Fraud Blocker
Your search results

Why Can’t Everyone Have Homes In Good Locations?

Posted by Jayson Ang on March 9, 2024
| 0

TLDR

In a nutshell, the Singapore property market is undergoing significant changes, with the introduction of a new housing classification system that offers increased subsidies for properties in prime locations. However, stricter regulations such as a minimum occupation period of 10 years will apply. Experts caution against the feasibility of continually constructing new homes in mature estates due to land scarcity and the challenges associated with building taller structures. Balancing demand for well-established locations with practicality is a key focus in HDB estate construction. Ultimately, the decision to buy, sell, or wait on property investments should be based on individual circumstances. For comprehensive real estate advice and successful property transactions, leveraging data-driven insights and expert guidance is crucial in navigating the dynamic Singapore property market landscape.

Ms. Lim, a university student, and her significant other, Mr. Lee, believe that the geographical location of their future home is fundamentally important since they have no plans to purchase an automobile.

“Our preference is for a Build-to-Order (BTO) flat within a comfortable walking distance of an MRT station,” she stated.

Moreover, they desire to reside in close proximity to their parents who live either in Bedok or Jurong East. They have made attempts to apply for flats in these areas but unfortunately, their efforts have been unsuccessful thus far.

Their preferences align with those of several other young couples who have previously expressed to the media that they won’t compromise on certain factors when applying for a BTO flat, such as being near their parents and having easy access to public transportation.

In the most recent National Day Rally, Prime Minister Ng Chun Pin announced the introduction of a new “Plus” model to categorize public housing projects starting from the latter half of the next year. This will lead to the gradual discontinuation of the existing mature and non-mature estate classification system.

Under this new categorization, buyers of Plus and Prime flats — located in more sought-after locations — will receive increased subsidies from the Housing Development Board (HDB). However, they will also be subject to stricter regulations, including a minimum occupation period of 10 years. Any additional subsidies received by applicants will need to be repaid to HDB upon resale, among other restrictions.

Young couples who had previously spoken to the media about not compromising on certain attributes when applying for a BTO flat, such as proximity to parents and connectivity to transport nodes, might find these changes particularly relevant, especially those eyeing flats next to Kallang MRT station.

Dr. Lim Jia Hui, regional director for Singapore at PropertyGuru Group, shared, “These enhanced measures aim to promote fairness and discourage the perception of treating HDB flats as investment opportunities.”

He continued, “We should allow this novel reclassification system to fully unfold and share our insights via government channels when the time is right.”

Specialists in the field noted that it would be unfeasible to continually construct new homes within existing housing estates to accommodate everyone close to their parents, given the scarcity of land.

Can the Government not build higher flats and augment the flat supply in mature estates?

This proposition, though attractive, involves uprooting residents from current flats to pave way for newer ones. Moreover, building skyscraping flats also has its restrictions, the experts elucidated.

“There are boundaries to how tall our flats can be. We must take into account factors like aircraft flight paths, wind circulation, and the shadow cast by towering structures on shorter buildings,” advised Mr. Tan Wei Ming from Huttons Asia.

Dr. Lim from PropertyGuru highlighted other constraints such as increased construction expenses with taller structures and potential traffic jams.

“The Master Plan’s vision is to establish job clusters and enhance the allure of suburban regions, akin to Tengah,” stated Dr. Lim.

He added, “The demand for well-established and desirable locations is endless. Therefore, balancing this demand while ensuring viability will be a prime focus in the construction of HDB estates.”

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 …


Say Goodbye to “Sell One, Buy Two” Approach in 2024
All Buying Tips Opinion

Say Goodbye to “Sell One, Buy Two” Approach in 2024

TLDR Summary: The "Sell One, Buy Two" real estate tactic, popularized in 2016-2017, involves selling a property and buying two...
Read More
Thinking About Investing In An Old Landed Property In Singapore? 7 Crucial Tips To Keep In Mind Before You Make Your Move
All Buying Tips

Thinking About Investing In An Old Landed Property In Singapore? 7 Crucial Tips To Keep In Mind Before You Make Your Move

TLDR Older properties come with unique challenges due to outdated design elements, potential roofing issues, odd land shapes, basement drawbacks,...
Read More
5 Things to Know About Singapore’s Urban Redevelopment and Landscape Changes
Mandarin Top 5

5 Things to Know About Singapore’s Urban Redevelopment and Landscape Changes

As one of the world's most densely populated cities, Singapore has undergone significant urban redevelopment over the past few decades...
Read More
I Decided to Pay the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty to Purchase a Condominium While Retaining My HDB: My Reasons
All Blog Posts Buying Tips Opinion

I Decided to Pay the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty to Purchase a Condominium While Retaining My HDB: My Reasons

TLDR Despite a 20% Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) for second properties in Singapore, Yang chose to hold onto his...
Read More
5 Impacts Of The Singapore-Malaysia High-Speed Rail On The Property Market
Mandarin Top 5

5 Impacts Of The Singapore-Malaysia High-Speed Rail On The Property Market

The proposed Singapore-Malaysia High-Speed Rail (HSR) is a joint project between the two countries that aims to improve connectivity and...
Read More
Exciting News: Affordable Housing in Singapore by 2024?
All Buying Tips Opinion

Exciting News: Affordable Housing in Singapore by 2024?

