Fraud Blocker
Your search results

Revival of Singapore Luxury Housing Market in 2023

Posted by Jayson Ang on January 21, 2023
| 0

TLDR

The property market in Singapore has witnessed significant shifts in the past two years, with a surge in prices in the Outside Central Region (OCR) and Rest of Central Region (RCR) compared to the Core Central Region (CCR). Singaporeans lead the luxury real estate market, followed closely by Chinese buyers. The pandemic led to a decrease in foreign buyers from China, but as global economies reopen, a resurgence is expected. Despite challenges, the CCR market shows potential with growing interest from high-net-worth individuals. New launches have made CCR properties more accessible, narrowing the price gap with RCR. Local buyers can seize opportunities in the current market before potential price increases by foreign buyers. The impending rise in Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) could impact investment demand, favoring local homebuyers. For personalized real estate advice and assistance in buying or selling, a strategic and data-driven approach can provide clarity and direction for your property journey.

Discover the Property Price Trends Across 3 Different Market Segments

The past two years have seen an incredible surge in the prices of private residential properties due to the various socio-economic repercussions of the Covid-19 pandemic, such as delayed construction and limited supply. This has resulted in a flurry of activity for new residential property launches, with some even shattering records with their prices.

The biggest transformation in the 3 real estate segments came from outside the heart of Singapore’s Core Central Region (CCR). Prices of non-landed private properties in the Outside Central Region (OCR) and Rest of Central Region (RCR) skyrocketed by 19% to 27% over the last two years, whereas non-landed property prices in the CCR rose steadily at a rate of 9%.

The sluggish rate of property appreciation in the CCR region can be linked to the decreased demand from overseas purchasers during the pandemic, combined with the December 2021 cooling measures, which raised the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty for foreign house hunters by no less than 10 percentage points.

Nationalities Of Prime Property Buyers

Singaporeans lead the pack as the top purchasers of luxurious real estate in Singapore, with Chinese buyers coming in a close second.

From 2017 to 2019, Chinese citizens comprised the largest proportion of foreign buyers for prime residential properties in Singapore, with 12.7% of the total new housing units purchased. However, during the pandemic from 2020 to 2022, this figure plummeted to a mere 5.8%.

As global economies begin to reopen in 2023, an influx of foreign property buyers from countries such as China could significantly drive up the demand for high-end properties in the CCR and potentially return it to pre-pandemic levels.

The proportion of CCR homes bought by foreign nationals had dropped during the pandemic, leaving much room for growth in this sector.

Proportion of CCR Primary Sales Buyers' Nationality

Unlock The Untapped Potential Of The CCR Market

From 2017 to 2019, prior to the outbreak of the pandemic, roughly 20-33% of primary CCR homes were purchased by non-permanent resident foreigners. In the three pandemic-ridden years, however, the number of primary market property sales dwindled to a mere 10-14.5%.

The growing economic instability around the world has attracted a large number of high-net-worth foreigners to Singapore, who are setting up family offices here and bringing their funds with them. Despite the higher Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty imposed on foreign property buyers, Singapore still appeals to them as a safe haven and as a real estate asset for wealth storage.

As China’s borders open up, more Chinese expatriates are flocking to Singapore in search of work, life and investment opportunities – driving a surge in wealthy investors house-hunting in the CCR. As a result, the CCR property market is seeing a renewed interest.

Undiscovered Gems In The CCR

Singaporeans often overlook private properties in the prime market segment due to the notion that new launches in the CCR market are too costly. Yet, the last two years have seen an exponential rise in condominium prices in the OCR and RCR, which has been narrowing the price gap between private properties in the RCR and CCR.

The new launches in 2022 have made CCR properties increasingly accessible to local homebuyers, with median prices of housing units starting as low as $2,402 per square foot. What’s more, the majority of these CCR projects are freehold properties – a great incentive for those looking to invest in the area!


With the booming growth of property prices in the RCR, the median prices of new launches there are now comparable to those in the CCR. Therefore, savvy local buyers can snap up luxurious freehold developments in prime districts at an affordable cost – but they must be quick before foreigners arrive and push prices up!

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:

  1. Offering Strategic Real Estate Advice – I can help create a comprehensive plan to guide you through your property journey.
  2. 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 …


5 Reasons Why Districts 9 and 10 are the Next Big Thing in Singapore Real Estate
Mandarin Top 5

5 Reasons Why Districts 9 and 10 are the Next Big Thing in Singapore Real Estate

Singapore is renowned for its thriving real estate market, with many desirable neighborhoods and top-notch properties. However, when it comes...
Read More
When to Strike Gold: The Ultimate Guide to Selling Your House in Singapore!
All Buying Tips

When to Strike Gold: The Ultimate Guide to Selling Your House in Singapore!

