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:

Offering Strategic Real Estate Advice – I can help create a comprehensive plan to guide you through your property journey.
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 …

All Blog Posts Buying Tips

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Purchasing an Auction Property in Singapore

Jayson Ang – January 13, 2023 –

TLDR When considering purchasing a property through auction in Singapore, remember that you can potentially get a great deal below...

Mandarin Top 5

Retiring in Singapore? Here’s Where to Find the 5 Best Property Investments for Comfort and Security!

Jayson Ang – March 22, 2024 –

Retirees have unique needs when it comes to property investments. They require properties that offer comfort, security, and easy access...

All Blog Posts Opinion

Unveiling the Truth: Why Freehold is Not Always the Optimal Choice for Property Investment

Jayson Ang – January 4, 2023 –

TLDR When it comes to investing in real estate in Singapore, traditional beliefs may not always hold true in today's...

All Buying Tips Opinion Selling Tips

Property Market: Buyer’s Paradise or Seller’s Dreamland?

Jayson Ang – July 24, 2024 –

TLDR The property market in Singapore post-Covid has seen a surge in HDB and private property prices, with a noticeable...

All Buying Tips Opinion

Buy a $1M Resale HDB or a $1M Resale Condo?

Jayson Ang – August 19, 2023 –

TLDR When comparing a million-dollar HDB flat to a private property of the same value, the HDB flat offers more...

Mandarin Top 5

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

Jayson Ang – February 23, 2025 –

Singapore, a thriving global city-state, has become an attractive destination for real estate investors. Among the various property types available,...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Reasons : Why Investing In Singapore’s Property Market Is Recession-Resistant

Jayson Ang – August 15, 2024 –

Singapore's property market has long been considered a safe haven for investors, even during times of economic uncertainty. The city-state's...

Mandarin Top 5

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

Jayson Ang – December 23, 2024 –

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

All Buying Tips Opinion

Mega Developments vs. Regular Condos in Singapore: A Data-Driven Comparison

Jayson Ang – March 22, 2026 –

TLDR Mega-developments (1,000+ units) in Singapore, once seen as chaotic, now offer competitive pricing and extensive facilities, making them attractive...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Most Common Red Flags To Watch Out For When Investing In Singapore Property

Jayson Ang – August 11, 2024 –

Investing in Singapore property has long been considered a lucrative and stable way to build wealth. However, like any investment,...

All Opinion Selling Tips

The Surprising Truths of Home Ownership: How Health Challenges Led a Homeowner to Relocate

Jayson Ang – July 29, 2025 –

When thinking about staircases, light switch locations, selling our home, and similar topics, many plan for retirement, assuming these issues...

Mandarin Top 5

5 Tips : How To Negotiate A Good Deal When Buying A Singapore Property

Jayson Ang – July 12, 2024 –

When looking to buy a property in Singapore, it's essential to know how to negotiate a good deal. Here are...

All Buying Tips Opinion

Finding Your Ideal Home: Strategies for Discovering Alternatives After Missing Your First Choice

Jayson Ang – June 14, 2026 –

TLDR When your preferred property becomes unavailable, broaden your search beyond immediate location and reconsider priorities like transport access, school...

All Blog Posts Opinion

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

Jayson Ang – December 24, 2022 –

TLDR In 2022, the real estate market saw significant interest rate hikes affecting home loan rates. Despite concerns, the market...

All Buying Tips Opinion

HDB Owners Missing Out on the “Ultimate Upgrade” to Landed Living

Jayson Ang – October 3, 2024 –

TLDR Over the past two decades in Singapore, the trend of HDB residents upgrading to landed properties has fluctuated. While...

All Buying Tips Opinion

How En-Bloc Sales of Condominiums Turned into a Speculative Exit Strategy in Singapore

Jayson Ang – August 2, 2025 –

TLDR En-bloc sales—where owners collectively sell an entire property for redevelopment—have become a key feature of Singapore’s private property market,...