5 Disastrous Property Transaction Nightmares (and How to Avoid Them)!
TLDR When attempting to sell your property, various worst-case scenarios can hinder the sale process significantly. These scenarios include buyers...
Read More
TLDR
When buying a new launch condo in Singapore, start by planning your finances to determine loan and property limits. Shortlist condos based on factors like location, unit size, facilities, and market trends. Pay a 5% deposit, sign the Option to Purchase, engage a solicitor, and pay Buyer’s Stamp Duty. Make payments progressively up to completion. Finally, collect your keys post-TOP. Remember to follow timelines and seek professional guidance throughout the process for a successful investment journey.
The trend of buying new launch properties is growing rapidly as people see it as a way to enhance their income or for their personal use. This year, over 30 projects are expected to be launched. If you’re a beginner in this field and have the financial capability to invest in a new launch property, you might be curious about the entire process and costs involved. We have compiled a step-by-step guide to help you make your goal of owning a private property a reality in a professional and easy-to-understand manner
Table of Contents:
- Start your financial planning
- Shortlist new launch condos and make appointments to visit show flats
- Pay the booking fee for your new launch condo unit
- Sign the Sales & Purchase Agreement
- Make payment up to completion
- Collect the keys to your new home
How to Buy a New Launch Condo
Step 1: Start your financial planning
Determine the highest amount of home loan and property purchase price that aligns with your financial capacity, taking into account your income, age, and existing loan obligations.
- The Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR) is a measure introduced to cool down the property market and prevent borrowers from taking on excessive loans. Its purpose is to ensure that borrowers do not use more than 60% of their gross monthly income to repay all their loans, including home loans, car loans, and credit card bills. In other words, the TDSR is designed to help borrowers avoid getting into excessive debt.
- The Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio allows you to borrow up to 75% of the property’s value for your initial housing loan through a bank loan. However, the LTV for the second housing loan is significantly lower.
Please take note that if you still have any outstanding home loans to pay off and are considering buying a second property, the maximum loan-to-value (LTV) limit is 45%. However, if you plan to purchase a third property, the LTV limit is 35%.
For property owners who intend to use CPF savings for their existing property, they must first set aside half of the prevailing CPF Minimum Sum before utilizing the excess savings in their Ordinary Account for subsequent properties. Savings in the Special Account and Ordinary Account can be used to meet half of the prevailing Minimum Sum.
Do note that the CPF Minimum Sum is adjusted every July, so you should check online for the latest amount you need to set aside. It is advisable to obtain an approval-in-principle (AIP) from a bank at this point.
Step 2: Shortlist new launch condos and make appointments to visit show flats
Prior to being influenced by the developer’s impressive marketing tactics, it is imperative that you take note of the following factors to ascertain if your decision is appropriate.
- Location (accessibility and amenities)
- Unit size
- Facilities
- Interior of the condo
- Capital appreciation (based on upcoming developments)
- Current market situation
- Rentability
- Environment (i.e. noise level)
- Developer track record
After narrowing down your top choices, you should seek out reputable agents who can aid you in your acquisition.
What’s the best part of setting an appointment with me?
I offer a comprehensive tour with professional guidance to ensure your needs are met. My insights are exclusive and unbiased, giving you a clear understanding of available developments. I simplify the buying process by conducting thorough research and comparisons for your convenience.
Step 3: Pay the booking fee for your new launch condo unit
When purchasing a new launch condo unit in Singapore, you must pay a 5% cash deposit upon booking and signing the Option to Purchase (OTP) to confirm your reservation. If you decide not to proceed with the purchase, you will lose a portion of your booking fee (usually 25%).
Once you have a copy of the OTP, you can proceed to finalize your loan for the new launch condo. The bank that you are borrowing from will provide you with a Letter of Offer – a document that outlines the terms of the loan.
Additionally, you will need to engage a solicitor to represent you in the purchase and handle the conveyancing matters.
Step 4: Sign the Sales & Purchase Agreement
- The developer will provide you with the Sales & Purchase Agreement (S&P) within two weeks after you receive the OTP.
- Once you have the S&P, you’ll need to sign it and exercise the OTP within three weeks.
- After signing the OTP, you’ll have eight weeks to pay the remaining 15% down payment (also known as the exercise fee) in cash or CPF.
- Additionally, you’ll be required to pay the Buyer’s Stamp Duty (BSD) within two weeks of signing the S&P.
Please note that these timelines are important and should be followed accordingly.
