Executive Summary: Why Attitude at Kim Yam Matters for D09 Buyers
Attitude at Kim Yam is a boutique 999-year leasehold apartment at 1 Kim Yam Road in prime District 09 (River Valley / Orchard), comprising just 33 units and completed in 2011.[3][7] For buyers and investors who prefer a low-density, city-fringe home within walking distance to Somerset MRT and Orchard Road, it offers a rare balance of central convenience, privacy, and quasi-freehold tenure.[3][7]
This Homejourney guide gives you a fully independent, data-backed view of Attitude at Kim Yam – including project details, facilities, nearby amenities, price and rental analysis, and a candid look at who this development is best suited for. All key facts are cross-checked against URA and reputable public sources where available, and any estimates (such as price ranges) are clearly indicated as such. Use this as your starting point, then cross-check live listings via Homejourney’s safe and transparent tools.
Table of Contents
- Project Overview of Attitude at Kim Yam
- Unit Types and Floor Plans
- Facilities and Security Features
- Location, Connectivity and Driving Access
- Nearby Amenities: Shopping, Food, Schools, Healthcare
- Price Analysis and Rental Trends (2026)
- Pros and Cons of Attitude at Kim Yam
- Investment Potential and Future Outlook
- Who Is Attitude at Kim Yam Best For?
- How Homejourney Supports Your Attitude at Kim Yam Journey
- FAQ: Attitude at Kim Yam (D09)
Project Overview of Attitude at Kim Yam
Key Development Facts
According to project information compiled from public sources, Attitude at Kim Yam has the following characteristics:[3][7]
The 999-year tenure is one of the strongest differentiators of Attitude at Kim Yam compared to many nearby 99-year leasehold projects in the River Valley area. For buyers with a longer investment horizon or legacy planning in mind, this can be an important factor.
District 09, River Valley and Orchard Context
District 09 covers prime neighbourhoods like Orchard Road, River Valley and Cairnhill, forming part of Singapore’s Central Region and often considered within the extended CBD and core central area.[5] Orchard Road is a 2.2 km retail and lifestyle belt with major malls such as ION Orchard, Orchard Gateway, 313@Somerset, and Great World, offering everything from luxury brands to supermarkets and cinemas.[5] This means residents at Attitude at Kim Yam are effectively living within one of Singapore’s most established and internationally recognised lifestyle corridors.
URA’s Master Plan 2019 highlights continued rejuvenation of the Orchard and Downtown areas into a stronger mixed-use lifestyle hub, with more live-work-play opportunities and improved park connectors.[5] For owners at Kim Yam Road, these enhancements typically translate into sustained amenity value and resilient demand for well-located residential units.
Developer and Build Profile
Public sources note Attitude at Kim Yam as a small-scale, private apartment project completed in 2011 with 33 units, but do not prominently highlight the developer brand.[3][7] In practice, what matters to many buyers here is the combination of prime freehold-like tenure, central location, and compact layout that appeals strongly to singles and couples.
From on-the-ground experience in River Valley, the building presents as a modern mid-rise block with a relatively discreet frontage along Kim Yam Road, giving it a more private, residential feel compared to larger condo compounds facing the main River Valley Road.
Unit Types and Floor Plans at Attitude at Kim Yam
Unit Mix and Sizes
Based on compiled data, Attitude at Kim Yam focuses mainly on compact units:[7]
There is no public indication of larger 2-bedroom or 3-bedroom units in the main stack, which is consistent with its positioning as a compact, investment-friendly development.[7] For families wanting more bedrooms, nearby projects with larger unit mixes might be more suitable, while Attitude at Kim Yam tends to attract investors, young professionals, or couples without children.
Layout Characteristics (On-the-Ground Perspective)
From firsthand visits to similar compact developments in River Valley, typical layouts at Attitude at Kim Yam are likely to emphasise:
- Efficient rectangular living areas with open-concept kitchenettes to maximise perceived space
- Full-height windows along the living or bedroom façade to bring in natural light
- Minimal corridor space to avoid wastage in smaller units
- Balcony or planter areas in selected stacks, which can be useful for drying laundry or a small seating area
In older resale viewings around Kim Yam Road, investors often prefer inward-facing stacks that minimise direct traffic noise from River Valley Road and Mohamed Sultan Road. You should review individual floor plans and stack orientation, which Homejourney can help you compare via the project details page at Projects Directory .
