Two Months in RoyalGreen at Bukit Timah: My Verdict on the Newly Built Condo

Two Months in RoyalGreen at Bukit Timah: My Verdict on the Newly Built Condo

  • Living the Reality of a New‑Build Condo: The RoyalGreen Experience

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  • Ever wonder what it’s really like to move into a brand‑new condo that’s still a sketch on the wall?*
  • The only thing missing between a flawless render and a fully‑finished building is that one tangible, “I can’t wait to paint the walls!” moment.

    The “Unknown” Factor

  • Renderings: Super realistic, but they still look like a 3‑D toy.
  • Show flats: A neat model, but you never feel the weight of your own sofa.
  • Completed units: The real winners for buyers who want to touch, feel, and basically taste a condo before signing.
  • So, if you’re a risk‑averse buyer, just go to a finished condo.
    But if you’re a curious soul—like us—there’s a step beyond that.

    Who’s the Expert?

    Meet Emma (her real name is secret, but we’ll use “Emma” for fun).

  • Mid‑April 2022, she and her crew moved into RoyalGreen.
  • Who’s in the house:
  • Emma (the captain of the pack).
  • Husband (the accountant).
  • Mom (the queen of the pantry).
  • Helper (let’s call her “Sally” the wise).
  • Two toddlers (little humans with endless energy).
  • One dog (because a family round out with a wagging buddy).
  • And a “stop‑gap” living space while their renovation is still a work in progress.
  • Life in the RoyalGreen Two‑Month Snapshot

    The challenge: packing an entire family into a unit that’s still under renovation.The triumph: surprisingly, their two months together were pretty smooth.

  • It’s a wonder they didn’t need to install a portal to teleport into their future home!*
  • Space hacks:
  • Vertical storage: “Hey, your socks can join the bookshelf!”
  • Multi‑use furniture: “This sofa is also a tiny dining table!”
  • Community vibes:
  • Friendly neighbors: “Welcome! We tried using our garden as a playground for the kiddi‑do.”
  • Pet facilities: “The dog has its own tail‑wagging corner.”
  • Takeaway for Prospective Buyers

    Tip 1: If you’re nervous about the amber‑wave of a new build, skip to a completed condo.Tip 2: If you want the next step, talk to a resident.

  • Why it matters:
  • They know the quirks.
  • They weigh the pros and cons.
  • They’re the ones who live the daily life you’ll experience.
  • Bottom line*: A real resident’s perspective is the ultimate “test drive.”
  • Make the move.


  • Happy Home‑finding!

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  • RoyalGreen’s Lucky Luck

    • Not their first choice when scouting for a two‑bedroom CCR property.
    • Emma wrapped it up in one line: “The stars finally aligned, and here we are!”

    How Other Condos Compared to RoyalGreen

    Why RoyalGreen Made the Cut

    Before we dive into why RoyalGreen is the star of the show, let’s peek at the decision‑making playbook that helped them winnow the options.

    Key Factors on the Radar

    • Location, Location, Location: It’s all about that sweet spot.
    • Price Tag: No need to break the bank or have a minimal budget throw a tantrum.
    • Amenities: Think pools, gyms, and that cozy communal lounge where you can swap pizza recipes.
    • Environmental Footprint: Energy‑efficient windows? Solar panels? Yay for Mother Earth.
    • Future Value: Because you want a property that’s a real good penny‑for‑your‑cents in the long run.

    What RoyalGreen Got Right

    They scored high in location, nailed the price point, and had a solid lineup of eco‑friendly perks. All of this wrapped up in a convenient, community‑friendly vibe—basically a trophy for the soul.

    Leedon Green

    Leedon Green: Pretty but a Painless Walk to the MRT

    When Emma scanned her shortlist, Leedon Green’s cantilevered ground design and an absolutely “fresh‑from‑garden” curb appeal had her eyes glittering. “It’s a gorgeous medium‑size spot tucked into a quiet, upscale neighbourhood,” she gushes. But, as all savvy buyers know, convenience trumps curb appeal.

