Solo on the Housing Market: Building My Own Home During Covid‑19

Summary

Finding an HDB flat in Singapore while single seems tough, but it’s not impossible. Start early, stay organized, and remain flexible—especially if the world is doing a pandemic tango. With the right plan, the outcome can be an epic, cozy, and neatly tailored living space for a single life that feels like a personal anthem.

Seeking a home as a single

Why Singaporeans Often Hold Off Their First Home Until They’re Pair‑Perfect

Almost everyone in Singapore has that mental checklist: Find a partner → get married → buy a flat before 30. Sound familiar? Well, S made the same dreams, but the love‑story didn’t hit the jackpot.

Guesses, Glitches and the Great “I Need My Own Space” Moment

He was “super pumped” to slot everything together:

But love had other plans, so when he entered his 30s, he had to switch gears.

Covid-19 turned a hobby into a reality check. “Travel & work commutes were my jam, but living with parents as an adult felt like a punch in the whole ‘I’m on my own’ vibe.”

What Tripped Him Up? The Real‑World Property Hunt

• He’d never actually snapped up a property before – no hunting experience.
• It took him weeks or months to figure out which market segment was right for him.
• Finally, he set specific criteria and started moving 1‑step‑at‑a‑time.

So, the verdict? It’s all about timing, life signals, and juggling the reality of buying a home while waiting for a romance. If you’re in Singapore and not quite strapped for a partner, here’s a gentle reminder: Go find that place, it’s not just a house, it’s your tiny kingdom.

Searching for homes as a single

From Confusion to Couch‑Playlist: How I Refined My Property Hunt

When I first dipped my toes into the real‑estate market at the tail end of 2019, I felt like a kid in a candy store with no idea which sweet to pick. “One‑bedroom condo? Two‑bedroom condo? EC? DBSS? Oh, and there’s also HDB flats!” I’d shout across a sea of listings. The result? A chaotic whirlwind of vague wish‑lists and endless scrolling.

Why Most New Buyers Miss the Mark (and How I Dodged That Trap)

Many first‑timers jump straight into the fray with a hard‑wired agenda: “I want a 5‑room condo!” They come in, locked onto a single property type, and if it’s not their dream, they’ll quickly toss it aside — which can mean buying the wrong space and later regretting that decision.

My secret sauce? I let curiosity be my guide. I entertained every option, but I didn’t let that endless rabbit‑hole prevent me from surfacing with what I truly needed.

Finding the Perfect Fit: A 4‑Room Resale Flat in Bukit Panjang

Eventually, my eyes settled on a 4‑room resale flat in Bukit Panjang. Why did this place win my heart?

• Location: Rivers of parks are practically a stone’s throw from my doorstep.
• Views: Imagine waking up to unspoiled greenery — that’s exactly what my balcony offers.
• Hiking Heaven: From the moment you step out, the trail opens up. Let me break down the trail connectivity:

Park‑The‑Grid Made Simple

Zhenghua Nature Park sits just across the road, and if you’re in a hiking mood, it links directly to Dairy Farm Nature Park. Want a bit more adventure? It connects to Chestnut Nature Park—perfect for a rugged trail.

Not to forget, Bukit Panjang Neighbourhood Park is just around the bend, boasting an Instagram‑golden boardwalk over Pang Sua Pond. Picture a morning coffee, a quick hike, and the paparazzi style shot to prove you’re living the glow‑stalk lifestyle.

The Takeaway

Being open‑minded doesn’t mean you’re indecisive; it means you let the market reveal its hidden gems while keeping your core needs front and center. When I did that, I didn’t just find a house—I discovered a slice of Singapore’s green paradise, right at my doorstep. That’s the real win.

<img alt="" data-caption="Singapore quarry
PHOTO: Stackedhomes” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”613f3ec1-e103-4cb8-b67f-5f1fa83cc8f4″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/singapore-quarry-dairy-farm-area.jpg”/>

S’s Kitchen & Commute: A Recipe for Life

Cooking cravings meet city convenience in one tidy snapshot of urban living. Here’s how S turns a humble recipe into a full‑meal lifestyle.

