Buying your first home is exciting… and yes, it comes with a lot of terms and conditions.
If you’re a first-time homeowner, there’s suddenly so much to learn. Loan rates, tenure periods, down payments, renovation costs, and how not to overspend before you’ve even moved in. It’s practical, overwhelming, and emotional all at once.
So before you sign anything, here are a few things worth talking through.
Does This Home Fit Your Life?
When you’re house hunting, it’s easy to picture your future self – in fact it feels great to dream about it – the more settled you, the more organised one. The version of you earning a little more and feeling more secure.
But, before you commit to the next 30 years in one space, pause and ask yourself:
- Can I actually live with this commute every single day?
- Would I be okay trading privacy for convenience, especially in a TOD (Transport Oriented Development) setup?
- What’s planned for this area in the next few years? Highways, new developments, changes in the neighbourhood?
- If I’m planning to start or grow a family, does this location still make sense?
Owning a Home Is Expensive
Most first-time buyers focus on one main question: “Can I afford the monthly repayment?”
That matters, of course. But it’s not the only cost you’ll be living with.
There’s maintenance. Utilities. Parking (which often isn’t included, especially in serviced apartments). Furniture. And then there are the little surprises, leaks, wear and tear, fixes you didn’t budget for.
If owning a home leaves you constantly worrying about money, the excitement wears off very quickly.
Always take into account some financial breathing room.
Your First Home Doesn’t Need to Look Like Instagram
There’s a lot of pressure to get everything right the first time – the perfect unit, in the perfect location, with the perfect layout, in the “right” neighbourhood.
But, keep in mind that your first home is quite literally your FIRST home.
Many of the homes we admire online took years to become what they are.
They take off with slow renovations and small upgrades. A lot of those homeowners also took a chance on neighbourhoods that were still developing back then.
So, be kind to yourself and realistic with your checklist. Stay aware of upcoming developments and watch how areas grow.
Before You Sign Anything
All in all, buying your first home will come with a lot of advice from everywhere and opinions you didn’t ask for, even from your loved ones – p/s they usually mean well.
Remember that it’s okay to slow down and take your time.
It’s also okay to say no even after your fourth showroom appointment because a first home is a massive commitment, and it doesn’t need to prove anything.
P/S: Final tip, check out what offers are out there for first-time homeowners by the government, such as RUMAWIP and Stamp Duty Relief.
Last but not least, if you’re looking for your first home, all the best, and pick wisely!