Build-and-sell concept is better
The Star 19/04/2006

THERE are several reasons why the build-and-sell concept should be adopted.
First, the implementation of the concept will ensure that only genuine housing developers will be in the industry. Incapable ones will not dare venture into it.

Second, the onus is on the developer to build houses that are liveable. In the past, some houses had a lot of defects because of low quality materials used and poor workmanship.

If a developer builds shoddy houses under the build-and-sell concept, nobody will buy them, and he only has himself to blame.

Third, potential buyers can view the houses first and make a choice. If the houses are not to their taste and liking, they will not buy them. Again, the responsibility lies with the developer in ensuring that the houses are built well.

Fourth, there will be few, if any, cases of abandoned houses. If the developer does not have enough capital, he should not be in the business in the first place.

Moreover, we can get rid of fly-by-night developers who have no intention of completing their projects. And there will be no agony and anxiety suffered by buyers when projects are abandoned.

Fifth, the reputation of a developer is on the line – he has to build good houses, and he has to build them according to the specifications in his brochure.

Sixth, the certificate of fitness is obtained and there is no need for buyers to worry about it. No certificate, no purchase.

The Government should implement the build-and-sell concept without any further delay.

S.H. Huang
blog.thestar.com.my