Why S Rarely Rides the Food Bus

• Own stove, own stories: “I love to cook, so having a 10‑minute walk to a massive hawker centre feels like a luxury. But my real joy comes from the three handy grocery stores that are practically next door.”
• Chefs in the neighbourhood: Every bag of fresh veggies and every bottle of sauce feels like a personal invite to repeat the dish.

Getting Around Without the Car Show

• Road‑ready: “Bukit Panjang isn’t exactly the cosmopolitan hotspot, but owning a car means the BKE/PIE is just a quick lane away.”
• Commuter’s Cupid: “When I’m not driving, the Downtown Line becomes my direct ticket to the city. Hook‑ups with the capital happen in a beat.”
• No tolls, just tales: “It’s kind of like having a passport that automatically renews every time you step onto the train.”

Wrap‑up: Whether it’s sizzling pans or swift trains, S has a balanced recipe for day‑to‑day living that’s as flavorful as it is functional.

<img alt="" data-caption="Diary Farm Road.
PHOTO: Stackedhomes” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”84526ff0-e281-45a7-946c-dd56bf4a2e10″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/dairy-farm-road.jpg”/>

Why “S” Went Big on a Flat

Thought you’d need a tiny space if you’re single? Think again! S scooped up a 1,000‑sq‑ft HDB flat and lived the spacious dream.

Key Takeaway

• “Spacious is the best part.”
• Home gym and office fit in one splash.
• No schools or daycare drama—just chill.

What the Flat Means for a Solo Life

Most people picture a single person filling a tiny studio, but S proved that space is easy to snag if you make a smart pick. The only difference, S says, is not worrying about schools or childcare now. The mountain of paperwork for families is a no‑go for him, so he can just enjoy a clean, roomy home.

Introvert? Extrovert? Either way, Space Wins

Feeling like you need a studio for solo living? S chose a flat that lets him set up a gym, woo some serious home office vibes, and keep the chaos at bay. So whether you’re planning to work from home or just want a place to host your epic game nights, envisioning a larger space could be easier than it sounds.

Final Thought

At the end of the day, space isn’t a size issue—it’s a lifestyle choice. With the right move, you can go huge, play big, and forget that piling up a kid’s wrangling chaos is the only real catch to a family’s life. Until then, enjoy the freedom of having a place that fits all your hobbies, workouts, and Netflix binge sessions. Happy flat‑living!

The process of shortlisting a bachelor pad

S’s Dream Home Hunt

When it comes to picking out his next place, S set a few non‑negotiables. The first one was a strict no‑10‑year‑old rule – he didn’t want to buy a property that was already on the way out and could start losing value sooner than he wanted to.

Now, most people say a 20‑year‑old property is still safe from lease decay, especially if it’s a freehold. But S postponed his patience. If a lease were a ticking time bomb, he’d rather wait for the safe side of the market.

Next up in his checklist: location. He’d love to have a little corner of his own, but not at the cost of putting him far from the people he cares about. S gravitated toward the West or the North of Singapore – landscapes that are cool, calm, and just close enough to family.

Key Spotting Criteria

• Age threshold: < 10 years old only
• Lease worry: Avoid properties where the lease might decay soon
• Proximity: Near family, ideally in West/North divisions
• Nature vibes: Close to large parks and a pleasant green view

In the end, S wants a place that feels like a fresh start, and one that’s still in the orbit of him and the folks he loves.

<img alt="" data-caption="A 2-bedroom condo in district 23 that S viewed
PHOTO: Stackedhomes” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”5a979265-d82a-48fc-866a-ba7bfab0d4cf” src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/Two-bedroom-condo-in-District-23_0.jpg”/>

Decision Day Drama

Picture this: I was eye‑balling one‑bedroom condos and HDB flats with three to four rooms—each one a match made in (real‑estate) heaven. The secret sauce? Those bright green views that just made the spot so cool, you’d think they’d be screaming with attraction.

