Weekly Blog for a family man in Singapore

🏡 Does Buying Property in Singapore Still Make Sense in 2025?

Singapore’s property market has long been a favorite topic at dinner tables, hawker centres, and financial blogs. With real estate prices having surged over the past decade—and with cooling measures, higher interest rates, and an uncertain economy—many are asking:

“Does it still make sense to buy property in Singapore?”

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, seasoned investor, or considering upgrading, this article dives into the current property landscape and breaks down the pros and cons of different property types: HDB flats, condominiums, landed homes, and commercial properties.

🇸🇬 The State of the Property Market in 2025

Singapore property prices, especially in the private residential sector, saw steady growth post-COVID. Although price growth has slowed in 2024–2025 due to cooling measures and higher interest rates, demand remains resilient due to:

Low unemployment
Limited land supply
Singapore’s strong global appeal
Immigration and PR applications rebounding post-COVID

The government continues to implement cooling measures like:

Higher ABSD (Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty)
Tighter loan-to-value limits
Stricter Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR)

These have cooled speculation—but not eliminated interest.

🏠 HDB Flats: The Backbone of Homeownership

✅ Pros:

Affordability: Heavily subsidized for first-time buyers, especially BTO flats.
Grants & Incentives: CPF Housing Grant, Enhanced CPF Housing Grant, and others help reduce upfront costs.
Low Interest Rates on HDB Loans: Fixed 2.6% vs bank loans that can fluctuate.
Stability in Value: While not for speculation, many HDB flats hold their value well, especially in mature estates.

❌ Cons:

99-Year Lease Decay: Older flats lose value over time and may be ineligible for SERS.
Restrictions on Renting/Selling: 5-year Minimum Occupation Period (MOP); no immediate investment return.
Limited Capital Gains: Compared to private properties, HDBs typically don’t offer significant appreciation.
Resale Demand Is Uneven: Flats in non-mature estates or with less convenient amenities may struggle with demand.

Verdict:

Perfect for first-time buyers and families who value affordability, grants, and stability. Not ideal for capital appreciation or investment.

🏢 Condominiums: Lifestyle and Investment Appeal

✅ Pros:

Better Facilities: Pools, gyms, security—condos offer a lifestyle upgrade.
Freedom to Rent or Sell Anytime: Especially for private condos (not Executive Condos under MOP).
Capital Appreciation Potential: Prime district or MRT-proximate condos tend to appreciate well.
Foreigners Can Buy: Unlike HDBs or landed, condos are accessible to foreigners and PRs, ensuring wider resale demand.

❌ Cons:

High Price Tag: Entry point for new launch condos in 2025 is ~$2,000–$2,400 psf or higher.
Maintenance Fees: Monthly costs for upkeep, whether you use facilities or not.
Over-Supply Risk: Some regions (e.g., OCR or fringe areas) may see flat pricing due to high supply.
ABSD and Taxes: Additional stamp duties for second properties and foreigners erode returns.

Verdict:

Ideal for those who want both lifestyle and long-term investment growth. Requires careful selection of location and entry price.

🏡 Landed Property: The Ultimate Dream (with a Price)

✅ Pros:

Scarcity = Long-Term Value: Only 5% of housing in Singapore is landed, keeping it exclusive.
No Condo Restrictions: Full control over your land, design, and home layout.
High Upside Potential: Especially in freehold estates or gentrifying neighborhoods.
Generational Asset: Great for legacy planning, multigenerational living.

❌ Cons:

Extremely High Cost: Entry price for terrace homes now ranges from $3 million up; semi-Ds and bungalows easily hit $5–$15 million.
No Facilities: No gym, pool, or clubhouse—unless you build them.
Maintenance Burden: You’re responsible for structural upkeep, pest control, gardening, etc.
Limited Liquidity: Fewer buyers; takes longer to sell than condos or HDBs.

