As you know, brochure plays a very important role in our society. They are the tools which companies use to convey what they have to offer you.

Developer companies do the same too. And specifically for property in Malaysia, having a laser-sharp eyes to scan through brochures can ensure that you're well prepared to invest into real deals that bear high returns.

Specifically how, or what you have to look out for in a brochure, before deciding if the property is ideal for you?

These are the guidelines which you can use to screen for information:

1. The Housing Developments License number and the expiry date.

2. The advertisement and sales permit number and the expiry date.

3. Name and address of:
a) The licensed housing developer
b) Authorized agents (if any)
c) Those holding power of attorney (if any)
d) The project management company (if any)

4. Land status
a) Freehold
b) Leasehold number of years left
c) Encumbrances whether the land has been mortgaged to the bank for a loan
d) If it is a Malay Reserved Land (Applicable for Property in Malaysia)

5. Location description
a) Building material specification
b) Size of building
c) Amenities and/or Services

6. Name of housing project (if any)

7. Expected date of completion

8. Price of each type of house

9. Number of units for each type

10. Reference number of the approved building plan and name of the local authority.

Other than those, you'll need to exercise 'due diligence' to further investigate and to verify the information you find in the brochures, e.g. find out more about the developer. (in my previous article)

In addition, if you're looking to own property in Malaysia, get yourself familiarize with the Sales and Purchase Agreement as per Schedules G and H of the Housting Development (Control and Licensing) Regulation 1989, to further understand your rights as a buyer.

As once a marketer told me that there are 3C's in sales and marketing: If you can convey the message and 'convince' them to buy, it's good. But if you can't, then you have to 'confuse' them to buy. If that still doesn't work, you have to 'con' them to buy.

So, equip yourself with x-ray eyes and solid information, to defend against been conned or confused by brochures offered by developer companies, specifically if you're looking for property in Malaysia!