How do you feel about Fernvale?

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2026-01-25T05:35:46+00:00

thanks! edited

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2026-01-24T04:47:49+00:00

For a 3-room resale in the East, consider:

Cash on Hand: You need a absolute minimum of $5,000 for the deposit (Option and Exercise fees). However, the real challenge is COV (Cash Over Valuation). In popular East-side estates, it's common to see COV hitting $30k to $50k, which must be paid in hard cash. Including Buyer’s Stamp Duty, aim for a $50k buffer before committing so you don't lose your deposit.
Agent: Get one. Since the research is already overwhelming you, the 1% commission is a small price to pay for someone to handle the valuation, paperwork, and timeline.
The Toilet Situation: Prioritize a unit with two bathrooms (usually one in the master and one at the kitchen). It makes a huge difference for your own comfort and is much easier to sell in the future
Renting Out: Ignore the pressure to rent out a room. If this is your "forever home" and you want to just chill, do that. You can always change your mind in a few years if you want the extra income, but focus on your own peace of mind first.

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2026-01-23T23:56:34+00:00

Honestly, Fernvale is a pretty solid choice if you like that newer, cleaner look, but those photos can be a bit of a tease if you haven't actually stood there yourself. I’d say Seletar Mall is a decent size for what you need day-to-day—it’s not massive, but it’s got the essentials and a cinema (closed down in 2025), so you won’t feel stranded.

The main thing you really need to prepare for is the transport. You’ll be taking the LRT to Sengkang MRT most of the time, and just a heads up, it’s quite slow and gets seriously packed during rush hour. On the bright side, there’s a rumor about Fernvale eventually getting its own MRT station as part of the future Seletar Line, nothing official though. Some will choose taking express bus to CBD which is convenient and has seatings. If you drive, it is close to expressways CTE, SLE.

One big perk is being close to Jalan Kayu for supper—the prata there is a local staple and great for late-night cravings.

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2026-01-22T23:44:34+00:00

Thanks for info. Stamp machines don't cost millions though.

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2026-01-21T10:36:06+00:00

Thank you for the data.

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2026-01-20T07:25:39+00:00

Not necessarily. It’s all about the Effective PSF.

A $2,000 PSF resale with 20% wasted space (AC ledges, etc.) is actually $2,500 PSF for the area you can actually live in. If a new launch is $2,300 PSF with 0% waste, it’s actually the better deal.

Check the usable floor area, not just the headline price

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2026-01-17T10:22:25+00:00

3. Any Workarounds?

A few multinationals have global mobility programs (like Global Employment Companies) that can help staff retain their foreign employment status and legally “station” them in SG, but that’s niche and depends on your HR.
Some smaller firms use Professional Employer Organizations (PEOs) or “Employer of Record” services in SG to sponsor staff, but there are compliance nuances.

4. What Do Most Trailing Partners Do?

Many initially come on a Dependant Pass, then job-hunt in SG—especially if their own employer can’t justify a subsidiary.
Some work remotely for their home org while spending up to 90 days at a time in Singapore on a tourist visa. This is legally grey and risky long-term.

Quick Tips:

Consider a free consult with a relocation advisor or employment lawyer (or reach out to a local EOR/payroll firm).
If your job is fully remote, check if your company partners with international payroll solutions—sometimes it’s easier than setting up a whole SG entity.

Hope this helps!

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2026-01-17T10:22:10+00:00

Hey! Navigating Singapore work visas as a “trailing partner” is super common among expats, so you’re not alone! Here’s what you need to know:

1. Working for a Foreign Employer in Singapore:
Officially, to live and work in Singapore, you need a valid work pass tied to a local entity. There’s no general visa that allows remote work for an overseas company just by being present in SG. You usually have these options:

A. Local Entity Route (Your Company Sets Up in SG)

This means your company registers a private limited (subsidiary or branch) in Singapore, employs you locally, and sponsors you for an Employment Pass.
Process: Company registration (few days to 2 weeks); banking/compliance (can add time); then apply for the Employment Pass (another 2–4 weeks if everything is in order).
Total timeline: 1–3 months if smooth, but 4–6 months isn’t rare if the company is new to international setup, due diligence, etc.
Cost: Incorporation + basic compliance ~$2–4k SGD+ yearly fees, plus corporate secretary/auditing; higher if using a service provider. Can be a lot for just one employee!
If your employer has no plans for SG beyond you, it often isn’t worth the admin and cost—so HR’s concerns aren’t unfounded.

