Property investments: When high risks meet high rises

Property investments in Singapore — the thrilling roller coaster ride where the highs are ecstatic and the lows… well, they can be a tad bit dramatic. Think you know all the property investment risks there is to know? Just ask the father-daughter duo who recently had a rather expensive hiccup in their property journey. But let's not get ahead of ourselves…

The highs and lows of property investments

Property hunting in Singapore is a lot like dating. First, there's the initial attraction (that swanky condo with the rooftop pool), followed by the courtship phase (endless viewings and negotiations), and finally, the big commitment (signing on the dotted line). But, as the father and daughter discovered, sometimes relationships can go sour, and they lost a whopping S$380,000 deposit in an aborted condo deal. Ouch!

The risks: Not just small print

While property investments can be as unpredictable as Singapore's weather (sunny one minute, pouring the next), it's essential to be prepared for the storm. The duo's unfortunate experience highlights the pitfalls many encounter, from market volatility and legal complications to those pesky unexpected financial constraints. Always pack an umbrella, folks!

Due diligence: More than just a fancy term

"Due diligence" might sound like something straight out of a legal drama, but it's crucial for property buyers. It's all about doing your homework — and no, we're not talking about that math assignment you forgot in Primary 5.

Tips for safe investment include reading the fine print (even the boring bits), understanding market trends, and seeking professional advice. And maybe, just maybe, not putting all your eggs (or dollars) in one basket.

Educating the masses: Making property jargon digestible

Property jargon can sometimes feel like a foreign language. Terms like "en bloc potential" or "quantum price" can leave many scratching their heads. That's where we come in, using glossary pages and interactive tools to demystify these complex terms. So, the next time someone talks about "stamp duties," you won't be thinking about your letter to Santa.

A quick guide: Do's and don'ts of property investment

Navigating the property market can be tricky, but with the right guidance, you can avoid common pitfalls. Here's a handy list to guide you:

Do's in property investment:

• Research: Always start with thorough research. Understand the market trends, property values, and potential future developments in the area.
• Seek expert advice: Engage with a reputable property agent or consultant. Their insights can be invaluable.
• Visit multiple properties: Don't settle on the first property you see. Explore multiple options to get a feel for the market.
• Understand the legalities: Familiarise yourself with property laws, regulations, and any potential legal hurdles.
• Plan your finances: Ensure you have a clear budget in mind and consider all costs, including maintenance, taxes, and other fees.

Don'ts in property investment:

• Rush the process: Property investment isn't a race. Take your time to make informed decisions.
• Ignore red flags: If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always trust your instincts.
• Forget about maintenance costs: Owning a property isn't just about the purchase price. Consider ongoing maintenance and other associated costs.
• Overextend financially: It's easy to get carried away, but ensure you're not biting off more than you can chew.
• Neglect due diligence: Always double-check all documents, verify property details, and ensure there are no hidden clauses or issues.

Conclusion

Diving into the property market can be a whirlwind of emotions, but it's essential to ensure the ride is safe, informed, and, most importantly, enjoyable. Knowing most (if not all) of the property investment risks is quite literally the first step every hopeful should take. After all, a home isn't just a property; it's a haven of memories. So, strap in, do your homework, and enjoy the ride — just make sure you know where the emergency exits are!

ALSO READ: We make $294k per year: Should we sell our 5-room HDB flat to upgrade to a new launch or buy 2 properties instead?

This article was first published in 99.co.