NOTG - Nuggets on the Go by PropertyLimBrothers

#91: Buying Cheap, Spotting Investment Opportunities, and How Invest with Confidence

This week, Melvin Lim, Co-Founder and CEO of PropertyLimBrothers, speaks with Tay Chi Keng, a finance YouTuber renowned locally for his thrifty investment philosophy.
 
Chi Keng started creating finance content during his university days over three years ago and quickly built a name for himself with his sharp analysis and bold plays in the Chinese tech market. What’s the secret to his success? Simply to: “Buy cheap”. He’s got strong opinions on bonds (spoiler: not a fan) and shares the importance of building networks and spotting signals to make confident moves.
 
Melvin brings his real estate perspective into the mix, contrasting Tay’s stock market manoeuvres and how property popularity plays into successful investments. Get ready for a blend of finance talk and invaluable lessons that will reshape how you think about investing. Find out what Chi Keng thinks of the stock market’s future as well.
 
Timestamps: 
00:00 Intro00:52 Why finance content?04:30 All intelligent investing is value investing08:28 How to hunt for your next stock investment12:22 Gut feeling to invest13:35 Does the popularity of the stock matter?15:06 All in investing18:50 Losing to inflation21:49 Seasons of investing in a life cycle22:19 Are cash being eroded?23:02 Losing money in investments27:32 Why invest in China?39:04 Cashing out of China stocks42:44 Prediction to the stock market next year45:54 Timing your investment48:10 Full time content creator?52:31 Stop creating content?53:23 AI stocks / NVIDIA Stocks01:00:48 Friends asking for investment advice01:03:05 Plan towards age 3001:06:15 Share buyback01:08:08 First stock / Future business plans01:09:34 Experience losing money01:12:04 If time and money is not a concern01:13:27 Outtakes

#90: Is CPF Investment Risky? How To Utilise CPF Wisely and How to Fight Inflation

In this episode, Melvin Lim, Co-founder and CEO of PropertyLimBrothers, sits down with Chris Chong, the force behind @HoneyMoneySG. From a corporate career to a full-time content creator, Chris has taken a unique path to share valuable insights on personal finance and CPF.
 
Since starting his YouTube channel in 2021, Chris has since built a dedicated following with his straightforward takes on money matters, especially how to maximise CPF for a secure financial future. Chris and Melvin discuss what it takes to grow your income strategically, use CPF for investments, and overcome limiting beliefs that can hold you back. Chris also gives practical advice on channel monetisation and shares the critical steps he believes are essential for financial freedom.
 
Hear what Chris has to say about investing in property and self-improvement as the ultimate ways to tackle inflation head-on. Learn why personal finance is more than just numbers—and how to make your money work smarter for you!
 
Timestamps:00:00 Intro01:41 How HoneyMoneySG started05:22 Career transition from Finance to Logistics06:57 Making videos about CPF11:47 Reducing expenses13:10 CPF investing16:43 Benefits about moving to Malaysia23:50 5 year plan24:20 Mindset about money27:45 Investing to memories32:08 Monitising HoneyMoneySG YouTube channel35:18 Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) Retirement40:25 Ideal retirement47:38 Fighting inflation51:21 One of the best investments53:03 Burn out56:22 Quiting to pursuing a career in YouTube59:10 Meaning of current work01:01:08 Recent goals01:02:26 Sharing milestones01:03:11 Closing thoughts01:04:05 Outtakes

#89: Tips for HDB Upgraders, Property vs. Stock Investments & 99-1 Ownership

Jesley, Alexa, and George from PropertyLimBrothers talks about the essential strategies specifically for HDB upgraders like John and Michel, and continues on the search for their right property.
 
This young, ambitious couple is eager to grow their wealth by moving into the condo market—but with big investments come big decisions, and they’re understandably cautious about the risks. Learn why supply, demand, and property age are essential factors when scouting for your ideal condo—and don’t miss George’s personal advice if he were in John and Michel’s shoes!
 
The team also discuss why timing is crucial for upgraders, what to keep in mind when choosing a property. and compare investments in stocks vs real estate. Packed with real-life examples and expert advice, this episode is also your guide towards making the best possible real estate decisions.
 