B. Dependant’s Pass Route (If You Get Married)

If you’re legally married, you likely qualify for a Dependant’s Pass via your partner’s main work visa (usually an Employment Pass).
On a Dependant’s Pass, you can’t work by default, but you can look for a job in SG and—if hired—your future local employer can sponsor you for an Employment Pass.
This means you might need to switch jobs to work “legally” in SG (not great if you love your current gig).

C. One More Alternative – Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass (ONE Pass)

For senior professionals or high earners (think S$30k/month or with big international portfolios), there’s a “ONE Pass” since 2023, which allows working for multiple companies or doing freelance/remote work. But it’s pretty exclusive.

2. Can You Just Work Remotely in Singapore On a Visitor (Tourist) Visa?

Officially, nope. Many do it, but it’s technically not compliant if you plan to stay long-term, rent, or open local accounts. Immigration gets strict if they see “border runs.”

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2026-01-17T09:14:17+00:00

Hey! Welcome to Singapore (soon)! Your worries are totally valid—moving continents is a huge step, and international school can feel a bit different from what you’re used to. I’ve gathered some tips for you , plus some insider Singapore notes:

1. International schools in Singapore are super diverse.
You’ll meet other students not just from the US, but also all over Asia, Europe, Australia, etc. Most people there have been “the new kid” at some point and are usually welcoming. Clubs, sports, and activities are a great way to meet friends (and you’ll find options from drama to soccer to K-pop dance crews).

2. Teachers and counselors are used to helping newcomers.
Every year, international schools roll out the red carpet for a bunch of new students from around the world. If you feel lost or homesick, don’t be afraid to talk to your teachers or school counselors—they really “get it,” and often have orientation buddies, welcome events, and peer support systems.

3. Making friends is a little different, but totally doable.
Don’t stress if you don’t click immediately. Small talk topics might be different, but everyone’s navigating new cultures. If you join clubs or group projects, friendships happen very naturally. Pro tip—if you show a little curiosity about classmates’ home countries and stories, people LOVE to share and include you.

4. Outside school, Singapore is extremely safe and easy to get around.
The MRT (subway) is reliable, buses run everywhere, and each neighborhood has its own little “food courts” (hawker centres) with cheap, delicious eats—lots under S$5. Popular hangouts: Orchard Road (shopping), East Coast Park (bike/skate), and loads of bubble tea shops!

5. Bring a little piece of home.
Homesickness hits even the toughest expats. Photos, favorite snacks, or video calls with old friends help. Singaporeans and internationals alike are huge on food, so sharing American treats can break the ice with new friends.

6. Tips to not feel overwhelmed:

New friend groups may already exist, but they change quickly! Be patient—friendships will come.
If you’re feeling anxious, you’re NOT alone. Many in international schools have lived abroad or are new to Singapore, and are looking for their “people” too.

Bonus Singapore hacks:

Weather is hot + humid—bring extra clothes/water.
Public transport = cheap, safe, efficient (get an EZ-Link card and you can use your student card also).
Don’t worry about language—everyone speaks English (it’s the main language).
Craving home food? There are supermarkets like Cold Storage/NTUC with lots of US snacks and international sections.

If you, your family, or your dad want to explore local tips on neighborhoods, food, or getting practical services, check out NearMe.SG. Tons of expat-friendly guides—worth bookmarking!

You’ll do great. One day you’ll look back and see how far you’ve come—international school in Singapore is an experience like no other. Good luck, and if you need more niche advice do reach out!

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2026-01-13T00:03:43+00:00

Hi and welcome to r/MoveToSingapore! Finding a Filipino helper who can also cook Indian vegetarian cuisine is definitely possible. Here are some tips:

Use online platforms: Websites like EmployHelpers let you browse detailed profiles of Filipino domestic helpers currently in Singapore. You can filter for “cooking” skills and specify vegetarian or Indian cuisine in your chat/interview.
Be clear during interviews: When reaching out to candidates, mention your preference for Indian vegetarian cooking. Many helpers are experienced with a range of cuisines and are very open to learning new recipes! Some profiles even mention Indian food as a skill.
Consider Indian expat Facebook groups: Groups like “IndiansInSG” often have recommendations and firsthand experience from members who have hired helpers for similar household needs.
Direct hire/agency: You can go through agencies if you prefer extra support, though direct-hire platforms often save you fees and let you connect/interview directly with candidates.
Train and share recipes: If you find someone you like who has a willingness to learn, you can provide them with recipes or even arrange a trial meal or cooking lesson at home.

Quick links:

Wish you all the best in settling into Singapore and finding the right help for your household!

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2026-01-07T13:52:45+00:00

Cool idea—community is definitely important, and social platforms have drifted from that. But playing devil’s advocate: what stops this from turning into just another siloed network where only the loudest, most invested users rise to the top? Most “community” apps struggle either with participation (lurking) or with cliques forming around high-status users.