Verdict:

Best for the ultra-wealthy, legacy-minded buyers. Not for short-term flipping or those with budget constraints.

🏢 Commercial Property: Offices, Shophouses & Retail Units

✅ Pros:

No ABSD: Unlike residential properties, commercial assets are not subject to additional stamp duties.
Potential for High Rental Yield: Especially for well-located retail or F&B spaces.
Ownership by Company: Suitable for business owners buying for self-use.
Longer Leases Possible: Commercial tenants often sign 2–3 year leases.

❌ Cons:

GST & Taxes: Commercial property buyers may need to factor in GST or business property tax.
Challenging Tenant Market: Especially for retail spaces post-COVID, with high turnover risk.
No CPF Usage: Cannot use CPF for purchase or loan repayment.
More Volatile Than Residential: Sensitive to economic cycles, tourism, and foot traffic.

Verdict:

Good for seasoned investors or business owners who understand the risks. Not ideal for first-timers or those seeking stable, passive income.

🧮 Is Property Still a Good Investment in Singapore?

Here’s a simple decision framework:

Question	If Yes...
Is this your first home?	Consider BTO or resale HDB, take advantage of grants.
Are you buying for lifestyle + investment?	Look at well-located condos. Freehold or near MRT hold value better.
Do you want to leave a legacy?	Landed homes are scarce and preserve generational wealth.
Are you a business owner or seasoned investor?	Consider commercial property, but know your numbers.
Is your income tight or volatile?	Renting or waiting may be wiser until you're more financially stable.

💡 Final Thoughts: Yes, But With Clear Purpose

Buying property in Singapore still makes sense—but only if it aligns with your personal goals, financial readiness, and time horizon. It’s no longer a guaranteed windfall like in the 2000s. Careful analysis, clear planning, and a longer investment mindset are essential in 2025.

In short:

HDBs: Great for first homes and affordability
Condos: Balance of lifestyle and returns
Landed: Scarce, luxurious, and long-term in nature
Commercial: Niche play with higher risks

Before making a move, run the math: consider mortgage interest, cash flow, rental yields, exit strategy, and worst-case scenarios.

“Don’t buy property just because everyone else is doing it. Buy it because it fits your long-term plan.”

📩 Thinking of upgrading, investing, or buying your first home? Talk to a financial advisor, property consultant, or banker to get a holistic view before diving in. It's a big decision—and the right move starts with clarity.

100 Bucket List Ideas to Accomplish Before Turning 50

Life is a journey filled with moments we wish to experience, adventures to embark on, and personal milestones to achieve. Many people set out to accomplish certain goals by a certain age. I am nearing my 50. Recently i have been thinking, besides health and wealth, what are the other things i would like to achieve in life. I thought of the bucket list. Here are 100 bucket list ideas that could make my life fuller, richer, and more exciting.

Adventures Around the World

See the Northern Lights in Iceland or Norway.
Take a road trip across the Malaysia and Indonesia, visiting all states.
Visit all 7 continents — including Antarctica.
Climb a mountain, like Mount Kilimanjaro or a less daunting one.
Swim with dolphins in the wild.
Take a hot air balloon ride over a scenic landscape.
Explore the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.
Walk the Great Wall of China.
Go on an African Safari in Kenya or Tanzania.
Trek to Machu Picchu in Peru.
Go scuba diving in the Galapagos Islands.
Take a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon.
Attend Carnival in Brazil.
Stay in an overwater bungalow in the Maldives.
Go whale watching in Alaska or New Zealand.
Travel to Paris, France, and see the Eiffel Tower.
Drive along the Pacific Coast Highway in California.
Witness a solar eclipse in an amazing location.
Explore the pyramids in Egypt.
Travel to Japan during cherry blossom season.

