New launches are tricky, as everything exists on plans, in concept, or in a show flat that accentuates the good points and “hides” the not-so-good points. And whilst agents have a strong incentive not to lie (they have a license to risk), they also don’t like to volunteer more information than is necessary. The sales spiel is really a selective presentation: the nice parts that distract you from the potential issues. So let’s go over the bits that sales teams often prefer to gloss over: the red flags and potential issues that you have to look out for yourself, when it comes to new launch condos:

1. There have been land plots nearby, sold at lower prices

We always advise looking up the URA Master Plan yourself to check for surrounding residential plots in general – this is to determine if future residences will add noise and traffic, or obstruct the view....