Why the Push was So Hard

• Competition — Every other buyer was already lining up for the same slice of paradise.
• The “Snap‑Attack” — Arrive at a showing, and the agent is like, “Hold up, we’ve got a counter‑proposal in the bag.” And everyone else’s still got a shot to toss in their own offer before midnight.
• The Time Crunch — I had no more than a few heartbeats to decide. It felt like a sprint where I had to pick a shoe in a shoe store overnight.

My Takeaway

I’m still amazed at how seriously people get their real‑estate game. One glance at a lush green backdrop, and suddenly your brain is racing faster than a caffeine‑powered squirrel. If you’re ever in the same spot, be ready for a throw‑away decision—otherwise, you’ll end up wading through a sea of “already sold” status updates on your phone.

<img alt="" data-caption="A 3-room DBSS in district 27 that S viewed.
PHOTO: Stackedhomes” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”dc7b1670-f50d-4bd9-af1e-1475c007cf6d” src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/DBSS-3-room-Flat-in-District-27.jpg”/>

That Yishun Condo ‑ My Unexpected Living Room

A Room That Feels Like a Couch‑Free Palace

Imagine a 600‑sq‑ft one‑bedroom that instantly feels larger than your cramped office. It’s the kind of space that makes you flex your legs and pretend you’re in a luxury retreat—except, of course, you’re still wearing sweats.

Unblocked Greenery That Beats Any Staging Apartment

• Direct, crisp green view that’s smoother than a fresh smoothie.
• No trees blocking the horizon—just you and the reservoir taking in the sun.
• Every window frames a scene that could pass for a postcard.

Why I Fell in Love (and How I Didn’t Even Know It Was Right Online)

The place felt like it was whispering, “Hey, this is a spot where you can finally breathe.” I could stand in the living room and feel the breeze from Lower Seletar Reservoir rush past me, almost as if the water was waving hello. The balcony became my personal stage—an open mic where I sang off‑key to the birds.

Happy Vibes & Slightly Sassy Realities

• Even the bathroom had a view! I called it my “hydrate and hydrate” corner.
• It was big enough to host a friends’ gathering without shouting to make it heard.
• Yishun’s friendly locals turned every afternoon stroll into a treasure hunt.

In Short: A Cozy “First‑Class” Living Experience

That condo turned my daily routine into a small, joyful adventure. From coffee mornings under a green sky to late‑night chats with invisible neighbors, it’s the place where I found a balance between small-town charm and big‑city vibes—without the need for a Pinterest board to prove it.

How I Almost Got Hoodwinked by a Badly-Priced Condo

I remembered that my dream unit was TOP‑ed in 2013. The previous owner had taken pretty good care of it, so I felt the renovation bill would be a joke. I was so sure I’d seal the deal that I forwarded the floorplan to my IDs before my offer actually hit the “accepted” bucket—classic rookie blunder, right?

The Plot Twist

• Price tag: Just over my budget.
• Owner’s counter: a sweet spot that I couldn’t afford.
• Result: I had to walk away, crooning, “My wallet’s not that big.”

All in all, it was a messy lesson in letting a house‑buying dream slip through my fingers.

Why You Didn’t Get That Unit (But Why It’s Way Cooler Than It Feels)

Missing out on the perfect pad can feel like losing a gold star in the schoolyard. But S did something wild— they walked into the bidding war with a clear budget in hand, and that was a total game‑changer.

S’s Playbook: Budgeting Like a Boss

• Know Your Sweet Spot. Set the exact price you’re willing to shell out and keep that number in your mind machine. It’s the guardrail that stops you from buying the dream house and the loan behind it.
• Stick to the Plan. Even when the bidding goes wild, you can’t let the “I’ll have it when I grow older” theory override your careful math. Don’t let the lottery of prices trick you.
• Keep Cash Flow in Check. Budget your down payment, closing costs, and future utilities—without surprises.
• Stay Calm. It’s easy to panic when everyone else is rushing. Cool heads are the secret sauce.

First‑Time Buyers: Why the Pressure Feels Like a Full‑Scale Tornado

When two branches of the bidding sea collide, the first‑time buyer can feel the heat like a sauna. If you don’t plan ahead, the boom of competition pulls you into a roller‑coaster that can end up snapping badly funded fingers.