    Why Convenience Wins the Bidding War

    • The Deal‑breaker: 10‑12 minute stroll to the nearest MRT station—which is the killer question for apartment buyers.
    • Central but a Walk Away: Even though it’s “central,” that centrality feels more like an extra mile on the treadmill.
    • The Pencil‑Sharp Choice: If your day feels like a chaotic marathon, a 10‑minute walk feels like a quick coffee break; a 12‑minute walk feels like a slow‑moving elevator.

    Emma’s Bottom Line

    After a quick zoning analysis, Emma slapped a big red “no” on Leedon Green in her spreadsheet. “I wanted a place that practically pets the MRT, not a place that pets the MRT’s distance,” she chuckles. In the end, she misjudged the tiny seconds that turned into dreams chased down a hallway.

    What Happens Next?

    Heads will turn to properties where the public transit is practically on the porch—no more of those “prelude to a shuttle” vibes. Emma will keep her gaze on the horizon, aiming for places wrapped in the glow of convenience.

    Irwell Hill Residences

    Irwell Hill Residences: Your Tiny Home Adventure at the Heart of the City

    If you’re looking for a place that’s a quick hop from Orchard Road and a leisurely stroll to Great World City, Irwell Hill Residences is the spot that’ll make you feel like you’ve hit the jackpot.

    Why It’s a Hit

    • Prime Location: Just a short drive from the bustling Orchard Road and a stone‑cold walk from Great World City.
    • Mid‑Sized Charm: Not a sprawling tower, but big enough to call your own, without the taxing maintenance of a cathedral.
    • Convenience: All the city perks at your doorstep – imagine extra minutes saved for Netflix binges.

    Emma’s Story

    Emma was on a quest for a place that felt like a cozy nest while still being glued to the city’s heartbeat. She found Irwell Hill Residences, who met all her check‑lists from the moment she looked at the floor plan—until the budget snagged her—

    • “It’s a two‑bedroom, one‑bath gem,” Emma chuckles.
    • “Just two bedrooms – not exactly a mansion, but it’s pretty close for what I can afford.”

    Did Emma get the ideal space? She’s a bit disappointed, and that’s totally understandable. Plenty of folks in Singapore have wallets that want to dance, but the real estate market tends to be strict.

    What to Keep in Mind

    • Budget first: Know your spending limits before you start the house hunt.
    • Compromise, but not too much: The “too many rooms” thing can be a deal‑breaker, but a reasonable compromise might be more about prioritizing your comfort.

    All said and done, Irwell Hill Residences is a good point of departure when you’re hunting for a city life that feels a bit more like a home, rather than a residence in the sky.

    Hyll on Holland

    Emma’s Dream Home Revelation

    Emma’s heart was set on the unit they toured at Hyll on Holland.

    Why Emma Fell in Love

    • Spacious layout – the dining and living areas blend like best friends on a weekend adventure.
    • Built for “eat while binge-watch” moments: meals served right next to the TV.
    • Design vibes: clean lines, plenty of natural light, and a touch of that “home is where the heart is” aesthetic.

    A Tiny Hurdle

    Despite the property’s popularity – even selling at a discount during that market flare – it’s a bit of a trek to the nearest MRT station. Emma learned that living a little farther away can mean fewer distractions, but the commute time does linger on her mind.

    Code to Keep

    Emma’s takeaway: a beautiful layout + a lifestyle fit is priceless, even if the train station is a few blocks away. Sometimes, the bliss of a well-planned living space outweighs the convenience of proximity.

    Fourth Avenue Residences

    Fourth Avenue Residences: Your Wallet‑Friendly Urban Oasis

    Developed by the same folks behind RoyalGreen, Fourth Avenue Residences sits snugly in a spot that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re chasing top‑notch schools or craving a quick escape into nature, the address has it all. A drive to the great outdoors? Just a few minutes. Concrete jungle? Sixth Avenue MRT is right outside the gates—no longer will your daily commute feel like a marathon.

