Getting a new home and moving in? Must be exciting! Before you dive into the world of homeownership in Singapore, let's talk about a few things that can make your transition as smooth as teh tarik.
Choosing your new home
First things first, check out the property market. Make sure you are not too kan cheong and get a feel for the property trends. You want your investment to be steady pom pi pi, right? Ask around, do some surveys about the prices, neighbourhood, and make sure you check out the HDB website for any eligible grants.
Check out what are the public transport available, unless you drive (COE so expensive, just take public transport lah, can reduce carbon footprint also). MRT, bus stops, covered walkway and cycling paths - make sure they're easily accessible and not leh chey for you to get around. Imagine walking under the hot sun for more than 30 minutes to get to the public transport, that's not what your doctor meant by getting more vitamin D.
Next up, budgeting – a true Singaporean skill. Don't just think about the price of your crib, but also factor in the stamp duties, legal fees, and the "chio" renovations you're dreaming of. A good budgeting plan avoids overspending for your new home and your piggy bank will thank you if it can talk.
Renovating your new home and make it swee swee
Talking about renovations, make sure your plans are steady one corner. Follow the HDB guidelines, so you won't kenna hantam with any regulatory issues. Check out the environmentally friendly interior design tips here.
If you want to be more up to trend than the smart alec neighbour next door, make sure you have enough power points in your new home. Otherwise, you will have difficulties setting up your new smart gadgets because of limited power points, not swee lah!
If you believe in Feng Shui, bring in an expert to make sure your home has good "huat" vibes. You don't want suay energies messing with your new home. If you're not too into it but still want to have the "huat", you can do the legendary pineapple rolling before moving in. Make sure you shout "huat ah!" as loud as you can to get rid of the suay energies.
Moving in
Besides rolling the pineapple, check the renovation work and make sure the contractors have done a good job. If you're satisfied with their work, remember to leave a review and give them 5 stars ok?
So, after you have renovated your new home, received your new furniture, and setup your new smart gadgets, how about the air? Yes, you read that right. The air quality is often neglected when people move in to their new home, check out our article about removing harmful air particles from your new home.
Lastly, Insurance – don't neglect it and be kia su and kia si a bit. Protect your home like you protect your phone with tempered glass on the screen, back camera, shock-proof casing, and whatever you can think of. A little insurance can save you from unexpected situations.
So, as you embark on this homeownership adventure, we wish you all the best, and may your new home be filled with laughter and good vibes!