Your search results

Lessons from the Rollercoaster Ride: Homebuyers Share Their Singapore Housing Market Experiences

Posted by Jayson Ang on April 11, 2024

| 0

TLDR

The Singapore housing market is a rollercoaster of unpredictable changes. Three homebuyers share their experiences: Tristan waited too long due to cooling measures, Daniel sold too soon and spent years renting, and Steven bought small units too early. It’s hard to give one-size-fits-all advice on buying or selling property. Seek strategic real estate advice and connect with the right buyers for success.

The Singapore housing market is a lot like a rollercoaster ride – unpredictable and full of ups and downs. Changes can happen in the blink of an eye and sometimes, decisions that seemed smart at the time can end up being not-so-smart later on.

We’ve put together some stories from homebuyers who have faced this truth head-on.

Let’s see if we can learn something from their experiences.

1. Playing the Waiting Game with “Temporary” Cooling Measures

Meet Tristan, who back in 2011, almost bought a second condo. His thought process was simple: “We were thinking of buying a small unit for my daughter who was renting at the time. The plan was for her to live there until she bought her own place, and then we could rent it out.”

But then the government introduced a three per cent ABSD (Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty). Tristan thought this was just a temporary measure. He asked his agent if he should wait until it was removed. She suggested it might not be a bad idea. So, he waited.

Fast forward to 2013, and the ABSD increased to ten per cent. That’s when Tristan decided to buy, but he ended up with a less desirable unit and paid the seven per cent ABSD unnecessarily.

To add insult to injury, property prices had gone up from around $1,100 to over $1,300 psf during his waiting period. And today, the ABSD is even steeper, standing at 20 per cent for a second property purchase.

2. Selling Too Soon And Spending Years Renting

Then there’s Daniel, who sold his unit one year from completion. “The location was perfect – just minutes from my office and close to my in-laws. But the buyer was keen, and the return looked good,” he explains.

After selling, however, Daniel couldn’t find a suitable replacement. He ended up renting in various places over the next 4.5 years, until he finally bought his current unit – which is less than a km from his original one!

3. Investing Too Soon And Buying Units That Were Too Small

Steven was always excited about property investment. By the age of 30, he had bought two one-bedroom units with the help of his dad and uncle. But when he decided to settle down few years later, he realized both units were too small for a family. He had to sell them at a time when the market wasn’t so good.

Should You Buy, Sell or Wait?

If you’re reading this, you must be trying to figure out the best course of action right now: is it the right time to buy or sell?

It’s difficult to give an exact answer since everyone’s situation is unique and what works for one person may not necessarily work for you.

I can bring you a wealth of on-the-ground experience and a data-driven approach to provide clarity and direction. From beginners to experienced investors, our top-down, objective approach will help you on your real estate journey.

I can help you by:

Offering Strategic Real Estate Advice – I can help create a comprehensive plan to guide you through your property journey.
Connecting Your Home with the Perfect Buyers – Through stunning visuals, an effective communication strategy, and an in-depth knowledge of the market, we’ll ensure your home is presented in the best possible way to fulfill your goals.

You May Also Like …

Mandarin Opinion Top 5

The Truth About Buying An Old Condo: Homeowners Reveal Their Top 5 Regrets

Jayson Ang – July 16, 2023 –

The Truth About Buying An Old Condo: Homeowners Reveal Their Top 5 Regrets Some homeowners may find themselves regretting certain...

All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Exploring the Resale Condo Market? Here’s What to Watch Out For!

Jayson Ang – March 22, 2023 –

TLDR The impact of COVID-19 on Singapore's real estate market has been significant, leading to a surge in demand for...

All Blog Posts Buying Tips Opinion Selling Tips

6 Indicators and Measures to Determine if Your Home Has Unrecognized Profits

Jayson Ang – November 11, 2024 –

TLDR The booming real estate market presents opportunities for homeowners to profit from selling their properties. Two key signs that...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Singaporean Dishes to Try

Jayson Ang – July 30, 2024 –

Singapore, a melting pot of diverse cultures and flavors, is known for its rich culinary heritage. With influences from Chinese,...

All Blog Posts Buying Tips

An Essential Guide to Buying a Home in Singapore 2023

Jayson Ang – January 17, 2023 –

TLDR When navigating the complexities of purchasing a property in Singapore, ensure you meet eligibility criteria, consider affordability factors, and...

Mandarin Top 5

Singapore’s Top 5 Property Investment Hotspots for 2024

Jayson Ang – April 4, 2024 –

As one of the world's leading financial centers, Singapore has always been a popular destination for property investment. With a...

All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Quick Guide for Condo Sellers: Timeline to Sell Condo in 2023

Jayson Ang – July 9, 2023 –

TLDR When selling a condominium in Singapore, understanding the critical steps is key. First, ensure you are not liable for...

Mandarin Top 5

5 Reasons : Can Your Real Estate Investment Hedge Against Inflation?

Jayson Ang – September 10, 2024 –

Inflation is an economic phenomenon that can have a significant impact on an individual's financial well-being. As the cost of...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Reasons : Why Penthouses In Singapore Are Popular With Crazy Rich Asians

Jayson Ang – October 7, 2024 –

Singapore, a city-state known for its stunning skyline and luxurious lifestyle, has become a popular destination for the ultra-wealthy. Among...

Mandarin Top 5

Building A World-Class Nation: Top 5 Facts About Singapore’s Developed Infrastructure

Jayson Ang – July 23, 2023 –

Building A World-Class Nation: Top 5 Facts About Singapore's Developed Infrastructure Singapore is known for its high standard of living,...

Mandarin Top 5

5 Pros Of Buying A Resale Property

Jayson Ang – March 6, 2024 –

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

All Buying Tips Opinion

I Regret Buying A DBSS: 5 Homeowners Share Their Biggest Regrets

Jayson Ang – January 16, 2024 –

TLDR Singapore's DBSS scheme faced challenges such as design flaws, developer responsiveness issues, and restrictions on selling. Residents reported various...

All Blog Posts Opinion Selling Tips

When Should You Consider Lowering the Price of Your Property That Has Been on the Market for Months?

Jayson Ang – December 3, 2024 –

TLDR Selling a property can be challenging without the right price strategy. Adjust your asking price to attract more buyers...

All Blog Posts Opinion

Are We Truly Headed For A Slowdown? How Will This Affect Property Prices?

Jayson Ang – December 9, 2022 –

TLDR The pandemic-induced recession has surprisingly boosted property prices in Singapore, defying conventional economic trends. Factors like cost-push inflation, limited...

All Buying Tips Opinion

3 Things You Need to Know if You Are Buying a Second Property

Jayson Ang – August 21, 2023 –

TLDR When considering buying a second property in Singapore, ensure eligibility by meeting the Minimum Occupancy Period (MOP) and understanding...

Mandarin Top 5

5 Most Common Property Investment Scams To Watch Out For In Singapore

Jayson Ang – June 12, 2024 –

Property investment scams are unfortunately prevalent in Singapore, and unsuspecting investors can fall victim to these scams, leading to significant...