Your search results

How Much You Need to Earn to Afford a Condo 2023

Posted by Jayson Ang on October 30, 2023
| 0

TLDR

When considering investing in a private property in Singapore, it’s important to understand your borrowing capacity. Financial experts recommend that your monthly mortgage repayment should not exceed 30% of your gross monthly income. To determine the estimated monthly income needed to buy a new condo, factors such as location and type of property must be considered. Median income figures from the Ministry of Manpower can provide insights into affordability. Dual-income couples have higher potential for condo financing. Property market trends and measures implemented affect condo prices, making it essential to make informed decisions regarding property purchases. Consulting with real estate experts can provide valuable guidance on whether to buy, sell, or wait, ensuring a strategic and data-driven approach for your real estate journey.

Are you planning to invest in a private property but uncertain about your affordability? Don’t worry, I am here to assist you in making informed decisions regarding properties and more!

Being cautious while determining your borrowing capacity is crucial while purchasing a property. This will prevent you from making a costly mistake.

Eligibility versus affordability

Eligibility for a home loan should not be confused with the ability to afford a property. To afford a condo in Singapore, financial experts suggest that your monthly mortgage repayment, including principal and interest, should not exceed 30% of your gross monthly income. This is also known as the Mortgage Servicing Ratio (MSR) for HDB flats and new ECs. However, some experts believe that this requirement is too strict. While opinions may vary on what constitutes an ideal mortgage-to-income ratio, it is crucial to prioritize financial sustainability when making significant purchases such as property. This will prevent you from compromising other financial goals or resorting to a diet of instant noodles and bread every day.

How much do you need to earn to buy a condo?

In order to assist those looking for properties in Singapore, we have analyzed data to determine the approximate income required to afford a condominium. The price of the condominium will vary based on factors such as whether it is newly built or its location in the Core Central Region (CCR), which tends to be more expensive. Our estimates are based on the ability to make mortgage repayments and take into account certain assumptions.

  • As a Singaporean citizen, if you do not own any other residential properties in the country, you are exempted from paying a 17% Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD).
  • You will be required to make a down payment of 25%, which will allow you to take advantage of the maximum 75% loan-to-value (LTV) limit. The loan tenure will be for a period of 30 years.
  • We have implemented a 4% interest rate for the medium-term, in accordance with the guidance provided by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
  • It is confirmed that you have no other outstanding loans to attend to, this includes loans for properties, vehicles, personal purposes, and education.
  • The Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR) framework sets a limit to the total amount of loans an individual can service in a month. This limit should not exceed 55% of their gross monthly income. It is important to adhere to this framework to ensure financial stability and avoid overburdening oneself with debt.

The estimated monthly income you need to buy a new condo

*Please be aware that the figures provided are based on average pricing and may not reflect the actual cost. It is advisable to utilize my mortgage calculator, based on the exact price, to determine if it aligns with your financial capacity.

Rest of Central Region (RCR)

Outside Central Region (OCR):

The estimated monthly income you need to buy a resale condo

Despite the implementation of two rounds of measures aimed at reducing the overheating of the property market in December 2021 and September 2022, the prices of condominiums have gone up by 8.1% in 2022. The price increase was highest among RCR condos at 9.7%, followed by OCR condos at 9.3% and CCR condos at 4.8%. To find reasonably priced condos, it may be worthwhile to consider purchasing resale condos.

*Please be aware that the figures provided are based on an average price and may not reflect the actual cost. To accurately determine if the property is affordable for you, we suggest utilizing my mortgage calculator with the actual price in mind.

Median salary in Singapore: Can I afford a condo?

After learning about the cost of new and resale condos in Singapore, you may be wondering if purchasing a condo is feasible for you. To answer this question, we will examine the income figures published by the Ministry of Manpower’s Research and Statistics Department.

As per their data, the median gross monthly income from work, including employer CPF contributions, for full-time employed residents in 2022 is S$5,070, which is an 8.33% increase from the previous year. The median indicates that half of the workers earn less than this amount, while the other half earns more.

If you and your partner are a dual-income couple, you will have double the earning potential to finance a condo purchase. With your combined income, you will be able to afford condos situated in OCR and RCR regions.

After working and saving up for a few years, you and your partner can pay the substantial downpayment and purchase your dream condo.