    Why You’ll Love It

    • Prime in‑city location: Close to prestigious schools and easy access to parks.
    • Public transport magic: Step outside and hop on the Sixth Avenue MRT in seconds.
    • Leasehold savings: Affordable price point that lets you invest in life, not just a home.

    What the Residents Say

    “We were actually confirmed on Fourth Avenue Residences, but there was a fire sale for some units at RoyalGreen at the same time,” one resident shared. “With the prices nearly identical, RoyalGreen seemed to make more sense.”

    So whether you’re a savvy buyer or a budget‑conscious renter, Fourth Avenue Residences offers a sweet spot that blends convenience, cost‑effectiveness, and urban charm.

    What Made RoyalGreen Stand Out Among Other Condos

    Why RoyalGreen Became Emma’s First Choice

    Emma and her family had a shortlist of condos from the same developer, but the little details made a world of difference. At RoyalGreen, a few standout features turned the house‑hunting into a win‑win story.

    1. An Indoor Playground That’s a Kid‑Friendly Super‑Hero

    Every parent knows that toddlers are tiny dynamite. RoyalGreen’s indoor playground becomes a sanctuary for the little ones, letting them tumble and explore while the parents sip coffee—no tantrums, no dirt, just pure playtime.

    2. Food and Fatty Everything Just a Few Steps Away

    When the “daily grocery run” blurs into a marathon, having a shopping district that’s right beside the condo is a blessing. RoyalGreen sits miles closer to cafés, restaurants, and supermarkets, so the family can grab a sandwich or a loaf without a long walk that feels like a trip to the moon.

    3. Parking: The “Buddy” Advantage

    Cars usually take up their own space, but RoyalGreen’s 1:1 parking scheme gives Emma an extra slot from the management—think of it as a friendly sidekick that says, “No worries, we’ve got your back.”

    4. A Two‑Bedroom Dumbbell Design That Fits Life Perfectly

    The layout’s clever “dumbbell” shape means each bedroom batting away between communal spaces feels like a well‑crafted suit—compact, efficient, and ready for anything. Emma loved that it blends comfort with practicality, turning the house into a tight‑knit family hub.

    Between playtime, convenience, parking ease, and a sharp layout, it’s clear why Emma chose RoyalGreen—proof that sometimes the smallest details produce the biggest smiles.

    Why RoyalGreen Became Their Sweet Spot

    Unexpectedly on their radar: The couple stumbled upon RoyalGreen by chance, but it delivered two things that blew their competitors out of the water.

    • Freehold title: You own it outright—no shady lease terms or hidden fees.
    • Peaceful vibes: The low‑rise design feels like a posh resort, yet the location is spot‑on for quiet living.

    Emma’s Take on the Deal

    Emma said, “This low‑rise project has that luxe resort swagger, so I think the price for the freehold feels fair.”

    And when you ask about her color preferences, she chuckled: “I’m not a fan of dark shades, so RoyalGreen’s palette is right up my alley.”

    The Bottom Line

    With clear ownership, serene surroundings, and a palette that matches Emma’s taste, RoyalGreen turned into a win‑win for the couple—no surprises, just solid value and a dash of comfort.

    What A Typical Day At RoyalGreen Looks Like

    Life at RoyalGreen: A Daily Escape

    Busy Days, Calm Nights

    By weekday, the parents are tucked into their offices while the kids head off to school. Back at home, it’s the same routine, but each night brings a gentle reminder that they’ve made it home.

    Sun‑Shed Shade

    Emma loves how the road home feels like a stroll through a leafy corridor. “Every time we pull into the driveway, the tall trees line the road, and their branches cast cool shadows across our faces,” she says. “It’s like stepping out of a hotel lobby into a private resort—our very own RoyalGreen oasis.”

