Fraud Blocker
Your search results

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

Posted by Jayson Ang on March 14, 2025
| 0

TLDR

Determining the best time to sell a newly launched condo involves weighing the benefits of selling before or after the project’s completion. Selling early can lead to quicker profits and less competition, while waiting until completion might attract more buyers and higher prices, albeit with potential risks like construction issues. Data from various condo sales since 2018 indicates that selling after the Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP) often yields slightly better returns, with a 1.4% improvement on average. However, the timing difference is marginal, and decisions should consider market conditions, project specifics, and personal financial strategies. Understanding the Sellers Stamp Duty (SSD) and market trends is crucial for maximizing investment returns in Singapore’s property market.

There has been significant interest in figuring out the best time to sell your newly launched condo, especially as more units from recent developments are approaching completion.

Should you sell before the condo is finished? Selling early allows for quicker access to profits and opens up opportunities for other potential investments. Furthermore, selling sooner can mean facing less competition, particularly if your unit is part of a large-scale development.

Conversely, there are benefits to waiting until the project is completed. You might see an uptick in demand from buyers eager to move in, and if the condo exceeds expectations, it could command a higher price. However, there’s a risk that any construction quality issues could surface, which might negatively affect your selling price.

So, does selling early genuinely offer greater profitability, and how does the timing of your sale influence your returns? We examined data from various condo sales to uncover the answers:

Projects that we used for comparison

We compared private, non-landed projects launched since 2018. We also looked at new resale and new sub-sale transactions for comparison.

Project New Sale to Resale (Vol) New Sale to Sub Sale (Vol) Total Volume
AMBER 45 10 1 11
AVENUE SOUTH RESIDENCE 37 2 39
BUKIT 828 1 1 2
DAINTREE RESIDENCE 8 16 24
FOURTH AVENUE RESIDENCES 2 13 15
JADESCAPE 45 80 125
JUI RESIDENCES 7 2 9
KOPAR AT NEWTON 1 15 16
MARGARET VILLE 31 4 35
MAYFAIR GARDENS 13 14 27
MIDWOOD 6 6 12
NYON 3 1 4
OLLOI 1 1 2
PARC ESTA 56 169 225
PARK COLONIAL 52 56 108
REZI 24 1 4 5
STIRLING RESIDENCES 107 84 191
THE ANTARES 2 2 4
THE GARDEN RESIDENCES 69 4 73
THE JOVELL 4 10 14
THE TAPESTRY 97 19 116
THE VERANDAH RESIDENCES 4 10 14
TREASURE AT TAMPINES 61 275 336
TWIN VEW 43 45 88
VERDALE 1 1 2
WHISTLER GRAND 48 57 105
Total Transactions 674 928 1602

Avenue South Residence transactions were initially recorded as Sub Sale. We changed them to “Resale” for analysis because it was believed that the residence was ready for move-in earlier. We used March 2023 as the date for considering these transactions as Resale instead of Sub Sale.

A look at overall returns

Project New Sale to Resale New Sale to Sub Sale Grand Total Which is better? Difference
AMBER 45 +15.1% +6.1% +14.3% Sell After TOP +9.0%
AVENUE SOUTH RESIDENCE +14.7% +13.7% +14.6% Sell After TOP +0.9%
BUKIT 828 +8.9% -4.6% +2.1% Sell After TOP +13.6%
DAINTREE RESIDENCE +21.6% +22.2% +22.0% Sell Before TOP -0.5%
FOURTH AVENUE RESIDENCES +17.8% +8.4% +9.7% Sell After TOP +9.4%
JADESCAPE +25.8% +22.0% +23.4% Sell After TOP +3.8%
JUI RESIDENCES +9.3% +11.5% +9.8% Sell Before TOP -2.2%
KOPAR AT NEWTON +11.6% +12.7% +12.6% Sell Before TOP -1.1%
MARGARET VILLE +17.1% +11.1% +16.4% Sell After TOP +6.0%
MAYFAIR GARDENS +10.3% +9.8% +10.0% Sell After TOP +0.5%
MIDWOOD +18.4% +20.9% +19.7% Sell Before TOP -2.5%
NYON +16.3% +13.2% +15.5% Sell After TOP +3.1%
OLLOI +24.0% +17.5% +20.7% Sell After TOP +6.5%
PARC ESTA +29.1% +22.7% +24.3% Sell After TOP +6.4%
PARK COLONIAL +20.8% +15.7% +18.1% Sell After TOP +5.1%
REZI 24 +4.3% +7.3% +6.7% Sell Before TOP -2.9%
STIRLING RESIDENCES +24.2% +20.1% +22.4% Sell After TOP +4.1%
THE ANTARES +19.2% +12.9% +16.1% Sell After TOP +6.3%
THE GARDEN RESIDENCES +13.5% +8.2% +13.2% Sell After TOP +5.3%
THE JOVELL +22.7% +16.9% +18.5% Sell After TOP +5.9%
THE TAPESTRY +16.6% +11.6% +15.8% Sell After TOP +5.0%
THE VERANDAH RESIDENCES +13.3% +10.2% +11.1% Sell After TOP +3.1%
TREASURE AT TAMPINES +23.5% +21.8% +22.1% Sell After TOP +1.7%
TWIN VEW +22.6% +17.0% +19.8% Sell After TOP +5.6%
VERDALE +12.8% +13.9% +13.3% Sell Before TOP -1.1%
WHISTLER GRAND +30.7% +24.6% +27.4% Sell After TOP +6.1%
Average +21.3% +19.9% +20.5% Sell After TOP

