TLDR
HDB’s old strategy of hiding Cash Over Valuation (COV) data isn’t cooling Singapore’s resale flat market anymore. Prices keep breaking records, driven by cash-rich right-sizers from the private market and sky-high private property prices making million-dollar HDBs look reasonable. Without public COV data, buyers only see final transacted prices, pushing future prices even higher. Public perception is key—if $2 million HDB deals become common, HDB’s stance may backfire. The market faces a critical test in 2025. Whether to buy, sell, or wait depends on individual circumstances. Strategic advice and a data-driven approach are crucial for making informed decisions in today’s unpredictable market.
The COV secret sauce isn’t working anymore. Record-breaking prices keep coming: $1.73 million yesterday, $1.88 million today in Bishan. That last one’s a maisonette from 1991 – practically a spring chicken among its kind, given HDB stopped building these units in 1995.
Remember 2014? When resale prices went wild, HDB played its trump card: hiding COV data. Buyers and sellers had to shake hands on price before seeing valuations. Overpay? Too bad – loans won’t cover that premium. The strategy worked beautifully then. Zero COV became standard, and prices took a nice, long nap.
Until Covid hit.
Why isn’t this old trick working now? First, meet the right-sizers. These folks just sold private properties at peak prices. They’re swimming in cash and happy to overpay for their forever HDB home. Who needs to worry about COV when you’re sitting on a private property windfall?
Private market prices aren’t helping either. That $1.4 million Henderson flat from 2022 looks almost quaint now. When private options hit $2 million, a million-dollar HDB starts making twisted sense.
Here’s the real deal: past transactions drive future prices. We see final prices but not COV amounts. Was that $800,000 flat really worth $800,000, or did someone pay $100,000 over value? Nobody knows. The next buyer just sees $800,000 and builds from there.
HDB faces a critical challenge: keeping flats under $2 million. They’ve already flagged one misleading $2 million listing (it was actually two units). But public perception is everything. If that $1.88 million Bishan unit sells, and others follow, HDB’s “unrealistic” stance might backfire spectacularly.
They pulled one rabbit from the hat with COV concealment. Time for another trick? 2025 should tell.
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 …
Jayson Ang – January 22, 2023 – Share
TLDR An overview of the article discussing the benefits of Executive Condominiums (ECs) over private condos in the current real...
Read More
Jayson Ang – November 23, 2024 – Share
Purchasing a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you will make in your lifetime. It's essential to...
Read More
Jayson Ang – November 19, 2024 – Share
Singapore's real estate market has been a popular choice for foreign investors due to its stable economy, strategic location, and...
Read More
Jayson Ang – January 20, 2024 – Share
TLDR When it comes to the real estate market in Singapore, understanding property valuations and the impact on mortgage loans...
Read More
Jayson Ang – July 14, 2023 – Share
Don't Get Scammed: The Top 5 Red Flags To Watch Out For In Singapore's Property Market When it comes to...
Read More
Jayson Ang – June 26, 2023 – Share
Why Chinese Investors Should Not Be Deterred by ABSD: 5 Reasons Here are the top 5 reasons why Chinese investors...
Read More
Jayson Ang – December 9, 2022 – Share
Originally established in the early 1900s by Singapore's Dutch community, Holland Village was originally a residential area home to British...
Read More
Jayson Ang – April 2, 2024 – Share
TLDR The blog post discusses the aspirations of individuals like Siti and Mr. Tan regarding property ownership in Singapore. Siti...
Read More
Jayson Ang – March 3, 2024 – Share
TLDR Integrated developments in Singapore offer a one-stop solution for residents by combining residential, commercial, and transport elements in one...
Read More
Jayson Ang – August 19, 2023 – Share
TLDR When comparing a million-dollar HDB flat to a private property of the same value, the HDB flat offers more...
Read More
Jayson Ang – May 8, 2023 – Share
TLDR Understanding the benefits of long-term home loans is crucial for financially conservative individuals in Singapore. Opting for a longer...
Read More
Jayson Ang – May 30, 2024 – Share
The Singapore government has implemented several cooling measures over the years to regulate the property market and prevent it from...
Read More
Jayson Ang – April 16, 2023 – Share
TLDR Setting up utilities in Singapore for a new home is hassle-free. Contact SP Services for electricity and water accounts,...
Read More
Jayson Ang – November 16, 2023 – Share
TLDR for "Dual-Key Condo: Analysing The Pros And Cons" When considering dual-key condo units, it's important to weigh the advantages...
Read More
Jayson Ang – May 1, 2023 – Share
TLDR When it comes to property advice, it's crucial to be cautious of common misconceptions. For instance, schemes like the...
Read More
Jayson Ang – August 26, 2025 – Share
TLDR Younger Singaporeans are increasingly drawn to older resale HDB flats due to their larger size and central locations, without...
Read More
Jayson Ang – June 22, 2023 – Share
TLDR When it comes to property valuation, understanding the process is crucial for both buyers and sellers. Property valuations can...
Read More
Jayson Ang – July 22, 2024 – Share
Singapore, a cosmopolitan city-state known for its vibrant culture and diverse shopping scene, offers a unique blend of modern malls...
Read More
Jayson Ang – December 6, 2023 – Share
TLDR The article discusses the evolving trends in the Singaporean real estate market, focusing on the affordability and accessibility of...
Read More
Jayson Ang – August 13, 2024 – Share
TLDR When contemplating property investments in Singapore, consider various factors like rental performance, unit count, access to train lines, and...
Read More
