### 1. Future Sale Prospects and Lease Decay
**Potential Challenges with Lease Decay:**
- **Diminishing Lease:** As the lease on an HDB flat decreases, the pool of potential buyers may shrink because many buyers prefer properties with longer leases for better financing options and higher resale value.
- **Loan Restrictions:** Banks and financial institutions may be less willing to offer loans for properties with shorter leases, making it harder for potential buyers to secure financing.
- **Resale Value:** Properties with a shorter remaining lease generally see a depreciation in resale value over time. This could make it more challenging to sell at a favorable price in the future.
**Downgrading to 2R Flexi:**
- **Eligibility:** If the couple decides to downgrade to a 2-room Flexi flat in the future, they need to meet HDB’s eligibility criteria, which includes age and citizenship requirements.
- **Financial Planning:** Consider the financial implications of the current purchase and future downgrading plans. Selling a property with a significantly shorter lease may yield less profit, impacting the funds available for a new purchase.
### 2. Considering JB Properties
**Advantages of Buying Properties in JB:**
- **Freehold Tenure:** Unlike HDB flats in Singapore, many properties in Johor Bahru (JB) offer freehold tenure, which means the ownership is perpetual and does not expire.
- **Cost of Living:** The cost of living in JB is generally lower compared to Singapore. This includes property prices, groceries, dining, and other daily expenses.
- **Proximity to Singapore:** JB is close to Singapore, making it a viable option for those who work in Singapore but prefer a lower cost of living.
**Considerations for Living in JB:**
- **Daily Commute:** Consider the time and cost of commuting between JB and Singapore. The traffic at the Causeway and Second Link can be heavy, especially during peak hours.
- **Safety and Security:** Assess the safety and security of the neighborhood where you plan to buy a property.
- **Currency Fluctuation:** Be mindful of potential currency fluctuations between the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) and Singapore Dollar (SGD), which can affect expenses and property value.
- **Healthcare and Amenities:** Evaluate the availability and quality of healthcare services and other amenities in JB compared to Singapore.
### Recommendations
1. **Evaluate Long-Term Plans:**
- Consider your long-term plans and financial stability. If you plan to stay in the property for a shorter period (10-20 years), the resale value and lease decay are significant factors to consider.
2. **Research Thoroughly:**
- Conduct thorough research on the property market trends in both Singapore and JB.
- Understand the legal and financial implications of buying property in JB as a foreigner.
3. **Financial Consultation:**
- Seek advice from financial advisors or property experts to understand the best course of action based on your financial goals and retirement plans.
4. **Personal Preferences:**
- Consider your lifestyle preferences, proximity to family and friends, and other personal factors that might affect your decision.
In summary, buying an HDB resale flat with a remaining lease of 60 years next to an MRT and shopping mall can be a good investment due to the convenience factor, but lease decay could pose challenges in the future. On the other hand, buying a property in JB offers the advantage of freehold tenure and lower living costs but comes with its own set of challenges, such as daily commuting and differences in amenities and services. Weighing these factors carefully will help you make an informed decision.
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