Hi, was reading the thread about whether to continue to work after delivery. Just to share my experience. Before we got married, I already hinted to hubby that if we have kids, I want to have the luxury of looking after BB. So, no condo, we bought a cheaper 5rm resale flat at Tampines near in laws to qualify for 40k grant. We took a 30 year loan, so that can pay off housing loan with just his income. We qualify for HDB loan so a bit less stressful than bank loan, at least the interest is fixed. Now that I'm expecting, chose KKH to save money on pre natal and delivery charges cos I'm govt servant so can claim 90% of bills.
But I calculated the sums yesterday, if I were to work part-time not even quit and be full time mum, the allowance for parents, my own insurance, meals, transport etc will wipe out all of my take home pay. And if I don't work, All these expenses going to come from hubby's pocket or dip into my savings. We won't be able to afford to send BB to a better playgroup, attend enrichment classes (swimming, piano etc), bring them on holidays unless Malaysia etc and our retirement nest egg will be on hold or even dwindle. Anyway, after calculating, told hubby looks like I can't afford to quit.
So, Plan A now is work full time, and get in laws to look after BB, Plan B is to work part time if arrangement with in laws don't work out, finally Plan C then to quit totally if I can ever take that plunge. I think it's important to sit down and list down all the household expenses then go through with hubby so that you know what you are prepared for life with just 1 income or 1.5 income. I think hubby will also be more supportive even if you do decide to be FTM if it's a joint decision after careful consideration/calculation.