Condos usually have special move-in procedures. Expect lift bookings with protective padding and refundable deposits. Paperwork may include forms and ID copies. Schedule deliveries within approved windows and keep receipts. Planning this early avoids movers waiting downstairs while approvals are sorted last minute.
Students and young professionals often prefer HDB rooms for affordability and convenience. Expat families typically choose condos for amenities and international community. Established families might opt for landed houses for space and privacy. Consider your lifestyle priorities: budget-conscious renters suit HDB, amenity-seekers prefer condos, and space-needing families benefit from landed properties.
Address issues early through calm, direct conversation before they escalate. Use 'I' statements to express how situations affect you rather than making accusations. Suggest practical solutions and be willing to compromise. If direct communication fails, involve the landlord or main tenant as a mediator. Document serious issues and consider whether the living situation is sustainable long-term.
Studios are energy-efficient to cool with one air-con unit covering the entire space. However, cooking heat and humidity affect the whole living area immediately. Good ventilation becomes crucial - ensure windows open for cross-ventilation and the kitchen has effective exhaust. Consider the orientation and whether the unit gets direct sunlight, which can make small spaces uncomfortably warm.
Sharing reduces rental costs and can provide companionship, but requires compatibility and clear agreements about shared spaces, expenses, and lifestyle habits. Consider whether both bedrooms are equally desirable, how to split utility costs fairly, and what happens if one person wants to move out early.
Measure wardrobe depth, check for full-length hanging, and look for shelves that suit daily items. Visualize bed placement, door swing, and airflow. Make sure a desk or cot fits without blocking pathways or covering sockets and switches.
Look for sun exposure, corridor traffic, and window seals. Older blocks may show wear, so check for water stains, spalling, and musty smells. Test airflow with windows open and closed to understand heat buildup and ventilation effectiveness.
Check all door and window seals, clear gutters and drains, and ensure proper drainage around the house. Test sump pumps if present and know where water shut-offs are located. Prepare sandbags or flood barriers if the area is prone to flooding. Trim overhanging branches that could fall during storms and secure outdoor furniture.