why? coz if u are on EP, you can't buy HDB in Singapore and got no CPF. I am still in dilemma whether or not to apply for PR since i stay in JB. I really wanted to buy a HDB flat since its a sure win investment, but I am not married and not attached. So it will take another 11 years before i can apply to buy for a HDB flat.
Plan A is if i get my PR now, i can start saving on CPF and got more money for down payment later when i reach 35 years old.
Plan B is i buy a Studio apartment in JB now (around 100k) and pay for my own house and wait till i reach 35 years old, then apply PR and sell off the studio and buy a HDB with the money i get from the studio apartment.
Plan C is to apply PR, then use this 10 years time to get my self a degree in Singapore, and plan those property things later after i get my degree (I am only on STPM and i asked b4, if i want a degree, i need to study diploma + advance diploma then degree).
So you guys think, which is better har? btw i am very satisfied with my current life earning small SGD salary but using RM daily in JB and i find the traffic is really not as bad as most people say. KL traffic is far worst than the causeway.
Dude just apply for PR and get it first. As you said u could use the PR status to get cheaper education and to start saving on CPF. I was in the same situation with u and i went ahead and got my PR last year. As i do not qualify for any HDB at the moment my only way to get a place in SG is thru private. Of course its insane to buy a place now which is about 1 mil for a 3 bedroom Condo ?!? Anyway i also got this studio apartment in JB town for about 130kk++ still building. I think its a good measure while waiting for the market property to cool down and to build up on ur CPF .