Singapore is notorious for its limited land space, making the quest for a home a significant milestone for young couples. Securing a Build-To-Order (BTO) flat often feels like a dream come true, marking the beginning of a new chapter in life. However, what happens when that dream is shattered by a breakup?

This unfortunate reality was shared by a young woman on Reddit, who turned to the online community for guidance after her partner's betrayal led her to end their six-year relationship right after their BTO selection. The twist? They had already paid the S$2,000 option fee for their flat.

Fortunately, since they had yet to make a down payment and had not received their grant from the Housing and Development Board (HDB), she sought clarity on her next steps. The situation escalated when she discovered her boyfriend's infidelity through a DM from the other woman on Instagram—a revelation that’s all too familiar for many in today's digital age.

Seeking to expedite the process of severing ties, she expressed her desire to cancel the application and wished to avoid any further interactions with her ex, especially once the grant might bring them back into each other’s orbit. Many respondents on her post provided valuable advice, reassuring her that she could easily cancel the application via the HDB website. However, they cautioned her that the S$2,000 would be forfeited as long as they hadn’t signed the Sales and Purchase Agreement.

Additionally, because they backed out of the application, she wouldn’t be eligible to apply for another BTO for a year—a critical consideration for those eager to find their own homes. Community members empathized with her situation, with some encouraging her to view the lost money as a small price to pay for freedom from a toxic relationship.

One commenter significantly summarized the sentiment: “Consider it a S$2,000 investment for a lifetime of peace.” It's essential to remember that breakups can be challenging, but prioritizing your well-being often leads to better long-term goals.

In a world where relationships and circumstances can change on a dime, knowing what steps to take when faced with such challenges is crucial. For anyone in a similar situation: it’s okay to prioritize yourself, move forward, and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead—even if it means letting go of what once seemed like a perfect plan.