How old is the flat

We did not hire interior design firms as we found their prices quite high. Since we wanted to save money, we thought it was better to work directly with contractors. For example, the rewiring cost quoted by the contractor was cheaper than market rate! For example, even if the flat comes with nice flooring, the colour of the tiles may be uneven after the previous flat owner has removed all their furniture.

So you might still need to replace the floor tiles. Thinking of buying a resale flat? Read about how Mr Wong found the right unit for him and his family! By MoneySmart. Share on facebook. Share on whatsapp. Share on telegram. Share on twitter. For me, having that sense of ownership is important. MS: Do you see your flat as an investment?

MS: How is your flat being financed? MS: Did you get to enjoy any grant? MS: How has the renovation process been like?

MS: Any advice for aspiring homebuyers? Was this article relevant? Yes No. Latest Reads. Design Ideas. Move Into Your Flat. HDB How-to. First-timer Resale Second-timer. Skip to main content. HDB blocks in Toa Payoh. Share gift link below with your friends and family. Link Copied! Copy gift link. Sign up or log in to read this article in full. Sign up. Already have an account? Log in. Resend verification e-mail. Are you okay to replace your kolo mee with pumpkin-spiced avocado whatever?

Because that might happen. The older the area, the more likely it is that sweeping changes are due; if not organically, than through deliberate redevelopment. Factor in that risk, when buying such an old flat. Our prior article addressed misconceptions about HIP. HIP handles the essentials; everything else comes down to renovation and maintenance out of your own pocket. And age causes issues that have elusive solutions — the wafting scent of ageing pipes in the toilet; the unusually low water pressure from a tap because of a leak; the odd stains that keep appearing no matter how many times you patch them up, etc.

Based on all the insurance ads and CPF planning messages, we surmise that Singaporeans now have a lifespan than would shock a vampire. We do, after all, have the longest life expectancy in the world yes, even longer than Japan. All that kolo mee must be good for the heart.

Now, pause to think: What if your plus year-old flat turns out to have a shorter lifespan than you? And should you outlive your flat at the age of, say, something, it might be difficult to find the funds for a new home at that point. This story first appeared in We know it's a hassle to switch browsers but we want your experience with CNA to be fast, secure and the best it can possibly be. To continue, upgrade to a supported browser or, for the finest experience, download the mobile app.