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So we have checklists for buying a new car, and why not one for a new home? I've consolidated what I have previously written here, so everyone can benefit and also contribute and some of the info comes from other bros. Before we even go into the list, there are some basic things to do: - make sure everyone in the family agrees to this purchase, and whether it's for investment or as a home - check your financials well and get a large enough budget to buy and for renovations or other costs - do your homework! Check the online property forums, buy and sell places and see what your money can buy and which regions suit your needs best So, now onto the buying process Is it going to be landed, a flat or a condo? Some of the general principles which apply to all three types: Is the home paid for or is the seller still in debt and not bankrupt How many owners are there, and any divorce in process. Who is the legal owner or executer of the property if the owner is deceased? Is it tenanted and when does the lease run out Can you break the lease How old is the place. As a general rule, most places under 10 years can do without major renovations and you can use the piping, aircons and wiring. Most places above 20 years old will need more extension renovations - freehold, 999 years or Leasehold (how many years left) - location - is it within 1km to a primary school and how many places are there - sun direction - North South is the ideal - developer matters too - some are cheap and use poor quality materials - neighbours - good ones to whom you can entrust your keys, psycho ones, and nosy ones - visit the location at different times - if you go over a weekend it's usually quiet and the traffic is light, so see at at peak hours and see if there's any choke points and if the streets around it become very noisy or is there a school or some place that attracts a lot of noise - amenities eg market, food places, 24 grocery, petrol station, postbox - near work - near a clinic or GP - MRT, bus or good roads etc to work, school etc - wind : how well ventilated it the place - how high is the place - the interior of the place, can you salvage the parquet floor for example - TV reception - is there a fibre / home line (will cost $288 to run a new fibre line for example) - where is the mains and the PUB meter located - do you have the plans for the electricals Items specific to an apartment: - the shape of the unit, any odd unusable corners, how square is it - how many units are there? Is it going to be too crowded over the weekends to swim? - what are the amenities? Sometimes too many water features, landscaping or pools will mean higher costs to maintain - pools: regular shape? Good for swimming laps or merely for wading? Any lifeguards? - maintenance fees - sinking funds - more units will mean more people to share costs. Small developments will need larger contributions to fix items like lifts, repainting costs etc - number of lifts, is it private - ratio of parking lots to units and the number of visitor lots - number of entry and exits, side gates - how much power is there? As a rule, you need a minimum of 45A and up - any provision shops? - who runs the place? which security company do they employ? - get a copy of the house rules - eg no moving in hours and are there a lot of AirBnB listings? Items specific to houses: - plot ratio and GFA - zoning and potential developments of the area - who was the designer or builder and are they still around - cul de sac - land size, is it square or narrow, can you expand the built up area? (remember to account for set back if you do more than A&A) - soil analysis - is it reclaimed land - fengshui : water, wind and mountains etc - at a junction - noise level in the neighbourhood - any new developments - renovations or reconstruction can continue for years around the place - is there going to be enbloc or a new road running through the area - if the homes near you are going to be replaced by flats, the roads can be much busier - parking - flooding / ponding - any religious building around you or a popular eatery that attracts a lot of visitors eg illegal parking during peak periods and noise levels - any piped in gas... so you don't need to use gas tanks - any retaining wall, and is it near a 24 hour gas station - noise and fumes - is the place close to electrical plant or substation - how much power is there? Single Phase or Triple Phase (most modern terrace houses will have a triple phase 63A main DB, which can support the needs of most homes, even those with a swimming pool) Don’t forget to check for termites and mossies. How windy and well ventilated the place is. How wide is your lane and even the type of roof and tiles used. Bring a builder along to give you an idea of renovation costs.. But before you even look around, do the financials first. Make sure you have a loan approved in principle and also enough cash for the renovations with a 20 percent buffer. Then bring the check book for every viewing. A basic renovation for a landed place can go from 2-300k, and for a A&A you might be looking at twice that. Adding a new roof 50k, and a new floor around 150k. A tear down? It can be 600k and up and these costs don't include furniture or fittings. Time is the other factor you have to budget in. Add 20% to any schedule, especially if you are doing it around Chinese New Year or Christmas. Be detailed in your planning, for example: If you are doing a rebuild, make sure you work with your builder and neighbours. A small road - like the Countryside one, yes that 'wide' road, may not be able to take a full truck or a cement mixer coming in. And with such a long road, you need to coordinate with the entire road of owners, so they clear the road such that the truck can come in. Trust me, it's not a given nor an easy task. If a car gets scratched... be prepared for an ugly scene. So also check that your contractor is registered and has insurance. One of your neighbours might own a limited Maclaren that your builder just happens to nick whilst transporting your tiles into your plot... Are there any other persons building in the same area, maybe you two can work together and save cost on building materials or if the other person started first, they can share some of their experiences Is there space for your builders to park? Is there good road outs of your estate or are you reliant on a single exit which can get very clogged up during peak hours? Here's a BCA owner's checklist guide Finally, I would like to start that I'm not an agent. I'm just trying to share since others have helped me before and I'm giving a little back so everyone can benefit. But YOU and you alone need to get that info you need. No one will spoon feed you and there's no charity. You find those good deals, with the aid of a good agent. Look at as many areas as you can, and take your time. But timing is everything and sometimes, that dream home just pops up and you have to be ready. You snooze and you lose... Good luck! BCA Homeowners Guide.pdf