Timestamps :
00:00 Intro00:37 John and Michel Introduction01:59 Real Estate “Horror Stories”04:09 Investing in stocks vs real estate08:16 Motivations to upgrade to a condo in your 30s08:48 Financial planning for John and Michel11:55 George’s Punggol HDB Sale14:25 Things to consider before upgrading from HDB to Private16:16 George’s Punggol HDB Sale (Continue)16:26 Expansion Phase vs Consolidation Phase17:05 Advice to John and Michel19:02 New Launch vs Resale Condo21:04 GFA Harmonisation21:25 What is the “best” New Launch to buy right now?22:07 New Launch vs Resale Condo (Continue)23:03 Advice to John and Michel (Continue)24:44 Couple’s concerns with 99 to 1 property ownership26:52 Advice to John and Michel (Continue)27:57 Closing28:06 Outtakes

#88: Fed Rate Cuts, Market Reactions & Cooling Measures To Support First-time Buyers

Jesley, Alexa, and George from PropertyLimBrothers talk about the FED’s 15% interest rate cut could reshape the real estate market in 2025. With the rate reduction aimed at curbing inflation, the property market is buzzing with new opportunities. If you’re newly married, early in your career, and looking to make the smartest property move—this episode is for you.
They break down the impact of lower interest rates on property demand, discussing whether now is the time to buy or if waiting is a smarter strategy. Is the resale market about to heat up? How will enhanced housing grants and reduced loan-to-value ratios affect HDB buyers? Through the persona of a young couple, Wayne and Joanne—fresh graduates navigating their first big property decision—our team answers key questions like: Should you choose a BTO flat or resale HDB? What about a 2-bedroom condo? And how do you make sure your first property sets you up for future capital gains?
 
With engaging discussions on grants, market trends, and future-proofing your real estate decisions, this episode provides actionable insights tailored for those in the Spring of life. More on this episode!
 
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro01:25 Article: "Fed slashes interests rates by a half point"03:35 Client's opinions on interest rate cuts05:21 Article: "2 ways the latest fed interest rate cut affects Singaporean homeowners"08:59 Article: "Measures to cool the HDB resale market and provide more support for first-time home buyers"09:28 Thoughts on latest cooling measure10:43 Who is affected by the cooling measure?13:53 Increase in Enhanced CPF Housing Grants (EHG)14:30 Who is affected by the cooling measure? (Continue)18:59 Article: "How would reduced loan-to-value (LTV) limit, larger housing grants affect HDB buyers?"19:58 Article: "Vast majority of HDB buyers not affected by tighter loan-to-value (LTV) limit"21:09 Wayne and Joanne introduction22:12 Advice for Wayne and Joanne42:24 George's life experiences and property buying journey47:41 Advice: "First-time home buyers should take their time and get a second opinion before buying a home"48:19 Alexa's life experiences and property buying journey50:43 3 factors to determine what properties you can buy51:11 Advice: "First-time home buyers should take their time and get a second opinion before buying a home" (Continue)52:20 Teaser for Part 252:52 Outtakes

#87: Risks of Co-owning With Friends, Rising Property Prices & HDB vs Condo for Singles

This week on NOTG, Melvin Lim, Jun Wei, and Alexa from PropertyLimBrothers take a closer look at two single personas—Ryan and Laura—who are at different stages in life but share the same journey of finding the perfect home.
 
Are you like Ryan, 28, seeking your own personal space in a modern community with strong investment potential? In his spring season, learn why Jun Wei suggests looking at private properties in the OCR, specifically Punggol East! Or are you more like Laura, 37, torn between HDB and private property? Looking for a home to stay in and for potential investment during her summer season, and with the price disparity, which is the better investment choice—HDB or condo?
 
The team also talks about considerations when buying with a friend, how priorities shift with different life stages, and the financial aspects of making a property decision that aligns with both personal and investment goals.
 
And if this episode got you thinking about your own property journey, don’t miss the chance to gain even more insights at Property Summit 2024! Join us on 26-27 October for a 2-day masterclass packed with expert knowledge on market trends, investment strategies, and all the tools you need to build a winning property portfolio. Just starting out or looking to grow your investments, this is the event to be at!
 
