Fraud Blocker
Your search results

Why Can’t We Have More Housing Options For Singles?

Posted by Jayson Ang on April 5, 2024
| 0

TLDR

The blog post discusses the evolving regulations for single individuals to purchase public housing in Singapore. It highlights the journey of Lee Siang, a logistics expert, who faced restrictions due to age limitations but is now considering buying a four-room HDB flat. The post mentions the changing policies, expert opinions on market demands, and the importance of aligning housing policies with societal values. It also touches on potential impacts on the property market and emphasizes the need for a balanced approach.

Logistics expert, Lee Siang, aged 39, decided to leave his parents’ two-room apartment eight years prior when his sibling’s family relocated there.

His desire was to own a flat; however, he was below the minimum age requirement during that time. Upon reaching the age of 35, his options were substantially restricted, as single individuals were only permitted to purchase new flats in non-mature estates – a rule set to be annulled in the latter half of next year.

Consequently, his only alternative was to lease a room in a condominium.

Survey results published by TODAY Youth indicate that 76 per cent of participants are of the opinion that the minimum age for singles to purchase an HDB flat should be reduced from the current age limit of 35. Concurrently, 75 per cent believe that public housing for families should be prioritized.

Echoing their sentiment, Mr Siang expressed his wish for younger singles to be allowed to purchase smaller flats.

“By the age of 30, some singles have the financial capacity to afford a two- or three-room flat. I don’t think those intending to start families would be interested in those types of flats,” Mr Siang pointed out, implying that singles could become homeowners without creating competition with couples or families.

Presently, he is considering purchasing a four-room HDB flat, with the intention of inviting some of his family members to reside with him.

“My kin, both my brother’s son and daughter, have been residing in the communal space of our home for nearly a half dozen years,” he shared. “As an individual purchasing this dwelling, I understand my responsibilities to my relatives who may also inhabit this place.”

The HDB homeownership program, established in 1964, was initially intended to encourage marriage and parenthood among Singaporeans. Those who were unwed were not eligible to procure a public apartment.

However, with time, the regulations for single individuals to acquire an HDB unit have gradually evolved. A significant milestone was achieved in 1991 when the Government initiated the Single Singapore Citizen Scheme. This allowed single citizens aged 35 and above to purchase from a restricted selection of smaller apartments on the resale market.

In recent decades, the Government has amplified housing grants and expanded accessibility to various flat types for single individuals. A remarkable progress was announced by Mr Lee at this year’s NDR: starting from the second half of 2024, single individuals will be eligible to apply for a new two-room Flexi BTO flat or purchase a resale flat in any estate.

Dr Tan from PropertyGuru commented that the upcoming measures to enhance public housing accessibility for singles are a “positive stride forward”.

Nevertheless, he highlighted that two out of the five national Shared Values implemented since 1991 include “family as the fundamental building block of society” and “community aid and regard for the individual”. These shared values were embraced to cultivate a unified Singaporean identity across all ethnic groups.

Dr. Tan emphasized that housing policies should harmonize with prevailing societal values.

Other property experts suggested that allowing singles to purchase HDB flats at a younger age could invariably create a surge in market demand, thereby escalating prices.

In such a situation, Mr. Lim from Huttons Asia foresees a spike in demand for BTO flats over resale ones due to their superior affordability. He postulated that this could ignite demands for more single-person flats construction, necessitating a delicate equilibrium between crafting homes for families and single individuals.

The experts highlighted that while singles and families may not vie for the same flat categories, allocating space initially intended for larger family flats to construct smaller individual ones could inadvertently curtail the availability of family homes.

While these property analysts applaud the government’s efforts to enhance housing accessibility, they underscored the need for a measured and phased approach.

Even though singles and families may not compete for the same type of flats, reducing some space meant for larger family flats to construct smaller ones for singles could potentially deplete the supply of family homes.

Mr. Tan from Savills proposed that fulfilling the housing aspirations of single people should be implemented subtly to avoid prematurely encouraging it.

He cautioned against prematurely acting on anticipated demands as it might inadvertently endorse certain lifestyle choices, like remaining single, which may not be beneficial for Singapore’s demographics in the long run.

