Make your BTO move-in ready

So you’ve just collected your keys to your new Build-ToOrder flat. Follow our stepby-step guide to making your new house a home you can call your own.

Plan a look that suits your lifestyle

Browse through magazines and search online for inspiration. Prepare a list of what you like, for example, dark wood floors, Scandinavian elements, industrial accents, bright colours and so on, and look for images that illustrate your ideas and vision.

Consider what might affect your design vision. For instance: If you have children or pets, an all-white Scandinavian style may not be practical. If you need a customised workspace, you may want to design it so that it complements the rest of the home. If you plan to have children while still living in your flat, you probably wouldn’t want to break down walls or combine rooms.

Decide on the flooring early

Like all BTO flats, you should expect your new home to come with the standard HDB tiled flooring. However, you can opt out if you want a different flooring finish, such as vinyl, laminate or cement, for example, or if you’re undecided about the type of flooring you want at this early stage. Opting out first will save you from having to hack the tiles and redo the flooring later – a troublesome, timeconsuming and costly job.

Scout around for an interior designer

If you have the budget, you may consider engaging an interior designer to help bring your ideas to life. Get recommendations online or from people you know. Check that they’re reputable (read their reviews) and get quotes. He or she should give you design advice and help you plan a budget – or work around yours – and timeline. They can also help you select colours, fabrics, paints and design materials.