TLDR The real estate market in Singapore is experiencing shifts in housing supply and demand, influenced by factors like mortgage...
Read More
5 Proven Strategies for Increasing the Value of Your Singapore Property
Mandarin Top 5

5 Proven Strategies for Increasing the Value of Your Singapore Property

In Singapore's competitive real estate market, adding value to your property can be the key to making a profitable investment....
Read More
Top 5 Dim Sum Restaurants in Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Dim Sum Restaurants in Singapore

Dim sum, a popular culinary delight that originated from China, has made its way into the hearts and taste buds...
Read More
How Can Real Estate Investment Help You to Combat Inflation?
All Blog Posts Opinion

How Can Real Estate Investment Help You to Combat Inflation?

TLDR When it comes to real estate investments in Singapore amidst rising inflation rates, consider strategies such as capitalizing on...
Read More
The 5 Hottest Neighborhoods in Singapore for Real Estate Investment
Mandarin Top 5

The 5 Hottest Neighborhoods in Singapore for Real Estate Investment

Hey everyone! Today I want to share with you the 5 hottest neighborhoods in Singapore for real estate investment.  These...
Read More
Top 5 Best Alternative Music Venues in Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Best Alternative Music Venues in Singapore

Singapore, a vibrant and bustling city-state, is known for its diverse culture and thriving arts scene. The city's love for...
Read More
How Will Singapore’s Development Influence The Real Estate Markets In Bedok, Changi, Pasir Ris, And Tampines : 2023
All Blog Posts Opinion

How Will Singapore’s Development Influence The Real Estate Markets In Bedok, Changi, Pasir Ris, And Tampines : 2023

TLDR You will find detailed insights into upcoming housing developments in the East of Singapore, specifically in areas like Bayshore,...
Read More
Top 5 Reasons : Why Jayson Ang is the Best Property Agent in Singapore. And Why You Should Engage Him Today
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Reasons : Why Jayson Ang is the Best Property Agent in Singapore. And Why You Should Engage Him Today

In the bustling city-state of Singapore, the real estate market is highly competitive and constantly evolving. Finding the perfect property...
Read More
What’s Next for HDB Owners?
All Buying Tips

What’s Next for HDB Owners?

Buying a home always seems daunting especially such it is a big-ticket item and the prices for private homes can easily...
Read More
Discover Affordable Executive Condos in 2024 Starting at $560,000
All Buying Tips Opinion

Discover Affordable Executive Condos in 2024 Starting at $560,000

TLDR The Executive Condos (ECs) offer affordable options compared to private properties in Singapore. Despite price variations, most ECs remain...
Read More
What Role Does Property Valuation Play In The Real Estate Industry, And Why Is It Important?
All Buying Tips

What Role Does Property Valuation Play In The Real Estate Industry, And Why Is It Important?

TLDR When it comes to property valuation, understanding the process is crucial for both buyers and sellers. Property valuations can...
Read More
5 Singapore Property Investing Myths Debunked
Mandarin Top 5

5 Singapore Property Investing Myths Debunked

In the world of property investing, misconceptions can lead to poor decisions and financial losses. In Singapore, there are several...
Read More
Quick Guide for Condo Sellers: Timeline to Sell Condo in 2023
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Quick Guide for Condo Sellers: Timeline to Sell Condo in 2023

TLDR When selling a condominium in Singapore, understanding the critical steps is key. First, ensure you are not liable for...
Read More
Should We Reconsider the ABSD Rates?
All Opinion

Should We Reconsider the ABSD Rates?

TLDR We explore the need to reevaluate the current Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) rates in Singapore, considering their impact...
Read More
Pitfalls of Owning a Boutique Condo: 5 Insider Insights You’ll Wish You Knew Earlier
All Buying Tips Opinion

Pitfalls of Owning a Boutique Condo: 5 Insider Insights You’ll Wish You Knew Earlier

TLDR When considering boutique condos, be mindful of potential drawbacks such as dominating families influencing rules, lack of privacy due...
Read More
1 20 21 22 23 24 28

Compare Listings