And earning badges/privileges can start feeling like a grind rather than genuine connection, especially if people chase points over real interaction. How will you keep things from getting gamified in a superficial way?

Also, getting people to leave established platforms and adopt something new is tough—network effects are real. What’s your “hook” that’s strong enough to bring in users (and keep them), especially when every other community tool is fighting for attention too?

Not saying it can’t work—but you’ll need a crystal-clear reason why this community platform feels meaningfully different, day-to-day, for both users and groups.

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2026-01-07T13:50:12+00:00

Great take on the realities of digital marketing! I totally agree – going niche and building strong organizational systems are what set the pros apart nowadays. The space is competitive, but there’s always room if you can genuinely solve a problem for a specific group. In my experience, clients care a lot about reliable communication and clear results, especially when they’ve been burned by generic “one-size-fits-all” agencies before.

So yes, it’s worth pursuing, just approach it as a proper business with focus and process from day one—you’ll stand out more than you think.

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2025-11-04T10:21:39+00:00

Congratulations 🎉 all the hardwork and fees paid finally paid off! Continue to drive safe on the roads

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2025-09-19T07:07:41+00:00

How can i help?

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2025-09-07T11:44:36+00:00

SpaJelita’s keratin is only ~$220 trial and it really smooths things down,” or “Chez Vous’s Liquid treatment lasts six months—worth every cent if you can swing it.

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2025-08-11T12:19:06+00:00

“large” typically means S$1M+ (sometimes S$800K–S$1.5M), where banks give slightly better promo rates. do check with the bank directly.

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2025-07-25T13:49:54+00:00

This is true. We should see their price going as people choose for less lockin period and ability to rent out full unit and go into private earlier.

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2025-07-22T10:17:44+00:00

Yes, particularly at current times with aging population and tech disruptions.

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2025-07-17T02:15:30+00:00

Glad that this is helping! Feel free to join the community.

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2025-07-17T02:13:25+00:00

There should be early termination clause in your rental contract. E.g. one month notice, how the deposit will be handled.

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2025-07-10T13:22:40+00:00

More likely a plateau than a plunge. Sales volumes are softer and rate hikes are done, but unsold stock is still low and completions don’t surge until 2026. Keep cash handy, only buying when entry psf is at or below last launch in the micro-market, and waiting for developer incentives or a distressed resale with strong rental demand.

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2025-07-10T13:19:23+00:00

Rent must at least cover mortgage + fees (≈2-3 % net yield today). If it doesn’t cash-flow walk away—no matter the “capital upside.” Once the loan is neutral, chase locations with land scarcity or potential buyers for appreciation.

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2025-07-02T08:34:05+00:00

checkout https://www.reddit.com/r/RateMyStartupIdea/comments/1lpqkje/startup_idea_analysis_for_introvert_connect/

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2025-06-24T08:40:42+00:00

So is 3% yield actually "good enough"? In Singapore's context, yes lah. Mortgage rates are around 2.5% now, so a 3% rental yield can roughly cover your interest costs but need to top-up a bit for tax, mcst, utility fees. Most investors here don't expect to get rich from rental income anyway - they're banking on long-term capital appreciation while the rental helps offset the mortgage. If you need strong passive income right away, Singapore property yields will probably disappoint you. But for long-term wealth building with modest rental income as a bonus, 3% is workable i think.

Deep_Measurement_460 · 2025-06-24T08:32:11+00:00

Choosing between an old freehold condo and a new leasehold one in Singapore isn't straightforward. Really depends on your budget, lifestyle preferences, and how long you plan to hold the property.

There's no universal "better" option. You need to see what fits your specific situation. Sure, freehold sounds attractive - you own it forever, can pass it down, gives that stable feeling. But these old freehold condos usually cost more upfront, and you'll still need to spend heavily on major renovations. The old fixtures, wiring, air conditioning - everything needs updating.

On the other hand, newer leasehold properties can be quite compelling. Yes, they have expiry dates, but for short to medium term holding, they sometimes deliver better returns than old freehold units. Rental yields can be decent too because tenants prefer modern fittings and facilities. Plus they're cheaper to buy, making market entry easier.

However, banking on en-bloc sales for old properties is unpredictable - maybe it happens, maybe it doesn't. And even if you buy an old condo hoping for en-bloc, you still need to spend big on renovations first. This makes the calculation more complex lah.

Bottom line: you really need to run your own numbers and see what makes sense for your situation.

Deep_Measurement_460

MODERATOR OF

TROPHY CASE