Buying a ‘good’ home isn’t just about picking out a property that looks good in a brochure. It’s also important to choose one that fits well with your lifestyle. Don’t forget, your property agent gets a commission from the seller. This means that as a buyer, you should take your agent’s opinion on the value of the property with a pinch of salt.

• • Ownership Type: Freehold vs Leasehold
    

Unlike freehold properties, the sale of leasehold properties can sometimes take more time to process.

• • Distance

How far is the property from your office, your kid(s) school(s), or from the rest of your family? Life will be tougher if you’re spending most of your day stuck in traffic getting from one place to another.

• • Environment

What’s the environment around it like? Is it noisy? Are crime rates high?

• • Current and Future Size
    

Is it big enough for you and your family? Could you buy a smaller home and still live comfortably?

• • Potential Issues
    

Are there any structural issues? Be sure to inspect the property. Things to look out for include leaking pipes, water seepage in the walls, leaking roof sections, bad electrical wiring and other potential issues.

• • Ask for what’s included in the home

If you’re buying an apartment, does it come with one carpark or two carparks? Does it include cupboards and kitchen fittings? If you need to put this in yourself, it can be costly so make sure you check with the property agent/developer.

• • Check for discounts

Developers do give discounts, waivers and sometimes they throw in freebies – make sure to ask them what’s on offer (but don’t rush into your decision just because of a discount!)

Finally, once you’ve agreed to buy the property, pay the booking fee only to a lawyer or registered agent. Don’t hand your money over to the seller directly.