Living Your Dream Life – A reality in Horizon Hills

The Award-winning Horizon Hills is an artistic composition of architectural design, natural greenscapes and community living, making it the first of its kind lifestyle development in Johor.

A home designed to embrace your lifestyle set against a backdrop of undulating terrain in a resort like ambience, enveloped by the rejuvenating freshness of nature. Truly a dream to behold for those who choose to make their homes in Horizon Hills. The 1228- acre residential paradise jointly developed by Gamuda Land and UEM Sunrise comprises of 11 secured precincts, each featuring designer-homes for contemporary living and sharing its picturesque setting with an award-winning international championship 18-hole par 72 golf courses.

In one with nature

Living in Horizon Hills is about harnessing the fullness of nature. The estate is home to 150 acres of themed park and gardens and homes that leverage on the topography of the land to create a green and tranquil ambience. From stately bungalows to semi-Ds, to cluster and links as wells condominiums and villas, there is a home to suit every lifestyle in Horizon Hills. The latest offerings in this green township are 2-storey link houses in the Green Precinct as well 2 and 3 storey semi-Ds in the Cove precinct, targeted for completion in 24 months. Both home designs feature a contemporary design and natural lighting. The link homes are of a cube design while the semi-Ds enjoy additional air ventilation features.

The mesmerising beauty of Horizon Hills lies in the exacting manner in which contours of the estate has been curated to allow the hills’ lush foliage, weaving waterways and soft slopes to remain undisturbed in their natural state. It offers an idyllic setting where listening to the land is a natural part of living in harmony with the environment. The Horizon Hills masterplan boasts of at least 45% of its selected areas of secondary forest being retained as a green lung with water from natural streams and lake channelled to it for a cooler atmosphere. Their natural filtration system of lakes and ponds and preservation of flora and fauna through open spaces and thematic gardens are all directed at minimising the township’s carbon footprint. The natural ambience enjoyed by residents has encouraged a communal effort in practising eco awareness and sustainable living.

Promoting community closeness

The Horizon Hills town square pulsates with the energy of people brought together to create laughter and lasting memories. Placemaking events that help bond the community such as festive celebrations and fun activities take centre stage in this township with residents of over 40 nationalities. It is a town where community living is a way of live and everyone is made to feel as important as the next. Other friendly facilities that positions Horizon Hills as a township with a difference are its pockets of green spaces and a cycling path that encourage outdoor activities for elderly, children and even the physically challenged. Homes, public buildings and recreational zones such as the Clubhouse are designed to be friendly to all. Facilities and amenities in Horizon Hills that contribute to greater community interaction are best described as world class. An international standard 18-hole par 72 golf course that is visually spectacular, crafted by Australia’s most acclaimed golf course designer, Ross Watson presents itself as the perfect playground for golf enthusiasts. Overlooking the course is the equally enchanting 145,000 sq ft clubhouse designed by the renowned Ernesto Bedmar, a hub for recreational and dining activities for residents and their guests.

Second to none in security and connectivity

Residents safety is a top consideration in this gated and guarded township which is facilitated by the Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) Concept. A 3-Tier security system consisting amongst other features perimeter fencing, central monitoring, guard tour patrolling, gate access and panic button are part of this sophisticated security network. Complementing the dream lifestyle Horizon Hills offers, a perfectly connected location. Regarded as one of the best golf course residential properties in Johor Bahru. Horizon Hills takes full advantage of its incomparable location being set in the booming Iskandar Malaysia and just a mere 30 minutes’ drive to Singapore. Horizon Hills is the perfect south side retreat for locals and expats alike who seek homes in an exquisite hideaway.  Situated at the heart of Iskandar Puteri places Horizon Hills in direct access to Johor’s major education, health, shopping, transportation and recreational amenities. The township provides 5 easy accesses and enjoys hassle-free connectivity via the state’s 5 major highways.

A collaborative effort by two property giants

Gamuda Land and UEM Sunrise are stalwarts of the Malaysian property industry. Renowned developers of award winning townships, both property giants have made a name for themselves with their excellent craftsmanship of architectural masterpieces – townships that feature the foremost in town planning, residential design and environmental conservation. Horizon Hills is a testament of the joint effort of these two unrivalled giants of the industry.

