Check the corridor and lift situation. If it’s a common corridor, people pass right by your door or window, affecting privacy. Corner units are quieter. Also see if the lift stops on your floor (some older blocks don’t), as you might need to take stairs if not.
In most 3-bedroom flats, bedrooms are grouped away from the living area. Often a hallway leads to the bedrooms, separate from the living room. This helps keep noise from TV or guests in the living room from reaching the bedrooms easily.
Run taps and flush toilets to check water pressure (and watch for leaks). Turn on lights, fans, and air-con to ensure they work. Test any provided appliances as well. Check walls and ceilings for water stains or mold. Note any problems and have the landlord address them before move-in. Photograph any defects and attach them to the inventory to avoid end-lease disputes.
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.
Condo deliveries usually go through security. If you're not home, couriers often leave parcels at the guardhouse or management office for you to collect later. Some condos will call you or have lockers for packages. Find out your condo's parcel procedure so you don't miss any packages.
Yes, condo facilities often have rules and booking systems. For example, certain amenities like the BBQ pit or function room must be reserved with management in advance. These facilities also have specific rules like fixed time limits and cleanup requirements. Meanwhile, the pool or gym generally don’t require booking, but they have set hours and basic usage guidelines.
Yes, a larger space usually means higher utility costs. In a 4-bedroom, you may run four or more aircon units plus more lights and devices, which adds up. More people/rooms also likely means more water usage. So expect to pay higher electricity and water bills than in a smaller unit. To manage costs, use AC and lights only when needed and choose energy-efficient appliances.
Living alone means being prepared for emergencies like power outages, water leaks, or medical issues. Keep emergency contacts readily available, know your building's security and maintenance procedures, maintain a basic first aid kit, and establish check-in routines with family or friends. Know your neighbors and building management for urgent situations when you can't reach your landlord.