New resale transactions were slightly better, suggesting it’s often wiser to sell after TOP. However, the difference isn’t significant. In six projects where selling before TOP was advantageous, three only had one new resale transaction, and Jui Residences had two, making it tough to reach solid conclusions. Midwood stands out, as selling after TOP increased value by 2.5 percent.

We need to note that prices increased a lot after Covid

In the aftermath of the Covid pandemic, the housing shortage led to a significant increase in home prices. As a result, we would anticipate that new units compared to resale properties would exhibit stronger performance, as they likely have appreciated due to extended time in the market.

Below are the holding periods for the different transactions:

Project New Sale to Resale New Sale to Sub Sale Grand Total
AMBER 45 4.4 Years 3.2 Years 4.3 Years
AVENUE SOUTH RESIDENCE 4.0 Years 3.1 Years 3.9 Years
BUKIT 828 4.0 Years 1.6 Years 2.8 Years
DAINTREE RESIDENCE 3.7 Years 3.3 Years 3.4 Years
FOURTH AVENUE RESIDENCES 3.6 Years 3.6 Years 3.6 Years
JADESCAPE 4.1 Years 3.7 Years 3.8 Years
JUI RESIDENCES 4.6 Years 3.4 Years 4.3 Years
KOPAR AT NEWTON 4.0 Years 3.6 Years 3.6 Years
MARGARET VILLE 4.4 Years 3.5 Years 4.3 Years
MAYFAIR GARDENS 4.6 Years 4.1 Years 4.3 Years
MIDWOOD 3.2 Years 3.1 Years 3.1 Years
NYON 3.9 Years 3.5 Years 3.8 Years
OLLOI 3.9 Years 2.2 Years 3.1 Years
PARC ESTA 4.3 Years 3.7 Years 3.8 Years
PARK COLONIAL 4.9 Years 3.7 Years 4.3 Years
REZI 24 3.5 Years 4.0 Years 3.9 Years
STIRLING RESIDENCES 4.3 Years 3.6 Years 4.0 Years
THE ANTARES 3.7 Years 3.9 Years 3.8 Years
THE GARDEN RESIDENCES 4.1 Years 3.4 Years 4.0 Years
THE JOVELL 4.2 Years 3.5 Years 3.7 Years
THE TAPESTRY 4.6 Years 3.3 Years 4.4 Years
THE VERANDAH RESIDENCES 5.7 Years 4.7 Years 5.0 Years
TREASURE AT TAMPINES 3.8 Years 3.7 Years 3.7 Years
TWIN VEW 4.9 Years 3.4 Years 4.2 Years
VERDALE 3.6 Years 3.4 Years 3.5 Years
WHISTLER GRAND 4.1 Years 3.5 Years 3.8 Years
Average 4.3 Years 3.7 Years 3.9 Years

For Midwood, the average time between buying and selling is similar for both sub sales and resales, so the holding period isn’t significant for this condo.

Generally, if you wait until after the TOP to sell, the results improve by about 1.4 per cent, which is due to an eight-month difference in the holding period.

In general, the findings indicate that the timing of this brief scale does not significantly impact the results

It’s wise to follow a basic strategy for property buying: purchase when you can hold onto the investment and weather market downturns.

The Sellers Stamp Duty (SSD) imposes a 12% tax on the sale price if a unit is sold within the first year, dropping to 8% and then 4% in following years. This is why many sub sales happen in the fourth year, after the SSD period.

Decisions often depend on the specific project. For a luxury condo with fewer competitors and a promising outlook, waiting might be advantageous as buyers may pay more for something they like.

In contrast, for mass-market launches, timing can be crucial. If you bought early and others bought later, selling before more listings appear could be wise, even if you risk missing a higher price later.

Finally, private property prices are rising slowly and struggling to exceed $2,200 per square foot, affecting sub sale transactions. Buyers should be ready to hold their properties longer than expected, possibly needing to sell well after the official completion date.

