Credit: Choo Yut Shing via flickr

So you’ve finally decided to apply for a BTO flat - congratulations! This is an exciting new chapter of your life. Now comes the tricky part - choosing the right unit. With so many options out there, how do you know which one is the best for you? Don’t worry, because EZiD is here to give you the inside scoop on what you should consider before selecting your new home.

Location, Location, Location: Choosing the Right BTO Town

Credit: Erwin Soo via flickr

Choosing the right location for your new BTO flat is crucial. After all, this will be your home for many years to come! Here are some things to consider:

Transport connectivity

Look at the nearby MRT stations and bus interchanges. Prioritise locations with multiple transport options so you have backup plans if there are any disruptions. Try commuting to and fro your workplace, as well as other locations you frequent, to gauge if the travelling time is acceptable. Check if the area will be served by any upcoming MRT lines as well.

If you drive, or intend to do so, try driving to and fro these locations as well. It’s important to be connected to major roads or expressways, so you can travel around our island city.

Amenities

See what amenities like supermarkets, food courts, retail shops, parks, and recreation centres are within walking distance. Living near amenities means less hassle and more convenience for you in the long run. Bonus points if there are some great hawker finds!

Schools

If you have kids or are planning to have them, check which schools are located close by and see if they meet your needs. Living near good schools is always a plus point for families.

Surrounding neighbourhood

Consider the overall vibe and environment of the neighbourhood. Look at things like cleanliness, noise levels, density and demographic. Choose an area where you will feel comfortable and secure living in for the years to come.

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Potential for growth

Some locations may experience more growth and development over time, which can positively impact property values. Do some research on upcoming commercial or residential developments in the vicinity that may transform the neighbourhood in the future.

By carefully evaluating all these factors, you'll find a BTO location that suits your needs and lifestyle perfectly. Take your time to explore the different options - your future home is worth it!

Floor Plan and Unit Type: Deciding on What Works for You

When choosing your BTO unit, the floor plan and type are two of the most important things to consider. After all, this will be your home for years to come!

Space for Your Needs

Think about how much space you'll need for your family and lifestyle. Do you want an open-concept kitchen and living area for entertaining? Or do you prefer separate rooms? Consider if you'll need a home office or study nook. And don't forget storage space - you can never have too much!

Flexibility for the Future

While a cosy 2-room flat may suit you now, will it still work if you have kids or your parents move in? Look at how the space can flexibly change to fit your future needs. Units with partitioned rooms or options to combine rooms tend to offer more flexibility.

Location, Location, Location (of your unit)

The location and orientation of your unit can impact things like natural lighting, ventilation and noise levels. North-south facing units will get more ambient light while avoiding direct east-west sun. Higher floor units typically have better views and less street noise, but these come at a bit of a premium.

Choosing a BTO unit is a big decision, but thinking about these key factors upfront will help you find a home perfect for you. And if after moving in you find there are small tweaks needed to suit your needs, there are always creative ways to optimise your space. The most important thing is that you love the place you call home!

Renovation Plans: Visualising Your Dream Home

When choosing a BTO unit, it’s important to consider how you want to renovate it to suit your needs and style. Visualising your dream home will help determine the right unit and layout for you.

If you’re considering an open-concept layout where you can knock walls to create an open kitchen, living and dining area to make the space feel more spacious, look out for the structural walls in the floorplan. Structural walls cannot be hacked, and if the room you wish to hack comes with these walls, you will not be able to create that open concept look.

Plan your ideal kitchen. The kitchen is the heart of a home, so make sure the unit allows enough space for your dream kitchen. Depending on your needs, a small kitchen enough for chef Mike aka the microwave and a few other appliances may suffice, or if you’re the Gordon Ramsay of your home, you may wish to look for a kitchen that can accommodate full-sized appliances, bar seating or a casual dining area.

For the master suite, we recommend looking for a unit with a master bedroom that’s separated from secondary bedrooms for more privacy. You may also wish to opt for a unit that has enough space for a walk-in closet.

Having a vision for how you want to renovate and make the space your own will make choosing a BTO unit much easier. Think about how you want each room to function and the overall look and feel you want to achieve. Then find a unit with a blank canvas and layout that allows you to bring that vision to life. With some renovations, you’ll be well on your way to your dream home.

Conclusion

So there you have it, the key things to consider when choosing your new BTO flat. While the process can seem daunting, if you go in armed with the right knowledge and realistic expectations, you'll find a place you'll be happy to call home. Remember, there's no such thing as a perfect home, so focus on what matters most to you and your budget. Ask lots of questions, visualise how you'll use each space, and think long-term. With some patience and compromise, you'll end up with a BTO flat you love. Best of luck with your home search and happy house hunting!