Most Malaysians are aware of the Klang Valley region, which many see as the centre of commerce and business in the nation - partly because it encompasses Kuala Lumpur, the busy capital city. It's the place to be.
On the other hand, suburbs in Malaysia are also fancied by many, especially for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle with more open space and beautiful vegetation.
The group that gravitates toward this choice is typically made up of families or those trying to establish one, thus they choose a quieter atmosphere where they can develop a feeling of the community over the transitory city living.
Malaysia offers several fantastic neighbourhoods in several states. As a fast-developing economy, Malaysia’s new housing development are available across the country.
Living in the Suburb
If the capital city is the country's heart, pumping a continuous stream of activity and wealth to the rest of the country, then the surrounding suburbs are its arteries - nonetheless dynamic in their own right but far less frantic.
The slower pace of life is more visible since stores and restaurants are quieter and close earlier, streets are less congested, and there is a larger proliferation of green areas and vegetation in general.
If you have a family or are planning to have one (wife, children, in-laws, pets),
buying a property in the suburb may be more suitable. You will enjoy complete privacy, as well as a large yard and garage. It is also simpler to
renovate your home, especially if you wish to add an extra wing or install a swimming pool.
Additionally, living in a suburb allows you to acquire a bigger house with a large yard and garage at a much lower price compared to those living in the city. For example, a
3-storey bungalow Penang property new project that comes with a large yard is sold at only RM 700,000+.
The residents can enjoy various amenities and facilities surrounding the property development, which offers an ideal living in a strategic location.
On the other hand, for RM700,000+, one can only purchase an 800 square feet condominium in Kuala Lumpur.
Lastly, living in the suburbs also means you'll get to know your neighbours better (neighbours in the suburbs tend to look out for one another, compared to apartment living where you hardly ever bump into the person living next door).
Living in the City
Purchasing a residential property in a city such as Kuala Lumpur may be advantageous if you fancy the city lifestyle.
Living in a
condominium (a norm for city dwellers) provides greater security, and there will be amenities such as a gym, a swimming pool, a playground, a tennis court, a badminton court, a convenience shop, and a café.
Most new property projects are within walking distance of a bus station, and if you don't own a car, there will most certainly be a taxi or a
GrabCar around. Most often than not, there are stores, restaurants, or retail malls in the surrounding area too.
Furthermore, if you opt to live in the city, you'll be the first to know when anything new emerges, whether it's a new restaurant, activity, or promotion; you'll have quick access to the top eateries and malls in town, and you'll never run out of things to do or people to meet at all hours.
For your dosage of entertainment, you should be able to discover a few local bars or recreational centres. So, if you're the sort that enjoys an exciting lifestyle, city living may be for you.
However, if you prefer living in a big house with a large yard and garage, the property development in a city such as Kuala Lumpur will cost a fortune. For instance, a 2000 square feet house in Kuala Lumpur will cost around RM2 - RM3 million.
This might be a turndown for house buyers who prefer to spend on other important things in life such as children’s quality education, travelling, leisure and more.
All In All
Regardless of where you reside, both choices offer advantages and disadvantages. You should measure these against your wants and the needs of the individuals who will be living with you.
For example, families may value space and security, whilst singles may prefer easy access to a more busy social scene.
Your home, on the other hand, should be your haven, and where you choose to roost is an essential decision worth devoting effort to find.