Despite Singapore’s small land size, there are still many different types of properties available for purchase. With so many factors to consider, it can be overwhelming to make a decision on which property to buy. To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled 4 criteria to keep in mind when viewing or buying a property in Singapore.
Convenience
You have often heard of the phrase “Location, Location, Location” being used to emphasize the importance of a property’s location. One main reason why location is crucial is because it can greatly affect convenience. So, how can you determine if a property is conveniently located?
As a start, do check if there are any public transportation hubs located in close proximity to the property, e.g. an MRT station or bus interchange. Having such amenities nearby will improve your accessibility to different parts of the country, making it convenient for you or your tenants to commute to workplaces, schools, and other key areas – a benefit that most people would appreciate.
It’s also important to take note of the walking distance between the property and major amenities (e.g. supermarkets, food hubs, and schools). While the definition of “near” is subjective, a distance of around 500-600 meters is widely considered reasonable.
I would strongly recommend you to take time to walk around the area during a viewing to get an accurate idea of the actual distances. This is because online tools may not account for alternative shortcuts that could significantly shorten the walking distance.
Upkeep & Maintenance of the Development
It’s crucial to ensure that the development is well-maintained and in good condition, as this will not only affect the value of the property but also your quality of living. Moreover, you will be paying maintenance fees to the condo’s managing committee (known as the MCST), which is tasked to upkeep the property.
You might want to take a look at the common areas such as the lobby, lifts, and corridors to see if they are well-maintained. Check if there are any signs of wear and tear, or any repairs that need to be done. You can also check the landscaping and the exterior of the building to see if they are well-kept.
Aside from not getting your money’s worth, a poorly-managed condo can have other negative impacts. Firstly, it can lead to a bad living experience, such as frequent elevator breakdowns. Secondly, it can make the condo appear older than it is, which could affect its resale value and make it harder to rent out. Finally, it could pose safety risks to the residents.
MCST Fees
On this point, you should take a closer look at the items that will be included as part of the maintenance fees.
One example would be how carpark lots may or may not be factored into the maintenance fees. While larger condominiums typically include the carpark lot in the maintenance fees, smaller developments may not do so. This exclusion of the carpark lot from the maintenance fees has its pros and cons.
If you plan to rent out the unit to a non-driver, it would be advantageous as you will not have to bear the cost of an unused carpark lot. On the other hand, if you are purchasing the property for your own stay, you will have to bear the additional expense of the carpark lot on top of the regular maintenance fees.
Therefore, it’s crucial to understand the purpose of your property purchase (i.e. pure investment or own stay?) and how the MCST fee breakdown fits into your overall plan. This is to avoid incurring unnecessary expenses that may accumulate over time.
Distribution of Units on the Level
The arrangement of units can have an impact on the waiting time for the elevator. For instance, if a block has ten units sharing two elevators, the average ratio would be five units to one elevator. On the other hand, in a block with only four units sharing two elevators, there will only be an average of two units sharing one elevator, resulting in a significant reduction in waiting time.
The number of units located on a level can also impact the frequency of corridor usage, which in turn affects the level of privacy and exclusivity that your unit will have.
To End It Off…
Buying a property in Singapore is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of all factors before committing. We hope that this article has provided you with a clearer understanding of the important aspects to consider during a viewing and before making a purchase.
If you require further guidance on your property purchase journey, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are always happy to assist you.
If you found this article helpful, you may also be interested in our previous piece titled “Are You Paying The Right Price For Your Property?”