There is the prestige and sense of arrival that comes with being able to live in a penthouse. There’s always something exclusive about hitting that PH button in the elevator, where you are not just a number. But, no two penthouses are the same. We have been asked countless of times by our clients whether they should buy a penthouse. Here’s a list of things you should look out for:

• Floor plate of the interior unit must be large as well as there should be a sense of proportion between the outdoor terrace and the indoor area. First and foremost, I will not consider the terrace space as useable space. Potential buyers should consider their needs vis-à-vis what the interior space can offer. The outdoor terrace should be considered in terms how this supplements the interior by affording the houseowner the ability to expand on their lifestyle wants e.g. BBQ area, area for private dining and not used for utilitarian purposes such as sunning your laundry

• The height of the apartment building should not the most important criteria. I would rather advice that potential buyers look out for an unblocked or greenery view even if it is at 5-6 storeys’ high. This will provide an “unblocked landed view” of the area. In the case of really tall buildings, if there are super strong winds, then being able to enjoy the outdoor space will be a challenge. This is something we need to take note of.

• I cannot emphasize enough that when you purchase a luxury property, you are buying into the neighbours and the community. Look out for carpark and condominium facilities that are well maintained despite being well-used. We would not advice buying into a super-lux property with facilities that are white elephants with no heart. Security has to be respectful yet vigilent.