1-bedrooms can work well for couples who spend time together and don't need separate workspaces. Consider whether you both work from home, have different sleep schedules, or need personal space. Check if the living area can accommodate both partners' belongings and activities comfortably.
Usually yes, but it’s important to clarify the rules. Ask your landlord or flatmates about kitchen use: Can you cook full meals anytime or is it “light cooking only”? Also, check how fridge space is shared. Make sure you clean up after using the kitchen (wash your dishes, wipe the stove) as a courtesy. As long as everyone respects common areas, you should be able to use the kitchen and store your groceries in the fridge without issue.
Report common area issues like lift problems, lighting, or pest control to the town council. For unit-specific issues, coordinate with your landlord first. Understand which maintenance falls under town council responsibility versus landlord/tenant responsibility. Keep town council contact information handy for emergencies.
Condo management committees can make decisions about facility usage, renovation rules, and additional charges that affect tenants. While you can't vote, stay informed about upcoming decisions through your landlord. Major changes like facility closures or new rules may impact your rental experience. Good landlords will communicate these changes and their implications.
Equal split is common, but consider room size differences and individual usage patterns. Master bedroom tenants might pay slightly more due to ensuite usage and larger space. Track air-con usage if one person uses it significantly more. Some roommates prefer separate electricity meters or smart plugs to monitor individual consumption for fairer billing.
Coordinate with your roommate about quiet hours, morning routines, and shared space usage during different schedules. Consider soundproofing measures like rugs, curtains, or white noise machines. Discuss kitchen and bathroom usage during early morning or late night hours. Establish guidelines for guests and entertainment when one person is sleeping.
Most 4-bedroom units have one master bedroom with ensuite, and three smaller bedrooms sharing 1-2 additional bathrooms. Some premium units offer two master suites. Common areas typically include larger living/dining spaces and bigger kitchens to accommodate family needs. Check if bedrooms are clustered together or spread throughout the unit for privacy considerations.
Condo management fees (maintenance fees) are typically included in your rent, but some landlords may pass increases to tenants. These fees cover facility maintenance, security, and common area upkeep. Ask if rent includes all management fees or if there are additional charges for facility usage. Higher-end condos with more amenities generally have higher management fees reflected in rental prices.