Here’s the Good News

Use a budget. It’s not just about slapping a number on your paper—it’s a financial safety drone that keeps you from making impulsive moves that you’ll regret when the interest rates hit the roof.

So, What Did S Do?

First, they set a strict limit. Next, they let that limit drive every pitch and every “messy talk” with agents. Finally, they walked away when the bid exceeded the line, knowing the long‑term money call still had a bright future.

Turns out, the key to avoiding the heartbreak of a final fate that whistles “no” is simply staying disciplined and staying in the club of ball plan-keepers.

Setting the right price for the home

From Condo Dreams to HDB Hits

When I first mapped out my budget, buying a sleek condo was the plan – a real luxury. Instead, I landed an HDB flat, and guess what? That turned into a pretty sweet surprise cash‑save.

Hitting the Market Post‑Circuit Breaker

The pandemic shook up the property scene – some bits were a pain, some turned out to be oddly lucky. After the Circuit Breaker, the resale market was buzzing. Every time I toured a place, there was a queue. Some of those listings got offers in under a week! That pressure nudged me to act fast before prices started climbing. And boom – a year later, those rates have leapt.

Interest Rates – A Devil’s Advocate

Interest? Super low – around 1.3%. Lucky for the moment. But these can climb again, so don’t just lean on the “so‑good” rates.

• General rule: Property price ≤ 5× your yearly income.
• Monthly repayment ≤ 30% of your monthly income (HDB has a strict 30% Mortgage Servicing Ratio).

Renovation: A Bit of a Story

I read online that renovating a 4‑room HDB flat averages $50,000, so I set a budget and then added a $5,000 pandemic buffer.

Actual spend? 12% more than planned, but my interior designer kept things transparent. The extra had to cover a few “surprise” finds after moving in.

Kitchen Floor Fiasco

Turns out the kitchen had two rows of floor tiles I never liked. Why? They were hidden under carpets when I first viewed the flat.

I didn’t want to touch the floors or slap vinyl in the kitchen, so my plan was to build a carpentry overlay. I got a shoe cabinet and a bar cabinet installed – essentially walling off the kitchen. This made a cozy, enclosed foyer right at the front door for shoe removal and guest reception.

Moral? A bit of extra cash for renovation surprises can keep your home as stylish and functional as you imagined.

<img alt="" data-caption="Before
PHOTO: Stackedhomes” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”c28d1775-ff42-4a6e-bc78-fe545e34ef56″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/Entry_Before.jpg”/><img alt="" data-caption="After
PHOTO: Stackedhomes” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”3d421cfe-a532-4523-af68-87bd997c4ea4″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/Entry_After.jpg”/>

The Carpentry Dilemma

The extra carpentry on my home definitely sent renovation costs through the roof, but honestly, the end result makes it all worthwhile. I’d even go so far as to claim that my entryway carpentry is a defining feature of my house—talk about a slice of pride!

Why Renovation Prices Keep Rising

Even after the pandemic is over, the surge in costs can stick around because the market has already adjusted to the new numbers.

Once the price skyrocks, it’s uncommon for it to drop back down again without a major market shift.

Think of it like a stubborn stain that refuses to wash away: the inflated costs may stay part of your renovation budget for the long haul.

Quick Tips for Future Projects

Postponing can only make the situation worse, as the market keeps pushing prices higher.

Staying informed helps you anticipate when the next price spike could happen.

Just like a stubborn stain, a little extra effort can turn into a pride‑winning feature.

Selecting the right designer for the ultimate bachelor pad

Crafting the 30‑Page Blueprint

After sealing the deal on my flat, I put on my creative hat and spent a good chunk of time drafting a design brief that stretched to 30 pages. It’s part mood board, part wish list, part blue‑print, and yes, it’s all about listening to what you really want.

• Inspiration Images: I scoured Pinterest, Instagram, and even a few old postcards to find snags that spoke to my aesthetic.
• My “Non‑Negotiables”: A list of must‑haves, from “no dark paint” to “every room must feel like a hug.”
• Space Intent: How I imagined each room—morning espresso in the kitchen, a zen corner for yoga, a secret library behind the bookshelf.