Sign up here: https://assembly.sg/property-summit-2024/
 
Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:54 Melvin’s experiences with co-owning a home03:43 Ryan and Laura introduction03:48 Melvin encourages buyers to own a home under their own name04:07 Discussing Ryan’s profile04:44 Jun Wei’s thoughts on co-owning07:57 Jun Wei’s ideal co-owning plan12:16 Alexa’s thoughts on co-owning13:12 Bidadari Flats resale prices14:09 Downsides of co-owning (one co-owner with CPF, and another without CPF)18:12 Discussing Laura’s profile18:30 Tips and recommendations for Laura20:21 Laura’s potential buying plan and home options26:41 Promoting PLB Property Summit 202427:41 Symphony Suites 3-bedder listing and buying plan31:20 Symphony Suites 4-bedder layout33:04 HDB options for Laura and buying plan35:58 HDB vs Condo38:45 Number of Million Dollar HDB Resale transactions39:40 Sengkang HDBs increasing in demand41:55 First million-dollar resale flat in Bedok44:08 Laura’s potential buying plan (continue)47:18 Ryan’s potential buying plan and home options51:29 Parc Rosewood 2-bedder listing and layout53:36 Norwood Grand unit pricing54:48 Ryan’s potential buying plan (continue)57:43 Alexa’s property journey and tips01:09:52 Promoting PLB Property Summit 202401:11:28 Closing thoughts01:11:58 Outtakes

#86: Retirement: Staying In Debt or Cashing Out, Downsizing & Legacy Planning

Part two of ‘the winter personas’, the Jun Wei, George and Jesley focuses on whether retirees should fully pay off their property or maintain a loan to leverage cash flow. They examine the psychological burden of debt versus the benefits of low-interest rates, and how this decision impacts overall financial flexibility.
 
By comparing different approaches, they emphasise the importance of retirees having liquid assets for emergencies, travel, and lifestyle choices in retirement, while also reflecting on the need to stay active and engaged to avoid cognitive decline—which can be explored through downsizing.
 
And when it comes to legacy planning, how can retirees transfers to heirs while minimising taxes like Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD)? All these and more on this episode of NOTG!
 
Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:59 Alan & Justina introduction (Winter season)04:19 Fully pay a property in your retirement age?08:02 George's dream retirement life08:52 Cash flow is king11:54 All kids moving out and you stay in a landed13:38 Advice for Alan & Justina22:49 LTV dropped by 5%25:27 Income cap for resale HDB?26:36 Legacy planning32:57 Retiring young33:47 Jun Wei's dream retirement life34:58 Wealthy and happy?36:36 Different economy39:39 Upcoming new personas39:54 Buying a property with your sibling/friends42:52 Closing thoughts46:44 Outtakes

#85: Investment Fears, Aligning Property with Retirement & Legacy Planning

In this episode, Jun Wei, Jesley and George from PropertyLimBrothers introduce a fresh series that brings property investment strategies to life through personas representing different stages of life and risk tolerance. They spotlight on the ‘Autumn’ and ‘Winter’ personas, designed for older, more cautious individuals. Through the example of Peter and Lucy, a high-income couple in their 40s, we see how their investment approach starts leaning toward stability and future planning.
 
With Peter and Lucy as the case study, they highlight key aspects like income levels, mortgage strategies, and the importance of staying within safe borrowing limits. They also tackle the balance between financial security and property appreciation, focusing on choosing the right property for their future.
 
The trio lays out Peter and Lucy’s options in areas like Bukit Timah, with decisions based on school proximity, budget, and long-term goals, including a break down of their loan amounts and monthly payments to their quantum play potential for investment flexibility. The search for Peter and Lucy’s ideal property is focused on future-proofing—how cooling measures, CPF retirement sums, and the luxury rental market impact property choices for those planning beyond retirement. Find out what works best for them. If this persona fits you, this episode is not to be missed!
 
Timestamps:00:00 Intro01:50 4 seasons recap03:58 Peter & Lucy profile (Autumn season)08:05 Talking about desires09:57 Advice for Peter & Lucy16:15 Purchase options19:46 Needs vs wants25:05 Regulation for school buses & school selection28:55 Kids FOMO30:45 No perfect house31:43 Landed Private Transactions (Jan 2023 to Jan 2024)38:41 Focusing on the quantum play41:58 School bus transport students living within 4km of their schools43:52 Summary48:48 Looking through BRS retirement sum50:58 Next episode teaser51:34 Outtakes

#84: Why Construction Costs Increase, Architectural Design Trends, and Rebuild vs A&A

In this episode of Nuggets on the Go, Melvin Lim, Co-Founder and CEO of PropertyLimBrothers catches up with Joseph, the founder and principal architect of BHATCHBatch Architects, as shares his career leap from K2LD Architects to his own firm. See what Joseph has to say about the evolving trends in Singaporean architecture over his past 15 years of practice.
 
Joseph addresses the rising costs of rebuilding landed properties, acknowledging how inflation has become a homeowner’s nemesis. He shares his firm’s meticulous process, emphasising that thorough planning is key to minimising changes during construction. He reveals the importance of collaboration, illustrating how good architecture is a dance between the architect’s vision and the client’s dreams—because what’s a stunning design if it doesn’t feel like home?
 