    Rooftop Views

    From the roof, the usual skyline flips out of the frame. A sweeping panorama stretches all the way to Bukit Timah Hill, framing the lush greenscape like a living postcard.

    Convenience at Your Doorstep

    • Coffee shops just a tap away
    • Bukit Timah Market for fresh produce
    • Turf City for hobbies and leisure

    Playtime Playground

    Cooking at home is a rare affair, so the family leans on the nearby amenities. The kids dash through multiple playgrounds around the complex, sprinting to burn off the day’s energy—ready for a sleepy bedtime.

    Bottom Line

    Between the serene tree‑lined drives, the view from the rooftop that feels like a scenic escape, and the everyday convenience of shops and play spots, living in RoyalGreen turns each week into a chapter of calm, laughter, and a touch of adventure.

    Weekend Fun for the Kiddos

    Emma gushes, “The weekend is a kid‑loved playground of its own!” She adds that paddling in the pool or sprinting across the park—inside or out—keeps the little ones giggling and wrapped in adventure.

    What the Family Does on the Weekend

    • Swimming laps in the indoor and outdoor pools until they’re fuzzy with joy.
    • Racing to the playgrounds, where slides and seesaws create endless excitement.
    • Exploring Jacob’s garden for a botanical treasure hunt.
    • Strolling up Bukit Timah hill to catch the sunset and maybe a squirrel sighting.
    • Wandering through Bukit Batok nature reserve to learn that trees truly made of giants’ bones.

    Even the shopping centres that are just 10 minutes away serve as a quick pit stop—great for snack breaks or last‑minute gadgets.

    Why They Love It All

    Emma is thrilled: “We love the lifestyle both inside and outside the condo—fun inside, and the convenience of reaching all our favorite spots without a hassle.”

    Looking Behind The RoyalGreen Facade

    Royal Green: Shades of Love…and the Slightly Unpleasant Highlights

    Like any grand plot of land or flashy K‑TV show, Royal Green isn’t a flawless masterpiece. Even the house‑wives and dream‑catchers who adore it have noticed a few hiccups that deserve a shout‑out.

    1. Street‑Side Soundtrack

    Traffic noise is the headline act. The bedroom nearest the window? Think of it as a front‑row seat to Bukit Timah’s endless parade of cars. Sounds like a soundtrack? No, it’s a literal soundtrack you can’t mute.

    2. The Great Outdoors (and Inundations)

    When the sky decides to weep, the compound’s perimeter path turns into a mini lake. Ideal for spontaneous water‑in‑sock sessions? Probably not. A good reminder that every gorgeous place came with its own bathtub.

    3. Privacy: A Two‑Faced Affair

    Standing at the rooftop, you’ll see everyone’s living room across the street. While some might revel in the community vibe, others—like the narrator of our tale—miss the “private concert” they’d hoped for. “I get the noisy issue, not the privacy issue,” she quipped, highlighting the double‑edged sword of open views.

    4. Parking: The Unexpected Plot Twist

    Welcome to the car‑park drama. When everyone buys a spot—1:1 ratio of residents to parking space—visitors are left on a scavenger hunt. Couples who love “famous eateries” can’t even find a spot without a treasure map. That’s the grand finale of Royal Green’s charm.

    So while Royal Green is still a cool vibe for family living, keep in mind these small yet real details that could affect your day‑to‑day experience.

    Pool‑Party Paradox: The Weekend Whirlwind

    Emma spilled the tea about how the neighbourhood vibes are a little too loud. “The noise level around the pool is off the charts on weekends because all the fun things—function room, kiddie pool, BBQ pit, and even the rooftop grill—are jammed together.”

    • Swim‑in‑Style: The function room is right next to the kid’s splash zone.
    • BBQ Bonanza: Smoldering grill pits line the same block plus a rooftop spot for extra smokey flavor.
    • Family Huddle: Everyone’s got a little campfire right on the block, making quiet impossible.