Personal Growth & Learning

Learn a new language fluently.
Master a musical instrument (guitar, piano, etc.).
Take a photography class and capture special moments.
Write a book (memoir, novel, or collection of short stories).
Complete a public speaking course.
Take a cooking class in Italy or Thailand.
Learn how to meditate or practice mindfulness daily.
Start a journal and write every day for a year.
Take an improv class or performance arts class.
Learn to dance, whether it’s salsa, tango, or ballroom.
Create your own website or blog.
Volunteer for a cause that means a lot to you.
Take a painting class or try other forms of art.
Start a podcast and share your passions or insights.
Take a mixology course and learn to craft signature cocktails.
Attend a writer's retreat to jumpstart your creative process.
Learn to knit or crochet.
Go on a silent retreat to reset your mind.
Take a financial literacy course and become financially savvy.
Learn to code and create your own app or website.

Physical Challenges & Wellness

Run a marathon or participate in a triathlon.
Take a yoga retreat in Bali or another peaceful destination.
Complete a 30-day fitness challenge (like push-ups or planking).
Hike a famous trail, like the Appalachian Trail or Pacific Crest Trail.
Learn to surf.
Try rock climbing (indoor or outdoor).
Take a fitness class you’ve never tried before (Zumba, Pilates, etc.).
Sleep under the stars while camping.
Take part in a mud run or obstacle course.
Swim in a natural spring or thermal pool.
Join a sports league, like soccer, tennis, or even pickleball.
Get a health check-up and commit to lifelong wellness.
Try ice skating or roller skating if you haven't already.
Do a digital detox for a full weekend.
Adopt a healthy lifestyle with sustainable habits (nutrition, exercise).
Take a forest bath in Japan for mental clarity.
Sleep in an ice hotel.
Walk 10,000 steps every day for a month.
Take a cycling tour through a new city or country.
Learn to kayak or paddleboard.

Social & Family Experiences

Host a dinner party and invite close friends and family.
Reunite with old friends you’ve lost touch with.
Create a family tree and learn about your ancestors.
Visit every relative you haven’t seen in years.
Go to a family reunion and reconnect with distant relatives.
Start a tradition like a yearly vacation or holiday activity.
Take a cooking class with your partner or children.
Take a road trip with your best friends.
Adopt a pet from an animal shelter.
Plan a surprise for someone you love.
Celebrate a milestone birthday with friends and family.
Have a picnic in a park on a warm sunny day.
Attend a wedding that’s been a long time coming.
Plan a surprise proposal for a partner.
Host a game night with friends and family.
Plan a family volunteering day.
Take a family vacation to an exotic destination.
Create a scrapbook or memory box with photos and mementos.
Take your parents on a trip somewhere they’ve always wanted to go.
Have a spa day with your best friend or family.

Giving Back & Charity

Volunteer at a homeless shelter or food bank.
Donate blood regularly.
Mentor someone in your career or life journey.
Build homes with Habitat for Humanity.
Support a charity close to your heart by raising funds or awareness.
Adopt a child’s education by sponsoring them.
Organize a fundraiser for a cause you care about.
Create care packages for the less fortunate.
Help out during a natural disaster or crisis in your area.
Plant trees to support environmental conservation.
Sponsor an animal at a zoo or sanctuary.
Clean up your local beach, park, or neighborhood.
Donate clothes and items to people in need.
Start a community garden.
Raise awareness about mental health and share your own story.
Support ethical and sustainable brands.
Provide a scholarship for someone’s education.
Assist in building sustainable living solutions.
Create a charity event or run to support important causes.
Leave a legacy by establishing a scholarship or endowment fund.

Conclusion:

These 100 ideas cover a wide range of activities to enrich my own life, from adventure and learning to wellness and giving back. Whether i choose to cross off a few items or all of them, my journey toward fulfilling my bucket list will undoubtedly lead to a life full of unforgettable experiences, personal growth, and deeper connections. Start planning today, and make the next 50 years even more amazing!

What's one of the items from this list you’re already working on or dream of achieving?