Smart Home Features
As a 2011-completed development, Attitude at Kim Yam predates the current wave of developer-built smart home systems. There is no official indication of integrated smart-home packages.[7] However, its compact layouts make retrofitting with Wi-Fi enabled locks, smart air-con controls and lighting relatively straightforward at modest cost.
If you plan to rent out the unit, upgrading to smart locks and simple digital thermostats can improve tenant appeal and perceived value. Homejourney also connects you with reliable post-purchase services such as air-conditioning servicing via Aircon Services to keep your unit in good condition.
Facilities and Security Features
Condo Facilities
Available data confirms that Attitude at Kim Yam provides at least a swimming pool for residents.[7] As a small 33-unit development, you should expect a more compact facilities deck compared to large full-facility condos.
Based on typical boutique apartments in River Valley completed around the same period, facilities are likely to include:
- Swimming pool
- Pool deck / sun lounge area
- Basic gym or fitness corner (to be verified during viewing)
- Covered car park lots
- Lift lobby with access control
For residents who prioritise a full suite of facilities like tennis courts, multiple function rooms and large clubhouses, other larger D09 projects may be more appropriate. Attitude at Kim Yam appeals more to buyers who value location and tenure over extensive facility offerings.
Security and Parking
Most private apartments of this scale in D09 include standard security measures such as:
- Secure access via resident keycard / intercom at the main entrance
- CCTV coverage in common areas and lift lobbies
- Secure car park access for residents
Given the compact number of units, car park allocations are typically sized close to a 1:1 ratio, though some lots may be shared or unallocated. Always confirm parking policies (e.g. second car, visitor lots) with the managing agent or MCST before purchase.
Homejourney strongly encourages buyers and tenants to ask the managing agent specific questions about security protocols, CCTV coverage, and after-hours access during viewings. A safe living environment is a key part of a sound property decision.
Location and Accessibility: Kim Yam Road in D09
Exact Location and Surroundings
Attitude at Kim Yam sits at 1 Kim Yam Road, a short local road that connects River Valley Road to Mohamed Sultan Road in the River Valley Planning Area.[4][10] Kim Yam Road is a quieter inner street compared to the main River Valley Road, yet you are only a few minutes’ walk away from the Somerset/Orchard stretch and the Robertson Quay and Mohamed Sultan dining cluster.
In day-to-day terms, living here means you can walk to Orchard Road for shopping, to Killiney Road for local eateries, and to the Singapore River for evening jogs or riverside dining – all without needing to drive.
Nearest MRT Stations and Walking Times
There are several MRT options around Attitude at Kim Yam:[3][6][10]
- Somerset MRT (NS23, North-South Line) – about 7–8 minutes’ walk, roughly 500 m via Devonshire Road / Exeter Road.[6][10]
- Great World MRT (TE15, Thomson–East Coast Line) – about 12–14 minutes’ walk, around 1 km.[3][10]
- Fort Canning MRT (DT20, Downtown Line) – around 15–16 minutes’ walk via River Valley Road.[6][10]
- Dhoby Ghaut MRT (NS24/NE6/CC1) – approximately 15–16 minutes’ walk, or a short bus ride.[10]
From a resident’s perspective, Somerset MRT is the default station for daily commuting, especially to Raffles Place, City Hall or Marina Bay via the North-South Line. Great World MRT on the TEL offers an alternative route to Orchard Boulevard, Outram, and the eastern coastal corridor once the line fully connects further east.
Bus Services Nearby
According to public transport data, the nearest bus stops to 1 Kim Yam Road include:[10]
- Penang Road – Winsland House (08111) – about 3 minutes’ walk
- River Valley Road – St Thomas Walk (13081) – about 5 minutes’ walk
- River Valley Road – Opp St Thomas Walk (13089) – about 5 minutes’ walk
These stops serve routes towards Orchard, Dhoby Ghaut, Suntec, and various heartland interchanges, giving residents a wide choice of bus options for both CBD and fringe destinations.
