Table of Contents

Executive Summary

Gem Residences is a condominium in Toa Payoh, Singapore, receiving mixed reviews from residents and visitors. While the development offers modern amenities and a convenient location, major concerns surround its management, security, and poorly designed facilities. Overall, the condo’s rating trend is mediocre.

Detailed Review

Overview & First Impressions

Gem Residences is a newly developed condominium in District 12’s Toa Payoh, with 578 units of varying configurations. The development has a hotel-type concept, with services like food and grocery delivery, concierge, and on-site medical staff. However, the atmosphere is often described as cramped, and the feng shui is considered bad due to its location next to a temple and at a big T junction.

Living Experience

Units

Unit sizes and layouts vary, but some reviewers mention the living room is small.
Interior finishes and quality are described as mediocre and disappointing, with cheap materials and fittings used.
Natural lighting and views are generally good, with some units having city views and others facing nature reserves.
Storage space is not mentioned as a specific issue in the reviews.
Some reviewers report common maintenance issues like leaks and poor air circulation in their units.

“Residing in a dual key unit on the 37th floor, we faced persistent leaking issues from day one, which remained unresolved upon moving out.” – Resident

Facilities & Common Areas

The 50-meter swimming pool is well-received, but some reviewers mention that it’s not well maintained.
The gym equipment is not specifically praised or criticized.
BBQ pits and function rooms are not frequently mentioned.
The children’s playground is not mentioned at all.
Gardening and landscaping efforts are seen in the rooftop garden, with some reviewers appreciating the herb and spice garden.
Parking facilities are poorly designed, with some reviewers comparing it unfavorably to HDB carparks.
Other recreational amenities include a pet pool, which is a unique selling point.

“visited the rooftop garden on the 7th floor of the carpark. There is an effort to create a Spice and Herb garden, you can find Pandan, lemon grass & Thymes.” – Reviewer

Property Management

Staff responsiveness is often criticized, with some reviewers describing the management team as rude and unhelpful.
Maintenance of common areas is lacking, with some reviewers pointing out paint wearing off and lifts being shabby.
Speed of issue resolution is slow, with some reviewers mentioning that problems like leaks remained unresolved.
Communication with residents is poor, with some reviewers feeling that the management team is only concerned with collecting fines.
Feedback handling process is not well established, with some reviewers feeling dismissed or ignored.

“The management team is not looking for solution of problems, they only care about money.” – Resident

Security

Guard service quality is often criticized, with some reviewers describing the security personnel as arrogant and rude.
Access control systems are restrictive, with visitors and residents facing issues with clamping and fines.
Security incidents are not specifically mentioned.
Overall safety feeling is compromised due to the poor attitude of the security guards.
Visitor management is strict, with some reviewers feeling unwelcome.

“Arrogant security guards…too many security measures makes it cumbersome to enter and exit.” – Reviewer

Location & Accessibility

Distance to MRT stations is around 15-20 minutes, specifically the Braddell MRT station on the North South Line.
Bus services are available but not as convenient as the MRT.
Nearby shopping malls and amenities include supermarkets, markets, schools, and eateries.
Parks and recreation areas are nearby, offering opportunities for walks and outdoor activities.
Food options are abundant in the area, with both local and international cuisine available.

“Located close to Toa Payoh central, which is lovely from a convenience stand point.” – Reviewer

Value Proposition

Resident opinions on rental/price levels are mixed, with some reviewers feeling that the prices are too high for the quality offered.
Maintenance fees are not specifically mentioned, but some reviewers criticize the poor management of common areas.
Value comparison with nearby developments suggests that there might be better options available.
Price appreciation potential is not explicitly mentioned in the reviews.
Overall value for money assessment is generally low, with many reviewers expressing disappointment with the development’s offerings.

“For the same amount of money, can easily find better location, quality and size.” – Reviewer

Verdict

Gem Residences is a development that could suit families and young couples looking for a modern and relatively affordable option in District 12. However, potential buyers and tenants should be aware of the significant concerns surrounding the management, security, and poorly designed facilities. While the development has unique selling points like the pet pool, the overall value for money is compromised by the various issues mentioned in the reviews.

Ultimately, it is crucial for potential residents to weigh the pros and cons and consider other options in the area before making a decision. As one reviewer puts it, “be smart and make an informed decision.”

Source: View Original Google Reviews