Random checks indicate showflats still misleading: Under new guidelines set in March, developers must ensure a truthful representation of their units when presenting showflats to buyers. But a random check of 6 showflats conducted by The Straits Times found that they all failed to implement some of the rules.
This comes after a record 3,138 new private homes were sold in February, including 'shoebox' units. Also, showflats are supposed to be an accurate reflection of the actual homes, with many buyers choosing to view a showflat before confirming their purchase.
However, developers “make the inside look very grand… with nice wallpaper and furniture. Certain walls they knock down,” noted David Lee, a property investor. This was seen in the 6 showflats randomly selected from across the island, that include two projects each from the west, east and central regions and from different developers.
Three rules that were not enforced were signs to mark any removed walls, partitions or doors; that the location, site and floor plans be drawn to scale; and that the floor areas of exterior spaces like balconies be disclosed.
Based on these infractions, market watchers see the need for new rules to be drawn up and implemented soon. With these new regulations, misleading marketing gimmicks will likely be prevented, making it easier for buyers to get more accurate information and ensure that showflats are accurate representations of the completed units.
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