Chasing the Ideal Interior Designer

I went on a recruiting spree, chatting with five big name ID firms that were trending on Instagram. Each gave me a fresh, unique take on my brief—some leaned into bold geometry, others obsessed with vintage charm.

Tip of the Day: You don’t need a full 30 pages—just a few solid examples that give your designer a concrete feel for your taste. That speeds up the process and helps them quote more accurately.

Choosing the Right Partner

Finally, the hunt ended with Hans from White Ideas, a boutique setup run by him and his wife. Hans isn’t just a designer; he’s a two‑decade friend, so the partnership felt natural and trustworthy.

Some might think a friendship gives Hans an upside advantage. In reality, he nudged me to shop around first, finding the firm that best fit my needs rather than riding the reputation rail. I chose Hans because his past work dazzles, and he nailed a design that matched my vision and my budget.

Trust Over Awards

At the end of the day, the personal rapport with an interior designer trumps shiny awards or high‑end firm branding. If you’re on the same page, the chances of getting exactly what you want go up significantly.

• Even award‑winning firms may not listen closely to your voice.
• Great designs don’t always fit your lifestyle.
• Listening first, designing second—this is the key.

So remember: trust, communication, and a dash of humor can turn a pretty house into a home that feels like you. Cheers to turning dreams into reality!

Working out the kinks, and making needed compromises

What Went Wrong With My Home Make‑over?

Picture this: I’ve got a beautiful loft, a budget that’s tighter than my gym‑hoodie after the first month, and a mentor named Hans who says “Keep it classic, not quirky.” So, I’m saying “yes” to timeless, and “no” to paint‑splattering nightmares.

Step 1: The Timeless Cue

• I traded the wow‑factor for, well, “classic”.
• Latest trends? I asked them to stay in the past.
• Result? A living room that can survive a wardrobe crisis in 10 years.

Step 2: Color Crisis De‑Babel

• Strong colours? I dumped them like that last season’s scarf.
• The palette is now a gentle blur of white and neutrals.
• Hans’s goal? A “white box” that feels like fresh laundry on a sunny day.

Personal Take‑away

“I told Hans, ‘I’d be happy if the finished loft looks like a pristine white apartment.’” That’s the dream I’m chasing – no neon glare, just peaceful flatness.

<img alt="" data-caption="Before
PHOTO: Stackedhomes” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”ef29519d-a45f-4731-9b6d-b36b18349769″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/Living-Room_Before.jpg”/><img alt="" data-caption="After
PHOTO: Stackedhomes” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”521da60a-eebf-4225-b5f8-4049d0967a62″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/Living-Room_After.jpg”/>

Snaking Through the Flat: A Designer’s Low‑Profile Mission

Picture a home that’s as flat as a pancake. The walls here are thin, the corridors a bit crooked – it’s a bit like trying to drive a car on a wobbly bridge. The design strategy? Keep everything as smooth as a glass pane and get rid of the extra lines that mess up the flow.

Why the Lines Matter

Those little “niches” in the walls of HDB flats? They’re like surprise potholes that pop up spontaneously. If you’re not going to build anything with them, they’re just an unwelcome chapter in your story. It’s all about clean storytelling – take those when you can.

The Grand Plan at the Front Door

• False Wall, Please! – We slid a fake wall right where the front door meets the living area. Think of it as a clever curtain that hides the pesky niche from view.
• Continuous Coverage – The same trick ran right through the living space, keeping the whole area under one seamless roof.

Master Bedroom – The Encore

Repeating the move in the master bedroom? Absolutely. It’s like having a universal cover on a Lego set – you gotta keep all the blocks looking the same with no hidden corners poking out.

Bottom Line

By stripping away unwanted walls and giving the flat a flat‑world aesthetic, the interior feels more open, less cluttered, and ready for whoever’s walking through it. Just a candid nod to the tidy professionals who know that a living space isn’t about the number of walls; it’s about how those walls play together.

