An Amazing Renovation Experience!!
I had bought a HDB 3 room flat a couple of months ago and was shortlisting a couple of ID companies by looking through their IG, reno websites on their reviews and work. I finally narrowed down to 3 companies, M, L and Design 4 Space due to the concept/ theme that I was looking for my new place. I had a meeting with each of them and also had a first impression of each company’s ID. Personally, other than cost aside, first impressions of how each ID handle their work is important. Secondly, would be how sincere and eager they would be taking up your job. After the first meeting, M company ID sent the quote and did not follow up with me in any form of contact so I had decide to strike them off my list. L and Design 4 Space ID did a couple of follow ups with me on my requirements and provide an estimated quotation. L company took longer to response due to the levels of approvals that was needed for every amended/ updated quotation. To be honest, it took a little too long. Design 4 Space ID, Lee Sing did a regular follow up with me and patiently waited for me to get L company’s quotation to do a comparison. This is because its takes time and effort to do up a quote due to individual requirements and it is only respectful that you give the same chance to every ID you shortlisted. After comparing the quotes, reviewing the service levels and timeline, I have decided to take on Lee Sing from Design 4 Space.
After all the horror and bad experiences from close friends and relatives, I was also hoping deep down in my heart that My renovation would not turn into a nightmare. Indeed, Lee Sing did an amazing job. After discussing a couple of times on the concept/theme that I wanted which is minimalist/ scandinavian, the final quote was provided and it was reasonable and affordable. The whole process of communicating with Lee Sing was easy, smooth and constant. She also provided practical suggestions which goes with my preferred theme.
I was looking forward for the start of the renovation. Lee Sing was a very detailed person which I like because she planned every single detail and provided me a copy of when, where, what & who is renovating the house. This is of course an estimation schedule not a foolproof one. After renovation started (hacking was done first), she went down to inspect the work being done, provided me photos of the ongoing renovation and explained to me what was being done and what would be done next after this part of the renovation. In between the renovation, she constantly updated me with pictures and explanation on the progress of the renovation. With this attitude and precise follow up from Lee Sing, I hardly had to go down to inspect/ oversee the renovation work in fear of some unexpected “surprise”. In the midst of renovation, we had to make a trip to Balestier (took about 8-9 hours) to select the tiles, sanitary wares, lightings etc. Date and time was well discussed, planned and executed. I eventually selected and purchased all of the necessary items except curtain/ blinds. To be honest, the prices may not be the cheapest but it is also not exorbitant and I liked the fact that I was able to settle everything on that day itself and not having to fret over several weeks finding the items by myself. You have to consider the fact that if you decide to look and compare for cheaper options in different shops, you must be able to afford to spend time and remembering to complete your purchases in a certain timeline so that it does not conflict with the timeline that your ID has planned for certain fixtures. In such scenario, you also have to understand that your ID will not be able to accompany you for every trip made to purchase your items.
Throughout the renovation, some of the tiles, vinyl flooring I chose initially had EOL so with the close follow up from Lee Sing all these was settled very quickly. I had people to come install the curtains which was also informed to Lee Sing so she would know what or who to expect on which day. The whole renovation process was stress free and smooth due to Lee Sing’s attentiveness, detailed, good communication skills. I only made less than 5 trips down to peep at the ongoing renovation. One of which is to advise where or what position to install the sanitary wares to the installers. I even asked for her suggestions on the furnitures that I intend to get and if it fits the theme etc. She went an extra mile to view each screenshot/photo that I had sent her and told me her selection and views of it.
After the handover, there were some minor fixes needed to be done which was arranged and resolved by Lee Sing in a short time.
I think overall you need to find an ID which communicates with you and understand what exactly you want of your home.
Someone who is willing to provide practical suggestions for your home. Being detailed and well organised is also very important because of the timeline of renovation. Attentiveness is also another trait that you might want to look for in your ID. This is the experience Lee Sing has provided me and I didn’t have to worry about my renovation would screw up even once. On top of that she was very responsive with the minor fixes that were needed after handover which I understand that some owners faced waiting for a long time to get something fixed.
I am sure there are IDs outside that may be as good as Lee Sing but with my personal experience, you will not regret getting her as your ID. At the end of the day, we don’t want to face horror stories and extreme stress on top of pur daily work stress. Lee Sing is capable of making your renovation as fuss free as possible which I admire her for it.
Last but not least, keep up the good work Lee Sing! Keep fighting!! I would highly recommend her for anyone who would want my renovation experience!>