For those looking to buy a landed home, here is a typical dilemma. Should you buy a resale property and renovate it? Or purchase a ready-built home?

Some feel that the former is more cost-effective. But this is not always the case, since renovation costs can come up to a hefty sum, and there's the risk of poor workmanship, which can cause much trouble and inconvenience, not to mention additional costs.

Let us look at some factors that you should consider when deciding between buying an old or new landed property:

The value proposition of a masterpiece

Older landed homes may have the potential to become a comfortable abode after renovation, but that can turn out to be a costly endeavour.

Considering that older landed properties are more susceptible to wear and tear over the years, you may face more than cosmetic issues with your new home. Commonplace problems that are not obvious at first glance (but can cost you dearly in the long run) are moisture problems, leaking roofs, plumbing and sewage issues.

And before you even consider the costs of renovation, there are a host of other fees you'd need to factor in, including consultant fees, authorities submission cost, as well as site staff costs. All these can add up to quite a hefty sum.

Given that the average amount needed to fully renovate a built up area of 3,800 to 4,000 sq ft landed property can cost anything from $1 million to $2 million, you may want to consider buying a ready-built landed home instead. The total investment for a renovated house can be quite comparable to that of a ready-built landed home.

With a ready-built home, there are no unpleasant surprises or extra costs. Simply step in and you can begin a new chapter of your life.

An artfully designed home to be proud of

After purchasing that landed house one has been eyeing, most owners would not hesitate to engage a reputable architect to work on their dream home design. Apart from outstanding design, industry-leading architects are also more credible as they work with reputable builders who do not compromise on quality.

Yet, architects of such calibre may be out of one's budget. And working with alternatives could compromise on the design and quality of materials used.

This is where getting a ready-built designer home can give property buyers much more value for money. Such homes are usually developed by reputable developers who work with industry-leading architects to ensure that buyers will be attracted by the designs and quality of the build.

The upside is that even though the design is top notch, they do not necessarily cost more, since the developer enjoys economies of scale in hiring the architects. This makes it possible for an individual buyer to afford a home designed by a big name in the industry.

While some owners may feel that a pre-built designed property showcases less of their individualism and personality, there are a few landed properties available here where the developer builds a unique design for each of home in the estate.

The 121 Collection on Whitley proves that even semi-detached houses do not have to conform to symmetrical design. Each of its nine homes comes with different designs and floor plans, ensuring that each house maintains its uniqueness while presenting a harmonious design that comes together unmistakably as one unified collection.

After all, you'll be spending every day of your life in your new home, so no effort should be spared to realise your dream.

Quality assurance for safety and peace of mind

Design is definitely a top concern for landed-property owners, but one wants to ensure that great design comes with quality assurance as well. While architects can show you impressive photos of past projects, it's hard to judge the quality of the work done and how long the property can stand up to wear and tear.

Usually, only time will tell - and it's not pleasant to find out about sub-par work after everything's been paid for. You may find yourself having to pay more to have it rectified or, worse, end up pursuing the case in court!

With a trusted developer, home buyers have more assurance when it comes to build quality. This also saves time from having to go for multiple site supervision visits and checks to ensure that the renovations are properly done and on schedule.

• Nine new gems on Whitley Road

• Located on Whitley Road, just minutes away from the business and shopping district, the 121 Collection on Whitley is a premium address surrounded by top amenities. Mount Pleasant and Novena MRT stations, along with reputed private medical hubs, are mere minutes away. And with the Orchard shopping belt, Dempsey Hill and Singapore Botanic Gardens nearby, a world of recreation is always within reach.

  Parents will also be pleased to know that prestigious schools around Bukit Timah are conveniently accessible. From lively singles to young couples to homeowners who embrace multi-generational living, everyone will find their ideal home here with work, play, nature and amenities within easy access.

  The District 11 collection of nine bungalows and semi-detached houses doesn't just boast a premium location, it's also beautifully and thoughtfully designed. Think luxurious touches like high ceilings, huge master suites, frameless glass panels, lush garden terraces, top-of-the-range fittings and a basement with plenty of natural light.

  On the ground floor of every house, barriers are boldly discarded to create a virtually borderless space that merges the living space with the great outdoors in a seamless and symbiotic harmony.

  After a hard day's work, come home to your secret garden where you are endlessly showered with the gifts of Mother Nature. Featuring a groundbreaking architectural sophistication, the essence of garden-living is brought right into the house with natural light, wind, greenery and water all woven into the space. A whole new urban living experience awaits.

• For more details on 121 Collection on Whitley, visit www.121whitley.com.sg or call 6500 9121 to book an appointment.