5 Things to Know About Singapore’s Freehold & Leasehold Properties
5 Things to Know About Singapore's Freehold & Leasehold Properties Here are 5 things you need to know about Singapore's...
Read More
TLDR
Understanding the factors influencing property prices in Singapore for 2024 can help in making informed decisions. Despite high rental rates and rising mortgage rates, property prices have continued to climb. The government’s cooling measures have segregated the HDB and private property markets, affecting property valuations. Sellers holding multiple properties are driving the market, while limited options for downgrading to HDB contribute to the high property prices. The market dynamics suggest that buying or selling now depends on individual circumstances, and strategic real estate advice can guide through the process effectively.
As we move into 2024, there is a theory that property prices in Singapore will not drop but instead continue to rise higher and higher. This theory is backed by several situations that have emerged over the past three years.
Despite the interest rate remaining at an elevated level and possibly rising further, we have seen no signs of property prices falling. In fact, property prices have been climbing higher despite the low transaction volume. This signifies that not many are willing to sell off their property at a lower price, and buyers can still afford to buy.
Firstly, we are facing very high rental rates in the market right now, and owners of properties are getting extremely high rental yield. Mortgage rates have been on the rise since January 2022, and three months solar rates have reached 3.029 percent, putting off many home buyers. The rising home interest rate has made home loans much more expensive to service, so buyers feel that it is too expensive to service the loan or are no longer eligible to borrow the same amount of money, causing the number of qualified buyers in the market to drop. This has led to a drop in property transaction volume. With lesser buyers now in the market, one would expect property prices to drop. However, the theory suggests otherwise.
One reason why property prices can continue to rise into the future without dropping at all is that the high rental rates in the market can actually cause property prices to go up. High rental rates must be priced into the property, and since rental rates are very high, it has to be priced into the property as well. With this, rental rates are even higher, and investors are getting high return on their rental properties. There is no urgency to sell their properties, as they are getting a net positive monthly return. The only situation they will consider selling the property is if the rental is being priced into the price of the property.
Private property owners who want to downgrade to an HDB will find that it is no longer an option as part of the recent cooling measure announced by the government. Home sellers can no longer sell their prime property and subsequently buy an HDB unless they are above 55 years old. If they want to do so, they have to wait out a 15-month period, which means that they have to rent a property for 15 months at least, causing rental prices to go up, and this can also cause property prices to go up again. Even if they are 55 years old and above, they can only buy an HDB four rooms and below immediately. This has segregated the HDB and the private property market very clearly, which can cause property prices to remain high.
Today, people who are selling their private property are not likely selling to downgrade to an HDB, but it is more likely that they are either upgrading or downgrading to another private property. If they choose to downgrade, they have to find a place to rent, causing greater demand for rental properties, thereby driving private property prices up. If they choose to buy another condominium, it is kind of zero sum, as when they sell, they buy, and this can also cause property prices to go up.
In conclusion, sellers who are in the market right now are probably people who own multiple properties because they have holding power. They are not scared of price drops or, in other words, are just savvy enough to price in the rental if they even want to sell the property. Rising rental demand causes rising property prices. With interest rates at an all-time high, TDSR at 55, and a high 25% down payment requirement, private property sellers find it hard to downgrade to an HDB.
Should You Buy, Sell or Wait?
If you’re reading this, you must be trying to figure out the best course of action right now: is it the right time to buy or sell?
It’s difficult to give an exact answer since everyone’s situation is unique and what works for one person may not necessarily work for you.
I can bring you a wealth of on-the-ground experience and a data-driven approach to provide clarity and direction. From beginners to experienced investors, our top-down, objective approach will help you on your real estate journey.
I can help you by:
- Offering Strategic Real Estate Advice – I can help create a comprehensive plan to guide you through your property journey.
- Connecting Your Home with the Perfect Buyers – Through stunning visuals, an effective communication strategy, and an in-depth knowledge of the market, we’ll ensure your home is presented in the best possible way to fulfill your goals.
You May Also Like …
Top 5 Street Food Markets in Singapore
Singapore, a melting pot of diverse cultures, offers an incredible array of street food that tantalizes the taste buds of...
Read More
Ouch! Our $1.8 Million Condo Investment Blunder: Unpacking 5 Crucial Takeaways from Our Bad Experience
TLDR The blog post delves into the complexities of real estate investments using Bob's experiences as examples. It highlights the...
Read More
Top 5 : What Are The Key Factors That Drive Foreign Investment In Singapore’s Real Estate Market
Singapore, a thriving city-state in Southeast Asia, has become a magnet for foreign investors looking to capitalize on its booming...
Read More
Resale Viewing Do’s and Don’ts: Expert Advice from a Singapore Real Estate Agent
TLDR The blog post provides valuable insights for first-time buyers on navigating the resale property market in Singapore. It covers...
Read More
Discover the Top 11 Most Outstanding Condominiums in Singapore’s Holland Village Areas
Originally established in the early 1900s by Singapore's Dutch community, Holland Village was originally a residential area home to British...
Read More
5 Factors : Why Singapore’s Property Market Is A Good Hedge Against Inflation
As inflation becomes a growing concern for investors worldwide, the stability of Singapore's property market has become an attractive option...
Read More
Making Sense of 99-Year Landed Home Investments in Singapore
TLDR Investing in a 99-year leasehold landed property in Singapore can be a lucrative venture due to the country's land...
Read More
HDB Owners Missing Out on the “Ultimate Upgrade” to Landed Living
TLDR Over the past two decades in Singapore, the trend of HDB residents upgrading to landed properties has fluctuated. While...
Read More
6 Myths About Using Your CPF For Housing
TLDR When it comes to purchasing a house in Singapore using CPF funds, there are several myths that need to...
Read More
Top 5 : Dangerous Ideas Singapore Property Investors Have
Investing in property, particularly in a thriving market like Singapore, can be an enticing prospect. However, it's not without its...
Read More
The Psychology of Property Investing: 5 Reasons Why Singaporeans Love Real Estate
Real estate investing has always been a popular way to grow wealth and secure financial stability. In Singapore, the love...
Read More
Why Aren’t Spacious, Wallet-Friendly Homes Our Reality Yet?
TLDR The article discusses the current housing market in Singapore, focusing on the challenges faced by individuals like Sherlyn Tan...
Read More
Are You Considering Paying Off Your Mortgage Loan Ahead of Time? Is It the Right Financial Move?
TLDR When considering mortgage options in Singapore, it's essential to understand the differences between HDB loans and bank loans. HDB...
Read More
The Top 5 Tax Considerations When Investing In Singapore Property
When investing in Singapore property, it is essential to be aware of the various tax implications and considerations. Here are...
Read More
5 Tips : How To Negotiate A Good Deal When Buying A Singapore Property
When looking to buy a property in Singapore, it's essential to know how to negotiate a good deal. Here are...
Read More
Want To Buy A Property? Read Me First!
TLDR Understanding the key factors involved in buying property in Singapore is crucial for making informed decisions. Consider your investment...
Read More
From Overseas to Singapore Property: 5 Steps Guide to Remitting Funds
From Overseas to Singapore Property: 5 Steps Guide to Remitting Funds 1. The first step in remitting money to Singapore...
Read More
Here’s How Property Data Can Be Misleading: Navigating Through Common Misunderstandings
TLDR When comparing property prices, discrepancies can arise due to various factors like timing of purchase, scarcity in niche projects,...
Read More
ANALYSIS: Unveiling the HDB Towns with the Steepest and Lowest Price Surges!
TLDR The real estate market for HDB flats in Singapore has witnessed significant growth, with prices reaching new highs. The...
Read More
