CloudHax Mag

MARCH 2015

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TYPES OF PROPERTIES

in Malaysia.

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TEN TYRE CARE TIPS you for lovable car...

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THINGS TO DO IN KRABI, THAILAND

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Guide on buying a property in Malaysia Top 10 Cafes in Klang Valley

MARCH 2015 12

PROPERTY

Guide on buying a property in Malaysia 1

Understand and draft your budget

With the skyrocketing property prices in Malaysia, one must be really clear about managing budgets and debts. To own a real estate, first thing to take note is your budget. If you are a first time buyer, understandably banks will approve you a loan of 90% for as long as it does not exceed one third of your income. But exceptional cases may occur if you hold good past credit records and the bank may permit the monthly instalment to go up to half of your net income.

There are also other expenditures to take into account such as legal fees, stamp duty and government taxes so do not allocate just an exact amount for the property you are purchasing as you may very well go beyond your budget.

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Survey and perform physical checks

To fully and completely understand the potential properties, you will need to visit them yourself. Set up a meeting via the agent or home owner to view the house. Among the issues to look into or questions to probe include: • How long has the agent been marketing the property?

• Number of past owners.

• Overall condition and structural defects such as leaking roof or cracks, etc.

• A copy of property title – scrutinise for owner’s name, official address, tenure and land size.

Search for property

You can never be totally clueless about property searching. At least have a rough idea on the location and type of residential (or commercial) properties that you are aiming for. Typically, landed properties are much more expensive so it is imperative to choose one that matches your affordability.

To search for a property, go to www.cloudhax.com and key in your preferred location partnered with your budget to generate results that cater to your interest. Advanced search can also be done by narrowing down your choices according to the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, tenure, etc. You may read about the descriptions of the properties, check out their exact location on the map provided as well as look through the images available.

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Conduct sophisticated research

You need to be an informed buyer by not only obtaining one-sided information from the agent and seller but also from within the vicinity.

You may view more than one properties that attract you and if you found one that you are interested, return to it on a later date to speak to neighbours. You can learn about the neighbourhood’s social interaction, security and at the same time, ask if there have been nearby houses that were sold and at what price.

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Bank loan and lawyer

Bank loans are of utmost importance so take up the initiative to check with the banks on how much you can borrow. To be more detailed, check out their housing loan plans and interest rates.

If you have the intention to withdraw your Employees Provident Fund (EPF), you can get the withdrawal form from EPF office or download it at www.kwsp.gov.my.

All transfers of ownership need to be done by a certified lawyer so engage a trusted lawyer to draft the sale and purchase agreement (SPA) and loan agreement for you. Legal fees are regulated by law and they are calculated based on the properties’ prices. For instance, the legal fees of a property priced at RM500,000 would total up to approximately RM8,000.

Then, the bank will conduct a valuation where you will have to bear the costs of the valuation report. Based on the valuation, the loan officer will give you a letter to sign. On the letter are details of your loan – loan amount, rate, monthly instalments and the terms.

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Deposit Payment – 2%

Once both parties agreed on a price, sign your Letter of Offer or Offer to Purchase form and you are subject to paying a deposit of 2% of the purchase price. The 2% is often paid to the agent as a stakeholder account as the agent is a neutral party, also referred to as “in escrow”. The remaining figure that amounts up to 10% should be paid once the SPA is signed.

A Letter of Offer will contain: • Legal names of vendor and buyer • Price agreed upon • Amount of deposit • Any items included in the sale • Date before which the SPA must be signed

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Signing SPA

Usually the SPA is required to be signed within two to three weeks. Your lawyer is responsible in conducting relevant title searches, drafting out the SPA and getting both parties to agree on possible clauses and preparing few copies of stamped SPA for them to sign. So this is when you prepare the remaining 8% of the down payment.

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Other Documents

The loan agreement will be signed by both you and the bank.

Despite the bank holding more advantages over the loan agreement, the costs of the agreement should be borne by the buyer. Also, if it is necessary, you need to sign the Deed of Mutual Covenant and Memorandum of Transfer.

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Paying the balance

You need to settle all your legal fees, stamp duty and other entailing charges by now. Your lawyer will ensure that the seller pays off all outstanding assessment fee and quit rent before payment is given to the seller’s lawyer. You may need regular follow-ups so that everything is paid within the date stated in the SPA, usually three months. Then get a copy of the title from your lawyer and it should be in your name.

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Keys and authority to the house

Lawyers of both parties will meet and complete the transfer process, abiding by the deadline set out in the SPA. Once everything has been paid up, the seller must deliver the property and keys to you, as the new owner, either in vacant or along with items that have been agreed on.

