To different people, a home represents a whole lot of things. That’s why plenty of effort goes into finding the right place to live in. However, it’s not like we’re all loaded and can afford to live in an exotic locale like royalty. Winter palace? Nope. It’s summer all year round in Singapore.
More often than not, once you’ve bought a home, you’re gonna be staying in it for a good part of a decade (ok technically it’s at least five years for HDB) so buyers will be picky. But some folks like to take it to the next level – like these guys.
1. The Deal-hunters
This couple pairing has it worked out. They want to get married fast, and immediately apply for a BTO once they’ve worked for a year (coz you to be continuously employed for at least a year to qualify) to take advantage of all the awesome subsidies.
2. The 35-year-old Swinging Single
You know that awesomely single uncle or auntie who always gives the BEST gifts during Christmas? It’s this person right here.
Having saved enough after more than a good decade of being in the workforce, this individual has his sights set on the perfect bachelor pad, and has all the paperwork signed and ready to be submitted once the clock strikes 12 on his 35th birthday.
3. The One With Separation Anxiety
Mommy’s Boy or Daddy’s Girl in the relationship? They JUST have to get a home within a 2-km radius from their parents. It’s like they never left!
While you would probably get to enjoy hot meals after a hard day’s work, you might also want to keep that spare key away from the in-laws if you can help it. Because privacy.
But then again, Singapore is pretty well connected between mature and newer estates so you’re always a quick train or bus ride away from your family members. You can run, but never hide.
4. The Kiasu Parent
All parents want the best for their child right? These guys take it to the next level. Not only have they shortlisted the potential homes around “elite” schools while their kids are still in N1, they have joined the school’s parents committee and the grassroots organisation as well.
The next step is to scout out all the childcare centres, tuition centres, enrichment centres … coz gotta cover all bases ya?
5. The Feng Shui Master
These guys can be seen from a mile away, choosing to view the property at odd hours and having a shifu in tow with almanac and bagua in hand.
As long as the home has the potential for reaping maximum harmony, anything goes. Even if it means installing a massive water feature in the middle of the home.
That’s why they are BTO fans. A new flat means they can zhng the fengshui all they want. Plus points if they score a BTO at Punggol Waterway - with so much water at their doorstep, the shifu will sure say huat ah!
6. The Extended Family Unit
This kind of buyer is a rare breed but still exists in circles and that’s why there remain those 3-Gen units. If such a unit makes an appearance in the market, the entire clan will make their way down. We’re talking grandparents all the way down to great grandchildren.
Maisonette unit? How about two combined as they will not settle for anything less.
But for the rest of us who prefer to stay close to - but not too close - to one another, or can only count the number of family members with one hand, that 3- or 4-room flat will do. Smaller spaces = more family bonding. Plus more affordable.
7. The Flipper
Bane of every legit home buyer out there. This individual is out for the moolah and is the likely reason for rising home prices. His goal? To ensure that within five years, his investment would reap him a handsome reward. Stamp duties were created exactly for this dude.
Our advice: Don’t sabo leh. The flat should be a home first and asset second.
8. The Every-Amenity-Also-Want Buyer
Public swimming pool? Check.
Suburban mall? Check.
Near public transport? Check.
And the list can go on forever.
We all want to stay in a location with the best of everything within close reach and these guys are no different.
Thankfully, even in so-called non-mature HDB estates, many of these amenities are available, or will be available as the estate develops, and within close reach. So don’t be so fussy. Get one that can get you to school or work in time can liao.
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