Of late, house-hunters seem to have flocked back to the market, with more than a few believing that it’s close to bottoming out. Significantly, many of these buyers have been quantum-sensitive, tending towards smaller, more affordable units.
Among them are singles and young couples, who are taking their first steps on the property ladder. With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of condos that are on the market for less than $1 million. The caveats are that they must have a minimum floor area of 500 sq. ft., and be in close proximity to a multitude of amenities. Here they are, in no particular order.
Highline Residences
506 sq. ft. 1-bedroom
Best for: hip young things
Highline Residences on Kim Tian Road is of the most sought-after properties in the Tiong Bahru area. And it’s not hard to see why. It’s a three-minute stroll to Tiong Bahru MRT and Tiong Bahru Plaza. Tiong Bahru market, which reopened in May after a three-month renovation, is nearby. As are traditional Chinese eateries like Por Kee, as well as hip cafes like 40 Hands and Plain Vanilla Bakery. The development, which has a 99-year lease, is expected to TOP in December 2018. Compared to other developments, the 1-bedroom units here are decently sized at 506 sq. ft.
Check out listings for Highline Residences
Sophia Hills
570 sq ft 1-bedroom + 1 study
Best for: singles and investors
With 493 units, Sophia Hills will be the largest development on Mount Sophia once completed in August 2018. The 99-year leasehold property sits on an area rich in history – the site once housed schools, colleges and chapels. To preserve the area’s charm, the development will feature those heritage buildings repurposed as a clubhouse, childcare centre and restaurant. Of course, the property’s proximity to Orchard Road is the main draw. Its buzzing location makes Sophia Hills' 570 sq. ft. 1-bedroom-plus-study units perfect for singletons or as an investment.
Check out listings for Sophia Hills
Adana @ Thomson
560 sq. ft. 2-bedroom
Best for: Nature lovers and fitness buffs
Situated at the intersection of Lower Pierce Reservoir Park and Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park, Adana @ Thomson is aimed squarely at nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts. Foodies are also well catered for, with popular roti prata joint Casuarina Curry located just down the road. The 74-unit freehold development is expected to TOP in December 2019. As of today, there are no MRTs serving the area yet. However, the upcoming Bright Hill and Mayflower stations, due for completion in 2020, will make the neighbourhood more accessible. An average $1 million budget will net a 560 sq. ft. 2-bedroom apartment.
Check out listings for Adana @ Thomson
Queens Peak
624 sq. ft. 2-bedroom
Best for: young couples and families
Since late 2016, the Alexandra-Queenstown belt has witnessed a flurry of activity. A popular project in this area is Queens Peak, a 99-year leasehold development slated for completion in December 2020. Much of its popularity stems from its convenient, city-fringe location and direct, above-ground connection to Queenstown MRT. But the property is also noted for its relative affordability. If you have $1 million to play around with, you could get a 624 sq. ft. 2-bedder, making it the largest unit on our list in terms of floor area.
Check out listings for Queens Peak
One Dusun Residences
527 sq. ft. 2-bedroom
Best for: foodies
As far as location goes, it’s hard to beat the western end of Balestier Road, where One Dusun Residences lies. With the PIE virtually at the doorstep of this 154-unit freehold property, plus Novena MRT and popular malls like Zhongshan Mall, Novena Square and United Square within a 15-minute radius, the recently completed development is extremely convenient. Balestier is also well-known among foodies for its Boon Tong Kee chicken rice and Founder Bak Kut Teh outlets. A 2-bedder here will set you back just under $1 million.
Check out listings for One Dusun Residences