Hey, it's Friday. TGIF! Wait, it's Friday again. Will the government announce any new measures today to cool the property market? More than once, Friday has being picked for reporting such 'exciting' news. New policies mentioned today are likely to be made effective tomorrow, before everyone have a 'nice' weekend. For many who have a stake in the industry – be it … [Read more...]
Are additional buyer stamp duties necessary?
The Singapore government just announced additional buyer stamp duties (ABSD) to be imposed on foreign and multi-property buyers effective December 8, 2011. 1st time foreign buyers have to pay an additional 10 percent ABSD. Singaporeans buying 3rd property and PRs buying 2nd property have to pay 3 percent more on ABSD. This is on top of the inflated seller stamp duties … [Read more...]
Let’s separate marriage with property
There’s a 'uniquely Singapore' way of proposing to a lady, "Let's apply for a flat together." Unknowing to both parties, this is often the root of future problems. During my 1st year in Singapore, I rented a 4-room HDB flat from a young lady through referral from work. Back then the rent was $850, including utility costs. One evening, I heard someone opening the … [Read more...]