Your search results

The Surprising Truths of Home Ownership: How Health Challenges Led a Homeowner to Relocate

Posted by Jayson Ang on July 29, 2025

| 0

When thinking about staircases, light switch locations, selling our home, and similar topics, many plan for retirement, assuming these issues are less relevant to younger people. However, life can be unpredictable; health problems might require these changes sooner than expected. This was the case for KL, who was diagnosed with cancer in his late forties. Here’s how this affected his home ownership:

When landed living turns into more of a burden than a privilege.

KL prefers to keep much about himself private, as he can likely be identified through certain details in this narrative. However, it’s safe to say that he navigated life with minimal physical issues aside from asthma, and he does not smoke or drink. He had anticipated remaining fairly fit and active well into his seventies.

When he inherited the family home, which had been passed down from his maternal grandparents to his parents, he did not foresee any problems with the stairs in the three-storey house. KL describes this residence as follows:

“Located somewhere in the Eunos area, quite distant from the MRT. We had three levels: the ground floor included the living room, dining room, and kitchen. The second floor featured a TV room and two bedrooms, while the master bedroom and family room were situated on the third floor. We also had access to the roof, which was flat, allowing us to engage in rooftop gardening.”

However, a few years ago, KL was diagnosed with a type of cancer that significantly hindered his ability to walk. Even traversing a short distance—from the living room to the kitchen—became painful and time-consuming. He frequently needed to stop to use grab bars and carefully plan his path. Ascending the stairs to his bedroom became nearly impossible.

Early efforts to renovate in order to adapt

KL initially expressed reluctance to sell the house and sought advice from various support organisations and contractors:

“The fundamental safety modifications were straightforward enough. We installed grab bars, anti-slip mats for the toilets, and similar items. I converted the master bedroom into my office, which was fortunate since my company permits me to work from home because of my condition. Getting up is more challenging for me, so we had to lower the light switches, relocate some power outlets, and do some rewiring.”

KL mentions that shortly thereafter, they decided to make similar adjustments to the light switches throughout the house. This change also proved beneficial for KL’s mother, who found it easier to reach the switches.

However, the larger expenses arose when they explored the possibility of stairlifts:

“An elevator was definitely beyond our budget, and we wanted to avoid all the noise from hammering and drilling; at this point, my house was my office. We considered stairlifts, but even then, my wife wasn’t entirely convinced we should remain here.”

The concern stemmed from the fact that KL’s wife did not work from home, while KL’s elderly mother struggled with her hearing. Even with a stairlift and safety features in place, the reality was that KL would often be at home alone with just their domestic helper.

Moreover, KL’s boss – who has a family member battling cancer – highlighted an aspect that couldn’t be altered: the house’s location.

“When my boss visited one New Year, he noted how secluded the house is. He asked whether the neighbours were sociable, to which I had to admit I didn’t even know their last names. We mostly kept to ourselves.”

While their domestic helper lived with them, there were times when she was at the market or had her day off; during those times, KL would be home alone with his mother.

Despite investing a significant amount in renovations, KL came to the conclusion that there were too many factors making it impractical to continue holding onto the property. Approximately three years after the various updates, KL remarked that “money started to talk.”

KL has a daughter who is married and resides in Australia, making it unlikely for her to need the house. Additionally, KL’s mother also finds the spacious home unmanageable, and the accumulating maintenance expenses – along with property taxes – contribute to unnecessary financial burdens.

The final nudge may have come when KL reviewed his finances and realised that selling the house and downsizing was a wise decision, especially considering potential future medical expenses.

“At that moment, everything clicked, and I finally broke free from my hesitation,” KL reflects. “It’s difficult to part with something that feels like a family legacy, but don’t cling to it at the expense of the family itself.”

From landed to condo living

KL believes that the sale of his home reinforces his faith in the value of freehold landed properties in Singapore. His property agent received inquiries within two days of the listing being posted, and they received several offers in just a week. Although KL prefers not to reveal the exact figure, he mentions it fell within the anticipated range, taking into account a unit across the street that had set a price when it sold four months ago.

The buyers even allowed them an extra month to vacate, and KL’s agent successfully located a condo unit for them to rent. This unit is located near the Eunos MRT station, and although it is considerably smaller (around 900 sq.ft.), it meets the needs of the four of them.

Rather than viewing it as constraining, KL shares: “I genuinely enjoy it. You tend to appreciate larger spaces if you’re healthy and can move about freely. When you’re in my situation, you come to value having essential items within reach and visible in case any issues arise.”

KL is currently on the lookout for new properties, which he describes as likely being a resale condo, as he prefers not to rent for an extended period. Moreover, rental units lack features like grab bars and lowered light switches that he intends to install in his own home.

“I’ll probably seek something with a pleasant balcony view since I spend so much time indoors and sometimes feel a bit confined. Additionally, it would be nostalgic to have a space for gardening like the old rooftop garden we once had. I’d also like it to be in a community that’s more vibrant, especially now that I go out less often; it would be nice to have people to interact with when I step outside.”

