I parked my car outside the house. A neighbor accidentally kissed it and damaged the license plate. It was replaced after a week so I drove it to an 8 a.m. meeting on Monday. Unfortunately, I was stuck in the highway for an hour. When I reached the carpark, the agitated vehicle was already complaining with strange noises. It waited till I was on the way back that it finally … [Read more...]
To let: by agent or by yourself? (part I)
A landlord posted a message in a property forum, asking whether it’s better to let the flat through an agent, a lawyer or by himself. This post is most likely from a 1st time owner. My two-cents: I don’t think it’s necessary to engage a lawyer, unless yours is a special lease that needs much customization in the contract. Lawyers tend to give 'safe advice' in order to … [Read more...]
Why I only buy 2nd hand properties
Asians have a tendency to buy everything brand new --- new clothes, new cars, new houses, new furniture, etc. Here are some of the possible reasons behind this practice: • New products are usually marketed in nice settings with attractive gimmicks. • Acquiring new things make one feel proud, especially when there’re chances to show-off. • People feel great when they buy … [Read more...]
To rent or to buy?
I just sold one of my properties yesterday. The buyer is actually my tenant. They rented the place since last year. The idea was to wait for the property market to slow down before buying their own place. Unfortunately, prices keep going up. They think I would most likely increase the rent when the tenancy expires next year. They really like my unit and decided to buy … [Read more...]