Remember to also make sure all outstanding utility bills have been paid up and request for statements or receipts for proof. Any bills up to the date of transfer have to be paid up by the seller of the property.

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PROPERTY

TYPES OF PROPERTIES I

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Terraced Houses

Terraced simply means linked so they are houses that share walls with adjoining property on both side. Usually they consist of one or two floors but there are some which have three floors. Terraced houses have end units which may be purportedly constructed with substantially increased built-up area or with garden space.

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Town Houses

Town houses are essentially similar to terraced houses except the fact that they are more upscale and much pricier.

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Semi-D

Semi-D is an abbreviation for semi-detached which implies the house is joined only at one side to another property as opposed to two (terraced houses).

Source: http://www.archdaily.com/red-rock-house-anmahian-winton-architects

Moden terrace house design.

Source: http://www.houzz.com/terraced-house

Source: http://www.archdaily.com

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Bungalows

Bungalows is a standalone house on its own land. In other countries, bungalow means a small, single-storey house but in Malaysia, bungalow houses can be extremely large, huge even, with several floors.

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4 Apartments/Flats

Bungalows is a standalone house on its own land. In other countries, bungalow means a small, single-storey house but in Malaysia, bungalow houses can be extremely large, huge even, with several floors.

Condominiums

Condominiums and apartments are practically similar though there is a clear difference between the two for some countries. In Malaysia, condominiums are sold at higher prices and come with more facilities or larger in sizes.

Source: http://gsdarchitect.com/

Source: http://www.archdaily.com

Gated Community

Gated implies that the development is fenced around its perimeter, equipped with guarded security and controlled access. Usually security is tight but it also very much depends on the management of the development.

Serviced Apartments

Serviced apartments are furnished apartments meant for both short-term and long-term stays. Amenities for daily usage are usually provided and added furnishings and cooking utensils are also available so short-term tenants can fully utilise the convenience. Residents may also enjoy cleaning services included in the rent.

SOHO

SOHO is an abbreviation for small office/home office which refers to a closed environment meant for small or home office along with nearby business conveniences. A SOHO is often seen as the smallest of small businesses, well-suited for business starters, single residence or young newly wedded couples.

Source: http://www.abdesignstudioinc.com/

MARCH 2015 20

CAR

10 T y r e C a r e T i p s

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Contact Patch A BIG JOB FOR A SMALL A R EA

The part of your tyre that’s actually in contact with the road is only about the size of your hand. Your safety, comfort and fuel economy depends on that very small area. Make sure you not only select the right tyres, but also regularly maintain them to ensure they perform at their best.

It’s important because your tyres:

Are the only link between your vehicle and the road Carry the entire weight of your car, a load of up to 50 times their own weight Respond to driving inputs such as steering, acceleration and braking from the car to the road surface Absorb every obstacle on the road

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Tyre Pressure C H EC K Y O U R T Y R E P R ES S U R E EV ER Y M ONTH

Correct tyre pressure reduces the risk of losing control of your vehicle. It also protects your tyres from premature wear and irreversible damage to the internal construction. Tyre pressure can drop due to small perforations, the natural escape of air through the tyre's components, or even from a decrease in ambient temperatures. Check the pressure of your tyres, including your spare, monthly and before any long journey, preferably when your tyres are cold (not having run for at least 2 hours or having run for less than 2 miles at low speed). If they are not checked in this cold condition, add 4 to 5 PSI (0.3 bar) to the recommended pressure, but never deflate a hot tyre. It's important to check the pressure once a month, because: Under or over inflation can reduce the life of your tyres, affect their performance and increase the risk of damage.

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Correct tyre pressure will even save fuel

Tyre Wear and Depth A QUICK AND EASY SAFETY MEASURE

Make sure to regularly check the tread depth of your tyres and replace them when they are worn. This will guarantee maximum traction and grip, helping you avoid any unpleasant surprises. Change your tyres before your tread depth is worn to 1.6mm. To make life easier, some of the tyres are equipped with tread wear indicators situated in the base of the main tread grooves at the height of 1.6mm. Your safety and mobility depend on a good level of tread depth because: The tread grooves disperse water from underneath your tyre, helping maintain control The more tread depth you have remaining on your tyres the more water they can disperse, reducing the risk of aquaplaning.

Correct air pressure, as well as regular vehicle maintenance, will ensure your tyres perform at their best for the longest possible time.

