Hi there!
If you're buying your first home for your own stay, I wouldn't necessarily rank MRT proximity, condo age and unit size in that particular order.
My first consideration would be whether the property genuinely suits your lifestyle and whether you can see yourself living there comfortably for the next five to ten years.
For example, if you drive regularly or work from home, being within five minutes of an MRT station may not be as important as having a more spacious and comfortable apartment.
On the other hand, if you rely heavily on public transport, proximity to an MRT station could make a significant difference to your daily routine.
**As for unit size, I would pay more attention to the layout than the square footage alone.**
A well-designed smaller apartment can sometimes be more practical than a larger unit with inefficient spaces, oversized balconies or awkward corners.
But I would also caution against buying something too small simply because it's newer or closer to the MRT.
You're 31 today, and your lifestyle and space requirements may change over the next few years.
Even if you're buying as a single person, having sufficient space for a proper kitchen, storage, a work area or occasionally hosting friends could make a considerable difference to your enjoyment of the home.
Regarding the age of the condominium, I wouldn't automatically dismiss older developments.
Some older condominiums offer more generous living spaces and layouts compared with newer projects.
However, you'll need to consider the property's maintenance condition, upcoming major repairs, management standards and, particularly for leasehold properties, the remaining lease.
There's also something else I would encourage you to look at.
**Even though you're buying for your own stay, don't completely overlook the property's future resale appeal.**
Your circumstances may change, and you might eventually decide to upgrade, relocate or sell.
A property that appeals only to a very narrow group of buyers could be more challenging to exit, regardless of how much you personally like it.
That said, I wouldn't sacrifice your everyday living comfort purely to chase what appears to be the best investment.
My suggestion is to shortlist a few developments within your budget and compare the actual units rather than simply comparing projects on paper.
Sometimes, the difference only becomes obvious when you physically experience the layout, natural lighting, surroundings and overall environment.
**My personal view is that you should buy a home you genuinely enjoy living in, at a price that makes financial sense, while ensuring it has reasonable resale appeal.**
One question I would ask: Do you rely mainly on public transport, or do you drive?
That would help determine how much importance you should place on MRT proximity.
All the best with your first home purchase!
Geryl Lim
CEA Reg No: R014783H
9278 7772
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