How to Plan a Trip to Cameron Highlands from Singapore: The Ultimate Guide

Tired of the hustle and humidity of Singapore? If you're looking for a cool-weather escape with lush landscapes, charming tea plantations, and fresh strawberries, look no further than Cameron Highlands, Malaysia. Perched about 1,500 meters above sea level, this highland retreat in the state of Pahang is a popular destination for nature lovers, families, couples, and anyone craving a breath of fresh mountain air.

In this blog, I’ll walk you through everything you need to plan the perfect trip to Cameron Highlands from Singapore—how to get there, when to go, where to stay, and what to do. Let’s dive in!

🗓️ Best Time to Visit Cameron Highlands

Cameron Highlands has a cool climate year-round, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 25°C. That said, the dry season from February to September is the best time to visit if you want clear skies and pleasant weather. The wet season (October to January) brings frequent rain, but the misty atmosphere adds a mysterious charm, especially if you love photography.

Avoid going during Malaysian public holidays and school vacations—traffic can get congested on the narrow mountain roads.

🚗 How to Get to Cameron Highlands from Singapore

There’s no direct flight or train to Cameron Highlands, so your journey will involve a combination of land transport.

Option 1: Drive from Singapore (6–8 hours)

The most flexible and convenient option is to drive or rent a car. Here's a rough breakdown:

Singapore → Johor Bahru → Tapah or Simpang Pulai exit → Cameron Highlands
Travel time: ~7 hours (including immigration and breaks)

Make sure your car insurance covers driving in Malaysia, and don’t forget to bring your passport, Touch ‘n Go card, and driver's license.

Option 2: Bus from Singapore (8–10 hours)

Several coach companies operate direct buses from Singapore to Cameron Highlands. Most buses leave at night and arrive in the morning.

Operators: Unititi Express, Konsortium, The One Travel
Departure points: Golden Mile Complex, Boon Lay, Kovan
Arrival point: Tanah Rata Bus Terminal
Cost: SGD 40–60 (one-way)

This is a budget-friendly and stress-free option if you don't want to drive.

Option 3: Fly to Ipoh + Car/Taxi (1-hour flight + 2 hours drive)

You can fly from Singapore to Ipoh, then take a taxi or private transfer up to Cameron Highlands.

Airlines: Scoot, AirAsia
Duration: 1-hour flight + 2-hour drive
Total travel time: ~4–5 hours

This is a good choice if you’re short on time or want a more comfortable journey.

🏨 Where to Stay in Cameron Highlands

Cameron Highlands has accommodation options for every budget—from luxury resorts to budget hostels. The main towns to stay in are:

Tanah Rata

Best for first-timers and backpackers
Central location with restaurants, cafes, and the bus terminal
Popular hotels: Century Pines Resort, Avillion Cameron Highlands

Brinchang

Closer to farms, night market, and attractions
Slightly more hectic, but more local vibes
Popular hotels: Copthorne Hotel, Strawberry Park Resort

Tringkap & Kea Farm

More secluded and scenic
Perfect if you're after tranquility and cooler weather
Best for families or those with private transport

Pro tip: Bring a jacket or sweater! It gets chilly at night, especially in Kea Farm.

🍓 Top Things to Do in Cameron Highlands

1. Visit BOH Tea Plantation

Iconic tea estate with stunning views and a cafe
Free factory tours to learn how tea is made
The Sungai Palas branch near Brinchang is the most famous

2. Pick Strawberries

Visit Big Red Strawberry Farm or Raju Hill for fresh strawberry picking
Great activity for families and couples
Don’t forget to try strawberry ice cream and waffles!

