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 …


Increase in ABSD April 2023
All Reports

Increase in ABSD April 2023

TLDR The impending rise in ABSD (Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty) is expected to suppress investment demand, allowing local homebuyers to...
Read More
5 Reasons : Why Investing In Commercial Real Estate Can Offer Stable Long-Term Returns
Mandarin Top 5

5 Reasons : Why Investing In Commercial Real Estate Can Offer Stable Long-Term Returns

Investing in commercial real estate has become an increasingly popular choice for investors seeking stable long-term returns. There are several...
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
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
Top 5 Reasons : Is It Still Worth It For A Foreigner To Invest In Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Reasons : Is It Still Worth It For A Foreigner To Invest In Singapore

Singapore, a small yet prosperous city-state in Southeast Asia, has long been an attractive destination for foreign investors. Its strategic...
Read More
Why Aren’t Spacious, Wallet-Friendly Homes Our Reality Yet?
All Opinion

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
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
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
Want To Buy A Property? Read Me First!
All Buying Tips

Want To Buy A Property? Read Me First!

TLDR Understanding the key factors involved in buying property in Singapore is crucial for making informed decisions. Consider your investment...
Read More
Top 5 Bookstores in Singapore for Book Lovers
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Bookstores in Singapore for Book Lovers

Singapore, a bustling cosmopolitan city, is known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse population, and of course, its love for...
Read More
Discover the Optimal Timing to Invest in Singapore Real Estate: Unveiling Historical Insights
All Buying Tips Opinion Selling Tips

Discover the Optimal Timing to Invest in Singapore Real Estate: Unveiling Historical Insights

TLDR When considering the best time to buy or sell a property in Singapore, historical data analysis reveals key insights....
Read More
With a population of 6.04 million in Singapore, who are the winners and losers in the property market?
All Buying Tips Opinion Selling Tips

With a population of 6.04 million in Singapore, who are the winners and losers in the property market?

There has been significant outcry regarding Singapore’s population hitting a record high of 6.04 million, largely due to an increase...
Read More
Superstitions in the Real Estate Market : How Does it Impact Resale Value?
All Buying Tips

Superstitions in the Real Estate Market : How Does it Impact Resale Value?

TLDR When navigating the Singapore property market, it's crucial to consider various superstitious beliefs that can impact your decisions. From...
Read More
Calculating Your Property’s Annual Value in Singapore 2024: A Simple Guide!
All Blog Posts

Calculating Your Property’s Annual Value in Singapore 2024: A Simple Guide!

TLDR Understanding your property's annual value is crucial for determining property taxes in Singapore. The annual value is based on...
Read More
Are You Considering Paying Off Your Mortgage Loan Ahead of Time? Is It the Right Financial Move?
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Are You Considering Paying Off Your Mortgage Loan Ahead of Time? Is It the Right Financial Move?

TLDR When considering mortgage options in Singapore, it's essential to understand the differences between HDB loans and bank loans. HDB...
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
Top 5 : Best Karting Circuits in Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 : Best Karting Circuits in Singapore

Singapore, a bustling city-state known for its modern architecture, cleanliness, and vibrant culture, is also home to a thriving karting...
Read More
Experience The Best Of Southeast Asia: 5 Must-See Destinations After Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

Experience The Best Of Southeast Asia: 5 Must-See Destinations After Singapore

Singapore is a great starting point for travelers looking to explore the region. From Singapore, there are many great destinations...
Read More
Top 5 Museums in Singapore for Art and History
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Museums in Singapore for Art and History

Singapore, known for its vibrant culture and rich history, is home to a plethora of museums that cater to art...
Read More
Should You Splash Your Cash on a Condo Despite the Sky-High PSF?
All Buying Tips Opinion

Should You Splash Your Cash on a Condo Despite the Sky-High PSF?

TLDR The blog post discusses various aspects of investing in condos in Singapore, covering topics such as leasehold versus freehold...
Read More

Compare Listings