The Marriage plan – Applying for a Flat

As far as I am concern, I took the sentence “Applying for a flat” too lightly. My gullible thoughts were telling me to apply for a flat only when I am married or maybe only when we have a child of our own. It didn’t occur to me that getting a flat needed a lot of discussion between couples and of ‘course agreements.

When Andy asked me if we should apply a flat together at the six month of our relationship, I was taken aback as I find it too hasty. At six month, this man was certain of what he wanted for our future. My initial answer was “Baby, can we wait?” I mean why we even need to rush. If we are in need of a flat, we can always hunt and inquire about it after the marriage. No, I was wrong. After thinking about it for a few days, I agreed on getting a flat with Andy. Little did I know that getting was like striking a lottery? I was confident enough that we will get a number as we were first time buyer. The probability of you getting it was ridiculous even if you are a first timer. Please note that every first time buyer will get an additional chance in the ballot.

Firstly, the number of applicants for the Build-to-Order (BTO) flats will always exceed the number of flats that are launch for the sales. This would mean that the chances of getting a small number from the ballet will be low or worst still; you might not even get a number for the lot.

We applied thrice for the BTO launch and on the first two occasions, we have obtained opportunities to make a flat selection. However those numbers that we have received are numbers which have exceeded the units. This would mean that even if we were to go for the selection, the units will be of lower floors or those of balance leftover. I mean, come on, since it is going to cost us big time, it better be a unit of our selection. At the third application, we were surprised and thrilled that we have obtained a smaller number. Out of the 127 units from the 5-room, we got a lucky number 36. This would simply mean that we have more choices and higher levels (Yes please! Thank God). The selection has been done, housing loan has been approved and yes my Horizon, and here we come.

It is encouraging knowing that we do have excited and tech-savvy neighbors’ who had created a page in Facebook to gather the future occupants of Horizon. It was pretty informative as we are able to share details and tips on the flat selections. And yes, glad to know that most of my future neighbors are on Facebook. Check out Anchorvale Horizon on Facebook!

To couples out there who are planning to get a flat: You may consider some of the tips below:

- Check whether you are eligible to purchase a flat in Singapore HDB

- If you are not married, you may opt for the Fiance/ Fiancee scheme

- Check and analyze your total CPF contribution: CPF Statement

- Calculate and draft the monthly amount that you can afford to pay: Loan Calculator

- After checking on the monthly budget set for the house, decide on the type of flat you would like to purchase: 3 rooms/ 4 rooms or 5 rooms. Standard or Premium (As ours is premium, it will come with a special design attribute, hooray! Of course, we have to pay a slightly higher price for it)

- Check out the regular BTO Sales launch on the HDB site or register for the sms notification / Email

- You can also view via Mobile@HDB : Mobile

- Application for the ballot will cost you $10 for each BTO launch

- Check on the location: You may choose to visit on-site. (In our future home, we will have the luxury of a sports club, swimming pool, and school and food outlets. I doubt that we will even use it. Heehawed)

- Visit HDB Hub at Ang Mo Kio to see the showroom so that you will have the feel of the home: Visit
- It will take about 2 to 3 months before you receive a letter for the flat selection once your have obtain your number

- For further enquiries, you can check with the HDB team

PS: Good Luck!!