The recommended tyre pressure can be found: in the user manual of your vehicle or on a label on the door or door frame of the vehicle or on the inside of the fuel flap The recommended tyre pressure is NOT located on the tyre. The inflation pressure shown on the tyre sidewall is the maximum tyre inflation pressure.

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Balancing K EEP YOUR BALANCE FOR LONGER TYRE LIFE

Balancing helps prevent premature wear of your tyres and eliminates vibration. It also protects the suspension, steering system and bearings of your vehicle. Have your wheels balanced when a tyre is replaced, a balance weight is moved or removed, or you purchase new tyres. You’ll know a wheel is out of balance when one area is heavier or lighter than the rest. This will cause: Uneven and rapid tread wear Vibration More stress on front-end parts Front-end parts to wear prematurely

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Wheel Alignment It's difficult to tell if your wheels and axles are correctly aligned while driving. But if your vehicle's suspension geometry is incorrect, its handling may be altered and your safety compromised. If your tyre has come into contact with a solid object, such as a kerb or pothole, or you have noticed uneven wear on your tyres, please go to a tyre specialist to have it thoroughly inspected. It's important to ensure correct alignment to: Get the best road handling Protect your tyres from irregular and/or rapid wear Save fuel

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Rear Tyres FO R C O M P L ET E C O N T R O L , FI T Y O U R N EW T Y RES TO THE REAR AXLE

Rear wheels are not connected to your steering wheel, which makes it extremely difficult to judge their grip while driving. We recommend that new tyres or the least worn tyres are fitted to the rear wheels to ensure: Better control in emergency braking or tight corners when the roads are slippery.

Less risk of losing control of your vehicle, especially on wet surfaces.

Better road holding, particularly in difficult situations, whether your car is front or rear wheel drive.

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Tyre Valves VALVES AND VALVE CAPS PROTECT YOU AND YOUR TYRES Valves and their components are ordinarily made of rubber, so they are subject to deterioration over time. Replacing them when you buy new tyres is an inexpensive way to protect your tyres, vehicle and yourself. At high speeds, a cracked, deteriorated rubber valve stem can bend from centrifugal force and allow air loss. The valve cap is also important. It’s the primary air seal and helps to keep out dust and dirt particles. You should check that your valves and valve caps are in good condition to: Maintain an airtight seal Maintain the correct tyre pressure Ensure longer tyre life

Handling and Storage K EEP Y O U R T Y R ES O U T O F H A R M’S W AY

Even when they’re not being used, tyres can find themselves in hazardous terrain. Unless they are assembled and inflated, tyres should never be stored in stacks for long periods of time and you should avoid crushing the tyres under objects. It’s extremely important to keep stored tyres away from any flame, any other heat source or any substance capable of causing sparks and/or electrical discharges (i.e. battery generators). When handling tyres, it’s also recommended that you wear protective gloves. Tyres should be stored: In a ventilated, dry and temperate area, protected from direct sunlight and precipitation Away from any chemicals, solvents or hydrocarbons Away from any object capable of penetrating the rubber (pointed metal, wood, etc.)

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Tyre Repairs When a tyre needs repairing, it’s essential to have a tyre specialist remove the tyre from the wheel and inspect it from the inside. This is necessary because internal damage is not visible while the tyre is mounted to the wheel. A tyre specialist will: Ensure compliance with procedures for assembly, disassembly, balancing and inflation of the tyre, and the replacement of the valve.

Verify the internal condition of the tyre, detecting any damage not visible on the surface.

Ensure the tyre is refitted correctly, optimising handling and comfort.

Ensure compliance with manufacturer's and legal rules in the choice of tyres: structure, size, speed code, load capacity rating.

Ensure compliance with the vehicle manufacturer's recommended pressures.

Take account of the instructions and warnings on the tyre sidewalls (rotation direction or assembly direction).

Take account of the characteristics of specific tyres (low section height, run-flat, self - sealing tyres, etc.).

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Service Life KN OW WHEN TO REPLACE YOUR USED TYRES

Accurately predicting the serviceable life of any specific tyre in advance is not possible. A tyre is composed of various materials and rubber compounds that affect its performance. Its performance also depends upon many other factors such as weather, storage conditions, and conditions of use. That's why we strongly encourage drivers to regularly inspect their tyres to identify anything which means that the tyre needs to be removed from service.

As well as regular tyre inspections and maintenance, drivers should: Have tyres that have been in use for five years or more inspected by a specialist at least annually.

Follow the vehicle manufacturer's tyre replacement recommendation.