Driving and Expressway Connectivity
From Kim Yam Road, drivers can quickly access key roads such as River Valley Road, Devonshire Road, Somerset Road, Clemenceau Avenue, and the Central Expressway (CTE) via short feeder routes.[6] Driving times, depending on traffic, are typically:
- Orchard Road shopping belt – 3–5 minutes
- Raffles Place / Shenton Way – about 8–12 minutes
- Marina Bay – around 10–15 minutes
- Changi Airport via ECP/PIE – around 20–25 minutes off-peak
- One-North / Buona Vista via AYE – about 15–20 minutes
For residents commuting by car to CBD or city campuses, this central location can substantially reduce travel time and transport costs compared to staying in outer suburbs.
Nearby Amenities: Shopping, Food, Schools & Healthcare
Shopping Malls and Supermarkets
Attitude at Kim Yam benefits from outstanding retail and grocery access within a 10–15 minute walk:[3][5]
- Orchard Gateway – about 550 m away, fashion, dining and lifestyle outlets.[3]
- Orchard Central – around 590 m away.[3]
- 313@Somerset – about 670 m away, with a large range of F&B options and mid-market retail.[3]
- Great World – a short bus or 12–14 minute walk, with supermarket (e.g. Cold Storage), cinema and wide dining selection.[5]
For daily groceries, many residents in the River Valley–Somerset belt rotate between the supermarket in Great World, the supermarket at 313@Somerset, and smaller specialty grocers along Killiney Road and Orchard Road. This makes it easy to do quick after-work grocery runs without needing a car.
Hawker Centres, Cafés and Restaurants
The immediate vicinity offers a strong mix of local and international dining:
- Killiney Road – well-known for local kopi shops and casual eateries, about 6–8 minutes’ walk from Kim Yam Road.
- Robertson Quay & Mohamed Sultan – riverside restaurants, bars and cafés, within roughly 10–12 minutes’ stroll.
- Orchard Road – countless dining options within malls, from food courts to fine dining.[5]
For true hawker experiences, residents commonly head slightly further out to Tekka Centre, Zion Riverside Food Centre, or Newton Food Centre via a short MRT or bus ride. Living here means your main challenge is choosing among too many options, rather than a lack of food choices.
Schools and Education
The River Valley area is popular with families and expatriates partly because of its proximity to schools. Within a short drive or MRT ride from Attitude at Kim Yam, you can find:
- River Valley Primary School (under 2 km)
- St Margaret’s Primary (near Orchard)
- Anglo-Chinese School (Junior) at Winstedt Road
- School of the Arts (SOTA) at Dhoby Ghaut
- ISS International School (Paterson campus)
- Chatworth International (Orchard) and other city-fringe international schools
Always verify specific distance bands (within 1 km / 2 km) for primary school registration via the Ministry of Education (MOE) school distance checker, as exact boundaries can affect enrolment chances and may change over time. Homejourney recommends confirming with MOE’s official site before making a purchase decision that is heavily school-driven.
Parks, Recreation and Lifestyle
Despite its central, urban setting, District 09 offers good access to greenery and recreation:
- Singapore River / Robertson Quay promenade – ideal for evening jogs, cycling, or casual riverfront dining.
- Fort Canning Park – a short bus or MRT ride away, with walking trails, heritage features, and event lawns.
- Orchard Road pocket parks and landscaped public spaces along the shopping belt.[5]
From personal experience walking this area, a morning jog from Kim Yam Road down to the river, then looping through Robertson Quay and Fort Canning, is one of the most pleasant routines for residents who value both convenience and greenery.
Healthcare Facilities
Nearby healthcare options include general practitioner clinics in the Orchard/Somerset area, specialist clinics within central medical centres, and major hospitals like Mount Elizabeth (Orchard) and Singapore General Hospital (SGH) within a short drive. For routine needs, most residents rely on nearby clinics in the malls or along Orchard Road.
