Step-By-Step Guide To Buy Resale HDB (Updated March 2023)
TLDR The process of purchasing a resale HDB flat involves steps such as checking eligibility, calculating affordability, registering intent to...
Read More
Beyond the First Glance: What Astute Buyers (and Agents) Look for During Property Viewings
TLDR
Property viewings are most valuable when strategically timed, not just repeated. Buyers often revisit homes at convenient hours, but this risks missing critical insights. Key factors to assess include sun exposure at midday and late afternoon, which can reveal heat issues; weekday versus weekend activity levels, which highlight noise and facility crowding; and environmental sounds like cicadas or crickets, which can exceed traffic noise. Proximity to places of worship should be checked during service times to gauge traffic and noise, while observing neighbors at home can uncover potential lifestyle disruptions. Ultimately, multiple viewings should be planned to capture different conditions, ensuring buyers make informed decisions beyond surface impressions.
The adage “always view a resale property more than once” is widely accepted, yet its execution often lacks strategic intent. While most buyers do revisit a property, the timing and focus of these subsequent viewings can be arbitrary, sometimes even left entirely to the realtor’s convenience. This can lead to missed opportunities for crucial observations.
For example, a couple recently viewed a home three times, consistently scheduling their visits around 6:30 PM and 7:30 PM due to post-work convenience. While extra viewings can help identify defects and sense the property’s general “vibe,” a fixed viewing time means overlooking significant aspects. Issues such as intense sun glare at different times of day, varying noise levels, or the occupancy of shared facilities remain unassessed.
Therefore, multiple viewings are truly beneficial only when strategically timed to reveal different facets of the property and its environment. Here are key aspects to consider:
- Sun Exposure and Heat Management: Schedule viewings around noon and just before 5 PM to assess sun glare and heat gain. This is particularly important for those who work from home or have pets, as it reveals whether the living space transforms into an “oven.”
- Weekday vs. Weekend Activity Levels: Observe noise levels and facility usage on both weekdays and weekends. Some condominiums experience a significant surge in activity and noise during weekends due to residents hosting large groups. Facilities like BBQ pits or tennis courts might be booked solid, revealing potential overcrowding not apparent during weekday viewings. This phenomenon isn’t always tied to the number of units but often reflects the communal habits of the residents.
- Environmental Sounds (Crickets and Cicadas): For landed properties or low-floor units, pay attention to ambient insect noise. While road noise typically ranges from 70-85 dB, a chorus of cicadas or crickets can reach 90-100+ dB. Cicadas are usually active during the day, while crickets are nocturnal, making their chirping more disruptive during typical resting hours. This level of natural sound can surprisingly exceed that of traffic.
- Impact of Nearby Places of Worship: If a property is near a place of worship, visit during service times. This provides a realistic assessment of noise levels and, more critically, traffic congestion. Certain areas, like Siglap, are known for significant traffic issues on Sundays due to worship sessions, although traffic wardens often help manage the flow.
- Neighborly Interactions: If neighbors are absent during your initial viewing, try to schedule another visit when they are likely to be home. This allows you to gauge potential noise issues or other disruptions from adjacent units. There have been instances where buyers discovered post-purchase that their neighbors’ activities (e.g., frequent social gatherings) significantly impacted their living experience.
While a property agent can provide additional insights, the core principle is that multiple viewings are only meaningful when they are deliberately planned to uncover specific information about the property and its surroundings.
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 …
Uncover the Secrets of Buying Older Properties – What They Won’t Tell You!
TLDR When considering the appeal of older properties in hipster neighborhoods in Singapore, it's crucial to understand the benefits and...
Read More
Tips for Young Adults to Begin Saving for Their Future Home
TLDR When aiming to purchase a home, it is crucial to gain knowledge about the buying process and track your...
Read More
The Hidden Hurdles of Purchasing a BTO Flat in Singapore: Unveiling 4 Lesser-Known Challenges During the 5-Year MOP
TLDR When contemplating the purchase or sale of a property under the Minimum Occupancy Period (MOP), it's crucial to consider...
Read More
Buy a $1M Resale HDB or a $1M Resale Condo?
TLDR When comparing a million-dollar HDB flat to a private property of the same value, the HDB flat offers more...
Read More
Top 5 : Places to Learn About Singapore’s History
Singapore, a bustling metropolis known for its modernity and multiculturalism, is also a treasure trove of rich history and heritage....
Read More
The Top 5 Myths About Buying Property in Singapore – Debunked!
The Top 5 Myths About Buying Property in Singapore – Debunked! Here are the top 5 myths about buying property...
Read More
Top 5 Emerging Trends in Singapore Real Estate: What Investors Need to Know
The Singapore real estate market has experienced significant growth in recent years, attracting investors from around the world. As the...
Read More
Reduced Lease Durations for HDB Flats: What Potential Savings Could Your Property Offer?
TLDR Shorter lease HDB flats are typically about 22–25% cheaper than their 99-year counterparts, based on both resale and BTO...
Read More
Top 5 Factors To Consider When Choosing Between A Resale Condo And A New Launch In Singapore
TLDR Choosing between a resale condo and a new launch in Singapore depends on your priorities as an investor or...
Read More
Top 5 Bakeries in Singapore for Fresh Bread and Pastries
Singapore, a melting pot of cultures and flavors, is well-known for its diverse culinary scene. Among the many gastronomic delights...
Read More
From Overseas to Singapore Property: 5 Steps Guide to Remitting Funds
From Overseas to Singapore Property: 5 Steps Guide to Remitting Funds 1. The first step in remitting money to Singapore...
Read More
Mortgage Interest : The True Cost of Buying and Owning Properties in Singapore
TLDR When considering buying a property in Singapore, it's crucial to understand the true costs and risks involved. High monthly...
Read More
Top 5 Boutique Shopping Streets in Singapore
Singapore, a cosmopolitan city-state known for its vibrant culture and diverse shopping scene, offers a unique blend of modern malls...
Read More
Why Can’t We Buy Low, Sell High?
Madam Tan voiced that approximately two years ago, when her apartment hit its minimum occupation period, she and her spouse...
Read More
Which Is Better For You: A 99-Year Leasehold Or Freehold Property Tenure?
TLDR When it comes to the choice between leasehold and freehold properties in Singapore, several factors must be considered. Leasehold...
Read More
Navigating the 2025 Singapore Property Market: Why Informed Buyers Can Stay Confident
TLDR Despite global economic uncertainties, Singapore’s property market remains resilient due to robust financial regulations, conservative loan assessments, and effective...
Read More
Navigating Singapore’s Real Estate Market: The Truth Behind 5 Common Misconceptions
The real estate market in Singapore is known for its stability and attractiveness to investors both locally and internationally. However,...
Read More
Top 5 Reasons : Why Investing in Singapore’s Property Market Is a Smart Move for Expats – Expert Analysis!
Singapore, a thriving city-state in Southeast Asia, has long been a popular destination for expatriates seeking new opportunities and a...
Read More
Should Buying A Low Lease Project Be A Viable Option?
TLDR When considering low lease projects in Singapore, it's crucial to evaluate your individual needs, financial standing, and future plans....
Read More