Joseph highlights the need for empathy in architectural practice, reminding us that it’s not just about creating beautiful buildings but also about crafting spaces that truly resonate with their inhabitants. As a boss, he also promotes a work-life balance for his team, ensuring they can deliver thoughtful, well-planned designs without burning the midnight oil. After all, a healthy architect is a happy architect, and happy architects make for happy homeowners! All these and more on NOTG!
 
Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:44 Who is Joseph Lee?01:20 Why study architecture?02:26 Challenges as a fresh graduate architect04:00 Focused more in residential architecture projects07:40 What is the meaning of BHATCH?07:53 Architecture design trend evolution in Singapore11:28 Helping a buyer have an ease of exit for the newly built house15:40 Building a multi-gen house17:11 Minimum cost for a house20:25 More floors in a house21:36 Cost of rebuilding22:55 People spending more on interiors24:07 House that looks good but less maintenance25:50 Work process in the Architecture firm.30:15 Tender stage parameters32:44 Builders not completing the project36:08 Construction payment schedule37:56 Handling clients personally39:19 PLB home tour design inspiration with Joseph42:09 Using brinks in the house44:03 Materials used today ("Warm modernism")45:55 Architect style47:00 Past construction are more solid than today53:13 How long will a modern landed home last nowadays?54:31 A&A and Rebuild construction cost59:39 More rebuild nowadays?01:00:24 Demographics of landed buyers today01:01:25 More young clients01:02:24 Memorable projects01:07:41 Recently completed projects01:08:49 Future plans of BHATCH Architect01:09:56 Constraint budgets on projects01:11:33 Is it stressful being an architect?01:18:13 Condour Cards: What is one thing you didn't know about your current career when you first started?01:22:32 Closing thoughts01:22:48 Outtakes

#83: Singles Scheme: Condo Choices, Budgeting, & Purchase Strategies

In Part 2 of Alexa, Yong Zhun, and Joan’s exploration of buyer personas, they discuss Maverick, or rather, “Dallas Maverick”—a high-earning bachelor in his Spring season, seeking a condo for both status and investment. With a $10K-$12K monthly income and a $1.1 mil budget, Maverick faces the dilemma: should he opt for a 1-bedder in the RCR, or aim for a 2-bed, 2-bath unit in the OCR
 
The team covers everything from capital appreciation to the rentability of dumbbell layouts, comparing the pros and cons of Sengkang Grand Mall and Jewel at Buangkok, which could be potential areas of interest for Maverick.
 
For Maverick, it’s crucial to make the right decisions based on his unique goals—not just follow trends. As the team discusses potential areas like Potong Pasir and Pasir Ris, see what they think would help a persona like Maverick balance his desire for status with sound investment strategies.
Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:45 Spring Persona introduction04:25 Starting your journey05:06 Affordability07:11 MF Loan07:40 Choices available21:14 Recommended areas for Mavericks25:23 Age is a currency27:40 Summary28:44 Other personas29:45 Outtakes

#82: Singles Scheme: Affordability, Housing Options, Reno Costs & Resale Concerns

This week on NOTG, Alexa, Yong Zhun, and Joan dive into the life of Charmaine, a typical 35-year-old at the end of her “Spring season”, who’s just trying to get her own place—kind of like Alexa! They chat about singles’ eligibility for HDB flats at this age and navigate through the various stages of property investment.
 
They explore Charmaine’s options, from HDB resale flats and 2-room BTOs to 1-bedroom condos. The team breaks down the pros and cons, from mortgage costs and rental income to location and future resale potential. They also highlight the perks of acting early in today’s booming property market.
 
Wrapping up, they dive into the nitty-gritty of living with tenants and renovating older flats versus the benefits of a 1-bedder condo. It’s all about making savvy, financially smart choices that fit a single-buyer’s goals and future stability!
 
Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:42 Introduction of Spring Persona03:23 Affordability check for most singles05:39 Singles comfortable staying with their parents06:52 BTO Option12:25 BTO Option Comparison view22:09 HDB Resale Option29:36 HDB Resale Option Comparison view34:30 1-Bedder Condo Option38:29 1-Bedder Condo Option Comparison view P141:14 Names stuck in the property45:46 1-Bedder Condo Option Comparison view P250:31 Closing thoughts55:18 Next Episode55:44 Outtakes