In fact, when I was looking at the properties for sale in the area, I was surprised to see that a 99-year corner terrace in Loyang Villas was only $100,000 less than a semi-D in Mariam estate! Yes the 99-year property has more land, but according to the ads, the internal area (which buyers tend to be more concerned about) are almost the same size. However, the two landed enclaves feel very different. Loyang Villas had charming houses, but very narrow and crowded roads. Lengkok Mariam, on the other hand, is much more spacious and tranquil. Walking around the houses, I felt like I wasn’t in Singapore, to be honest! Anyway, photographs are worth a 1000 words, so let’s have a look around so you can see for yourself. For those who didn’t read the Loyang piece (or have forgotten what the estate looks like), here’s...