Your search results

Tips for Choosing the Home of Your Dreams

Posted by Jayson Ang on December 26, 2022

| 0

TLDR

Decoding the Singapore property market can be challenging, but understanding key factors like property size, location, and lease tenure is crucial. Consider proximity to amenities, good schools, and future development plans. Ensure the unit’s orientation suits your needs and check the lease balance for leasehold properties. Stay informed about area transformations and assess your long-term property goals. For expert guidance and strategic advice tailored to your unique circumstances, seek professional assistance to make informed decisions in the real estate market.

Buying a new house can be a thrilling and at times nerve-racking experience. It’s time to make the big decision on where to call your home! Maybe you are considering the stylish Tiong Bahru, the breezy air of Marine Parade, the vintage feel of Joo Chiat, or a more suburban option like Ang Mo Kio and Yishun. After crunching the numbers on your budget, check off this helpful checklist to help you find your dream home.

Proximity To MRT & Key Amenities

The importance of having an MRT station close to your residence should never be taken for granted; preferably within walking distance. If you happen to live farther away, then a feeder bus ride may be necessary – adding an extra 15 to 20 minutes to your morning journey. This may not seem a lot, but this extra time can come in handy for those who have to take their kids to school or are lacking in sleep.

Your property will be more alluring to resale buyers, potentially fetching a 5-10% higher price, if you’re located within a 5-8 minute walk to an MRT station. The presence of nearby amenities like malls, supermarkets, and eateries shouldn’t be overlooked either, as they bring extra convenience and elevate the quality of life.

Apartment Size & Family Planning

Are you planning on having a family in the near future? Will your parents be joining you? That 3-room HDB flat at Queenstown may seem attractive and pocket-friendly, but would it be large enough to make room for any changes in the family structure? Family planning is a critical decision that all young couples should not ignore, especially those buying HDB flats; you must wait at least 5 years before being able to upgrade to a larger unit.

Proximity To Good Schools

Do you have school-age children at home, or are you expecting a new little one? The proximity to good schools – perhaps there are particular schools that you have in mind – should be a top priority when considering where to buy, since this will affect your kids’ commute during the school year. This is especially essential when purchasing an HDB flat, since you will be locked in for a minimum of 5 years before you can sell the flat and move somewhere else.

Orientation & Facing Of The Unit

When shopping for a home, facing should not be overlooked; not just for views of the city skyline or for Feng Shui, but for a practical reason. North-South facing units are the best, while East-West facing units may require higher electric bills to cool and could come at a discount when resold. Be sure to factor this in when making your decision!

Lease Tenure & Remaining Lease Balance

If you’re in the market for a leasehold property, particularly an HDB flat, it’s important to check its lease balance, as Singapore property leases come in a variety of forms, including freehold, 999-year, and 99-year. Most HDB flats come with a 99-year lease, but with a reversionary title to the state, meaning that once the lease expires, the flat reverts back to the state and the owner will receive no compensation.

If the outstanding lease is fewer than 70 or even 60 years, selling the unit may prove difficult later on as it may be difficult for a potential buyer to find financing to purchase the flat. However, those with freehold titles – typically residential properties – can be held onto in perpetuity, making them an attractive option for buyers, who benefit from their higher resale value and the possibility of passing them down through generations.

Future Transformation Plans For The Area

Prospective buyers should pay attention to any changes happening in the neighbourhood, for example, the opening of a new MRT station or a commercial centre. These developments can have a positive impact on the property’s growth potential in the future.

Keep in mind that looking out for homes in areas slated for redevelopment comes with certain drawbacks, as gentrification is a long process and owners need to be ready for disruptions like construction noise and other disturbances brought about by construction activities.

What is the final objective of the property purchase? Is it going to be your forever home or will you be looking to upgrade in the future? Though there is no right or wrong answer, a property purchase is an immense financial commitment and should be considered thoughtfully. To determine what your preferences and priorities are is an important first step!

For those looking to grow their wealth, preserve capital, build a retirement fund, or use property as a tool for social mobility, owning a property can provide the perfect opportunity!

Wondering What Move To Make In The Real Estate Market?

Whether it’s time to buy or sell, or if it’s best to wait, the decision can be confusing.

Keep in mind that everyone’s situation is different, and it’s important to consider your own unique circumstances before making a decision.

But don’t worry – my data-driven approach and years of on-the-ground experience will help provide clarity to you.

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or an experienced investor, we will take a systematic and goal-oriented approach to ensure you make the right decision.

I can help you by :

Providing Strategic Property Advice – will ensure you have the right plan to guide you in your property journey.
Finding the ideal buyers for your home – use of high quality photography, excellent response rate, and a deep knowledge of buyers gives us the edge to showcase your property in the best way possible, helping you meet your goals.

Here’s to a fruitful home hunting experience!