3. Explore Mossy Forest

A misty, magical cloud forest filled with moss-covered trees
Best visited with a guide or tour due to difficult terrain
Bring waterproof shoes and a jacket—it can be wet and cold

4. Check Out the Lavender Garden

A colorful flower park with lavender fields, photo ops, and snacks
Entrance fee: ~RM 15
Also features butterfly garden and a small gift shop

5. Enjoy a Steamboat Dinner

Perfect comfort food for chilly nights
Popular steamboat spots: Hot Pot Times, Jin Jin Steamboat, Restoran Taman Apple Cameron

6. Shop at Brinchang Night Market

Open on weekends and public holidays
Great for local snacks, fresh produce, and souvenirs
Must-try: sweet corn, fried mushrooms, honey products

🧳 What to Pack

Here’s a quick checklist to help you pack for Cameron Highlands:

Light jacket or hoodie (it gets cold at night)
Comfortable walking shoes (some trails are muddy)
Umbrella or raincoat (especially during the wet season)
Passport (if crossing from Singapore)
Touch ‘n Go card for tolls and parking
Reusable water bottle

Optional: camera, snacks for the road, motion sickness tablets (winding roads ahead!)

💰 Budget Estimate (3D2N Trip)

Here’s a rough breakdown for a 3-day, 2-night trip for one person from Singapore:

Item	Estimated Cost (SGD)
Transport (round trip)	$80–$150
Accommodation (2 nights)	$100–$200
Food & Drinks	$50–$80
Attractions/Tours	$20–$40
Shopping & Misc	$30–$50
Total	$280–$500

Costs vary based on travel style, group size, and choice of transport/hotel.

✅ Travel Tips

Book buses or hotels in advance, especially during peak season.
Bring cash (RM) for small stalls and rural areas.
Avoid visiting during public holidays to skip traffic and crowds.
Drive cautiously—mountain roads are winding and often foggy.
Wake up early for attractions—the tea plantations and forests are most beautiful in the morning light.

Final Thoughts

A trip from Singapore to Cameron Highlands offers a complete change of scenery—cool weather, mountain views, and a slower pace of life. Whether you’re sipping tea in a hilltop cafe, picking strawberries with your kids, or hiking through a misty forest, the highlands offer a rejuvenating escape just hours from the city.

So, pack a sweater, hop on a bus (or hit the road), and let Cameron Highlands work its magic. 🌿

Have questions about planning your own trip? Drop them in the comments below—I’d love to help!

Life After Hitting $100 Million Net Worth: A Whole New World

Crossing the $100 million net worth threshold isn’t just a financial milestone—it’s a transformation of identity, relationships, influence, and responsibility. At this level, you’re no longer just wealthy; you’re among the global elite, in the top 0.01%. The freedom is unparalleled, but so are the complexities.

While $1 million buys peace of mind and $10 million unlocks financial autonomy, $100 million provides power—to shape industries, influence communities, and build lasting legacies.

So, what is life really like when you reach this level of wealth?

1. You’re No Longer Playing the Same Game

At $100 million, the metrics change. You're no longer comparing yourself with neighbors or colleagues. You're now in a league of your own.

You stop thinking in thousands or millions. Now, deals, opportunities, and decisions are often evaluated in tens of millions.
Your wealth generates immense cash flow. Even a 3–5% return yields $3–5 million annually—enough to fund a lavish lifestyle without touching principal.
You become a key player in larger ecosystems. Founders, family offices, sovereign funds, political leaders—these become your peers.

This is a different game. And you’re now one of the people who write the rules.

2. The World Opens Up—Literally

$100 million doesn’t just give you options. It gives you access.

Private aviation becomes standard. You fly private not for luxury, but for time and efficiency.
Residency and citizenship are assets. Second passports, diplomatic visas, and residency-by-investment programs open global doors.
You build a global footprint. Homes in London, New York, Singapore, and the Alps become part of a lifestyle strategy—not a fantasy.

You're not just free—you’re borderless.

3. Wealth Infrastructure Becomes a Necessity

At this level, managing money isn’t a personal task—it’s a full-time operation.

