How Budget 2024 Impacts Singapore Homeowners: Exciting Property Tax Updates and ABSD Benefits
TLDR The 2024 Budget introduces changes to property tax bands, aiming to ensure fair taxation based on Annual Value (AV)...
Read More
TLDR
The ABSD discount arises when developers approach their five-year deadline to sell 90% of units, facing a 40% penalty on land price for unsold units. Although 44 projects from 2021-2023 were extended, reasons remain vague, raising transparency concerns. Critics argue this favors wealthy buyers who can wait for discounts on high-priced units. Developers rarely offer individual unit discounts, even under ABSD penalties. For buyers, sellers, or investors, strategic advice and market insights are crucial due to varying personal circumstances.
If you’re unfamiliar with it, an ABSD discount occurs when a developer is nearing their five-year deadline to complete and sell 90 percent of their units. Failing to achieve this within the specified timeframe results in a significant penalty based on the unsold units (currently, developers face an ABSD of 40 percent on the land price, with 35 percent being refundable if they meet the deadline).
As developers approach this deadline with only a few units remaining, buyers begin to take notice, hoping for potential fire sales. However, for those seeking opportunities this year, I would advise against getting your hopes up.
A total of 44 projects that had deadlines between 2021 and 2023 received extensions on a case-by-case basis. This has sparked numerous questions among stakeholders: why were some projects granted extensions while others were not?
A solid justification for maintaining opacity
The typical replies to inquiries about the extensions have been phrases like “due to extenuating circumstances” or “site-specific delays,” which don’t really provide any clarity. Furthermore, it’s quite challenging to locate the names of the 44 projects involved, as well as any announcements indicating that they were initially requesting extensions.
Many have argued that maintaining this lack of transparency is unjust, citing reasons such as “buyers deserve to know” and the need for a fair system. However, I suspect that the information regarding this issue—much like the rationale behind why certain individuals are permitted to sell their flats before the Minimum Occupation Period (MOP)—is intentionally kept obscure.
Addressing situations on a case-by-case basis is delicate: once an extension or reprieve is granted for one individual circumstance, many others are likely to come forward claiming their situations are similar.
For instance, if one developer receives an extension due to a subcontractor going bankrupt, it’s probable that several others will knock on the door, asserting that they too have had subcontractor issues and thus require a six-month extension. Consequently, government agencies may find themselves overwhelmed trying to justify the differences between various cases.
Therefore, it’s essential for the real estate sector to maintain a level of discretion; we shouldn’t expect too much detail regarding why a developer was granted an extension.
That said, there is an intrinsic unfairness concerning discounts related to ABSD.
If you’re looking for another illustration of how the wealthy continue to accumulate wealth, the discounts related to ABSD serve as a prime example. It’s quite uncommon for the typical Singaporean to take advantage of these discounts, while the affluent can secure substantial savings.
To begin with, the remaining units usually consist of high-priced options, such as penthouses or premium stack units, which often stagnate on the market due to their price tags exceeding $5 million. This price range is simply beyond the reach of the average buyer, even with a discount in play—allowing the wealthiest purchasers to bide their time for reductions of 10, 15, or even 20 percent, while most buyers lack the financial means to capitalize on such opportunities.
Additionally, developers are generally reluctant to offer discounts on individual units. If there are just seven units left, what advantage is there in discounting them when the developer might only sell four or five but still face an ABSD penalty?
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 …
Top 5 Cafes in Singapore for Brunch
Singapore, a melting pot of cultures and flavors, offers an incredible array of culinary experiences to tantalize your taste buds....
Read More
Top 5 : Dangerous Ideas Singapore Property Investors Have
Singapore's property market has long been considered a safe and lucrative investment option for both local and foreign investors. The...
Read More
How to Build a Property Empire in Singapore: Scaling Your Investments
Real estate investing is a popular way to build wealth and generate passive income. However, like any investment, it comes...
Read More
Top 5 Fine Dining Restaurants in Singapore if You are Visiting Us!
Top 5 Fine Dining Restaurants in Singapore if You are Visiting Us! Singapore is known for its diverse and delicious...
Read More
Great Reasons for Condo Owners to Sell upon Reaching TOP – A Guide to Sub-Sale Transactions
TLDR A recent sub-sale transaction in Midtown Modern set a new record with a 2-bedroom home selling at $3,150 psf....
Read More
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
5 Cons of Buying a New Development
Luxury properties in Districts 9 and 10 of Singapore are highly coveted, and for good reason. From stunning views and...
Read More
Exciting News: Affordable Housing in Singapore by 2024?
TLDR The real estate market in Singapore is experiencing shifts in housing supply and demand, influenced by factors like mortgage...
Read More
Five Pitfalls of Selling a Home for the First Time
TLDR When selling your first home, avoid holding out for a better offer as it may backfire. Let your agent...
Read More
When will En-Bloc set to Become Reality Beyond 2023?
TLDR The real estate market is experiencing a lull in en-bloc activities due to various factors. Higher Additional Buyer’s Stamp...
Read More
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
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
Top 5 Reasons : Why Do Singaporeans Still Flood The Property Market?
Singapore, a thriving city-state with a robust economy and a strong demand for real estate, has always been an attractive...
Read More
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
Discover the Benefits of a SORA Home Loan in 2023: Why Consider SORA Interest Rates
TLDR The article discusses the transition from SIBOR and SOR to SORA as the new benchmark rate in Singapore's banking...
Read More
Why Can’t We Have More Housing Options For Singles?
TLDR The blog post discusses the evolving regulations for single individuals to purchase public housing in Singapore. It highlights the...
Read More
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 : Factors Influence Real Estate Investors’ Decisions when Investing in Singapore Condos?
Singapore's real estate market has always been an attractive investment option for both local and foreign investors. The city-state's stable...
Read More
The Top 5 Renovation Tips For Increasing The Value Of Your Singapore Property Investment
When it comes to increasing the value of your Singapore property investment, strategic renovations can make a significant difference. Here...
Read More