    Emma tries her best to keep the kids’ chatter down, but it’s a real challenge when they’re having a blast. “When I hear residents slamming their balcony doors shut, I know I’ve probably annoyed them,” she admits with a chuckle.

    Emma’s Take on RoyalGreen: A Slice of Condo Life

    Looking for a quieter spot? Emma swears by units that face the open green spaces. “Those spots feel like a breath of fresh air, literally,” she says.

    Mind the Hangover: The Maintenance Fee

    • Fee Breakdown: $442.98 + GST for a two‑bedroom unit.
    • Emma’s Opinion: “I’m not a fan—sounds pricey, but hey, less units, more perks.”

    Inside the Unit: Sound Issues & Tall Doors

    Emma’s got a few complaints and compliments:

    • Soundproofing: “You can hear the whole building—rubbish chute chirps, door slams, the whole set.”
    • Wall Design: “These are partition walls. Down the hall-to-hall, it feels like a mic listening to your every whisper.”
    • Work Calls: “We’re forced to stash our phones in the reading room or rooftop just to catch a quiet call.”
    • Door Height: “Unlike the usual 2.1m, these doors are a taller canvas—pretty cool, really unique!”

    Security Face‑Pain

    Emma had a guest who didn’t get the royal treatment from the security guards. “The guards should not berate non‑owners,” she notes. “Let’s make them nicer, please.”

    Construction Chaos

    RoyalGreen finished about six months ago, but Emma sees that the “touch‑ups” are still in progress. Contractors swing by daily, and if you’re itching to move in, you’ll probably hear hammering all day.

    Deposit Dissatisfaction

    Emma’s final wish: a faster refund of booking deposits. “Once the operations are on solid ground, this should improve.”

    Considerations Potential Buyers Should Know

    Why RoyalGreen Is the Spot Buyers Can’t Ignore

    Picture this: you’re strolling past the city’s most talked‑about address, and the moment you step inside, you realize you’ve just discovered the secret ingredient that’ll make your life so much better. That secret? It’s the location.

    Location, Location, Location

    RoyalGreen isn’t just a name—it’s the headline that’s grabbing headlines around town. Here’s why the spot is the ultimate crowd‑pleaser:

    • Easy Access: Every transportation line converges right at your doorstep—no more hopping trains or five‑minute walks to get home.
    • Walking‑Friendly Borders: The neighborhood is packed with cafés, parks, and boutiques that make your daily routine feel like a mini-adventure.
    • Future‑Proof: Development plans are already on the horizon, promising even more convenience and value as the area grows.

    Feel the Excitement

    When you look at the square inside RoyalGreen, you’re not just seeing bricks and mortar—you’re witnessing a trend that’s catching every eye. No one can wrestle with the question: where can you build on a future‑ready landmark? The right spot? This. Right here.

    Living in a Foodie’s Dream

    “We’re literally seconds away from every food stall if we start from the guard house!” The excited voice comes with a hint of relief—no more ham sandwich minimum.

    Walking out, you’ll spot Cold Storage in just two minutes. If you’ve got a tiny schedule, the MRT drops you in five minutes, where a $12 hair salon waits, ready to flip your hair into something less “oily” and way more “fab.” Even on a relaxed pace, the shortcut can be even quicker when you’re in a rush.

    The Weekend Chill Hub

    • Five different bars—your evening getaway spot.
    • Every weekend is a new bar adventure.

    Markets, Food, and Races

    For those craving wet market nostalgia or hawker delights at Bukit Timah, Emma says it’s a short drive or just two train stops—no marathon needed.

    The RoyalGreen Difference

    In a world where condos stuffed with 800‑1,200 units usually squabble over amenities, RoyalGreen throws the rest aside. With only 285 units, you get a full suite of facilities. Imagine lounging so comfortable that you rarely have to fight to reserve a BBQ pit, function room, or tennis court.

