Tag Archives: HDB News

Lift upgrade could bring windfall

Posted on 11 Oct 2009 | Comments Off on Lift upgrade could bring windfall

Opposition ward residents just got a lift, in more ways than one.

Property prices are expected to rise for flats in several blocks in Hougang and Potong Pasir. These blocks have now joined the popular Lift Upgrading Programme (LUP).

Under the programme, lift landings will be installed on every floor, which is a boon especially to senior citizens.

While the LUP will make only a small difference to the official valuation of flats in the chosen blocks, property players say their cash-over-valuation – the premium that sellers demand over the official valuation – will rise by $5,000 to $10,000.

PropNex chief executive Mohamed Ismail said: ‘The Lift Upgrading Programme definitely adds greater value.

‘This is especially so when Singapore faces a greying population. A lift landing on every floor becomes a plus point.’ Continue reading →

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HDB deserves praise

Posted on 10 Oct 2009 | Comments Off on HDB deserves praise

I REFER to Thursday’s report, ‘Hard to get that first flat? Not so’.

In the past weeks, there has been a fair amount of negative sentiment against the Housing Board over flat availability.

I urge Singaporeans not to forget what the HDB has done for so long for which we should be thankful.

Most Singaporeans have forgotten that HDB was set up to solve the gargantuan problem of providing high-standard public housing for all.

HDB has worked hard. How can we say it has done a bad job? Do we live in villages like our forefathers?

Second, are HDB flats really unaffordable?

If one compares buying an HDB flat with buying a condominium or landed property, the cash needed upfront for an HDB flat is minimal. A buyer who sets aside a few hundred dollars a month for a few years will have no problem with the down payment.

There is no excuse, especially for young professionals and executives. HDB also has grants and comprehensive loan schemes with interest rates lower than market standards. Continue reading →

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