I would need about USD 1M cash. Once I have that, I can transfer that cash to grandparents. They can live there without worry.

This would take place probably when one of them is gone.

If the transaction price is USD 300k below the market, it is like a 300k cash gift to me. Then we need to give aunt Gen 300k extra legacy. This can take place any time after the transaction is over or delayed till both grandparents are gone.

A huge part of my cash would be tied up generating no current income. They should really pay me rent as compensation. After they move out, I would collect rent from the market, but it is 1.5% NGRY only. NRY is probably 0.8%. This investment makes sense only because of potential for appreciation.

Since i’m buying from a seller (my parents), I want to wait till the price is low (in my favor) but the stress is much lower because the transaction is in-family.

Q: how fast can I save up USD 1M?
A: 10-15Y? Wife can hopefully chip in this time, given that HDB property is half hers without her paying a cent.
A: If we are in the U.S. when I’m ready to buy, I could downgrade my HDB to a remote 2-room flat to free up USD 200k cash.
A: if we are still in SG, then we would be even more comfortable financially.

Q: what if one of them is gone sooner?
A: I think the other should keep the property and wait for me to buy.