For many years, Singaporeans have been living with the perception that having an investment property is a sure-win ticket to making a neat profit. But with recent cases where we’re seeing million-dollar HDB flats and staggering losses in high-end properties, it is perhaps a sign that the tides have turned and that buying a property is not a “100-percent safe investment”. It is important to understand that there are major differences when choosing to buy an investment property versus buying one for living in. Before you start looking out for a property that fulfils both these purposes, read on to find out the different factors you need to consider: The following link would be beneficial to help you with your search with your future property as it’s one of the more reliable Singapore property website for reference in such cases.

As HDB flats become more popular in recent years for their affordable rents, property buyers are starting to think of getting a HDB as an investment property rather than just for the sole purpose of residing in one. While HDB may be more affordable compared to buying a private condominium, one needs to take into consideration the Minimum Occupancy Period (MOP) which is a minimum of 5 years. Therefore, they make much more sense for those who are buying them as a home instead of a means for rental yield. For those looking for an investment property, condominiums make more sense as they typically command higher rental due to the added security and amenities available, as well as a faster rate of capital appreciation. You could refer to some reputable Singapore property website to get a better information on this subject.

Most home-buyers would consider buying a property that will suit the household unit. For instance, if a couple is planning to have kids and/or have their parents stay with them in the future, they might go for a bigger HDB or condominium unit so that they will not have to move for the next ten years. This does not apply for those who intends to use the property as investment. They are likely to go for smaller units so that it will be cheaper to rent out, and easier to sell in the near future.

For property investors, the cost of mortgage has to be factored in as the cost of investment, which will ultimately affect the returns. This is why the cost needs to be as low as possible. Depending on the purpose of the purchase, the buyer would need to decide what are his priorities when purchasing the unit. In this case, investors may prefer to choose a loan which offers the lowest rate possible, even if the rates thereafter will register a larger increase. This is because they may think of selling the property in the near future, and are less concerned with the “thereafter” rates. In contrast, home-buyers may prefer a fixed-rate loan so that they can fix the monthly budget they need to put aside to service the loan.

Home-owners are usually more particular about the type of interior design they want for their home, since their living space is seen to be an extension of their identity. They are likely to spend more compared to investors with no interest to keep the property for a long term. You’d thus need to put aside a sum of money, usually between $30,000 to $50,000 on average to renovate the place. Click here to better gauge on your renovation expenses.

Even in a small city like Singapore, location plays a big part in determining the price of property. When buying a property for living in, you may be less concerned with living near the Central Business District (CBD). In fact, you may prefer to live further into the heartlands where you will most likely find cheaper daily necessities.

You will also most probably choose a location that’s nearer to your work place, or an area where there are plenty of good schools for your children to enroll in. For some who are closer to their parents, having the ability to live nearer to your parents may be a priority as well, so that you may be able to visit them more often, get them to help you look after your kids, and also make use of the proximity housing grant.


6. Amenities