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 Key Insights to Take Away from the Latest 2022 Cooling Measures
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

5 Key Insights to Take Away from the Latest 2022 Cooling Measures

TLDR Affordability of HDB Market: Government is focused on ensuring affordable public housing and may increase supply if needed. Long-term...
Read More
Learn the Essentials of Renting Property in Singapore as a Foreigner
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Learn the Essentials of Renting Property in Singapore as a Foreigner

TLDR Renting in Singapore offers various options for foreigners, such as HDBs, Condos, and even unique properties like heritage homes....
Read More
The 5 Most Popular Types of Properties to Buy in Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

The 5 Most Popular Types of Properties to Buy in Singapore

The 5 Most Popular Types of Properties to Buy in Singapore 1. Condominiums: Condos are popular among buyers because they...
Read More
Discover the 3 Top Factors Impacting HDB Resale Valuation in Singapore: What Every Buyer Must Know!
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Discover the 3 Top Factors Impacting HDB Resale Valuation in Singapore: What Every Buyer Must Know!

TLDR The blog post discusses the increased demand for HDB resale flats and the impact on prices. It emphasizes the...
Read More
The Top 5 Myths About Buying Property in Singapore – Debunked!
Mandarin Top 5

The Top 5 Myths About Buying Property in Singapore – Debunked!

The Top 5 Myths About Buying Property in Singapore – Debunked! Here are the top 5 myths about buying property...
Read More
Top 5 Cafes in Singapore for Brunch
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Cafes in Singapore for Brunch

Singapore, a melting pot of cultures and flavors, offers an incredible array of culinary experiences to tantalize your taste buds....
Read More
Ouch! How Owning a Million-Dollar Home Can Sting with a Whopping $300K Interest in Just a Decade!
All Opinion Selling Tips

Ouch! How Owning a Million-Dollar Home Can Sting with a Whopping $300K Interest in Just a Decade!

TLDR When considering property investments in Singapore, it's crucial to monitor home loan interest rates closely. Even a slight increase...
Read More
Top 5 Instagram-Worthy Spots in Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Instagram-Worthy Spots in Singapore

Singapore, a beautiful city-state known for its stunning architecture, lush greenery, and vibrant culture, is a photographer's paradise. The island...
Read More
It Seems Like Less Folks Living In HDB Flats Are Chasing After The Dream Of Owning A Condo
All Buying Tips

It Seems Like Less Folks Living In HDB Flats Are Chasing After The Dream Of Owning A Condo

TLDR The Singapore property market is experiencing a decline in condo purchases by HDB flat owners due to multiple property...
Read More
Identifying a Good Investment Property: A Guide
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Identifying a Good Investment Property: A Guide

TLDR When it comes to navigating the real estate market in Singapore, understanding key factors can make a significant difference...
Read More
When Is the Right Time to Sell Your House?
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

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
Buy a $1M Resale HDB or a $1M Resale Condo?
All Buying Tips Opinion

Buy a $1M Resale HDB or a $1M Resale Condo?

TLDR When comparing a million-dollar HDB flat to a private property of the same value, the HDB flat offers more...
Read More
Top 5 Romantic Date Spots in Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Romantic Date Spots in Singapore

Singapore, known for its stunning skyline and diverse culture, is a melting pot of romantic opportunities just waiting to be...
Read More
What Hidden Costs Are There When Selling Your House?
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

What Hidden Costs Are There When Selling Your House?

TLDR When selling your house, be prepared to cover expenses such as outstanding home loans, legal fees, property agent commissions,...
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
5 Things to do When You Go For A Property Viewing In Singapore Part 2
Buying Tips Mandarin Top 5

5 Things to do When You Go For A Property Viewing In Singapore Part 2

5 Things to do When You Go For A Property Viewing In Singapore Part 2 Here are 5 more things...
Read More
HDB Market Outlook 2023
All Blog Posts

HDB Market Outlook 2023

TLDR: Understanding the HDB Market Outlook 2023 The HDB resale market showed resilience in 2022, with significant growth in sales...
Read More
The Importance of Due Diligence in Property Investing in Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

The Importance of Due Diligence in Property Investing in Singapore

Investing in property can be a lucrative venture, but it also comes with its own set of risks and challenges....
Read More
My 6 Factors to Consider When Buying a Property in 2023
All Buying Tips Opinion

My 6 Factors to Consider When Buying a Property in 2023

As the housing market shows no signs of slowing down, many of us may feel left behind, questioning whether it...
Read More
Top 5 Rooftop Bars in Singapore with Amazing Views
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Rooftop Bars in Singapore with Amazing Views

Top 5 Rooftop Bars in Singapore with Amazing Views Singapore, the Lion City, is known for its stunning skyline and...
Read More

Compare Listings