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 …


Apply Your HDB HFE Letter in 5 Easy Steps: A Simplified Guide for 2023
All Buying Tips

Apply Your HDB HFE Letter in 5 Easy Steps: A Simplified Guide for 2023

TLDR The HDB Flat Eligibility (HFE) letter has experienced delays since its introduction alongside the HDB Flat Portal in May...
Read More
Top 5 Best Unique Nighttime Experiences in Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Best Unique Nighttime Experiences in Singapore

Singapore, a vibrant city-state known for its stunning skyline and diverse culture, truly comes alive at night. As the sun...
Read More
2024 Residential Property Market Outlook
All Buying Tips Reports

2024 Residential Property Market Outlook

TLDR The market outlook for 2024 suggests continued uncertainties affecting housing demand and risk appetite due to geopolitical tensions, macroeconomic...
Read More
Why En Blocs Often Fail to Succeed
All Opinion

Why En Blocs Often Fail to Succeed

TLDR In this blog post, the focus is on the challenges and complexities of en-bloc transactions in Singapore's property market....
Read More
Top 5 Factors : Buying Resale vs New Launch Property in Singapore: Which is Better?
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Factors : Buying Resale vs New Launch Property in Singapore: Which is Better?

The decision to invest in a property in Singapore can be both exciting and daunting, especially when faced with the...
Read More
Top 5 Tips : Finding the Right Property: Location, Size, and Price in Singapore Real Estate
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Tips : Finding the Right Property: Location, Size, and Price in Singapore Real Estate

Singapore, known for its diverse culture, strong economy, and excellent infrastructure, is a popular destination for real estate investments. The...
Read More
5 Reasons Why You Should Consider Hiring an Agent Instead of DIY-ing It
All Blog Posts Opinion

5 Reasons Why You Should Consider Hiring an Agent Instead of DIY-ing It

TLDR Understanding the complexities of the real estate market and transactions can be overwhelming. Enlisting the help of a real...
Read More
5 Pros of Buying a New Development
Mandarin Top 5

5 Pros of Buying a New Development

Deciding whether to buy a new development or a resale property can be a challenge. In the next few video...
Read More
Top 5 Art Galleries in Singapore for Contemporary Art
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Art Galleries in Singapore for Contemporary Art

Singapore, known for its modern architecture and vibrant culture, has a thriving art scene that showcases the best of contemporary...
Read More
Here’s How Property Data Can Be Misleading: Navigating Through Common Misunderstandings
All Buying Tips

Here’s How Property Data Can Be Misleading: Navigating Through Common Misunderstandings

TLDR When comparing property prices, discrepancies can arise due to various factors like timing of purchase, scarcity in niche projects,...
Read More
Bayshore: Reinventing the Experience of Living by the Beach
All Buying Tips Opinion

Bayshore: Reinventing the Experience of Living by the Beach

TLDR When deciding on buying or selling property in Bayshore, consider the recent developments and potential future growth. With a...
Read More
5 Must-Know Questions Before Investing in Real Estate
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

5 Must-Know Questions Before Investing in Real Estate

TLDR When considering whether to buy a new development or a resale property, it can be challenging. In the blog...
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
Top 5 Must-Do Experiences in Singapore for First Timers
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Must-Do Experiences in Singapore for First Timers

Singapore, a vibrant city-state known for its diverse culture and rich history, offers an array of unique experiences for first-time...
Read More
Top 5 : What Are The Key Factors That Drive Foreign Investment In Singapore’s Real Estate Market
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 : What Are The Key Factors That Drive Foreign Investment In Singapore’s Real Estate Market

Singapore, a thriving city-state in Southeast Asia, has become a magnet for foreign investors looking to capitalize on its booming...
Read More
Rising Interest Rates : A Cause for Concern?
All Buying Tips

Rising Interest Rates : A Cause for Concern?

TLDR In 2021, the real estate market saw a surge in demand due to low interest rates and supply chain...
Read More
What Hidden Costs Are There When Selling Your House?
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

What Hidden Costs Are There When Selling Your House?

TLDR When selling your house, be prepared to cover expenses such as outstanding home loans, legal fees, property agent commissions,...
Read More
Top 5 : Is Investing In Properties Worth In Singapore?
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 : Is Investing In Properties Worth In Singapore?

Investing in properties has long been considered a reliable and profitable venture, and Singapore, with its robust real estate market,...
Read More
When Is The Best Time To Buy A New Launch?
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

When Is The Best Time To Buy A New Launch?

TLDR When it comes to new property launches, timing is crucial. Early buyers often secure the best prices due to...
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
1 16 17 18 19 20 27

Compare Listings