Fraud Blocker
Your search results

Why Can’t More People Own Private Property?

Posted by Jayson Ang on April 2, 2024
| 0

TLDR

The blog post discusses the aspirations of individuals like Siti and Mr. Tan regarding property ownership in Singapore. Siti hopes for more land allocation for private properties, recognizing the potential impact on housing prices. On the other hand, Mr. Tan seeks eased restrictions on acquiring a second property. Experts highlight the complexities of increasing private property demand and pricing dynamics, with Mr. Lee emphasizing developers’ influence on pricing. The article also touches on Singapore’s high private home prices compared to median incomes and government policies favoring first-time homeowners. Lastly, it provides real estate advice and insights for readers navigating Singapore’s property market.

Under the alias of Siti, an undergraduate student expresses her aspiration to one day become a private property owner. She mirrors the sentiment of many in her age group, holding faith that private properties not only appreciate more in value but also endow a sense of personal accomplishment.

Siti articulates her receptiveness towards the idea of the government dedicating more land to private property development. She acknowledges the potential downside of this strategy, which could result in a general surge in housing prices, and labels this consequence as “less than perfect”.

Meanwhile, Tan Wei Ming, aged 45, his spouse and their two offspring reside in a public apartment. Mr. Tan and his wife harbor the dream of acquiring a second property as an investment, a dream that currently feels somewhat elusive.

Mr. Tan expresses his optimism that the government might ease restrictions regarding the purchase of a second property. Specifically, he hopes for the abolition of the waiting period for homeowners to acquire a second property after their first flat reaches its Minimum Occupation Period (MOP).

He argues that compelling homeowners to wait five years before they can invest in a second property could result in missed lucrative investment opportunities. Furthermore, Mr. Tan suggests that if the government allocates more land for private housing developments, the increased supply might trigger a decrease in prices.

Experts have indicated that relaxing the rules for purchasing private property could stimulate an increase in demand, thereby escalating the prices. They maintain that even if additional land is allocated for private development, it doesn’t necessarily mean that prices will plummet.

Mr. Lee from IPS noted that private market developers possess the freedom to determine prices according to their discretion.

“If the government sells more land to these private developers, can they really control the housing prices? Developers have the power to set any price they deem fit,” he elaborated.

While competition may exist among developers, this wouldn’t necessarily result in lower prices as their primary objective is to safeguard their profit margins. Moreover, developers would also need to consider the cost of bidding for land parcels for their construction projects, a factor that would influence the final selling price of the properties.

According to recent data from the Urban Land Institute (ULI) Asia Pacific Centre for Housing, Singapore’s median private home price ranked highest among 45 other cities. The report revealed that the median price of Singapore’s private homes was 13.7 times the median annual household income.

From a policy perspective, Mr. Lim stated that the government prioritizes first-time homeowners, making sure they can afford public housing.

“The aim isn’t to make private housing more affordable. That’s not our homeownership policy goal,” he stressed.

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 …


Unveiling 4 Scenarios of CPF Accrued Interest Impact on Property Owners
All Blog Posts Opinion Selling Tips

Unveiling 4 Scenarios of CPF Accrued Interest Impact on Property Owners

TLDR When selling your first home, be aware of CPF accrued interest, which is the interest that would have accumulated...
Read More
Top 5 Tips : Spot These Warning Signs Before Making a Home Purchase!
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Tips : Spot These Warning Signs Before Making a Home Purchase!

Purchasing a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you will make in your lifetime. It's essential to...
Read More
Top 5 Factors to Look for in a Property Developer
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Factors to Look for in a Property Developer

With a highly competitive property market, it's crucial to choose a property developer that you can trust to deliver quality...
Read More
Is it Possible for the Government to Truly “Reclaim Your Home” in Singapore?
All Opinion

Is it Possible for the Government to Truly “Reclaim Your Home” in Singapore?

The Singaporean government possesses considerable authority to reclaim land, whether freehold or not, in accordance with the Land Acquisition Act....
Read More
Maximize Your Property Investment: 5 Questions to Ask Your Real Estate Agent in Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

Maximize Your Property Investment: 5 Questions to Ask Your Real Estate Agent in Singapore

Buying a property in Singapore can be a daunting task, especially for first-time buyers. It is important to have a...
Read More
5 Insider Tips From Real Estate Experts On How To Get The Best Deal On Property In Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

5 Insider Tips From Real Estate Experts On How To Get The Best Deal On Property In Singapore

Investing in property can be a great way to build wealth and secure your financial future. However, with Singapore's highly...
Read More
Top 5 Best Hidden Boutique Hotels in Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Best Hidden Boutique Hotels in Singapore

Singapore, a vibrant city-state known for its iconic landmarks and diverse culture, offers a plethora of accommodation options for travelers....
Read More
Discover 7 New Condos Close to an MRT Station in 2023
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Discover 7 New Condos Close to an MRT Station in 2023

TLDR When it comes to finding the perfect home near MRT stations in Singapore, several exciting new launches stand out...
Read More
Top 5 : Dangerous Ideas Singapore Property Investors Have
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 : Dangerous Ideas Singapore Property Investors Have

Investing in property, particularly in a thriving market like Singapore, can be an enticing prospect. However, it's not without its...
Read More
Are Resale HDBs Really Unaffordable In 2025?
All Buying Tips Opinion Selling Tips

Are Resale HDBs Really Unaffordable In 2025?

TLDR Singapore’s housing debate is fueled by headlines about million-dollar flats, but most resale 4-room flats in over 10 estates...
Read More
What Has Been The Most Significant Development In The Real Estate Market In 2022
All Blog Posts Opinion

What Has Been The Most Significant Development In The Real Estate Market In 2022

TLDR In 2022, the real estate market saw significant interest rate hikes affecting home loan rates. Despite concerns, the market...
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
Top 5 Key Factors that Affect Singapore’s Property Prices?
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Key Factors that Affect Singapore’s Property Prices?

Singapore's property market has always been a topic of interest for both local and international investors. The city-state's real estate...
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?
Mandarin Top 5

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
Can You Still Make Money from Older Freehold Condos in Singapore
All Blog Posts Buying Tips Opinion Reports

Can You Still Make Money from Older Freehold Condos in Singapore

TLDR While freehold condos might seem like a solid investment, the rise of new developments and aging buildings cast doubt...
Read More
5 Reasons Why Timing the Singapore Property Market is a Risk You Shouldn’t Take
Buying Tips Mandarin Top 5

5 Reasons Why Timing the Singapore Property Market is a Risk You Shouldn’t Take

5 Reasons Why Timing the Singapore Property Market is a Risk You Shouldn't Take Entering the Singapore property market can...
Read More
Why Can’t Everyone Have Homes In Good Locations?
All Opinion

Why Can’t Everyone Have Homes In Good Locations?

TLDR In a nutshell, the Singapore property market is undergoing significant changes, with the introduction of a new housing classification...
Read More
Top 5 Reasons Why Singapore’s Property Market Is A Haven For High Net Worth Investors
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Reasons Why Singapore’s Property Market Is A Haven For High Net Worth Investors

Singapore's property market has long been a magnet for high net worth investors, both local and international. The city-state's strategic...
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
Top 5 : Greatest Challenges That Investors Face In Singapore’s Real Estate Market
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 : Greatest Challenges That Investors Face In Singapore’s Real Estate Market

Singapore's real estate market is a dynamic and attractive investment landscape for both local and international investors. Known for its...
Read More

Compare Listings