KL notes that one of the greatest advantages he has discovered since relocating to his rental condo is the opportunity to socialise in the evenings; there, he can connect with others who take their pets for walks or bring their children for playdates.

A piece of advice when choosing your home

KL shares that his experiences have taught him to avoid being presumptuous and not to become too “settled” in one property:

“Life is unpredictable, so try not to become too attached and refrain from insisting that you’ll never move. Even beyond health issues, factors like SERS and en-bloc sales can arise, so always keep in mind that change is possible. If it comes down to financial or health considerations, don’t prolong your discomfort simply due to inertia.”

For more insights from homeowners in Singapore, follow me here. If you wish to reach out for a more detailed consultation, you can do so 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

Singapore’s Luxury Real Estate Market: The 5 Most Luxurious Neighborhoods

Jayson Ang – May 14, 2023 –

The 5 most expensive neighborhoods in the city, and are home to some of the most exclusive and opulent properties...

All Blog Posts Buying Tips

HDB Loan Vs Bank Loan: Pros & Cons

Jayson Ang – February 25, 2023 –

TLDR When deciding between an HDB loan or a bank loan for purchasing a property in Singapore, consider key factors...

All Buying Tips Opinion

Is The Condo Dream Getting Increasingly Harder To Achieve For Singaporeans?

Jayson Ang – June 29, 2026 –

TLDR Condominium prices in Singapore have nearly doubled over the past 15 years, with new launches now averaging around $2,390...

All Buying Tips Opinion Selling Tips

The Hidden Hurdles of Purchasing a BTO Flat in Singapore: Unveiling 4 Lesser-Known Challenges During the 5-Year MOP

Jayson Ang – September 26, 2024 –

TLDR When contemplating the purchase or sale of a property under the Minimum Occupancy Period (MOP), it's crucial to consider...

All Buying Tips Opinion Selling Tips

5 Warning Signs of New Launch Condominiums That Certain Property Agents Might Not Disclose to You

Jayson Ang – November 29, 2025 –

TLDR When buying a new launch condo, don’t just rely on show flats or sales pitches—look deeper. Watch out if...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Reasons : Why is Supply so tight for Singapore Property?

Jayson Ang – January 22, 2025 –

Singapore's property market has been experiencing a tight supply in recent years, leading to increased demand and rising property prices....

Mandarin Top 5

Singapore’s Real Estate Market: Disproving 5 Common Misconceptions

Jayson Ang – February 25, 2024 –

Singapore's real estate market is a complex and dynamic market that can be difficult to navigate for new investors. With...

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...

All Opinion Selling Tips

The Surprising Truths of Home Ownership: How Health Challenges Led a Homeowner to Relocate

Jayson Ang – July 29, 2025 –

When thinking about staircases, light switch locations, selling our home, and similar topics, many plan for retirement, assuming these issues...

All Blog Posts Opinion

Revival of Singapore Luxury Housing Market in 2023

Jayson Ang – January 21, 2023 –

TLDR The property market in Singapore has witnessed significant shifts in the past two years, with a surge in prices...

All Buying Tips

Should You Make A Partial Prepayment On Your Home Loan In 2025?

Jayson Ang – September 24, 2025 –

TLDR Partial prepayments on home loans can lower your monthly payments and reduce long-term interest, but the decision isn’t always...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 : Is Investing In Properties Worth In Singapore?

Jayson Ang – February 3, 2025 –

Investing in properties has long been considered a reliable and profitable venture, and Singapore, with its robust real estate market,...

All Buying Tips Opinion

Are Early Bird Discounts At New Launches Genuine Or A Marketing Gimmick?

Jayson Ang – November 20, 2023 –

TLDR When considering investing in new property projects, understanding developers' pricing strategies is crucial. Early bird discounts are not just...

Buying Tips Mandarin Top 5

5 Things to do When You Go For A Property Viewing In Singapore

Jayson Ang – June 6, 2023 –

5 Things to do When You Go For A Property Viewing In Singapore Here are 5 things to keep in...

All Buying Tips Selling Tips

Could It Be Wise to Sell Your Property After Just 3 to 4 Years?

Jayson Ang – February 5, 2024 –

TLDR In this blog post, the writer delves into the Singapore property market, particularly focusing on the effectiveness of quick...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Museums in Singapore for Art and History

Jayson Ang – February 29, 2024 –

Singapore, known for its vibrant culture and rich history, is home to a plethora of museums that cater to art...

All Blog Posts Buying Tips

5 Facilities Selling Points Condo Sellers Should Emphasize To Entice Potential Buyers

Jayson Ang – May 23, 2023 –

TLDR When selling a condo, focusing on highlighting key facilities like gyms, swimming pools, family-friendly amenities, community gardens, and clubhouse...