If you have successfully balloted for a BTO flat, congratulations! Now, the hard work of getting your new flat is just beginning. Aside from preparing the necessary documents including the HLE if you intend to take an HDB concessionary loan, you also need to make some major decisions such as choosing your flat and whether to opt for the Optional Components Scheme (OCS). It allows you to add the cost of essential fittings and fixtures to the overall cost of your BTO flat. This can include flooring, sanitary fittings and internal doors (and even wardrobes and cabinetry for 2-room short-lease flexi flats). As HDB will handover the flat with these finishes already completed at key collection, your time to complete the flat to a move-in condition may be shortened. As the cost of the OCS is included in the flat price, you can pay for it with your CPF and your mortgage loan. Before you decide on the OCS, you need to know the original state of your BTO flat when you collect the keys to your new home.... Continue Reading