Wow MOM sibeh hor ! Can help graduates from 700 university world wide to look for jobs , while our own graduates got to seek jobs themselves ! Luckily now kena stop liao , after GE poor results ? :angry: http://sg.news.yahoo.com/scheme-helping-fo...inued--mom.html A scheme which allows foreign graduates up to one year to seek employment in Singapore has been discontinued with effect from 1 December, said the Ministry of Manpower. Current holders of the Employment Pass Eligibility Certificate (Epec) will now have to apply for a three month, non-renewable, long-term visit pass if they wish to continue seeking jobs here. But this is subjected to the Epec being still valid from the date issued. The certificate, which is only given out on a one-time basis, is not renewable and valid for two years. In reply to Yahoo! Singapore’s queries on why the scheme was removed, a MOM spokesman said, “The Epec Scheme was not meeting its intended objective of helping employers recruit EP-calibre talent.” Of the Epec applications received each month, only less than 10 per cent were approved, added the spokesperson. According to The Straits Times, one of the criteria applicants need to fulfill is that they have to be graduates of any of the 700 universities stated on the MOM’s approved list. Once the applicant has successfully applied for the Epec, it signalled to employers that the holder is likely to be eligible for an Employment Pass. However, the certificate is not a work pass. The ministry’s latest move comes after it enhanced the Employment Pass (EP) framework in its three categories in August to filter the number of foreigners applying for jobs in the country. For instance, young graduates seeking the Q1 pass will have to meet the qualifying salary of at least $3,000, an increased from $2,800. Meanwhile, the qualifying salary for P2 pass will be raised from $4,000 to $4,500. There will be no change for the P1 Pass, which remains at $8,000.

I have been trying various polishes, waxes, polymer, etc that give that 'wet' look. But I have yet see one that give a deep 'wet' look. The shine are either deep, but not that shiny or very shiny look 'superficial'. Btw, is there one that gives a truely 'wet' look? Over the years. I've tried autoglym SRP, EGS, extra deep shine, soft 99 auth series, zaino series, hi-glaze 88, NXT, etc. It will be nice to hear about your own experiences on those listed and those which are not in the list. I'm particularly interested in Klasse and #21 vs any of those listed.

These videos was taken some time back. Decided to share some of my personal encounters. Video 1 Ang Moh was on Phone, holding on right hand some more. Too bad I can't snap a shot with my phone. Video 2 Kena lane cut for no reason. Cut liao still Brake Brake Brake! Buay somg lim beh horn you flash you is it? Video 3 Don't tell me I am Road Hogging!

First time car buyer here. Planning to sign for my first car soon. Will be buying a new car at an AD. Any brothers/sisters here can advice on what to take note of when signing for the car?

I like the new look, and the engine isn't bad either

It seems they are quite lonely out there:- Nissan Cube Diahatsu Material Nissan Juke Range Rover Evogue Peogeut RCZ Etc...... (feel free to add)

For example Golf is 176 torque with 112 bhp. But the pickup seems faster than a stock civic which have higher bhp and torque

2016 is almost over, and we still have one or two more blockbusters, but next year, we have quite a few sequels, a few new shows in store.. Are there any shows that you are looking out for in the coming year?