For more information, please visit our website at gamudaland.com.my/horizonhills or contact our Property Galleria at +607-232 3433

 

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Why Investment-Linked Policies Still Have Its Merits

As consumers get savvier about insurance, the Do-It-Yourself (‘DIY’) approach of “Buy Term and Invest the Difference” is gradually gaining in popularity. Briefly, it is the combination of buying a term life insurance and investing the “savings” from the lower premiums being paid. This contrasts with Investment-Linked Policy (‘ILP’) which has both life insurance and investment components. An example would be the AIA Pro Achiever which has been designed to include both insurance and investment elements in the most optimal manner. In general, ILP is preferred by consumers who want more exposure to investments than what other life insurance products may be able to provide. Therefore, it will be too foolhardy to dismiss ILP altogether. It definitely still has its merits and exists to benefit certain groups of consumers and situations.

ILP invests in a methodological and structured manner

One of the biggest merits of purchasing an ILP is to have investment professionals take over the actual investing. An example would be Mercer’s partnership with AIA to manage the investments under the AIA Pro Achiever policy.  As a leading global investment consultant, Mercer possess the requisite expertise and rigor to manage and grow the investments in a methodological and structured manner.

Furthermore, the premiums collected under the AIA Pro Achiever policy will be fully earmarked for investment right from the start. Expenses for this ILP are also low since no sales charge will be levied. Bid-offer spread is also not applicable. What these imply are that every dollar contributed will have the potential to experience investment growth. Therefore, policyholders can afford more time with their loved ones with the knowledge that their investment portfolios are under the experienced hands of Mercer.

On the other hand, the DIY approach is prone to possible lapses. That is because it is not uncommon for one to juggle multiple roles (eg: the hardworking worker, the responsible parent) simultaneously today. During stressful periods, emotions could go on overdrive while investment may take a backseat instead. As a result, a case of “overwhelming emotions” or “absent-mindedness” could potentially ruin any well-planned investment strategy. However, by buying an ILP, such incidents can be avoided since the investment component has been outsourced to professionals. Regular-premium ILPs also employ a dollar-cost average approach that helps to even out market volatility. Over the long term, it allows the policyholder to fully reap the benefits of staying invested in the market.

AIA

ILP is a flexible finance instrument

ILP is a flexible finance instrument that can be catered to investors according to their risk-appetite profiles. For instance, the AIA Pro Achiever policy offers 3 types of portfolios; Adventurous, Balanced or Cautious. This provides a choice for policyholder to select a portfolio that best matches his or her expected returns/risk profile. The flexibility extends further as policyholders are able to switch or rebalance their funds from time to time at no additional fee. This is critical as risk appetites would naturally evolve when certain life milestones are reached.

In addition, AIA provides leeway for policyholders to adjust monthly premiums especially since one’s cashflow could fluctuate from time to time. For instance, during an unexpected windfall or upon receipt of annual bonuses, policyholders have the option of topping up their premiums. Likewise, when liquidity gets tight, policyholders are at liberty to take a premium holiday. Finally, there is always the option of making withdrawals when a critical need or emergency arises.

ILP also serves as a life insurance

Let’s not forget that ILP also doubles up as a life insurance which means that there is a death benefit attached to it. On this, investment-linked policyholders are typically covered up to the policy value or to the amount that they have invested. This offers an extra peace of mind as immediate family members would be able to receive the sum assured in the event of an untimely passing. A noteworthy feature of the AIA Pro Achiever is the additional death benefit payout of 100% total regular premium paid in the event of accidental death during the first 2 policy years.

AIA also recognises that with increased life expectancies, policyholders may prefer to stay invested longer. Therefore, AIA Pro Achiever allows policyholders to stay invested till age 100 (also the policy maturity)! Furthermore, AIA Pro Achiever actively rewards policyholder that stays invested for the long term. Firstly, charges for premium holidays, partial withdrawals etc are waived after the 13th year of paying premiums. Upon reaching this milestone, policyholders are also awarded an extra 5% allocation on their premiums annually. Such loyalty features suggest that the AIA Pro Achiever provides even more value for money for policyholders that stay invested longer.