<img alt="" data-caption="Master Bedroom
PHOTO: Stackedhomes” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”e6c064ea-e260-44cf-925d-70d67a490a73″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/Master-Bedroom.jpg”/>

A Round‑Tape Approach to False Ceilings

When it comes to tilting the roof over your room, I’m all about the sleek, full‑span type—no jagged L‑box borders. Those neat sections from wall to wall keep the ceiling looking smooth, eliminating the clutter of extra lines.

Why I Say “Nah” to Cutouts

Cutting holes in a falsely suspended ceiling where the air‑con unit sits feels a bit like a DIY misstep. I’d rather let the ceiling stretch out left‑to‑right, stopping right where the air‑con sits. That way, the overhead remains a continuous surface, free from “cut‑and‑paste” nightmares.

My Hallway Hack

In the hallway, I extended the L‑box that houses the air‑con pipe straight up to the ceiling. The goal was simple: fewer lines, fewer headaches.

• Less visual clutter.
• Seamless ceiling design.
• Easy maintenance.

Bottom line—rope the ceiling from wall to wall wherever possible, and keep it cleanly cut off around the chillers. It’s nice, easy, and keeps the design vibes chill.

<img alt="" data-caption="Before
PHOTO: Stackedhomes” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”0903393f-bf83-4fe0-9486-211d1a85a01a” src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/Hallway_Before.jpg”/><img alt="" data-caption="After
PHOTO: Stackedhomes” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”96c0b4f5-4646-4c5f-9d42-bebdce79b5f2″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/Hallway_After.jpg”/>

Choosing the Right Theme

Trying to fit a theme that simply isn’t suited to a space is a bit like forcing a tuxedo on a toddler — it just looks off. Picture slapping a French Cottage or Victorian vibe onto a cramped HDB layout. Not only would it feel awkward, but it would also sap you enormous piles of time and money.

Keep the Essentials at the Front

• Focus on what the space truly needs rather than clinging to a single concept.
• Let the design breathe and evolve naturally.

What S Brought to the Table

“I was able to achieve a clean, much more elevated looking space without doing much carpentry and minimal hacking,” S says.

“I think I ended up with a space that I’d describe as largely Japandi, with generous borrowings from Contemporary and Minimalist design themes.”

Even though the brief and the finished result were different, the final home still felt light, clean, and calming — exactly the vibe that was envisioned.

Other challenges in buying the property

<img alt="" data-caption="Before
PHOTO: Stackedhomes” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”ffa45dc3-3794-4cc4-9399-8c0e1b5a9181″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kitchen_Before.jpg”/><img alt="" data-caption="After
PHOTO: Stackedhomes” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”6e2f0b79-3a18-4617-bbcc-26d66dbe1ff9″ src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kitchen_After.jpg”/>

Solo Home Sweet Home: How a Mid‑30s Singaporean Confronted the Norm

“I can’t speak for everyone,” S said with a wry smile, “but I was pretty embarrassed to buy my own place while still single.” In Singapore, the roadmap usually looks like this: find a partner, marry, buy a BTO, then welcome a small family. Deviating from that path? That takes a big splash of courage.

Conventional vs. The Free Spirit

• More people are staying single longer now.
• We’ve met 50‑year‑olds who are only today’s first-time buyers.
• Pragmatic advice: Buy when you’re ready—no need to compare with your friends.

For S, the decision came after a year of self‑reflection. He wanted to commit to a plan B that finally felt actual.

Family Facetime: From “Who?” to “Why?”

S starts out “single and hungry for a place.” That doesn’t sit well with everyone, so he had to get everyone on board.

• “I thought I could just tell them and everyone would automatically understand.”
• Results: Immediate silence—no one took him seriously.
• We had to be surgical: show pictures, talk budgets, lay out the house‑search timeline.
• Slowly, the vibe shifted—once they saw the property photos, the “yes” came through eventually.

Finding the Right Agent: From Nightmare to Champion

At first, S went solo and scrolled through online listings until the pandemic shifted everything. He realized a professional advisor was a must.

• First Agent = Disaster: She didn’t get why S was rushing for a house.
• She spent hours on the phone, discouraging resale options and pushing for launches that could take years to TEN!
• “Higher upside?” she whispered—“but I’m not chasing investment, just a home.” She couldn’t hear that.
• Lucky break: S found William Tan at Singapore Realtors Inc.
• TRUE engagement: William listened, offered exit strategies, even discussed interior layouts.
• Result: After two months of collaboration, they sniffed out a resale flat in Bukit Panjang.

