In Singapore, purchasing an apartment or flat under the Housing Development Board (HDB) can be a great option. However, if you already own or are renting one in the city, you can create an abode that best suits your taste and lifestyle through renovation.
This is especially true if you have plans to put up that apartment for sale or lease on the market. If you are a seller or soon-to-be landlord, here are some practical remodeling techniques designed specially to turn an HDB resale flat in Singapore into a chic and functional residence.
Increase Storage with Ingenious Solutions
Older HDB apartments frequently have little storage, but you can make the most of every available space in your house with a little ingenuity.
When it comes to compact rooms, you can create increased storage by installing built-in cupboards. Multipurpose furniture like ottomans also work great because they serve more than one function in the space.
Dealing with a tiny kitchen? Consider adding pull-out pantry shelves. That way you have convenient (and uncluttered) access to cookware or ingredients. You can even take a step further by adding a floor-to-ceiling cabinet to maximize vertical space.
Remember though that all renovations need to comply with HDB requirements. This ensures that you don’t compromise the integrity of the apartment.
Update the Bathroom
Updating the bathroom can also improve the overall appearance of your apartment. Replacing outdated cabinet doors or applying a new coat of paint can instantly update the area without going over budget.
Replacing outdated fixtures with modern, water-efficient models also helps you save on your water bill. Create the illusion of a bigger bathroom by adding large mirrors and strategically placed lighting.
Decide on a Reasonable Budget
Set aside ten to fifteen percent of your home renovation budget as a contingency for unforeseen expenses. Depending on the amount of work required, remodeling an HDB resale apartment can cost anywhere from SGD 30,000 to SGD 80,000, according to Qanvast, a popular home renovation platform in Singapore.
Knowing where to save and where to spend is another aspect of budgeting. Long-term maintenance expenses can be significantly reduced by investing in high-quality paint and sturdy flooring while choosing reasonably priced, stylish décor elements that can add personality to the room without significantly breaking the bank.
Cooperate with Skilled HDB Contractors
A contractor who is knowledgeable about HDB regulations is necessary to navigate the renovation constraints imposed by HDB. Employing a contractor with HDB remodeling experience reduces the possibility of penalties or delays and guarantees that the work conforms with laws. A skilled contractor may also offer advice on how to make the most of your available space and recommend affordable ways to update your apartment.
With careful renovation, it is possible to turn an HDB resale apartment into a modern, useful residence. You may create a contemporary room that feels distinctly yours with the correct design decisions and a reliable contractor.
