Recently, I went to 2 of my friends’ home for gatherings. One is a landed cushy property in a quiet estate, the other a slick penthouse apartment off the coast. Although travelling distance from town is roughly similar, travelling time differs greatly. Both required taking a train and then switching to a bus, but the former took about an hour and a half while the latter only slightly under an hour.

Of course, both families own car(s), so I guess it doesn’t really matter to them. But to common folks who do not own wheels, location becomes a pivotal factor in determining its practicality. To actually spend that much time on public transport isn’t the most appealing, so easy accessibility is absolutely crucial. Access to common amenities like supermarkets and cafeterias also seem lacking in private estates.

Not all’s bad with landed properties though. For one, there’s probably less neighbours to deal with, meaning smaller chances of neighbourly disputes (Everitt Road not withstanding). Most lots are also freehold which allow for generations to live in the same family home as compared to limited 99-year leases on apartments.

My personal preference goes to apartments, like most average Singaporeans who live in HDB flats or condominiums. Frankly, having a landed property just isn’t my cuppa tea. All I need is close proximity to a train station or bus stop and ready availability of common amenities. Those would make life perfect. I’m a simple man, so honestly, I don’t see the need for the high life.