BSD refers to a tax that home buyers are obligated to pay upon purchasing a property. The amount of BSD levied is based on the price of the property, with higher-priced properties incurring a higher tax burden.
For residential properties, you will be charged with the following:
- 1% for the first $180,000
- 2% for the next $180,000
- 3% for the next $640,000
- 4% for the remaining amount
The Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) is an additional tax levied on top of the Buyer’s Stamp Duty (BSD). This tax is calculated based on the higher value between the purchase price or the current market value of the property.
Step 5: Make payment up to completion
Going forward, it is required of you to make payments progressively. The payment plan for purchasing an uncompleted property or BUC is as follows:
*You may utilize the funds from your CPF Ordinary Account to cover expenses related to stamp duty and legal fees. However, it is important to note that due to the restricted timeline for payment of BSD/ABSD, you will be required to make the initial payment in cash and then obtain reimbursement through CPF thereafter. Please be advised that CPF board cannot disburse the funds within the specified time frame.
Step 6: Collect the keys to your new home
After TOP, the developer will inform you and set a date for you to collect the keys to your newly purchased property. This marks the successful conclusion of the process of buying a new launch condo after selling your HDB flat.
By keeping in mind these guidelines and steps, you now have all the required information to become an informed and knowledgeable property investor.
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 …
5 Tips : How To Spot A Good Investment Opportunity In Singapore’s Property Market
Singapore's property market offers a plethora of investment opportunities for both local and foreign investors. To spot a good investment...
Read More
Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Property in Singapore – Expert Insights!
Purchasing a property in Singapore can be an exciting and rewarding experience, especially for those looking to invest in the...
Read More
Top 5 : How Does Investing In Luxury Condos In Singapore Compare To Investing In Other Real Estate Asset Classes In Terms Of Long-Term Capital Appreciation?
Investing in real estate has long been considered a reliable way to build wealth and diversify one's investment portfolio. In...
Read More
Could You Still End Up Losing Money When Buying Property in Singapore During a Market Slump?
TLDR When it comes to property investments, timing is crucial. Buying at the right moment is only half the battle;...
Read More
When Is the Right Time to Sell Your House?
TLDR When deciding to sell your house in Singapore's competitive real estate market, timing is crucial. Selling during a seller's...
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
Investing in Singapore Real Estate as a Foreigner
TLDR The blog post discusses the rules and regulations for foreign investors looking to purchase real estate in Singapore. It...
Read More
Top 5 Tea Rooms in Singapore for High Tea
Singapore, a melting pot of diverse cultures and culinary delights, offers an exquisite high tea experience that caters to both...
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
Avoid The Possibility Of Negative Cash Sales: Find Out How Much Your HDB Has To Appreciate To Steer Clear Of It!
TLDR When selling your property, watch out for negative cash sales that could leave you with no money after CPF...
Read More
The Top 5 Renovation Tips For Increasing The Value Of Your Singapore Property Investment
When it comes to increasing the value of your Singapore property investment, strategic renovations can make a significant difference. Here...
Read More
Ultimate Handbook on HDB Income Ceilings for BTO, Resale Flats, and Executive Condominiums
TLDR Owning an HDB home in Singapore depends largely on income ceilings. The HDB income ceiling limits monthly household earnings...
Read More
How to Avoid Forfeiting Your Security Deposit: A Guide to Your Rental Property
TLDR When bidding farewell to your rented property, ensure the safe return of your security deposit by: Regular Aircon Servicing:...
Read More
Find Your Dream Home: Top 5 Property Investments for Families in Singapore
As one of the most prosperous countries in the world, Singapore is an attractive destination for families looking to invest...
Read More
Dual-Key Condo: Analysing The Pros And Cons
TLDR for "Dual-Key Condo: Analysing The Pros And Cons" When considering dual-key condo units, it's important to weigh the advantages...
Read More
Top 5 Places to Watch the Sunset in Singapore
Singapore, a bustling city-state known for its modern architecture and vibrant culture, is also home to some of the most...
Read More
What’s Needed For Singapore To Lift Those Cooling Measures?
TLDR The blog post discusses the recent relaxation of real estate restrictions in Hong Kong, contrasting with Singapore's stricter regulations....
Read More
Top 5 Coffee Shops in Singapore for Coffee Lovers
Singapore, a bustling city-state known for its diverse culture and vibrant food scene, has also become a haven for coffee...
Read More
Top 5 Seafood Restaurants in Singapore
Singapore, a melting pot of cultures and culinary delights, is well-known for its diverse food scene. With its strategic location...
Read More
