#102: HDB Upgrading Explained: Fears, Financing and Property Value

Upgrading from an HDB flat to a condo may seem like a dream—but is it the right move for you? In this week’s episode of NOTG, Yu Rong, Jesley, and Jun Wei talk about the fears, finances, and opportunities surrounding Singapore’s most commonly considered first property upgrade.



 

Through the real-life case of John and Michel—a 33-year-old couple with a combined income of $14,000—they break down critical considerations like managing higher monthly instalments, understanding principal and interest payments, and leveraging dual-key units to offset mortgage costs. They also examine whether splitting their purchase into two smaller properties could yield better returns while addressing concerns about shrinking condo sizes and the effects of HDB cooling measures on property appreciation.





Curious about navigating government policies, balancing affordability with space, or exploring creative financing strategies? Watch on to uncover actionable strategies for building wealth and managing risks in Singapore real estate.

 

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro
00:51 Charmaine persona preview (Single professional)
03:00 Options
16:50 Looking at 1-Bedder units
20:20 Finding the right unit
23:30 Lee Jun Wei's free tip
28:28 2025 Predictions
35:00 Closing thoughts
42:41 Outtakes