FAQ
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What Types of Properties Can You Buy in Singapore?
HDB flats – Public housing, subsidised, for Singaporeans/PRs
Executive Condominiums (ECs) – Hybrid of HDB and private housing
Private condominiums – Full facilities, open to locals and foreigners
Landed properties – Terrace, semi-D, bungalow; restricted to locals/PRs
Shophouses – Heritage units, popular for commercial/residential investment
What Is ABSD (Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty)?
Extra tax on top of standard Buyer’s Stamp Duty (BSD)
Rate depends on residency and number of properties owned
As of 2025 (check latest):
🇸🇬 Citizens: 0% (1st), 20% (2nd), 30% (3rd+)
🇸🇬 PRs: 5% (1st), 30% (2nd), 35% (3rd+)
🌍 Foreigners: 60% for any residential purchase
New Launch vs Resale Condo – Which Is Better?
Lower entry price (early-bird discounts)
Brand new with modern layouts
Progressive payment scheme
Resale:Immediate occupancy
Established amenities and infrastructure
Room for price negotiation
How Long Does the Property Purchase Process Take?
Private Property:
~8–12 weeks from Option to Completion
HDB Resale Flat:
~8–16 weeks after HDB grants approval
Timeline includes HDB appointment and legal checks
Should You Buy Freehold or Leasehold Property?
Freehold:
Lifetime ownership
Higher resale value potential
- More expensive upfront
Leasehold (99 years):
Lower entry price
Higher rental yield in some cases
Depreciation risk as lease shortens
Can Foreigners Buy Property in Singapore?
✅ Can buy: Private condos, strata-titled apartments (non-landed)
❌ Need LDAU approval: Landed homes, including bungalows and terrace houses
❌ Cannot buy: HDB flats or ECs (unless converted to Singapore Citizen and criteria met)
How Much Downpayment Do I Need for a Property in Singapore?
Up to 75% loan for 1st property (if loan tenure & age conditions met)
Minimum downpayment: 25%
At least 5% in cash
Up to 20% via CPF or cash
Lower LTV for second/multiple property buyers
What Is the Private Option to Purchase (OTP) Process?
Legal document granting buyer exclusive rights to purchase
Pay 1% option fee to secure OTP
Valid for 14 calendar days (private property)
Buyer pays remaining deposit (typically 4%) upon exercise
What Are the Ongoing Costs of Owning Property?
Annual property tax (based on Annual Value and use: owner-occupied or rented)
Condo maintenance fees (varies by size and facilities)
Home insurance
HDB conservancy charges
Optional: Renovation and sinking fund (condo)
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