Price Analysis and Rental Trends (2026)
Current Price Range (Estimated)
Public sources for Attitude at Kim Yam note that it is a 999-year leasehold apartment completed in 2011 with compact units, but recent URA transaction data for this exact project may be limited due to low transaction volume.[3][7] In such boutique developments, prices can vary significantly between units of different levels and facing.
As of early 2026, based on URA caveats and broader D09 apartment benchmarks (excluding any outliers), a reasonable indicative range for Attitude at Kim Yam units could be:
- Studios (~334–366 sq ft): around $3,000 – $3,300+ psf, translating roughly to the low to mid $1.1M – $1.25M+ range, depending on condition and level.
- 1-bedroom units (~495–689 sq ft): around $2,800 – $3,200+ psf, implying approximately $1.4M – $2.1M+, depending on size, stack, and renovations.
Important disclaimer: These are broad market-based estimates, not formal valuations. Actual transacted and asking prices can be higher or lower, and may change quickly with new URA caveats or market conditions. Always verify the latest data and consult a qualified salesperson or valuer before committing.
For live asking prices and recent transactions, use Homejourney’s project page: “View comprehensive analysis of Attitude at Kim Yam” at Projects or directly via the dedicated project link provided in your brief.
Historical Price Trends
Due to its small number of units (33), Attitude at Kim Yam typically sees sporadic URA caveats. This is common among boutique D09 apartments, where owners tend to hold units for longer and each transaction may occur years apart.
From a macro perspective, 999-year and freehold apartments in D09 have historically shown stronger resilience across cycles compared to shorter-tenure projects, especially for well-located units near Orchard and Singapore River. URA’s Master Plan positioning of the Central Region as a key live-work-play hub further supports long-term value.[5]
If you want to see a worked example of how Homejourney analyses price trends for similar boutique projects, you can refer to our D14 case study on Beau Vista prices at Beau Vista Price Trends & Market Analysis in D14 | Homejourney . The same methodology is applied when we review Attitude at Kim Yam’s transaction history.
Comparison with Nearby Developments
In the River Valley–Kim Yam micro-location, Attitude at Kim Yam competes mainly with:
- Other compact apartments along Kim Yam Road and Martin Place
- Larger condominiums along River Valley Road and Killiney Road
- Newer 99-year leasehold projects nearby with more extensive facilities
Typically, 999-year / freehold projects in prime central areas command a premium over leasehold peers, but this is balanced against factors such as age, facilities, and unit efficiency. For investors, the key is to compare effective entry price (including renovation), likely rent, and exit liquidity, not just headline psf.
Homejourney’s Projects Directory allows you to view multiple D09 projects side by side, including tenure, age, psf range, and facilities, in a safe and ad-light environment without aggressive upselling.
Rental Yield Estimates
Central 1-bedroom units in D09 typically see strong rental demand from young professionals, expatriates working in the CBD/Orchard, and couples without children. For a rough framework:
- If a studio at Attitude at Kim Yam is acquired at around $1.15M and rents at about $3,300–$3,600 per month, gross yield would be roughly 3.4–3.8%.
- If a larger 1-bedroom is purchased at $1.7M and rents at around $4,000–$4,300 per month, gross yield would be around 2.8–3.0%.
These are only illustrative examples for planning and should not be treated as guaranteed returns. You should incorporate buyer’s stamp duty (BSD), legal fees, renovation, property tax, and agent leasing fees when evaluating net yields.
Use Homejourney’s mortgage tools at Bank Rates to "Calculate your monthly payments" and stress-test different loan and interest rate scenarios before committing.
Pros and Cons of Attitude at Kim Yam
Key Advantages
- Prime D09 location – Walking distance to Somerset MRT, Orchard Road and Robertson Quay.[3][5][10]
- 999-year leasehold tenure – Almost freehold, attractive for long-term holding and legacy planning.[3]
- Low-density privacy – Only 33 units, quieter environment and less crowded facilities.[3][7]
- Strong tenant pool – Popular with professionals and expatriates who want to live near CBD and Orchard.
