Your search results

Top 5 : Regret Buying An Old Condo in Singapore

Posted by Jayson Ang on February 25, 2025

| 0

In the bustling city-state of Singapore, the real estate market is a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape. As of 2023, new property launches have been averaging $2,000 per square foot, pricing out many potential home buyers, including those looking to upgrade from Housing Development Board (HDB) flats. Consequently, older resale condominiums have become an attractive alternative due to their larger floor plates and expansive grounds. However, purchasing an older condo comes with its own set of challenges and potential regrets.

Here are the top five regrets that buyers may face when investing in an old condo in Singapore.

1. En-Bloc Attempts:

One of the most significant concerns when buying an older condo is the risk of en-bloc attempts. The nightmare scenario for many buyers is having their newly purchased and renovated condo go en-bloc, forcing them to relocate. If the last en-bloc attempt was nearly successful, it might be wise to consider other options.

2. Maintenance Issues:

Older condos often come with maintenance issues, such as leaks from units above, weak water pressure, or choked pipes. These problems can be difficult to fix, especially if they stem from ageing infrastructure affecting the entire project.

3. Inefficient Layouts:

Older condos often feature layouts that may not be as efficient as newer ones. For instance, they may include more corridors or hallways, and the actual living space can sometimes be less than a unit with higher square footage due to space being taken up by balconies, planter boxes, or hallways.

4. Lack of Modern Amenities:

While older condos may offer unique amenities like golf driving ranges, they may also lack modern facilities that newer condos provide. Additionally, some facilities may be permanently shut down, like saunas or squash courts, which can add to maintenance fees without providing any benefits to residents.

5. Challenges with Renovations:

If the last renovations were done more than ten years ago, buyers should be prepared to spend more on updating the unit. This could involve hacking away existing renovations, replacing old power sockets, fixing sagging doors, and more.

While older condos in Singapore offer certain advantages like larger living spaces and potentially lower prices, they also come with their own set of challenges. Prospective buyers should carefully consider these potential regrets before making a purchase decision. It’s crucial to conduct thorough research, inspect the property meticulously, and understand the long-term prospects of the development. After all, a home is not just a financial investment but also a place where memories are made and lives are lived.

If you would like to arrange a viewing appointment with us in Singapore, do send us a DM here

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 Top 5

Top 5 : Greatest Challenges That Investors Face In Singapore’s Real Estate Market

Jayson Ang – December 23, 2024 –

Singapore's real estate market is a dynamic and attractive investment landscape for both local and international investors. Known for its...

All Buying Tips Opinion

Ouch! Our $1.8 Million Condo Investment Blunder: Unpacking 5 Crucial Takeaways from Our Bad Experience

Jayson Ang – December 14, 2023 –

TLDR The blog post delves into the complexities of real estate investments using Bob's experiences as examples. It highlights the...

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...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Reasons : Why Investing in Singapore’s Property Market Is a Smart Move for Millennials – Expert Analysis!

Jayson Ang – October 13, 2024 –

In recent years, Singapore has emerged as a global financial hub and a prime destination for property investments. The city-state's...

All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Are You Worried About Overpaying On Your Property? Here’s The Secret To Finding Out Its Perfect Purchase Price!

Jayson Ang – March 14, 2023 –

TLDR Understanding property valuations and their impact on mortgage loans is crucial in the Singapore real estate market. By considering...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 : Factors Influence Real Estate Investors’ Decisions when Investing in Singapore Condos?

Jayson Ang – December 11, 2024 –

Singapore's real estate market has always been an attractive investment option for both local and foreign investors. The city-state's stable...

All Selling Tips

Unlock The Secrets To Successfully Selling Your Home In Just 7 Simple Steps!

Jayson Ang – August 1, 2023 –

TLDR When preparing to sell your house in Singapore, research the average prices in your area to set a realistic...

Mandarin Top 5

5 Most Iconic Landmarks In Singapore’s Landscape

Jayson Ang – June 14, 2024 –

Singapore's landscapes is renowned for its innovative and dynamic approach to urban development, boasting some of the most iconic landmarks...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 : Advantages of Owning a Luxury Condominium in Singapore for Long-Term Investment

Jayson Ang – February 23, 2025 –

Singapore, a thriving global city-state, has become an attractive destination for real estate investors. Among the various property types available,...

All Buying Tips

What’s Next for HDB Owners?

Jayson Ang – December 7, 2022 –

Buying a home always seems daunting especially such it is a big-ticket item and the prices for private homes can easily...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 : Best Themed Cafes in Singapore

Jayson Ang – November 15, 2024 –

Singapore, a vibrant and diverse city, is known for its eclectic mix of cultures, cuisines, and attractions. Among the many...

Mandarin Top 5

Maximize Your Property Investment: 5 Questions to Ask Your Real Estate Agent in Singapore

Jayson Ang – March 23, 2024 –

Buying a property in Singapore can be a daunting task, especially for first-time buyers. It is important to have a...

All Blog Posts Buying Tips Opinion

I Decided to Pay the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty to Purchase a Condominium While Retaining My HDB: My Reasons

Jayson Ang – October 15, 2024 –

TLDR Despite a 20% Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) for second properties in Singapore, Yang chose to hold onto his...

All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Discover 11 Helpful Tips for Buying an Older Condo : A Comprehensive Guide for Buyers

Jayson Ang – March 2, 2023 –

TLDR When considering purchasing an older resale condo, ensure you investigate potential en-bloc bids, lift conditions, parking conveniences, playground safety,...