August 2, 2023 - It took over a year of disputes with various contractors over her home renovation before actress Joanne Peh and family settled into their new abode. And judging from how it looks, it was well worth the wait.  

Local actors Joanne Peh, 40, and Qi Yuwu, 46, along with their two kids, moved into their resale condo in the east in 2022. 

Their long renovation journey also reminded many buyers to check whether their contractors have proper HDB renovation contractor registration, even when upgrading a condo, since experience and credentials matter across all project types. And for anyone planning a similar upgrade, Joanne’s home is a good reminder to prepare for timelines, coordination, and the realities of condo renovation cost.

It’s also a useful case study for homeowners learning how to budget for a renovation — from setting aside buffers for delays, to planning for material upgrades, and accounting for hidden costs that often surface during resale home makeovers.