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 …


Unlock the Potential of Your Home: 5 Reasons to Start Selling Now
All Blog Posts Opinion

Unlock the Potential of Your Home: 5 Reasons to Start Selling Now

TLDR When considering selling your home, several key indicators can help you determine if it's the right time to make...
Read More
Get Into Core Central Region Before Big Price Adjustments
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Get Into Core Central Region Before Big Price Adjustments

TLDR Jayson Ang discusses the essential factors to consider when seeking a property for investment. By analyzing the safe entry...
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
5 Most Affordable Areas to Invest in Property in Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

5 Most Affordable Areas to Invest in Property in Singapore

Singapore is known for being one of the most expensive cities in the world, particularly when it comes to property...
Read More
Top 5 : Advantages of Owning a Luxury Condominium in Singapore for Long-Term Investment
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 : Advantages of Owning a Luxury Condominium in Singapore for Long-Term Investment

Singapore, a thriving global city-state, has become an attractive destination for real estate investors. Among the various property types available,...
Read More
Top 5 : Benefits of Investing in Older vs. Newer Singapore Property Market Condos for International Buyers?
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 : Benefits of Investing in Older vs. Newer Singapore Property Market Condos for International Buyers?

Singapore's property market has long been an attractive investment destination for international buyers, offering a stable and well-regulated environment with...
Read More
5 Reasons Why Districts 9 and 10 are the Next Big Thing in Singapore Real Estate
Mandarin Top 5

5 Reasons Why Districts 9 and 10 are the Next Big Thing in Singapore Real Estate

Singapore is renowned for its thriving real estate market, with many desirable neighborhoods and top-notch properties. However, when it comes...
Read More
Discover the 7 Unique Attributes of Real Estate Investing
All Blog Posts Opinion

Discover the 7 Unique Attributes of Real Estate Investing

TLDR The post highlights the benefits of investing in real estate, such as high leverage, capital appreciation, income generation, usability,...
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
5 Reasons Why Singapore Loves Investing in Properties
Mandarin Top 5

5 Reasons Why Singapore Loves Investing in Properties

Property investing is a popular and lucrative option in Singapore due to several reasons. Firstly, Singapore's stable and growing economy...
Read More
Discover How The CPF Accrued Interest Can Impact Your Property Sale Proceeds
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Discover How The CPF Accrued Interest Can Impact Your Property Sale Proceeds

Singaporeans are renowned for being smart and savvy - especially when it comes to selling their homes, whether it's an...
Read More
From Overseas to Singapore Property: 5 Steps Guide to Remitting Funds
Mandarin Top 5

From Overseas to Singapore Property: 5 Steps Guide to Remitting Funds

From Overseas to Singapore Property: 5 Steps Guide to Remitting Funds 1. The first step in remitting money to Singapore...
Read More
The Emergence of Million-Dollar HDB Flats in Singapore: Could This Become the Standard Moving Forward?
All Buying Tips Selling Tips

The Emergence of Million-Dollar HDB Flats in Singapore: Could This Become the Standard Moving Forward?

TLDR Understanding the nuances of the HDB property market in Singapore, especially the trend of million-dollar flats, requires a deep...
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 Benefits Of Singapore’s Cooling Measures For Home Buyers
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Benefits Of Singapore’s Cooling Measures For Home Buyers

Singapore's real estate market has experienced rapid growth in recent years, leading to concerns about affordability and sustainability. In response,...
Read More
Singapore’s Urban Landscape Transformation: 5 Key Things You Need to Know
Mandarin Top 5

Singapore’s Urban Landscape Transformation: 5 Key Things You Need to Know

Singapore's urban landscape has undergone significant changes over the years, with the city constantly evolving to create a sustainable and...
Read More
Market Mistakes in Property Investment: Key Lessons and Strategies for Success
All Buying Tips Opinion Selling Tips

Market Mistakes in Property Investment: Key Lessons and Strategies for Success

TLDR In property investment, common mistakes include lack of research, overleveraging, and neglecting due diligence. To succeed, conduct thorough market...
Read More
Why The URA Master Plan Matters For Your Property’s Potential
All Buying Tips

Why The URA Master Plan Matters For Your Property’s Potential

TLDR The URA Master Plan entails significant shifts like the relocation of Paya Lebar Airport or creation of Punggol Digital...
Read More
5 Reasons : Can Your Real Estate Investment Hedge Against Inflation?
Mandarin Top 5

5 Reasons : Can Your Real Estate Investment Hedge Against Inflation?

Inflation is an economic phenomenon that can have a significant impact on an individual's financial well-being. As the cost of...
Read More
The Impact of a Real Estate Agent on Your Property’s Selling Price
All Buying Tips Opinion

The Impact of a Real Estate Agent on Your Property’s Selling Price

TLDR In the world of real estate, the value of property agents lies in their ability to create competition among...
Read More
1 2 3 28

Compare Listings