(Source: Boom Go Employee | 123rf [for illustration purposes])
Remember the viral post on a Malaysian insurance agent who purchased a car that’s out of his budget? Well the same poster is going viral again for sharing another interesting story of another friend who wants to purchase a half-a-million house with only a RM5,000 salary.
The viral post, shared via a page known as Boom Go Employee, has ignited a fierce debate across social media about whether homeownership is truly affordable in Malaysia today. Just last month, the poster followed his friend to check out a house. According to the agent, his friend needs to only pay for MOT totalling RM13,500 two years after he gets the keys.
“900 sq ft – 3 rooms 2 baths – Nett RM580k. No down payment, no legal fees, only MOT”, the post read.
Monthly instalment is RM2,600
The friend who earns RM5,500 has an existing car loan with monthly repayments of RM700, and PTPTN repayments of RM180 monthly. The agent then said,
“Monthly instalment for the house is RM2,600 including insurance. Your DSR is: (2,600 + 700 + 180) ÷ 5,500 = 63.27%. Eligible! No problem.”
After car loan repayments of RM700 and PTPTN loan of RM180, the buyer’s monthly instalment for the property came to RM2,600, which included insurance. The agent calculated the Debt Service Ratio at 63.27% and confirmed loan eligibility. That was enough to seal the deal! The impressed friend then proceeded to book the property without a second thought.
What about all the hidden costs that a first‑time buyer often misses?
The poster then tried explaining to his friend on all hidden costs that a first‑time buyer often misses. Maintenance fees amount to RM297 a month. Add a sinking fund of RM29.70. Utilities such as water and electricity cost about RM150-200, and internet bills add another RM100. Annual property tax and assessment also stack up.
So after factoring in all those expenses, the buyer would end up with only around RM1,500 left each month for groceries, bills, social outings, savings, and even renovation.
“Me: So monthly, that’s RM2,600 + RM297 + RM29.70 + RM150 + RM100 = RM3,176. On top of that, annual quit rent and assessment tax will cost you a few hundred too.
Friend: I’ll get a raise by then, don’t worry.”
What about renovation costs?
When questioned on money for renovation costs, the friend said that renovation could be funded through EPF Account 2 withdrawal, and that he has RM20,000 saved. However folks, it is worthy to note that EPF does not permit withdrawals from Account 2 for house renovation purposes. Official EPF guidelines clearly state that Account 2 withdrawal is not allowed for renovation, repair, or additions to an existing house.
According to the poster, the property would be ready next year, and the friend has already signed up for the property.
“Last week my friend signed the agreement. Coincidentally, OPR was reduced by 0.25%. Some will say the agent convinced him to buy. Truth is, the agent isn’t wrong. They’re just doing their job. Based on DSR, the loan qualifies and the bank approved it. So if you buy a house and end up in financial trouble, don’t blame anyone else. You only have yourself to blame for not doing the math properly.”
“Maybe parents can help”
Responses online were sharply divided. Critics warned that many are biting off more than they can chew, arguing that a long 35‑year commitment leaves little room for life’s uncertainties. Supporters said it’s manageable by renting out spare rooms, by getting parents to assist, and that a property at the end of the day is still an asset.
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