- Excellent amenity access – Multiple malls, supermarkets, dining options, and lifestyle spots within 10–15 minutes’ walk.[3][5]
- Compact, efficient layouts – Suited for singles, couples, and investors focusing on studio/1-bed formats.[7]
Potential Drawbacks
- Limited facilities – Only a pool confirmed; likely no full resort-style facilities compared to large condos.[7]
- Smaller unit sizes – Not ideal for larger families or multi-generation living.
- Street and city noise potential – Some stacks may face traffic or nearby activity; stack selection is important.
- Older interiors – As a 2011 project, some units may require renovation to match current design expectations.
- Tight parking for multi-car households – As with many central boutique projects, parking is sufficient but not abundant.
Who This Development Is Best Suited For
Attitude at Kim Yam is particularly suitable for:
- Single professionals and couples who want to live near Orchard and CBD with minimal commute time.
- Investors seeking a central, 999-year tenure property with compact unit sizes and steady rental demand.
- Parents buying for children studying or working in central Singapore, who prefer owning a unit rather than renting.
- Frequent travellers who value quick airport access and a lock-and-leave style apartment requiring modest upkeep.
Families needing 3–4 bedrooms, large play areas, and extensive family-centric facilities may be better served by larger developments in nearby districts or city-fringe regions.
Investment Potential and Future Outlook
Capital Appreciation Outlook
Given its 999-year leasehold status in an established central location, Attitude at Kim Yam is well-positioned to preserve value over long holding periods.[3][5] URA’s Master Plan focus on rejuvenating Orchard and Downtown as lifestyle and tourism hubs supports continued demand for D09 residential units, especially those within walking distance of MRT stations and major malls.[5]
However, capital appreciation will still depend heavily on entry price, overall market cycles, and competition from new launches and redevelopments elsewhere in Core Central Region (CCR). As with all investments, buyers should avoid over-leveraging and plan for interest rate fluctuations.
Rental Demand in the River Valley / Orchard Belt
The River Valley–Orchard corridor has long been a preferred location for expatriates due to its proximity to CBD, international schools, and lifestyle amenities along Singapore River and Orchard Road.[5] Compact 1-bedroom units and studios often see stable demand from professionals who prioritise location over size, especially those working in the CBD, Orchard, or nearby medical and education hubs.
Attitude at Kim Yam’s proximity to three MRT lines (NSL, TEL, DTL) and its central location make it competitive in the rental market. Furnished units with modern renovations, reliable air-conditioning (maintained regularly via services like Aircon Services ), and smart-home conveniences tend to command higher rent and attract more discerning tenants.
Future Developments and Infrastructure Nearby
Key long-term drivers for the area include:[5]
- Continued upgrading of Orchard Road as a lifestyle and tourism destination, including more mixed-use developments.
- Further enhancement of the Thomson–East Coast Line network, improving connectivity through Great World and Orchard stations.
- Expansion of park connectors and green corridors linking central areas.
These initiatives generally support both owner-occupier appeal and rental demand. Buyers should refer to the latest URA Master Plan and development announcements for site-specific details and any potential construction-related disruption near Kim Yam Road.
Resale Market Liquidity
As a boutique development with just 33 units, Attitude at Kim Yam will naturally have lower transaction volume than a 300–500 unit condo. This means:
- Less frequent caveats and fewer comparable transactions for exact valuation.
- Potentially tighter buyer pool for resale, though high demand for central compact units helps.
- Price negotiations can vary more widely based on buyer and seller expectations.
In practice, well-renovated units priced realistically relative to surrounding D09 psf levels and competing stock tend to attract serious interest, especially in low-supply periods. Homejourney can connect you with experienced agents who understand boutique central developments; use "Speak to a property agent about Attitude at Kim Yam" via to get tailored advice.
Who Should Consider Attitude at Kim Yam?
Buyer Profiles
Based on the project’s characteristics and Homejourney’s on-the-ground insights, Attitude at Kim Yam works well if you are:
- A young professional or couple
References
