Fraud Blocker
Your search results

Lessons from the Rollercoaster Ride: Homebuyers Share Their Singapore Housing Market Experiences

Posted by Jayson Ang on April 11, 2024
| 0

TLDR

The Singapore housing market is a rollercoaster of unpredictable changes. Three homebuyers share their experiences: Tristan waited too long due to cooling measures, Daniel sold too soon and spent years renting, and Steven bought small units too early. It’s hard to give one-size-fits-all advice on buying or selling property. Seek strategic real estate advice and connect with the right buyers for success.

The Singapore housing market is a lot like a rollercoaster ride – unpredictable and full of ups and downs. Changes can happen in the blink of an eye and sometimes, decisions that seemed smart at the time can end up being not-so-smart later on.

We’ve put together some stories from homebuyers who have faced this truth head-on.

Let’s see if we can learn something from their experiences.

1. Playing the Waiting Game with “Temporary” Cooling Measures

Meet Tristan, who back in 2011, almost bought a second condo. His thought process was simple: “We were thinking of buying a small unit for my daughter who was renting at the time. The plan was for her to live there until she bought her own place, and then we could rent it out.”

But then the government introduced a three per cent ABSD (Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty). Tristan thought this was just a temporary measure. He asked his agent if he should wait until it was removed. She suggested it might not be a bad idea. So, he waited.

Fast forward to 2013, and the ABSD increased to ten per cent. That’s when Tristan decided to buy, but he ended up with a less desirable unit and paid the seven per cent ABSD unnecessarily.

To add insult to injury, property prices had gone up from around $1,100 to over $1,300 psf during his waiting period. And today, the ABSD is even steeper, standing at 20 per cent for a second property purchase.

2. Selling Too Soon And Spending Years Renting

Then there’s Daniel, who sold his unit one year from completion. “The location was perfect – just minutes from my office and close to my in-laws. But the buyer was keen, and the return looked good,” he explains.

After selling, however, Daniel couldn’t find a suitable replacement. He ended up renting in various places over the next 4.5 years, until he finally bought his current unit – which is less than a km from his original one!

3. Investing Too Soon And Buying Units That Were Too Small

Steven was always excited about property investment. By the age of 30, he had bought two one-bedroom units with the help of his dad and uncle. But when he decided to settle down few years later, he realized both units were too small for a family. He had to sell them at a time when the market wasn’t so good.

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 …


Thinking of Selling Your Home in 2024? 5 Vital Realities Every Seller Must Face
All Blog Posts Selling Tips

Thinking of Selling Your Home in 2024? 5 Vital Realities Every Seller Must Face

TLDR From 2022 to 2024, Singapore's housing market underwent significant changes, with a shift from scarcity to a boom in...
Read More
The Importance of Caution Regarding Property Oversupply in Singapore
All Buying Tips Opinion Selling Tips

The Importance of Caution Regarding Property Oversupply in Singapore

TLDR Recent challenges in China's real estate sector reveal valuable lessons for Singaporeans, emphasizing the importance of understanding governmental interventions...
Read More
Singapore Property Price Set to Explode Upwards in 2024?
All Blog Posts Opinion

Singapore Property Price Set to Explode Upwards in 2024?

TLDR Understanding the factors influencing property prices in Singapore for 2024 can help in making informed decisions. Despite high rental...
Read More
6 Key Contrasts Between New Launch and Resale Condos to Assist You in Making the Right Choice
All Buying Tips Opinion

6 Key Contrasts Between New Launch and Resale Condos to Assist You in Making the Right Choice

TLDR When deciding between a new condo or an older resale unit, consider the differences in design features. Older condos...
Read More
Is it Better to Sell Your Newly Launched Condo Before or After Completion? Here’s What the Statistics Indicate
All Opinion Selling Tips

Is it Better to Sell Your Newly Launched Condo Before or After Completion? Here’s What the Statistics Indicate

TLDR Determining the best time to sell a newly launched condo involves weighing the benefits of selling before or after...
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 Dangerous Ideas Singapore Property Investors Have
Mandarin Top 5

5 Dangerous Ideas Singapore Property Investors Have

Singapore's property market has always been a hot topic among investors, both local and international. With its strong economy, stable...
Read More
Discover 5 Reasons Executive Condominiums Could Prove To Be A Smart Investment Despite Growing Inflation
All Blog Posts Opinion

Discover 5 Reasons Executive Condominiums Could Prove To Be A Smart Investment Despite Growing Inflation

TLDR An overview of the article discussing the benefits of Executive Condominiums (ECs) over private condos in the current real...
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
Single, Over 35, and Searching for a Home? Here’s Your Guide to Choosing Between an HDB and a Condo!
All Buying Tips

Single, Over 35, and Searching for a Home? Here’s Your Guide to Choosing Between an HDB and a Condo!

At the age of 35, a single Singaporean starts a significant year, highlighted by the long-awaited chance to buy their...
Read More
Top 5 Cocktail Bars in Singapore for a Night Out
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Cocktail Bars in Singapore for a Night Out

Singapore, the vibrant city-state known for its impressive skyline and diverse culture, is also home to an exceptional cocktail scene....
Read More
Top 5 Tips How to Find Your Dream Home in Singapore: A Step-by-Step Guide
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Tips How to Find Your Dream Home in Singapore: A Step-by-Step Guide

Singapore, a vibrant and dynamic city-state, offers a diverse range of housing options for prospective homebuyers. From condominiums and HDB...
Read More
Top 5 Tips: Gain an Edge in the Singapore Property Market: Steps to Boost Your Investment Returns
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Tips: Gain an Edge in the Singapore Property Market: Steps to Boost Your Investment Returns

The Singapore property market has always been a hotbed for investors looking to make substantial returns on their investments. As...
Read More
How to Identify an “Undervalued Property” in Singapore in 2025: 6 Easy Tips
All Buying Tips Opinion Selling Tips

How to Identify an “Undervalued Property” in Singapore in 2025: 6 Easy Tips

TLDR Undervalued properties are harder to find in Singapore due to market transparency, but deals still exist. Target areas with...
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
Crucial Facts : All First Time Buyers Need to Know
All Buying Tips

Crucial Facts : All First Time Buyers Need to Know

TLDR When it comes to property investment for first-time buyers in Singapore, careful planning and early action are key. Consider...
Read More
Top 5 Japanese Restaurants in Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Japanese Restaurants in Singapore

Singapore, a melting pot of diverse cultures and flavors, offers an incredible array of dining experiences for food lovers. Japanese...
Read More
Tips for Young Adults to Begin Saving for Their Future Home
All Buying Tips

Tips for Young Adults to Begin Saving for Their Future Home

TLDR When aiming to purchase a home, it is crucial to gain knowledge about the buying process and track your...
Read More
Top 5 : Most Profitable Neighborhoods To Invest In For Singapore Property Investment 2025
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 : Most Profitable Neighborhoods To Invest In For Singapore Property Investment 2025

As the global economy continues to recover, the real estate market in Singapore remains a promising investment opportunity for savvy...
Read More
Unveiling the Secrets: How Foreigners Can Buy Property in Singapore – 6 Essential Steps to Follow
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Unveiling the Secrets: How Foreigners Can Buy Property in Singapore – 6 Essential Steps to Follow

TLDR Foreign investors find Singapore attractive due to its stable governance and transparent business practices. Foreigners, including Permanent Residents (PRs),...
Read More
1 25 26 27 28 29 35

Compare Listings