Sime Darby Bhd property division Sime UEP Properties Bhd expects 15% growth in pre-tax profit for the year ending June 30, 2007 from RM140 million last year on favourable response to its condominium projects.

Previously, the company focused on developing medium-cost landed housing projects, such as terrace houses for the mass market. Now, it is looking at developing a wider range, especially in the high-end market.

The company entered the high-end condominium scene just this March and is already seeing brisk sales of its units.

The Ara Hill condominium project will be the source of growth this year, said Sime Darby divisional director of property Jauhari Ahmad. Located in Ara Damansara, the 400-unit 16-storey project has already sold 70%.

He said another growth factor included the group’s decentralisation of its sales force via the setting up of sales galleries that branched out from relevant sales offices in various strategic locations.