined forces to kick-start the tours of several properties and developments on the Australian market.
“We are very pleased to launch this exclusive partnership with Australia’s Connect MyProperty,” Ms Zheng said.
“We’ve always viewed Australia as an attractive place to do business given it is the 12th largest economy globally, it is in close proximity to China, and has a transparent and well regulated business environment that is the envy of many countries around the world.
“We have been looking for an independent partner in Australia for some time that could help bridge the gap between Australia and China such as language, cultural customs, and regulations in both countries.
“Connect MyProperty’s mutual desire for an online-to-offline model and a strong focus on direct, face-to-face communication provides a truly effective and integrated offer for the 80 million members of our Property Buyers Club.”
Mr Richardson said the opportunity to present and sell properties to audiences offshore is becoming more common.
“Australia has seen 23 years of uninterrupted economic growth,” Mr Richardson said.
“Through our E-House partnership, we look forward to being a part of this growth to help further strengthen Australia’s strong economic ties with Asia.
“In particular, the indirect flow-on effects of our partnership have the strong potential to increase the productivity of the construction industry by creating more infrastructure investment opportunities, more developments, and more construction jobs for Australians.”
Mr Richardson added, Connect MyProperty has converted the overseas listing into a sale, which can sometimes be difficult.
“We partner with Australian real estate agents, developers, and builders to market premier properties and developments, according to buyer profiles and preferences,” Mr Richardson said.
“Many of these groups have been selling premier Australian properties and developments to the market in China for years but are talking to us because, in addition to our online services, we provide the critical offline, face-to-face contact with buyers in China. This enables our partners to leverage cost efficiencies and improve productivity.
“Our complete, integrated service includes support to understand FIRB regulations and assist with approval, as well as on-the-ground investor relations, online marketing, translation services, conveyancing support, and the coordination of travel and viewing arrangements to see premier properties and developments first-hand."
Mr Richardson said they also showcase premier Australian properties and developments at expos across China to expose listings and build long-term relationships and credibility with buyers.
“This is an exciting partnership and we look forward to working closely with E-House to help continue enhancing Australia’s positive reputation as a place to do business and invest.”