Fraud Blocker
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 …


Top 5 Best Green Spaces to Picnic in Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Best Green Spaces to Picnic in Singapore

Singapore, a bustling city-state known for its modern architecture and vibrant culture, is also home to numerous green spaces that...
Read More
5 Most Iconic Landmarks In Singapore’s Landscape
Mandarin Top 5

5 Most Iconic Landmarks In Singapore’s Landscape

Singapore's landscapes is renowned for its innovative and dynamic approach to urban development, boasting some of the most iconic landmarks...
Read More
6 Key Contrasts Between New Launch and Resale Condos to Assist You in Making the Right Choice
All Buying Tips Opinion

6 Key Contrasts Between New Launch and Resale Condos to Assist You in Making the Right Choice

TLDR When deciding between a new condo or an older resale unit, consider the differences in design features. Older condos...
Read More
Snag a Sentosa Condo for 40% Off? Should You Consider It!
All Opinion

Snag a Sentosa Condo for 40% Off? Should You Consider It!

TLDR The Residences at W Singapore Sentosa Cove has slashed prices by over 40%, but there are important details to...
Read More
Top 5 Parks and Nature Reserves to Visit in Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Parks and Nature Reserves to Visit in Singapore

Singapore, often referred to as the "Garden City," is a vibrant and diverse nation that has made significant strides in...
Read More
5 Disastrous Property Transaction Nightmares (and How to Avoid Them)!
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

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
Simplified Guide to Buying Landed Property in Singapore
All Buying Tips

Simplified Guide to Buying Landed Property in Singapore

TLDR When considering buying a landed property in Singapore, you have options like terrace homes, semi-detached houses, and bungalows. Understanding...
Read More
Is the Dream of Homeownership Becoming a Steeper Climb?
All Opinion Reports

Is the Dream of Homeownership Becoming a Steeper Climb?

TLDR The article discusses the evolving trends in the Singaporean real estate market, focusing on the affordability and accessibility of...
Read More
Should You Purchase a Small Landed Home or a Larger Condo? Insights from Singaporeans
All Buying Tips Selling Tips

Should You Purchase a Small Landed Home or a Larger Condo? Insights from Singaporeans

TLDR When deciding between a compact landed house and a spacious condominium, consider key factors like security, parking, maintenance costs,...
Read More
3 Winning Strategies for Skyrocketing Your Property Market Profits (Including Real-Life Success Stories)
All Buying Tips Opinion Selling Tips

3 Winning Strategies for Skyrocketing Your Property Market Profits (Including Real-Life Success Stories)

TLDR In the dynamic property market of Singapore, maximizing profit is key for sellers and investors. Three essential strategies stand...
Read More
When Is The Best Time To Buy A New Launch?
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

When Is The Best Time To Buy A New Launch?

TLDR When it comes to new property launches, timing is crucial. Early buyers often secure the best prices due to...
Read More
What’s The Difference Between An Offer To Purchase And An Option To Purchase?
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

What’s The Difference Between An Offer To Purchase And An Option To Purchase?

TLDR Understanding the crucial difference between an Offer to Purchase and an Option to Purchase (OTP) is vital when buying...
Read More
5 Singapore’s Best Property Investments for 2023: Where to Find Growth and Income
Mandarin Top 5

5 Singapore’s Best Property Investments for 2023: Where to Find Growth and Income

The Singapore property market has long been a sought-after investment destination, with its stable economy and growing population making it...
Read More
How Much You Need to Earn to Afford a Condo 2023
All Buying Tips

How Much You Need to Earn to Afford a Condo 2023

TLDR When considering investing in a private property in Singapore, it's important to understand your borrowing capacity. Financial experts recommend...
Read More
5 Impacts Of The Singapore Government’s Cooling Measures On Property Investing
Mandarin Top 5

5 Impacts Of The Singapore Government’s Cooling Measures On Property Investing

The Singapore government has implemented several cooling measures over the years to regulate the property market and prevent it from...
Read More
Top 5 Nature Walks in Singapore for Hikers
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Nature Walks in Singapore for Hikers

Singapore, a bustling city-state known for its impressive skyline and modern architecture, is also home to a plethora of natural...
Read More
Top 5 : Why Ultra-Rich Foreigners Will Still Buy Property In Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 : Why Ultra-Rich Foreigners Will Still Buy Property In Singapore

Singapore, a small island nation in Southeast Asia, has been steadily gaining recognition as a hotspot for the ultra-wealthy to...
Read More
5 Reasons : The Benefits Of Investing In A Property With Good Access To Healthcare Facilities In Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

5 Reasons : The Benefits Of Investing In A Property With Good Access To Healthcare Facilities In Singapore

Investing in a property with good access to healthcare facilities in Singapore offers numerous benefits for both homeowners and investors....
Read More
Making Sense of 99-Year Landed Home Investments in Singapore
All Buying Tips Opinion

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
What Happens To Your Housing Loan Once You Sell Your House?
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

What Happens To Your Housing Loan Once You Sell Your House?

TLDR When selling your home in Singapore, ensure you pay off your outstanding home loan, refund any CPF monies used,...
Read More

Compare Listings