Residentia is pleased to announce the closing of several real estate transactions, which took place at the end of 2020 and the beginning of 2021. These transactions aim to realign the fund's real estate portfolio in line with changing market conditions and the attractiveness of certain locations, thereby freeing up funds for acquisitions.
In February 2021, two larger properties in Montecarasso and Pazzallo were sold for a total gross amount of around CHF 38 million. In Montecarasso, only the existing building was sold, while the fund remains owner of an adjoining piece of land of 3,000m2 with a construction permit for a new building of about 2,200m2 GFA.
In response to the divestments made, the Fund acquired two strategically located properties:
- Bellinzona: a mixed-use building only a few meters away from the station consisting of 15 apartments, 5 office and 4 retail spaces. The property offers 18 parking spaces (exterior and interior). This building, constructed in the mid-fifties, is still in good condition. It generates a current gross yield of 5.5% for a purchase price of CHF 6.5 million.
- Paradiso: residential building located above the city center of Lugano, which is within walking distance. The property can easily be reached by all types of transportation (highway and railway). The property with 15 apartments and 8 parking spaces was built in the sixties. It offers a current gross yield of 5.8% for a purchase price of CHF 3.3 million.
The two newly acquired properties will increase the fund's exposure to central urban areas where there is less pressure on vacancies. Furthermore, the Fund has greater financial flexibility due to the lowered leverage ratio (currently approx. 25%). Residentia continues to monitor the market and remains attentive to opportunities that may arise in the coming months.