When I was younger, I used to think that marriage and buying a HDB (Housing and Development Board) flat was the ultimate ‘happy ending’.
After all, it seemed like the perfect life for any couple – getting married and having a place of your own. But little did I know that this ‘happy ending’ was actually the start of a whole new set of life struggles.
For starters, getting a HDB flat isn’t as easy as it sounds. Sure, there’s the HDB loan that most people take up, but you still need to save up for the downpayment, which can be quite a challenge for some. And then there’s the daunting task of applying for the flat itself, which can be a long and tedious process. It’s no wonder why a lot of people these days are opting to rent instead.
Even after you get the flat, there’s still the matter of furnishing it and getting it ready for you and your family. Again, this can be quite a challenge, especially if you’re on a tight budget. It’s easy to get carried away and splurge on furniture and appliances, but that’s something you should really try to avoid.
And then there’s the day-to-day upkeep of the flat. From paying your mortgage to dealing with maintenance issues, there’s a lot of responsibility that comes with owning a HDB flat. It can be quite a hassle, especially if you’re still trying to adjust to the demands of married life.
Then there’s the issue of children. If you’re planning to start a family, then you’ll need to consider the cost of raising them. It’s not just about providing for them financially, but also ensuring that they get the proper education, healthcare and other basic necessities that they need.
And let’s not forget about taxes. Owning a HDB flat means that you’ll have to pay property taxes. It’s important to be aware of the amount of taxes that you’ll have to pay, as well as any other tax-related matters.
These are just some of the struggles that come with marriage and buying a HDB flat. It’s not always a ‘happy ending’, as I once thought it was. It’s a life-long commitment that requires dedication, hard work and sacrifice.
But at the same time, it’s also a rewarding experience. Even with the struggles and hardships that come with it, marriage and HDB flats can still be a source of joy and happiness. After all, it’s a great way to start your own family and create a stable and secure future for yourself and your loved ones.
So if you’re planning to get married and buy a HDB flat, just remember that it’s not always going to be a ‘happy ending’. But with dedication and hard work, it can still be a rewarding and fulfilling experience.