Japanese women list the things men do that make them look cool without even realizing it https://en.rocketnews24.com/2017/11/15/japanese-women-list-the-things-men-do-that-make-them-look-cool-without-even-realizing-it/ Tiny gestures can make big differences in how these women see a man. Japan puts a lot of effort into personal appearance, as thorough grooming and stylish, seasonal attire are considered by many to be prerequisites for going out the door in the morning. But recently women on Internet forum Oshiete Goo highlighted the fact that often a man is at his most attractive when he’s not actively trying to look cool. The discussion was kicked off when one woman, going by the screen name kozakura, posted: “What are the little gestures and moments that make you think you could fall for a guy? For me, it’s when a man gets a serious look on his face when he’s putting something together or repairing something. Or when he’s talking to an animal…that gets me every time.” From there, others were quick to chime in with their personal favorites, some of which, like kozakura’s mention of household repairs, included old-fashioned masculine activities, or simply the overall atmosphere of the strong silent type. “I like the look a guy gets in his eyes when he’s driving and checks the next lane before crossing over into it.” “When he reaches up to change a lightbulb, or gets something off a high shelf and hands it to me with a smile.” “For me, more so than talkative guys, I like men who are sort of resonant. Guys who have a cool quietness to them, and who only show their smile to people they’re really close to, those are the kind of guys who get my heart racing. Seeing them smile, there’s a childlike cuteness that just pierces my heart.” But as some women pointed out, even the most mundane motions can be enough to make them feel drawn to a guy. “When a guy takes off his glasses, to casually scratch his eye, wipe the lenses, or put in eye drops.” “The way his hands look when he’s dividing up a large plate of food for everyone at the table.” “The way he walks. If I think a guy is cool or handsome, he always has a gallant stride. It’s like his attitude and life philosophy are all reflected in the way he walks.” Of course, some were willing to admit that they might be reading a bit too much into these mannerisms, such as the woman who said: “There’s something attractive about a guy who’s looking off into the distance. It’s like he’s getting ready to take on a big challenge, or chase after a fervent dream…or maybe he’s just admiring the view.” But as far as providing that initial spark of attraction, these little things can be enough. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Your thoughts?

Looking at pre-loved 6yo C200 CGI. What are some of the things to look out for in pre-owned C200 ? Any help would be GREATLY appreciated.

Hi, I test drove a lot of cars at the start, but now I think I have shortlisted down to 2 cars. So I want to test drive them again and compare between the two. Should I look for the same SEs who helped me the first time, or just any SE at the showroom? I'm just concerned that if I look for the same SE, they will take it a serious sign of interest and disturb me with phone calls, etc. What do you guys do for 2nd test drive?

Sigh... i wonder whether will affect me... http://abcnews.go.com/Business/wireStory/toyotas-recall-639-million-vehicles-23263661 A Look at Toyota's Recall of 6.39 Million Vehicles April 10, 2014 (AP) By The Associated Press Toyota Motor Corp. said Wednesday it's recalling 6.39 million vehicles globally for various safety defects. The total rises to 6.76 million if vehicles with multiple recalls — like the Yaris subcompact — are counted for each recall. No one has been injured due to the recalls, but the company says two fires have been linked to a defective engine starter. This is a breakdown of the vehicles and defects involved. PROBLEM: Electric connections can be damaged when the steering wheel is turned, which could deactivate the air bags. VEHICLES INVOLVED: 3.5 million. Includes the RAV4, Vanguard, Corolla, Matrix, Yaris, Land Cruiser Prado, Highlander, Tacoma, Reiz, Camry, Hilux, Fortuner, Innova and Pontiac Vibe (which was developed for General Motors by Toyota). Vehicles were made between June 2004 and December 2010. PLACES SOLD: Mostly North America, but also Japan, China, Europe, India and elsewhere. PROBLEM: Spring in the front seat rails could break, so the seat may not lock into position. VEHICLES INVOLVED: 2.32 million. Includes the Ist, Vitz, Belta, Ractis, Scion xD, Urban Cruiser and Yaris built between January 2005 and August 2010. PLACES SOLD: Mostly Japan, but also North America, Europe, China and elsewhere. PROBLEM: Weld that connects the steering column bracket to the instrument panel can break if the steering wheel is repeatedly turned with full force. The steering column may tilt out of position, but the driver can still control the car. VEHICLES INVOLVED: 760,000. Includes the Ist, Vitz, Belta, Ractis, Scion xD, Urban Cruiser and Yaris built between September 2005 and February 2009. PLACES SOLD: Mostly Europe, but also Japan. PROBLEM: Faulty windshield wiper motors. VEHICLES INVOLVED: 160,000. Includes the Ist, Vitz, Belta and Ractis built between September 2005 and February 2008. PLACES SOLD: Japan. PROBLEM: Metallic particles may accumulate in the engine starter's circuitry, increasing the risk of a fire. VEHICLES INVOLVED: 20,000. Includes the Porte, Spade, Corolla Axio, Corolla Fielder, Auris, Ractis and Subaru Trezia (developed by Toyota for Subaru). Vehicles were built between March 2012 and August 2013. PLACES SOLD: Japan and Hong Kong. Source: Toyota Motor Corp.