Replace tyres still in service ten years or more from the date of manufacture with new tyres, even if they appear serviceable and even if they have not reached the legal wear limit.

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MARCH 2015 31

TRAVEL

Things to do in

Krabi T

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rabi, Thailand has always been renowned for its beaches and island-ly tours. But what is it really to do there? Kingsley and I went on a 4D3N trip there some time early this year and here's our version of a to-do list in Krabi to share with you guys.

- JK Drooling

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TRAVEL

Eat Of course, being anywhere any time in the world simply implies no escaping from the basic essentials of filling up your stomach. But we shall make smart choices, shan't we?

For breakfast, you could have them in your hotel if it has been included in your pre-booked room package, otherwise we would highly recommend trying out The Sandwich Market - delicate Western breakfast with superb smoothie!

comes with a higher paying price. Lae Lay Grill is also perfect if you would want to enjoy your liquor over a cosy view.

For lunch, you may drift over to the beaches and mingle around with the local eating style - street food! You can't miss out items like tom yam fried rice and pad thai! Plus, they have cheap smoothies everywhere in Krabi. Not forgetting their pancakes!

In between meals, you can visit any 7-11 stores to grab snacks or local instant noodles - tom yam flavoured is highly recommended! Not forgetting to mention, leave some tummy space to try out local beverages too.

You have more options when it comes to dinner though.

Street food stalls may have closed by then hence most of your choices revolve around restaurants, be it classy or down-to-earth ones. For great sunset view, you may visit Lae Lay Grill, a restaurant situated on a hilly side but this

For something more humble yet its food quality remained authentic, you can go for the Boat Noodle or Lemon Restaurant that serves distinctively good green curry.

Both serve great Thai food at very affordable prices.

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Massage This is a sure thing when visiting any places in Thailand or Indonesia! I am sure Traditional Thai massage is a favourite among many Malaysians as it has been highly assimilated into the massage industry in Malaysia itself.

We did some research on the best massage centres in Krabi. Massage centres are so common in Krabi it's available in every other shop there.

But which is good and which is not? We couldn't try each and every one of it of course but Kingsley's prior trip there had him experienced a more simplified massage encounter. For 250 Baht, he got a good basic reflexology and he thought it was dirt cheap.

Our research brought us to Let's Sea Let's Relax - a rather hidden massage centre along the main road of Aonang and we couldn't really locate the place without the help of Waze.

They have plenty of packages from reflexology, full body massage, arm and back, traditional Thai massage or massages with oil and combo of several massages from an hour up to three hours. 300 Baht for a reflexology session would be deemed pricey here but upon your experience with the service provided, you would certainly give a thumbs-up and return for more. The masseurs were very attentive and friendly, before and after teas were served and feet cleaning (plus scrubbing) was so comfortable.

Massage is also inevitable after you return from your tours, especially if you go for kayaking or any other tours which require physical strength.

Our stiff muscles immediately loosen up after our arms and back massage with oil along with half an hour of traditional Thai massage. For 500 Baht, we came out from the massage feeling light and comfortable.

TOURS Beach tours here are unavoidable unless you're really here to only pack yourself in the hotel doing nothing. If you're staying in Krabi town, you may explore a little there but there isn't really much to see. Aonang isn't also very interesting apart from an ordinary beach so going for tours is what you need to explore beyond that.

You can pre-book your tours online (like we did through www.krabitrek.com) or you can simply drop by any tour agencies available EVERYWHERE in Aonang Krabi. We didn't want to waste our time surveying and comparing prices so we had everything booked prior to our trip. Prices do not differ much so we chose to save the hassles.

We went for two tours - rafting and kayaking. Rafting is available for 5 km and 9 km, depending on the water levels.

We wanted to attempt on the 9 km raft but the water levels were too little during our visit there. Rafting was fun, except for the fact that it wasn't as challenging as it seemed to be. We still enjoyed being hit by cold splashes of water and banging through huge rocks but nothing extraordinarily surprising through.

Kayaking was fun but super tiring for us! We kayaked in a group and we were literally the only Asian pair - others were all Westerners and more often than not, we were almost always the final to arrive at each stop. We even wondered if there was something wrong with our boat or our kayaking style was incorrect because we spent all our mighty power in paddling the water yet our boat was moving as slowly as a tortoise.

We truly enjoyed the kayaking journey though very exquisite mangrove forest and clear greenish waters - made all the exhausting paddling so worthwhile.

However, in the end, the aftermath was terrible stiff shoulders and sore muscles so we had to adjourn to massaging to have our pain relieved.