BY ERNEST TOWLE

WITH 2017 almost over and 2018 within earshot, the voices for both a weak and strong property market next year are equally loud and factually compelling.

Will 2018 be a good or bad year for the property market and its buyers and sellers?

Just like any industry, the property market is no different in that it is governed by the simple mechanics of demand and supply.

Take the Musang King as an example. Over the last couple of months, durian aficionados were shocked to learn that 1kg of their favourite fruit was selling for up to RM100. To most people, this price is way too high and beyond their reach.

Many durian lovers grumbled that overseas demand led to the price hike, making the fruit a luxury item. Durian plantation businesses even began to take advantage of the new "normal" prices.

Can such a business survive? Will it thrive? Similarly, will property prices remain or collapse? Clearly, it all depends on market sentiment. So where does it leave those who want to buy property?

The most prudent strategy for any buyer or investor will be determined by their cash flow. With strong cash flow, one can sustain the mortgage/loan repayment for any property in any location at any price to overcome pricing-and-demand hiccups in the market.

Where supply cannot wait for demand, fire sales occur as those who commit have to unwind to survive or cut losses.

When the tide rises, ships in the harbour will rise although some may not be seaworthy. Only the seaworthy ships can sail away and reach their destinations.