TLDR When deciding the best time to sell your property, consider various factors such as market trends, financial goals, and...
Read More
Sentosa’s Sizzling Property Market: 5 Reasons Chinese Investors are Flocking to Singapore’s Premier Island
Buying Tips Mandarin Top 5

Sentosa’s Sizzling Property Market: 5 Reasons Chinese Investors are Flocking to Singapore’s Premier Island

Sentosa's Sizzling Property Market: 5 Reasons Chinese Investors are Flocking to Singapore's Premier Island Here are the top 5 reasons...
Read More
7 Essential Steps to Sell Your House in Singapore
All Opinion Selling Tips

7 Essential Steps to Sell Your House in Singapore

TLDR When preparing to sell your house, research the average prices in your area for a realistic figure. Consider factors...
Read More
The Sneaky Role of Property Appraisals in Shaping Singapore’s Home Prices
All Buying Tips Opinion

The Sneaky Role of Property Appraisals in Shaping Singapore’s Home Prices

TLDR When it comes to the real estate market in Singapore, understanding property valuations and the impact on mortgage loans...
Read More
Top 5 : Places to Find Unique Singaporean Souvenirs
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 : Places to Find Unique Singaporean Souvenirs

Singapore, a vibrant city-state known for its multicultural heritage and modern marvels, is a treasure trove of unique souvenirs that...
Read More
Should Buying A Low Lease Project Be A Viable Option?
All Blog Posts Opinion

Should Buying A Low Lease Project Be A Viable Option?

TLDR When considering low lease projects in Singapore, it's crucial to evaluate your individual needs, financial standing, and future plans....
Read More
What Has Been The Most Significant Development In The Real Estate Market In 2022
All Blog Posts Opinion

What Has Been The Most Significant Development In The Real Estate Market In 2022

TLDR In 2022, the real estate market saw significant interest rate hikes affecting home loan rates. Despite concerns, the market...
Read More
What’s A Fair Price For An HDB Flat in 2025? A Savvy Buyer’s Guide
All Buying Tips Opinion

What’s A Fair Price For An HDB Flat in 2025? A Savvy Buyer’s Guide

TLDR There’s no single “fair” price for HDB resale flats—what’s fair depends on your needs, motivation, and timing. To navigate...
Read More
Reasons Why En-Bloc Sales Are Expected to Remain Slow in 2025
All Opinion

Reasons Why En-Bloc Sales Are Expected to Remain Slow in 2025

TLDR From 2014 to 2024, the en-bloc market has faced challenges due to fluctuating cooling measures and a shift from...
Read More
Top 5 : Regret Buying An Old Condo in Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 : Regret Buying An Old Condo in Singapore

In the bustling city-state of Singapore, the real estate market is a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape. As of 2023, new...
Read More
Top 5 Trends And Developments That Will Shape Singapore’s Property Market In The Next 5 Years
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Trends And Developments That Will Shape Singapore’s Property Market In The Next 5 Years

TLDR Singapore’s property market is set for significant transformation over the next five years, driven by rapid proptech adoption, growing...
Read More
The Unsung Importance of Property Finishing: More Than Just Aesthetics
All Buying Tips

The Unsung Importance of Property Finishing: More Than Just Aesthetics

TLDR Many homebuyers overlook the importance of high-quality finishes in properties, assuming they will renovate later or that tenants won’t...
Read More
The Ultimate Checklist for Work-From-Home Homebuyers in Singapore: Beyond the Basics
All Buying Tips

The Ultimate Checklist for Work-From-Home Homebuyers in Singapore: Beyond the Basics

TLDR Remote work has changed what makes an ideal home—buyers now need to prioritize productivity and well-being alongside location and...
Read More
Top 5 : Risk Factors For International Buyers Investing In Singapore Real Estate And How Can They Be Mitigated?
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 : Risk Factors For International Buyers Investing In Singapore Real Estate And How Can They Be Mitigated?

Singapore, a thriving global city-state, is known for its business-friendly environment, low tax rates, and high standard of living. The...
Read More
Should You Keep Your Resale HDB Flat When Buying a Private Property? 5 Key Factors to Consider
All Blog Posts Buying Tips Opinion Selling Tips

Should You Keep Your Resale HDB Flat When Buying a Private Property? 5 Key Factors to Consider

TLDR In Singapore, owning both an HDB flat and a private property has become complicated due to factors like Additional...
Read More
What Is The Cost Of Constructing A Landed Property In Singapore?
All Opinion

What Is The Cost Of Constructing A Landed Property In Singapore?

TLDR Building a landed property in Singapore can be a costly endeavor, with prices ranging from $300 to $500 per...
Read More
Finding the Perfect Match: Top 20 : A Guide to Choosing the Best Property Agent in Singapore
All Buying Tips Top List

Finding the Perfect Match: Top 20 : A Guide to Choosing the Best Property Agent in Singapore

TLDR When it comes to buying or selling real estate in Singapore, having a professional and knowledgeable property agent is...
Read More
HDB Owners Have Identified This Reason as the Primary Barrier to Upgrading in 2024. Surprising? Not Really.
All Buying Tips Opinion Selling Tips

HDB Owners Have Identified This Reason as the Primary Barrier to Upgrading in 2024. Surprising? Not Really.

TLDR High property prices in Singapore make it difficult for most to upgrade from HDB flats to private condos, despite...
Read More
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Purchasing an Auction Property in Singapore
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Purchasing an Auction Property in Singapore

TLDR When considering purchasing a property through auction in Singapore, remember that you can potentially get a great deal below...
Read More
1 2 3 … 36

Compare Listings