Get in touch with an AIA appointed representative to find out more about the AIA Pro Achiever today!

Nothing in this article should be construed as constitute or form a recommendation, financial advice, or an offer, invitation or solicitation from Money Digest to buy or subscribe for any securities and/or investment products. Any past performance, projection, forecast or simulation of results is not necessarily indicative of the future or likely performance of any company or investment. The content and materials made available are for informational purposes only and should not be relied on without obtaining the necessary independent financial or other advice in connection therewith before making an investment or other decision as may be appropriate.

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3 Ways To Make The Most Out Of Your SRS

Prudent individuals go through great lengths in order to build retirement fund. Many Singaporeans completely rely on the government-mandated Central Provident Fund (CPF). It is a savings plan to fund important expense categories such as retirement, housing, and healthcare. Unbeknownst to some, there is a scheme that is meant to complement the strength of CPF. I am talking about the Supplementary Retirement Scheme (SRS). SRS flourishes your retirement savings by providing tax relief and investment options. Unlike CPF, SRS is a voluntary scheme. SRS members are free to contribute varying amounts which are subjected to a specific limit.

Make the most out of your SRS account by employing these tips:

MAXIMIZING YOUR TAX REDUCTIONS

While helping you cultivate your future, SRS simultaneously reduces your tax expenses at the present moment.

There are different types of tax relief that you can claim, such as the Earned Income Relief, Qualifying Child Relief, NSman Self Relief, and Parent Relief. The first one refers to the deduction of taxable income for every dollar deposited into the SRS account. Furthermore, you can reap tax-free investment gains made through your SRS account (i.e., not applicable to Singapore dividends).

SCHEDULING YOUR WITHDRAWALS

Let us be honest! You can withdraw funds from your SRS account even before you retire. Unfortunate instances such as medical emergencies and bankruptcy are among the significant reasons why this happens. Withdrawals can be completed in the form of cash or investments.

You must strategize your withdrawals to receive the most profitable scenario. You see, there is a chance that you will end up paying more tax if you withdraw the entirety of the SRS account upon retirement. By “more”, I am referring to the comparison between the “withdrawal tax” and the income tax savings. Consider scheduling your withdrawals spanning the period of 10 years.

GROWING YOUR INVESTMENTS

SRS is more than just a scheme to reduce your tax as it is an efficient tool for growing your retirement funds. It is meant to supplement your retirement money by embracing investment options. An increasing number of Singaporeans had been making contributions to their SRS accounts. For instance, the contributions made until December 2015 reached more than S$4 billion.

Why are people drawn to investing their SRS funds? For starters, gains are non-taxable. Furthermore, the long-term returns are higher when invested as compared to leaving your SRS fund in idle. From the retirement age and beyond, only 50% of your withdrawals will be taxable. It goes without saying that your bigger risk appetite is subject to the volatility of the stock market.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Image Credits: pixabay.com

A local institution that allows using SRS funds for unit trusts, index funds, unit trusts, or blue chip shares is OCBC.

Sources: 1 & 2

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Supporting Parents Who Do Not Have A Retirement Plan

It is not unheard of for Singaporean children to take care of their aging parents. This is partly due to our unwavering Asian culture of familial unity. We even have a legislation for it! Protected by the Maintenance of Parents Act, senior citizens who are unable to sustain their lifestyle can apply to the court in order for their children to provide a monthly allowance.

More than just a social obligation, there are four steps to begin a retirement plan for your parents.

#1: ANALYZE THEIR CURRENT FINANCIAL SITUATION

You must understand the overall financial circumstance that your parents are in. Are your parents’ CPF balances enough to sustain them for the years to come? Know whether they have a maturing savings account or an efficient estate plan. Compare these assets to their outstanding debts and other liabilities.

What led to the poor management of their golden nest? This means that you have to figure out their financial mistakes and help them to avoid these in the future. I have to admit that some setbacks are due to factors that are beyond their control (e.g., layoffs due to recession).
An open discussion is necessary.

Take all these into careful consideration while deciding how much support they will need from you to retire comfortably.

#2: DETERMINE THE EXACT TIMELINE

Determine when your parents intend to retire. Retiring at 50 sounds pleasant, but can your parents sustain their desired lifestyle for the next 30 years or so? You have to be realistic!