You establish a family office. This team handles investments, taxes, philanthropy, legal matters, and even personal security.
Asset protection is strategic. You use trusts, holding companies, offshore entities, and complex structures to reduce exposure.
You think in perpetuity. Your wealth now spans generations; decisions are made with 50+ year implications.

Wealth becomes more than ownership—it becomes stewardship.

4. Privacy Is Not a Preference—It’s Survival

With great wealth comes visibility—and risk.

You become a target. For lawsuits, extortion, or cybercrime. You’re on lists. Your kids could be, too.
You go quiet. No more posting real-time vacation shots. No more flashy Instagram reveals. Privacy becomes your greatest asset.
You invest in protection. From gated estates and travel security to encrypted communications and home fortresses.

At this level, true luxury is being invisible.

5. You Shape the World Around You

$100 million brings not just influence—it brings the ability to create change.

You can sway industries. Through venture capital, private equity, or direct ownership, you shape market directions.
You can influence policy. Political donations, lobbying, and advisory roles become accessible and impactful.
You can solve big problems. You’re no longer a donor. You’re a patron. You can fund universities, hospitals, climate research, or social enterprises.

At this stage, the question shifts from What can I buy? to What can I build?

6. Legacy Becomes the Driving Force

Once your financial needs are irrelevant, purpose becomes paramount.

You think generationally. How do you raise children who aren’t entitled but empowered? How do you pass down values, not just assets?
You invest in your name. Foundations, scholarships, buildings, memoirs—your legacy takes tangible form.
You start playing the infinite game. You ask: What impact will I leave 100 years from now?

You’ve reached the level where your wealth outlives you. Now you decide how.

7. Relationships Are Complex—and Carefully Curated

When you're worth $100 million, genuine human connection becomes harder—but more valuable than ever.

You attract agendas. Business “opportunities,” requests for help, long-lost friends—many come with strings.
Your circle shrinks—but strengthens. Trust becomes sacred. Loyalty is rare and protected.
Romantic relationships require clarity. Prenups, trusts, and legal frameworks ensure love isn’t confused with leverage.

You can afford almost anything—except betrayal.

8. Identity Shifts—Sometimes Uneasily

Extreme wealth brings internal challenges, too.

You may feel isolated. Few people can relate to your concerns. Conversations about money shift—or vanish.
Impostor syndrome can arise. Especially if wealth came suddenly through a business exit or inheritance.
You ask: Who am I without the hustle? After years of striving, a vacuum may emerge. Purpose isn’t always automatic.

True contentment now depends less on income—and more on introspection.

9. Time Becomes Sacred

While the rest of the world trades time for money, you no longer have to. Still, you realize:

Time is the only finite currency. You can earn more, invest more, and build more—but you can’t buy more time alive.
You live deliberately. Every meeting, flight, dinner, or hour spent is a choice.
You protect your calendar. Gatekeepers, executive assistants, and buffers are there not for status—but for focus.

Time isn’t something you spend. It’s something you guard.

10. You Realize: Wealth Is a Tool—Not an Identity

Finally, once the novelty fades, you’re left with a profound truth:

Money amplifies who you already are. If you were generous, you give more. If you were anxious, you worry more. Wealth reveals character.
You realize happiness still requires work. Mental health, purpose, connection, and vitality still need effort.
You focus on self-actualization. Because once survival and status are handled, what’s left is simply: “What makes life worth living?”

At $100 million, you stop chasing wealth—and start using it to become.

Final Thoughts: It’s Not About the Money Anymore

Life after hitting $100 million is about mastery—not survival, not success. You’ve passed through every threshold—financial freedom, security, prestige. Now, it’s about how you wield that power.

The challenges are more existential than material. The questions become deeper:

What impact do I want to leave?
Who do I trust with access to me?
How do I raise grounded children?
What does fulfillment look like now?

The truth is, $100 million doesn’t give you all the answers. But it gives you the time, freedom, and space to ask the right questions.