Post-Purchase Tips for New Condo Owners in Singapore: Homejourney’s Trusted Guide

New condo owners in Singapore must take several essential post-purchase steps to ensure a smooth, safe, and confident transition into ownership. From legal registration to practical move-in and ongoing maintenance, Homejourney provides a comprehensive guide so you can protect your investment and enjoy your new home with peace of mind.

This article is part of Homejourney’s Home Buying Guide cluster, offering tactical, Singapore-specific advice for buyers and investors. For a complete overview of the property buying process, see our pillar guide: Complete Guide to Buying Property in Singapore 2025: Homejourney’s Trusted Playb... .

Key Post-Purchase Steps for New Condo Owners in Singapore

After your purchase is complete and you’ve collected your keys, follow these specific steps to ensure your ownership is secure, your home is protected, and your move-in is hassle-free.

1. Register Change of Ownership and Update Utilities

Immediately upon completion, your conveyancing lawyer will register your ownership with the Singapore Land Authority (SLA). It is critical to:

• Check that your name is registered with the SLA and all legal documents (title deed, Option to Purchase, etc.) are in your possession.
• Update your ownership details with the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) for property tax purposes and with the Building and Construction Authority (BCA).
• Arrange for the transfer of utilities (water, electricity, gas) and ensure all billing information is current. This is usually done on the transaction date, but confirm receipt of all updated accounts to avoid service disruption[4].

2. Secure Your Condo with Insurance

Protect your new investment by arranging:

• Fire insurance: Some banks require it as part of your mortgage agreement. Check if your developer or agent has already provided coverage for the building structure.
• Home contents insurance: Covers your personal belongings, renovations, and liability. Compare policies for coverage and exclusions. Homejourney recommends reviewing your policy every year or after significant renovations[1][4].

3. Set Up Mortgage Servicing and Review Bank Arrangements

Ensure your mortgage repayments are set up for automatic deduction via your servicing account (often using CPF and/or cash). Key tasks include:

• Reviewing your loan’s lock-in period and penalty clauses for refinancing or early repayment[2].
• Confirming all bank rates and payment dates with your lender. For current rates and mortgage advice, visit Bank Rates .

4. Inspect Your Unit Thoroughly Before Moving In

Conduct a comprehensive inspection of your new condo to identify defects or incomplete works. For new launches, developers are obliged to rectify defects reported within the 12-month Defects Liability Period (DLP). Action steps:

• Use a detailed inspection checklist. See Essential Property Inspection Checklist for Singapore Buyers | Homejourney Guide for a trusted guide.
• Check for water seepage, cracks, faulty fittings, electrical issues, and ensure all appliances are functioning.
• Report defects to the developer in writing and keep records of all communications and rectification works for your own protection.

5. Plan for Renovation and Moving-In

After defect rectification, plan your renovation and moving-in timeline. Key considerations:

• Submit renovation plans to your condo’s Management Corporation Strata Title (MCST) for approval. Non-compliance may result in penalties or removal of unauthorised works[1].
• Book your move-in date with the condo’s management office, adhering to stipulated moving hours and lift protection rules.

6. Settle Ongoing Financial Obligations

Once you own your condo, you are responsible for ongoing payments:

• Property tax: Pay annually to IRAS. Rates differ for owner-occupied and investment properties.
• Maintenance fees: Pay monthly or quarterly to the MCST. These cover common area upkeep, security, and sinking funds.
• Other recurring costs: Sinking fund contributions, utilities, and insurance premiums[4].

7. Prioritise Safety, Security, and Regular Maintenance

Homejourney’s commitment to user safety means making your home secure from day one. Recommended actions:

• Change locks or digital access codes immediately after key collection.
• Test and service all air-conditioning units. For trusted technicians, see Aircon Services .
• Familiarise yourself with the condo’s emergency procedures, security contacts, and MCST by-laws.

8. Build Good Relationships with Your MCST and Neighbours

Active communication with your MCST ensures you are informed about condo rules, renovation guidelines, and upcoming meetings or maintenance schedules. Consider joining the MCST council to have a say in management decisions and community initiatives, further enhancing your living environment’s safety and value.

9. Stay Informed and Plan for Long-Term Value

Track market trends and understand your property’s potential for appreciation or rental yield. For project data and recent market statistics, visit Projects Directory or stay updated with Straits Times Housing News . Homejourney verifies all data to help you make confident, strategic decisions as an owner.

Singapore Market Insights: Why Post-Purchase Vigilance Matters

With Singapore’s private home prices rising 2.8% in Q1 2025—continuing a multi-year upward trend—condos remain a preferred asset for both owner-occupiers and investorsStraits Times Housing News . The government’s strong regulatory framework, including the Building Maintenance and Strata Management Act (BMSMA), ensures strata-titled properties are well-managed, but owners must play an active role in compliance and maintenance.

Typical monthly maintenance fees for new condos range from S$300–S$600, depending on size and facilities. Property taxes for owner-occupied condos start at 4% of annual value, with higher tiers for investment properties. Early diligence and ongoing vigilance are crucial to maximising your property’s value and avoiding unnecessary costs or disputes.

Actionable Checklist for New Condo Owners

• Confirm legal ownership registration with SLA, IRAS, and BCA
• Transfer utilities and update billing details
• Arrange fire and home contents insurance
• Set up mortgage servicing and review bank rates Bank Rates
• Conduct a thorough defects inspection and report issues promptly Essential Property Inspection Checklist for Singapore Buyers | Homejourney Guide
• Submit renovation plans for MCST approval
• Settle all ongoing financial obligations (taxes, maintenance fees)
• Change locks/access codes and service air-conditioning Aircon Services
• Engage with your MCST and neighbours for a safer, more enjoyable community
• Regularly monitor property market data Projects Directory , Straits Times Housing News

Frequently Asked Questions: Post-Purchase Condo Ownership in Singapore

What are the most important things to do after collecting my condo keys?

Confirm your legal ownership registration, transfer utilities, arrange home and fire insurance, and inspect your unit for defects. Set up mortgage repayments and update your MCST and neighbours about your move-in plans. See our step-by-step checklist above for details.

How do I report and resolve defects in my new condo?

Document all defects with photos and written descriptions. Submit your defect list to the developer within the Defects Liability Period (typically 12 months for new condos). Follow up to ensure timely rectification and keep all correspondence for your records. Refer to Essential Property Inspection Checklist for Singapore Buyers | Homejourney Guide for a full defects checklist.

What ongoing costs should I budget for as a condo owner?

Budget for property tax (payable to IRAS), monthly or quarterly maintenance fees (to MCST), sinking fund contributions, utilities, insurance premiums, and loan repayments. Maintenance fees typically range from S$300–S$600/month for new condos.

How can I ensure my condo is safe and secure?

Change all locks and digital codes immediately, service air-conditioning and electrical systems, and familiarise yourself with MCST by-laws and emergency procedures. Homejourney recommends choosing verified service providers and engaging with your MCST for ongoing safety improvements. For trusted maintenance, see Aircon Services .

References

1. Singapore Property Market Analysis 4 (2025)
2. Singapore Property Market Analysis 1 (2025)
3. Singapore Property Market Analysis 2 (2025)