The Long Road Home: Returning to Sentul
Finding the right home is a dream for many, especially those with growing families. It’s not just about having a roof over your head but creating a space where your family can grow and thrive. For Firdhaus Ismail, the search for a new home started without a fixed destination, but a series of unexpected events gradually steered him back to Sentul, the neighborhood of his childhood.
Each visit to potential homes only reinforced his desire to provide the best for his family and return to the place that held his heart. His journey was driven by a deep personal commitment, highlighting how a home is more than just a physical space—it’s where the heart truly belongs.
Check out Firdaus’s journey. Watch the video now!
Rediscovering Sentul, Rediscovering Home
Born and raised in Sentul, Firdhaus and his family have deep ties to the area. “All my life, I’ve seen Sentul developed so much,” he recalls, noting the transformation of his childhood neighborhood.
“I was born and raised in Sentul, where I am staying at the moment. My family, we have a long history here in Sentul. So, I grew up in a low-cost flat. The flat is still there,” he shares, weaving a narrative of continuity and deep-rooted connections.
His return to Sentul, though unplanned, allowed him to reconnect with his past and provide a stable future for his children.
The Emotional Challenges and Resolutions
The journey back to Sentul was not straightforward. While looking at properties in Sentul and other areas, the sudden loss of his mother added emotional weight to their search.
“We were looking at many places. In fact, in Sentul, we could see many new developments being built. During our property search, suddenly, my mother passed away. I was looking in Sentul because I wanted to be closer to her. Then, with her sudden death, I started questioning whether I should proceed or not with the plan,” Firdhaus reflects.
This heartrending period not only tested his resolve but brought into question the very essence of his search for a family home. “It was really a devastating moment for me. But we pulled through, and we kept hunting and looking for our home,” he shares, revealing the depth of his emotional struggle and the resilience required to move forward.
Firdhaus also touched upon the paradox of choice that sometimes overwhelmed them, “I think, sometimes, we were so overwhelmed with options, actually. One of the troubles was definitely having too many choices.” This abundance of options, while beneficial, often made it difficult to narrow down the best fit for their needs, adding another layer of complexity to their decision-making process.
Turning Points Through PropertyGuru’s Assistance
Throughout their search, Firdhaus and his wife made extensive use of PropertyGuru‘s “Buy” section to refine their options and make informed decisions. Particularly, they utilised the search filters to exclude properties with commercial elements, a key factor in their quest for a quiet, suitable home.
“Being able to narrow down the search through the filter was very helpful,” Firdhaus remarks, appreciating how these features streamlined their search to match their specific needs.
PropertyGuru’s Find Agent feature connects individuals with real estate agents who specialise in specific areas for those needing expert guidance in their property search. This resource can be instrumental in navigating the complexities of the market and understanding the nuances of each potential home.
Moreover, PropertyGuru’s Home Loan Calculator is crucial for prospective buyers. It helps estimate monthly mortgage repayments, providing a clear picture of potential financial commitments. This tool ensures buyers can plan their finances effectively and make decisions that fit within their budget.
Home is Where the Heart Grows
Finally, the search came full circle when Firdhaus decided on a property in Sentul—the very place where he grew up, bringing his journey full circle in a deeply personal way.
“Throughout the journey, I’ve rented in many places out of Kuala Lumpur or around Kuala Lumpur, but I can’t believe that after all these years, at last, I came back to where I belong,” he reflects joyfully.
The unit they chose not only met their criteria but also marked a new beginning for the family.
“I think Sentul is very dear to my heart, in a way. We ended up with one unit we called home. I’m currently enjoying it. To buy and finally to live in this unit. This is such a major milestone, definitely for me and my wife,” Firdhaus explains, underscoring the significance of setting down roots in a place that supports both their professional and personal lives.
Inspiration for Prospective Homebuyers
Firdhaus Ismail’s experience reminds us of the emotional and practical aspects of property buying. It emphasises the value of perseverance, the practicality of effective tools like PropertyGuru, and the emotional weight of finding a place that feels like home. For those embarking on similar journeys, his story offers hope and guidance, proving that the best home is where it feels right.
