The choice between buying and renting a home in Malaysia is influenced by many factors, from financial flexibility to career mobility.
For many, renting remains a preferred option, offering the freedom to adapt to life’s ever-changing circumstances without the long-term commitment of a mortgage.
Among these renters is a determined pharmacist, Ama Leena, whose story of serial renting underscores a journey of finding a place to live, personal growth, and the pursuit of a dream.
A Path Less Trodden
At 29, having lived in five different rental spaces for over five years since moving from Penang to Klang Valley, Ama Leena epitomises the modern renter: adaptable, mobile, and always in pursuit of aligning living conditions with life’s ambitions.
Ama Leena’s journey is a departure from the conventional path many of her peers have taken. "I actually tried taking the same path as what everyone else was doing in settling down," she reflects.
But her aspirations stretched beyond the familiar horizons of career and relationships in Malaysia. With her sights set on migrating to Australia, Ama Leena embarked on a quest not just for a new home but a launching pad for her dreams.
She embraces the challenges and opportunities that come with each move, viewing them as steps toward her ultimate goal of migrating to Oz.
Check out Ama’s story now. Watch the video below!
Embracing Minimalism in a World of Change
Navigating through a series of homes has taught Ama Leena the value of minimalism.
"Moving from one space to another, I have become more of a minimalist," she shares, emphasising the importance of keeping only what’s essential.
This approach to life became particularly poignant as she transitioned from a shared living arrangement with her sister—a period filled with cherished memories and mutual support—to embracing independence in a single studio unit.
"Previously, I actually stayed in a rented unit with my sister, and I really enjoyed sharing those moments with her," Ama Leena fondly remembers. The bond they shared within those walls was more than just familial; it was a shared journey through life’s ups and downs.
Yet, the demands of her job and the lure of new opportunities necessitated a change. The decision to part ways was challenging but pivotal, marking not just a change of address but a leap toward personal independence and growth.
Ama Leena’s ambitions didn’t stop there. With dreams of migrating to Australia, she realised the importance of financial prudence to turn her aspirations into reality.
"So, in order to save up more money for the migration process, I am willing to move to a new space which is cheaper than my previous studio unit," she determined. This choice highlighted her dedication to her dreams and her readiness to adapt to achieve her future goals.
Discovering Roots and Building Dreams
Joe Lee embarked on an odyssey back to a country part of his lineage yet unfamiliar in every other sense.
The Quest for the Ideal Rental
The journey to find a new rental home was fuelled by a desire for a space that met practical needs and supported her minimalist lifestyle and fitness routine.
For Ama Leena, finding the right rental was crucial. The criteria were clear: affordability, proximity to work, and access to amenities like a gym and swimming pool.
But the reality of the rental market posed significant challenges. "It’s quite difficult for me to find a cheaper place," she admits, highlighting the struggle between her checklist, the rental price and the available options.
Leveraging Technology: Navigating the Search with PropertyGuru
PropertyGuru’s "Rent" section became an invaluable tool in the quest for the perfect rental. With its user-friendly interface, the platform allowed for a tailored search experience, offering filters for prices, bedrooms, and other essential features.
The "Recommended" button and a detailed map view helped identify potential homes that matched her preferences.
Moreover, the "My Activities" tab provided a convenient way to manage past inquiries and keep track of shortlisted properties, streamlining the search process and making it easier to compare options.
The platform’s detailed listings, complete with amenities, layouts, and maps, offered a comprehensive view of her options.
What stood out to Ama Leena was the LiveTour feature, allowing her virtual visits that saved time and honed her decision-making. "PropertyGuru actually helped a lot," she notes, crediting the platform for its role in her successful search.
Discovering Home in Ara Damansara
The persistence paid off when she discovered a high-rise unit in Ara Damansara that ticked all the boxes.
Not only was it the most affordable option, but it also boasted the facilities she desired, all within proximity to her workplace.
This new space was not just a rental but a testament to her perseverance, and a step closer to her dream of moving to Australia.
Beyond the Rental: A Step Closer to Dreams
Today, Ama Leena finds joy in her new home, cherishing moments with her family and friends as she prepares for her next adventure.
"I finally have some peace of mind knowing that I will move closer towards my goal," she says, reflecting on the satisfaction of finding a place that supports her aspirations.
Her journey is a reminder that with determination and the right resources, finding the perfect home is more than a dream—it’s a reality.
As she looks forward to her migration, her current home stands as a symbol of her resilience—a journey marked by the willingness to embrace change, the importance of staying true to one’s goals, and the role of platforms like PropertyGuru in turning aspirations into reality.
In embracing renting as a lifestyle choice, she, like many Malaysians, finds a place to stay and a space that supports her dreams and ambitions. It’s a reminder that home is not just where we live, but where we’re free to pursue our fullest potential.
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