You May Also Like …

All Buying Tips Opinion

Discover Affordable Executive Condos in 2024 Starting at $560,000

Jayson Ang – October 23, 2024 –

TLDR The Executive Condos (ECs) offer affordable options compared to private properties in Singapore. Despite price variations, most ECs remain...

Mandarin Top 5

5 Cons of Buying a New Development

Jayson Ang – March 4, 2024 –

Luxury properties in Districts 9 and 10 of Singapore are highly coveted, and for good reason. From stunning views and...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Things to Do in Singapore on a Rainy Day

Jayson Ang – March 24, 2024 –

Singapore, the beautiful island city-state, is known for its sunny weather and stunning attractions. However, even in this tropical paradise,...

Mandarin Top 5

5 Critical Mistakes to Avoid When Investing in Singapore Property: Insights and Advice from Experts

Jayson Ang – April 1, 2024 –

Investing in Singapore property can be a lucrative venture for investors, but it's important to avoid common mistakes that can...

All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Uncover the Secrets of Buying Older Properties – What They Won’t Tell You!

Jayson Ang – December 30, 2022 –

TLDR When considering the appeal of older properties in hipster neighborhoods in Singapore, it's crucial to understand the benefits and...

Mandarin Top 5

5 Amazingly Fun Things to Explore in Singapore!

Jayson Ang – July 3, 2025 –

Singapore, a vibrant city-state located at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, is a melting pot of cultures and...

All Buying Tips

What is Your Next Step in the Property Market?

Jayson Ang – December 7, 2022 –

When you flip open the papers or turn on the news nowadays, the common buzzwords are "INFLATION", " INTEREST RATE...

All Reports

21 Condominiums with Landed Properties Available for Foreign Purchase in Singapore

Jayson Ang – November 17, 2025 –

TLDR Foreigners who want landed living in Singapore but cannot buy traditional landed homes (except in Sentosa Cove) can consider...

All Blog Posts Opinion

Singapore Property Bubble Ahead? My Friends Share My Market Predictions

Jayson Ang – March 12, 2023 –

TLDR The author delves into various opinions on the Singapore property market for the year 2023. Experts have differing views...

All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Should We Upgrade to a Condo Now or Wait for Interest Rates to Go Down?

Jayson Ang – January 18, 2023 –

TLDR Considering the Singapore property market trends and financial factors, it's crucial to make informed decisions about upgrading from an...

All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Ultimate Handbook on HDB Income Ceilings for BTO, Resale Flats, and Executive Condominiums

Jayson Ang – December 23, 2024 –

TLDR Owning an HDB home in Singapore depends largely on income ceilings. The HDB income ceiling limits monthly household earnings...

All Blog Posts Opinion

How to Maximise Your Home Value Before Selling : 6 Simple Steps

Jayson Ang – February 9, 2023 –

TLDR When looking to sell your home, consider simple ways to boost its value without costly renovations. Organize living spaces,...

All Buying Tips

Why The URA Master Plan Matters For Your Property’s Potential

Jayson Ang – March 24, 2024 –

TLDR The URA Master Plan entails significant shifts like the relocation of Paya Lebar Airport or creation of Punggol Digital...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 : How Does Investing In Luxury Condos In Singapore Compare To Investing In Other Real Estate Asset Classes In Terms Of Long-Term Capital Appreciation?

Jayson Ang – December 9, 2024 –

Investing in real estate has long been considered a reliable way to build wealth and diversify one's investment portfolio. In...

All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Reach Your Goal of Owning a Flat Before You Turn 35 : Money-Saving Strategies

Jayson Ang – February 21, 2023 –

TLDR Jayson Ang provides valuable insights on money-saving strategies to achieve the goal of owning a flat before turning 35...

All Buying Tips Opinion Selling Tips

Singapore’s Property Jungle: A Guide to Every Development Type

Jayson Ang – October 12, 2025 –

TLDR Singapore’s real estate market features a diverse mix of property types—public HDB flats, executive condominiums, private condos, landed homes...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Factors : What Is Considered “Luxury” In The Singapore Property Market?

Jayson Ang – December 3, 2024 –

The Singapore property market is known for its high-quality residential properties, attracting both local and international buyers. Luxury real estate...

All Blog Posts Buying Tips Top List

The Top 10 Traits Of A Good Real Estate Agent

Jayson Ang – December 19, 2022 –

TLDR Jayson Ang, a reputable real estate agent in Singapore, offers extensive experience and a data-driven approach to guide clients...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Reasons : Is It Still Worth It For A Foreigner To Invest In Singapore

Jayson Ang – January 24, 2025 –

Singapore, a small yet prosperous city-state in Southeast Asia, has long been an attractive destination for foreign investors. Its strategic...

All Opinion Selling Tips

Beyond Profit: Singaporean Homeowners Share Stories of Purpose-Driven Property Purchases

Jayson Ang – January 18, 2026 –

TLDR In Singapore, some homeowners prioritize personal comfort, convenience, and family needs over financial gains in property purchases. YC bought...