ARTICLES AND INSIGHTS
What Is a Bridging Loan and How Does It Work for Private Property Sale and Purchase in Singapore?
If you’re planning to upgrade from one private property to another, one of the biggest challenges is managing the timing between your sale and purchase. You may face a scenario where you’ve found your dream home but haven’t sold your current one yet. That’s where a bridging loan can come in handy.
Quantum Price vs $PSF: What Matters More in Today’s Property Market?
When it comes to buying or investing in property, one of the most common questions buyers ask is: “Should I focus more on the overall quantum price or the price per square foot ($PSF)?” Both metrics play a critical role in evaluating a property, but in today’s evolving market—and looking ahead into the future—there's a growing case for why quantum might just be taking the front seat. Let’s break it down in this article.
Leading vs Lagging Indicators in Real Estate: How to Read the Market Like a Pro
The property market moves in cycles — and knowing where we are in the cycle can help you make smarter, more strategic decisions. But how do you read the signs? The key lies in understanding leading and lagging indicators — two types of market signals that can help you anticipate changes and respond with confidence.
Why Many People Are Caught in a Price Trap and Never Enter the Property Market?
Have you ever heard someone say, “I’ll wait for prices to drop before I buy a property”? Or perhaps, “Property is too expensive now, maybe next year.” If these lines sound familiar, you’re not alone. In fact, these are some of the most common thoughts that keep many people stuck in what I call the “Price Trap.” Let’s unpack why this happens—and more importantly, how to avoid falling into it.
What is GFA Harmonisation and How Does It Affect You as a Buyer?
In June 2023, Singapore implemented the Gross Floor Area (GFA) harmonisation initiative to standardise floor area calculations across various government agencies, including the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), Building and Construction Authority (BCA), and Singapore Land Authority (SLA). This move aimed to eliminate inconsistencies in GFA measurements, promoting transparency and efficiency in the property market. What does it mean to you as a buyer?
Are ECs a Hidden Gold Mine?
Did you know that the number of Executive Condominium (EC) units resold for at least $1 million in gross profit has more than doubled in 2024? According to a recent report by The Straits Times, 38 EC owners made at least $1M in profit when they sold their homes—an increase from just 15 units in 2023. Is EC a hidden Gold Mine?
Open Listing vs. Exclusive Right to Sell: Which Is Better for Property Sellers?
When selling a property, homeowners often face the decision of whether to opt for an open listing or grant an exclusive right to sell to a single agent. Understanding the key differences between these two approaches can help sellers make an informed decision that aligns with their goals and expectations.
Buying Equities vs. Real Estate in Singapore: Pros and Cons
Investing is an essential part of wealth-building, and in Singapore, two of the most popular asset classes are equities and real estate. Both offer unique advantages and come with their own risks. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide which suits your investment strategy best.
Equity Term Loan: How It Works and What You Need to Know
For many property owners in Singapore, their home is not just a place to live—it is also a valuable financial asset. If you're looking for ways to unlock the value of your property without selling it, an Equity Term Loan (ETL) may be the solution.
This article will break down what an equity term loan is, how much you can borrow, and important factors such as CPF usage and accrued interest.
Fixed vs Floating Interest Rate Home Loans: Which is Better?
When financing a property in Singapore, one of the key decisions homeowners and investors must make is whether to choose a fixed-rate home loan or a floating-rate home loan. Each option has its advantages and drawbacks, and the best choice depends on factors such as interest rate trends, personal financial stability, and risk appetite.
Why Mortgage Insurance is a MUST HAVE for Home Owners?
When purchasing a property, many buyers focus primarily on securing the best mortgage rates and affordability. However, one critical aspect that often goes overlooked is home mortgage insurance. This essential safeguard ensures financial security for you and your loved ones in the face of unforeseen circumstances. Here's why every property owner in Singapore should seriously consider it.
Green flags to spot when choosing a New Launch
Remember the "blockbuster" fortnight we had recently when six new projects were launched over two weekends? I'm sure if you were a buyer in the market looking out for a new launch to purchase, you'll probably be scratching your head hard with all the choices that's available. Apart from the six that were launched over the two weekends, there are still a slew of new launches that are available to choose from in the inventory of projects that have yet to sell out.
Do you base it on the extravagance of the showflat? Or is how excited the cinematic project video is? I am sure you are smart enough not to be swayed by such things. That is why you are reading this article. Let's take a look at factors that make a new launch a green flag.
6 Sustainable ways to cool your home
Living in Singapore’s tropical climate means we’re no strangers to heat and humidity. While air-conditioning is a staple in many homes, it’s not the only way to stay cool. Adopting sustainable cooling practices can help you save on energy costs and contribute to a greener Singapore. Here are six practical and eco-friendly ways to keep your home cool.
Why Some People Cannot Afford to Buy an EC but Can Afford to Buy a Condo in Today’s Market?
In Singapore’s property landscape, many assume that Executive Condominiums (ECs) are more affordable than private condominiums, given their hybrid nature of being priced between public housing and private properties. However, a curious paradox exists: some buyers find themselves unable to afford an EC but can comfortably purchase a private condo. Why does this happen? The answer lies in the way loans are calculated for these two types of properties.
Understanding Days on Market (D-O-M) and what does it mean to Sellers and Buyers?
In Singapore’s fast-moving property market, Days on Market (D-O-M) is a crucial factor that both sellers and buyers should be aware of. Whether you’re selling an HDB flat or a private condominium, how long your property remains on the market can significantly influence its final sale price and buyer interest. This article will explore what D-O-M means, why it’s important, and how it can impact your decisions in the Singapore property market.
Maximizing Small Spaces: How to Make Your Home Feel Bigger
With apartments shrinking in size, especially in urban areas, it's essential to make the most out of every square foot. By applying smart design strategies, even the smallest home can feel more open, practical, and inviting. Here are some key tips to help transform your space without compromising on style or functionality.
Interest Rates Cut by the FED, What’s Next?
With the recent interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve (FED), many are wondering how these changes will impact the real estate market, homebuyers, and property investors alike. In this article, we’ll explore what this move means for you and whether now is the right time to make decisions regarding property.
5 Reasons Why Mortgage Loan is a Good Debt in Singapore
In financial planning, the term "debt" often carries negative connotations. However, not all debt is bad. When it comes to property ownership in Singapore, a mortgage loan can actually be considered good debt. Let’s explore the five reasons why taking on a mortgage loan is a smart financial decision for many Singaporeans.
Understanding Lease Decay: How It Affects You as a Property Owner
When it comes to property ownership in Singapore, the term "lease decay" is one that often crops up, especially when dealing with leasehold properties. Understanding lease decay and its implications is crucial for any property owner or investor, as it directly impacts the value of your asset over time. A key tool used to visualize this concept is the Bala Curve, which we'll explore in this article.
Freehold VS Leasehold: Which Is the Better Choice?
When it comes to purchasing property in Singapore, one of the key considerations buyers often face is whether to invest in a freehold or leasehold property. This decision can significantly impact both short-term living satisfaction and long-term financial gains. Let's explore the differences between these two types of property tenures and analyze which might be the better choice for you.