Viewing a resale flat in Singapore is not just a house tour – it’s a fact-finding mission.

1/ Why I’m Sharing This

If you’re buying a resale home for the first time, this is for you.

Over the past years, I’ve had the privilege of working with experienced realtor while helping to sell homes.

Every resale viewing and transaction has taught me something new – small but crucial things you won’t find in brochures or property portals.

So if you’re a first-time buyer, or helping your loved ones shop for a home, I hope this list helps you avoid costly mistakes and approach your next viewing with clarity and confidence.

Let’s get into it!

2/ Do Your Homework Before the Viewing

Before stepping into a flat, equip yourself with knowledge.

Here’s your checklist:

• Look up the listing: Study the photos, floor plan, and renovation status.
• Research the area: Schools, MRTs, hawker centers, and future developments matter.
• Understand the market: Are resale prices rising? What did similar units sell for?
• Check eligibility: Are you affected by EIP/SPR quotas or lease decay?
• Check URA’s Master Plan to see what’s coming up around the area.

3/ Schedule the Viewing (Smartly)

Pick a time that helps you truly experience the space.

• Arrange the viewing during midday – Singapore’s hottest period – to test ventilation and heat retention.
• Check transport options:

– If you’re driving, map the route and parking.

– If taking MRT/bus, check your travel time.

• Confirm all details: Date, time, block, unit, and who’s attending. (Make sure we are on time, because we need to respect other’s time)
• And bring a notebook (for your observations and questions). (If you’re old school like me, it’s better to bring a REAL notebook instead of typing on phone.)

4/ Ask These Crucial Questions

This is your chance to dig beneath the surface. It’s a great chance to gain further insight into the property and eliminate any uncertainties you might have.

Here’s some questions buyers forget to ask – but shouldn’t:

• Why is the seller moving?
• Have there been renovations? Were they HDB-approved?
• Any past issues? Think: leaks, pests, structural cracks.
• What’s included in the sale? Fixtures, air-cons, fridge?
• Are there nearby developments? (Is there a potential to boost or diminish the property value in the future?)
• Are there any Loan shark activities?

A good agent will answer clearly and candidly. If they’re vague, take note.

5/ Observe With All 5 Senses

You’re not just buying a property. You’re buying a lived experience.

So view with purpose:

• Visuals: Cracks, stains, peeling paint?
• Smell: Mold, sewage, cigarette smoke?
• Sound: Is the unit near a main road or a school?
• Touch: Uneven tiles or soft flooring?
• Intuition: Does the space feel right?

6/ If You Like What You See – Consider Making an Offer

If the unit checks your boxes and your gut agrees, it may be time to make an offer. But don’t rush…

• Compare recent transacted prices
• Factor in renovation costs and Buyer’s Stamp Duty
• Know your walk-away number

Include contingencies if needed (e.g. subject to loan approval or an extension of stay by seller).

Once accepted, you’ll sign the Option to Purchase (OTP) and typically have 14 days to exercise. This is your final chance to pull out or renegotiate.

7/ Get Yourself a Professional Support

Yes, you can DIY. But working with a property agent will help you more than you can imagine.

An agent will help you:

• Validate property value
• Uncover red flags
• Negotiate better terms
• Navigate paperwork and deadlines

This is especially useful if you’re buying with a partner or family – more moving parts, more to manage. Find someone you trust and will always stand in your best interest.

8/ Final Thoughts

Resale viewings may seem casual, but they’re critical. Every door you step into is a potential home – and also a potential money pit.

So:

• Prepare like you’re investing hundreds of thousands (because you are)
• Ask what others are too shy to ask ( If you have an agent representing you, they should be helping you to ask more questions )
• Walk in with open eyes, ears, and mind (Trust your Guts and the Numbers)

I hope you find this guide useful!

This newsletter aims to give you clear, straight-to-the-point tips for viewing a resale property.

Contact me for a private chat.

If you’re reading this and require some help in planning your finances for your next move—whether to buy, sell, or hold off. Drop us a message for a consultation that tailors to your situation.

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