In a landed house, residents handle all the cleaning. Large spaces (living rooms, kitchen, stairs) mean more work, so housemates should set a chore routine or hire a cleaner together. Agreeing on who cleans what (and when) keeps the big home comfortable for everyone.
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.
Go furnished for convenience and lower upfront setup, but inspect furniture condition and note wear expectations. Choose unfurnished for flexibility and hygiene control, factoring in delivery time, storage needs, and the effort to move items at lease end. It really depends on whether you have furniture and want to customize the space or prefer a move-in-ready setup.
Maximize vertical space with over-door organizers, under-bed storage boxes, and wall-mounted shelves that don't require drilling. Use multi-functional furniture like storage ottomans. Check if you can use common area storage like store rooms or if the landlord allows additional furniture.
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 with 3+ roommates requires clear agreements about shared spaces, cleaning schedules, utility splits, and house rules. Consider personality compatibility, lifestyle habits, and how to handle conflicts. Establish guidelines for common areas, guest policies, and what happens if someone moves out mid-lease.
For multiple generations, prioritize accessibility and privacy. Make sure one bedroom for grandparents is easy to reach (no stairs) and near a bathroom. A 4-bedroom with a second en-suite (junior master) is ideal to give older parents their own space. Ensure there's plenty of common area for family gatherings, but also enough rooms or corners for privacy when needed. That way, everyone has a comfortable room and nobody feels cramped.
Many require a booked timeslot for lift padding and may collect a refundable deposit. Confirm required forms, booking windows, and whether your landlord handles them. Plan deliveries to match the approved window so movers aren’t turned away unexpectedly.