    Friends of Emma have camped out at midnight in the condo app, booking the function room for gala events. The ease here feels like having the VIP pass to luxury—no drama, just pure fun.

    Long‑Term Upside

    Emma is confident that both current and future owners will cherish RoyalGarden’s value over time. A new interchange for the Cross Island Line at King Albert Park, the upcoming residential twist on Turf City—these changes could push property prices up, turning your home into a golden nest.

    Staying at RoyalGreen Condominium

    Why Emma Keeps It Cozy at RoyalGreen

    Emma and her family don’t see the little hiccups as a deal‑breaker—they just love the upside big time. Let’s break it down.

    Top Reasons – The Good Stuff

    • Easy Peasy Commute: Forget the dreaded traffic jam on Sixth Avenue. RoyalGreen’s jet‑speed shortcut via Anamalai Avenue connects straight to Bukit Timah road.
    • No Congestion on the Way In/Out: You can glide in and out like a breeze—no stop‑and‑wait on Sixth!
    • Secure, Stylish Living: Modern amenities, great community vibes.
    • Family‑Friendly Spaces: There’s room for everyone’s hobbies and weekend plans.

    Minor Hiccups – Not Really an Issue

    • Traffic usually a pain for some neighboring pads, but RoyalGreen stays on the smooth lane.
    • Emma points out, “We stay off the crowded Sixth Avenue, so we never hit rush‑hour.”

    All in all, the positives outweigh a few little downsides. If you’re looking for a place that doesn’t fight traffic, Emma’s 1‑character recommendation is solid gold.

    Dining Delights Around Your Condo

    Confused about where to grab a bite? Don’t be! The neighborhood is packed with a smorgasbord of eateries, so you’ll never run out of choices.

    • Taco Tuesday – salsa that could bring tears to the eye.
    • Gourmet Gutters – the place where pizza meets artistry.
    • Sushi Spectrum – fresh rolls that give your taste buds a vacation.
    • Midnight Munchies – open 24/7 for those late-night cravings.

    Emma always says, “I never have to worry about going hungry or waiting on a Grab delivery when the clock hits peak hour.” Seriously, who needs a calendar when you have this culinary arsenal?

    Unique Amenities That’ll Make You Feel at Home

    RoyalGreen’s famous tennis court isn’t just a sports field—it’s a landmark! When you cruise along Bukit Timah Road, everyone knows it’s the spot where the rooftops meet the grass. Emma’s favorite line: “‘Are you staying at the condo with the tennis court on top?’” The answer? Absolutely. It’s the perfect blend of luxury and convenience. Think of it as having a private court that doubles as a parking lot for your sneakers.

    So, whether you’re craving a midnight snack or want to practice your backhand, this place has got you covered—literally and figuratively. Enjoy a life that’s always full, both in your stomach and your schedule!

    Evening Pool Magic at RoyalGreen

    Got a heads‑up that the pool stays toasty after sunset? It’s no gimmick – the architect’s alignment captures the last rays of the western sun, turning every dip into a warm, vitamin‑D‑packed experience.

    Why It Matters to Parents

    For those who worry about little ones catching a chill, this is a hidden gem. The gentle sunlight keeps the water cozy, reducing the risk of a runny nose after a splash‑out session.

    Move‑in Plans for 2023

    • Timing: The family aims to relocate before 2023, lining up with the in‑law’s newly spruced‑up residence.
    • Rental Rationale: They’re banking on a strong rental market once the unit hits the listings.
    • Future Forecast: A solid cash flow is expected if the property scales into the coveted top tier of condominiums.

    Quick Reference

    If you’re rushing to secure a condo, check out the 23 “Top” launch units for 2021/22—though not a direct link, the spirit of urgency is there. The article originally debuted on Stackedhomes.