Is your dream home a financial trap? Singapore's cooling measures and shifting interest rates have upended the old playbook—Build-to-Orders (BTOs), resale flats, and executive condos (ECs) no longer play by the rules you think you know. Howie Lim and Eugene Lim, president of the Singapore Estate Agents Association, unearths the hidden costs, minimum occupation period (MOP) traps, and stress-tests your finances so your biggest purchase builds wealth, not regret.

Synopsis: Every Monday, The Business Times breaks down useful financial tips.

Highlights:

01:13 The hidden time cost of a BTO

03:13 Turning private property into liquid wealth

05:54 ECs - best of both worlds, at a cost

10:03 4 per cent stress test every buyer should run

12:51 The Ministry of National Development (MND)'s big policy shakeup, explained

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Send us your questions, thoughts, story ideas, and feedback to btpodcasts@sph.com.sg.

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Written and hosted by: Howie Lim (howielim@sph.com.sg)

With Eugene Lim, key executive officer, ERA and president of the Singapore Estate Agents Association

Edited by: Howie Lim & Claressa Monteiro

Produced by: Howie Lim & Chai Pei Chieh

A podcast by BT Podcasts, The Business Times, SPH Media

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Do note: This podcast is meant to provide general information only. SPH Media accepts no liability for loss arising from any reliance on the podcast or use of third party’s products and services. Please consult professional advisors for independent advice. 

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