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 …


Investment 101: The Top 5 Best Long-Term Values In Singapore’s Property Market
Buying Tips Mandarin Top 5

Investment 101: The Top 5 Best Long-Term Values In Singapore’s Property Market

Investment 101: The Top 5 Best Long-Term Values In Singapore's Property Market When it comes to purchasing property in Singapore,...
Read More
Singapore’s Top 5 Property Investment Hotspots for 2024
Mandarin Top 5

Singapore’s Top 5 Property Investment Hotspots for 2024

As one of the world's leading financial centers, Singapore has always been a popular destination for property investment. With a...
Read More
Singapore’s Housing Phenomenon: A Success Tale Calling for Tweaks – Insights from the Experts
All Opinion

Singapore’s Housing Phenomenon: A Success Tale Calling for Tweaks – Insights from the Experts

TLDR Singapore's housing system has been praised for its effectiveness in meeting citizens' homeownership desires. The public housing program by...
Read More
Top 5 Luxury Dining Experiences in Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Luxury Dining Experiences in Singapore

Singapore, known as the Lion City, is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and luxury experiences. With its rich history,...
Read More
Singapore’s Best Kept Real Estate Secrets: 5 Insider Tips for Savvy Investors
Mandarin Top 5

Singapore’s Best Kept Real Estate Secrets: 5 Insider Tips for Savvy Investors

Singapore's Best Kept Real Estate Secrets: 5 Insider Tips for Savvy Investors Here are 5 insider tips for those looking...
Read More
Buy a $1M Resale HDB or a $1M Resale Condo?
All Buying Tips Opinion

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

TLDR When comparing a million-dollar HDB flat to a private property of the same value, the HDB flat offers more...
Read More
Top 5 Factors Should Be Taken Into Consideration When Choosing The Right Neighborhood To Invest In Singapore’s Real Estate Market
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Factors Should Be Taken Into Consideration When Choosing The Right Neighborhood To Invest In Singapore’s Real Estate Market

Singapore's real estate market is known for its stability and potential for growth, making it an attractive investment destination for...
Read More
Top 5 : Places to Learn About Singapore’s History
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 : Places to Learn About Singapore’s History

Singapore, a bustling metropolis known for its modernity and multiculturalism, is also a treasure trove of rich history and heritage....
Read More
5 Exciting Trends Shaping Singapore’s Property Market for Future Buyers After 2024
All Buying Tips

5 Exciting Trends Shaping Singapore’s Property Market for Future Buyers After 2024

TLDR When it comes to the evolving landscape of property development in Singapore, developers are facing new challenges and opportunities....
Read More
5 Reasons : The Benefits Of Investing In A Property With Good Access To Healthcare Facilities In Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

5 Reasons : The Benefits Of Investing In A Property With Good Access To Healthcare Facilities In Singapore

Investing in a property with good access to healthcare facilities in Singapore offers numerous benefits for both homeowners and investors....
Read More
The Importance of Due Diligence in Property Investing in Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

The Importance of Due Diligence in Property Investing in Singapore

Investing in property can be a lucrative venture, but it also comes with its own set of risks and challenges....
Read More
Top 5 Must-Know Facts about Luxury Properties in Districts 9 of Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Must-Know Facts about Luxury Properties in Districts 9 of Singapore

Singapore, a bustling city-state known for its impressive skyline and vibrant economy, has always been an attractive destination for property...
Read More
Are You Worried About Overpaying On Your Property? Here’s The Secret To Finding Out Its Perfect Purchase Price!
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Are You Worried About Overpaying On Your Property? Here’s The Secret To Finding Out Its Perfect Purchase Price!

TLDR Understanding property valuations and their impact on mortgage loans is crucial in the Singapore real estate market. By considering...
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
Experience The Best Of Southeast Asia: 5 Must-See Destinations After Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

Experience The Best Of Southeast Asia: 5 Must-See Destinations After Singapore

Singapore is a great starting point for travelers looking to explore the region. From Singapore, there are many great destinations...
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
The Top 5 Impact Of Singapore’s Ageing Population On The Property Market And Investment Opportunities
Mandarin Top 5

The Top 5 Impact Of Singapore’s Ageing Population On The Property Market And Investment Opportunities

Singapore's ageing population is having a significant impact on the property market and investment opportunities. The top five effects include:...
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 Street Food Markets in Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Street Food Markets in Singapore

Singapore, a melting pot of diverse cultures, offers an incredible array of street food that tantalizes the taste buds of...
Read More
Transforming Your Home Loan Situation with Rate Cuts
All Buying Tips

Transforming Your Home Loan Situation with Rate Cuts

TLDR When comparing fixed and floating mortgage rates, the present fixed rate of 3% is favorable, but predictions hint at...
Read More
1 12 13 14 15 16 27

Compare Listings