Some Singaporeans prefer to work on a full-time or a part-time basis as they go beyond the retirement age (i.e., aged 62 is the minimum according to the Retirement and Re-employment Act). Knowing exactly when the income stream will cease will provide you a rough idea of how much time you have to grow your wealth.

#3: PREPARE YOUR FINANCES

Preparing your finances goes hand in hand with the second bullet. It is a cooperative effort between you and your parents. You must highlight that they have to play an active part in the entire journey.

As long as you can afford to do so, you can set up their endowment plan. This is a prudent decision that will allow you to reap a beneficial compound interest in a span of a decade. This amount may supplement their CPF balances.

Moreover, preparation shall not be limited to the financial wealth. You can also focus on your parents’ wellbeing. Improving their physical health can reduce the risk of serious diseases. Enroll your parents to dietary programs, studio memberships, or wellness facility.

For instance, NTUC Health’s SilverCOVE at Marsiling Heights allows its members to enjoy an integrated senior wellness facility. SilverCOVE fuses social activities with lifelong learning initiatives with their gym facilities, TCM services, and more. The price for two people is about S$480 per year.

#4: DIVIDE THE RESPONSIBILITY

Raising a child is hard work, but taking care of your aging parents is no walk in the park either. Divide this responsibility between your siblings. Doing so will not only maintain fairness, but it will also reduce the financial risks of your parents. Say you are the sole provider of your family…picture what will happen to your parents if you suddenly lose your job. It is a gloomy sight!

For your younger brother who recently transitioned to the working scene, he can take on the weekly utility bills. For your sister who has a higher position in the company, she can help out with a portion of the mortgage repayments. Come into a mutual agreement during your discussion.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Image Credits: pixabay.com

The best time to help your parents is now. Consider speaking to a financial adviser to ensure that your parents can retire comfortably and peacefully.

Sources:1 & 2

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6 Significant Reasons Why You Must Plan For Retirement Now

According to a recent survey by Nielsen, 1 in 3 working Singapore adults are not planning for retirement. This is alarming because many people have curated a list of “excuses” for not saving money. Rather than adding glistening fuel to the fire, this article will give you six good reasons why you must save for your future.

1. TO DANCE TO THE BEAT OF YOUR OWN DRUM

Planning for your golden future likely ensures that you covered your living arrangements for the rest of your life. You can move freely to beat of your own drum without worrying about the perceptions and rules of other people. Believe me when I say that living in someone else’s household robs you of privacy. Discretion is one of the fruits that you can reap from your prudence.

2. TO NOT RELY TOO MUCH ON THE CPF SAVINGS

Your Central Provident Fund account (or CPF Savings) was established to provide a basic safety net to cushion the minimum standard of living during your senior years. You must aim for financial independence and not fully rely on what this welfare system can bring.

3. TO HELP YOU DEAL WITH FINANCIAL HICCUPS

As your body’s reflex interplay, hiccups occur unexpectedly. This applies to your finances too. Regardless of the financial hiccups that you will face throughout your life, a secure nest will do wonders! It can help you cope and save you from bankruptcy.

4. TO MAINTAIN YOUR CURRENT LIFESTYLE

Whether you want to admit it or not, you have stable spending habits that you cannot do away from. It is difficult to maintain these habits if your financial resources are limited. More so, the limited funding can put you at risk of barely being able to afford the necessities. This is why you must set a realistic budget to fit your lifestyle.

5. TO BUFFER COSTS DUE TO UNFORESEEN ILLNESSES

Your body will continue to deteriorate with age. Unless you find the “Fountain of Youth”, of course. Old age usually leads to elevated healthcare costs and unforeseen medical problems. Do not forget to plan for emergencies to support your Medisave account.

6. TO EARN THE COMPOUND INTEREST

Creating a bulk of savings ahead of time can help you earn the compound interest. Compound interest allows you to not only earn interest on your principal deposit, but also on any interest that is credited to your account. It helps your money to grow at an accelerating rate! The longer you keep your money invested, the greater the rate at which your initial investment produces returns.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Image Credits: pixabay.com

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

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