The moral? Don’t settle for the first agent you encounter. A second opinion or a fresh perspective can save you a lot of headaches.

Key Takeaway

Build your own timeline, make honest conversations with loved ones, and choose an agent who truly understands your hopes—no fluff, no sales pitches.

A notable challenge was the delays posed by Covid-19, with regard to renovations.

Resale Flat Renovations: The Never‑Ending Saga of Material Shortages

They say flipping a flat is a breeze—no construction delays, no fuss. But in reality, the invisible foes—manpower and material shortages—are the real villains.

Hans’s Crystal‑Ball Forecast

“From the get‑go, I warned my client that the crew shortages and lack of supplies would stretch out the renovation timeline,” S recalls. “I had no say over the labor pool, but I could be creative with the kits and tiles.”

Finding Workarounds

• Tiles  — When the usual patterns were out of stock, S scoured the market for any similar shades that could keep the design flow smooth.
• Kitchen cabinetry parts — Stores had the wrong dimensions, so S chose alternative fittings that matched the existing architecture.
• General buy‑again — The bigger takeaway? Adaptability saves the day.

Timeline Talk

Renovation kicked off at the start of March, with hopeful plans to move in by the end of May—just in time for S’s 36th birthday.
The day came, the birthday candles blew out, and the apartment still looked like a work‑in‑progress zone.

“I managed to move in only a little over a week later than planned,” S admits.
“All in all, the entire process spanned about 13 weeks.”

And the moral of this story: even if the frame stays intact, you’re still fighting a battle with whoever can stash the tiles and the cabinets.

Future plans for the bachelor pad

Five‑Year Plan & Beyond: S’s Property Game Plan

Ready to stick around for the next half‑decade, S is all set until the Minimum Occupancy Period (MOP) kicks in. After that, the real adventure begins.

Short‑Term Strategy

• Keep the current flat humming and rent it out while the market stays in the green.
• “ABSD?” – S would ignore that extra tax hurdle if next home is a “second property.”

Realistic Roll‑Out

Truth be told, the most likely play is:

• Sell the current place.
• Swap it for a smaller condo – less drama, more convenience.

Family‑First Scenario

If any of S’s parents face health challenges, the next move could be a big pivot: return home to provide care and maybe be the family hub.

Bottom Line

In short, S is locking in a five‑year stay, then branching out, whether that’s through rental income, a new property, or stepping in for family support – either way, staying flexible keeps the plans fresh.

Advice for singles buying homes during Covid-19

Dreaming of Your Own Pad… and Making It Happen

Everyone’s got a reason for craving their own space, whether it’s the pandemic or just plain nerves of newness. First stop: lock down exactly what you want from your future digs.

Make a Cheat Sheet

• Non‑negotiables: Ceiling height? Outdoor space? Number of bedrooms? Write it down.
• Nice‑to‑have: Smart thermostat, breakfast bar, a balcony that screams Instagram.
• Keep it realistic – no unicorn‑dust, unless you’re really into fantasy living.

Scout Early, Spy Safely

Now, hit the streets. Or the virtual tours if you’re still cautious about COVID. Don’t wait for bank balances or a perfected décor plan to arrive. Seeing the actual place is the ultimate reality check. If your wishlist still feels like a recipe without measurements, it’s time to rethink.

It’s Solo, It’s Your Scene

When you’re flying solo, no one can tell you if a corner is too square. So make it all about you. If owning a slice of the world truly feels like a dream, start planning. Grab that property, move in, and decorate it with everything that makes you smile.

Last year I watched a bachelor’s home tour on Apartment Therapy’s YouTube channel. The owner shrugged and said, “A home is a love letter to yourself.” That resonated with me – because your space should feel like a hug from the inside out.

Takeaway

Get clear, list the must‑haves, start looking, and don’t let your imagination chase the impossible. The moment you step foot in the space you’re dreaming of, the magic happens.