Have long have you guys been using it? Is it a fake or genuine face-lift? Or part of some hackers' plot?

what models will they be? the guessing game starts now. SINGAPORE: Traffic police will use unmarked patrol cars in addition to their normal fleet of marked cars to conduct enforcement patrols. Minister in the Prime Minister's Office and Second Minister for Home Affairs & Trade and Industry, S Iswaran, said this is to ensure self-discipline and reinforce the message that motorists should follow to traffic rules at all times. Traffic Police will also form a dedicated patrol team that will focus on motorcyclists. The last time time Traffic Police used unmarked patrol cars was in 2004. Mr Iswaran announced this at the launch of the 5th Bukit Batok Driving Centre Ride Safe 2012 campaign on Saturday. Last year, there were 193 traffic accident fatalities, up from 183 in 2009. Eighty nine were those of motorcyclists last year, while the number was 54 in the first six months of this year. - CNA/ck

After the recent BOMB saga, we cannot rule out more bombs will be found underground in SGP, or even near where we work / live / play. While SAF / SPF / SCDF and what nots are still defending / searching for the best ways to safeguard the safety of we peasants and cover their asz, maybe we should do something ourselves to protect ourselves instead of sitting there like, whatelse, sitting ducks. In the true spirit of self-help, my family has decided to setup our own bomb disposal team, and hope our neighbours will do the same asap as some of them have found some bombs during their morning walk just today!! My DIY homemade bomb-disposal crack team consists of.... only me ....... i had just conducted the team's very first live-exercise right at home... to be precise, in my toilet. After the disposal was done, everyone at home was totally relieved except they complained that the smell from the bomb lingered on throughout breakfast.... But nothing beats doing something ourselve to make our home a safer place.......... please try it, you can do it at home!! Have a safe, though maybe smelly, day!!

the judge probably have to judge from other area [laugh]

Newbie here. Would like to ask where or which workshop has good body kit for A-Class.

It's like that.. I have this mild tingling pain on my right ankle this few days and its not going away by itself it seems.. It just happen, and i didn't sprain my ankle or hit anything i could remember.. Now, with age catching up, I think this could be old man stuff, minor or major and thinking of getting a doc to check it out. Then I'm stucked, I don't know who to look for.. Don't think normal gp could help, then if need to look for specialist, don't know how and who to look for..I heard if I just walk in, sure kena carrot and better to have polyclinic referral letter. What is the right approach to get an appointment to the right section to check up without burning a big hole in my wallet?

http://news.asiaone.com/news/singapore/debt-collectors-mocked-funan-stallholder?page=0%2C2 Look at the last pic of the debt collection agency boss (wearing red). He look quite happy. Maybe because the publicity of this will help his business? If people owe me money I think I also will engage this Double Ace Agency! They sure go the extra mile! GEMS! PSB should give them award! The face of the Mata (black shirt main pic) makes me smile. His expression is like 'KNS, you play punk limpeh will punch you right on your ear'.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/men/the-filter/virals/11367934/High-speed-archers-video-of-incredible-trick-shots-goes-viral.html

http://theconversation.com/smug-couples-patronise-singles-to-feel-better-about-themselves-21770 An interesting read. Lately I have been meeting up with old friends and I start to feel pissed off when our conversation focussed on my weight and singlehood. I mean like. If I am fat, what is TT to you and if I am single, tts my choice. Sometimes the focus is so much until I dun feel like talking anymore...... Like there is no other topic. Any Bros here have any similar experience ? How do you handle it? For me. I simply learn to choose my friends better.

How can parents take it.... Look at how our MSF subsidies fee structure for special needs.

Lol... china censorship http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asiapacific/china-censors-squash/1278090.html

Python hides in Eunosville toilet bowl, bites housewife's thigh May 1 was Labour Day, her son's second birthday, and now, Madam Noraslinda Asat (above) has another reason to remember this date for life. The 34-year-old housewife was bitten by a python as she sat on the toilet bowl last Thursday, around 5.10pm. She was in her Eunosville home's master bedroom ensuite bathroom when she felt the sharp pain. Standing up, she saw the jaws of a 1.8m-long python clamped on the back of her right thigh. She was taken to hospital where she received an injection and was discharged. The snake has not been caught and Madam Noraslinda is still traumatised. She has refused to use either toilet at home, preferring public ones at places like the coffee shop. Read the full report in The New Paper on Thursday (May 8) http://www.tnp.sg/content/python-hides-eunosville-toilet-bowl-bites-housewifes-thigh This is scary! If it was a man in this case, his kuku bird might have been bitten off by the python. Make it a habit to look carefully into the toilet bowl before sitting down to do your business.