Fraud Blocker
Your search results

Why Cash Over Valuation (COV) Doesn’t Matter Anymore

Posted by Jayson Ang on September 20, 2025
| 0

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:

  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 …


5 Things to Know About the Singapore Property Tax System
Mandarin Top 5

5 Things to Know About the Singapore Property Tax System

5 Things to Know About the Singapore Property Tax System Here are 5 things you need to know about the...
Read More
Top 5 Best Instagrammable Spots in Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Best Instagrammable Spots in Singapore

Singapore, a vibrant and modern city-state, is known for its stunning architecture, lush green spaces, and colorful streets. With its...
Read More
Top 5 : Best Laser Tag Arenas in Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 : Best Laser Tag Arenas in Singapore

Laser tag has become an increasingly popular activity in Singapore, offering adrenaline-pumping experiences for people of all ages. This exciting...
Read More
Are Cluster Landed Homes Still a Good Investment? Analyzing Their Performance Over the Past Decade
All Blog Posts Buying Tips Reports

Are Cluster Landed Homes Still a Good Investment? Analyzing Their Performance Over the Past Decade

TLDR When it comes to cluster housing, freehold properties like Bishopsgate Residences command top prices, whereas bargains can be found...
Read More
What Is An Affordable Home In Singapore?
All Buying Tips Opinion

What Is An Affordable Home In Singapore?

TLDR Affordable housing in Singapore is about more than just having a roof over your head—it’s about survival and opportunity....
Read More
Navigating Property Purchases in Singapore: Why Going Without an Agent Can Be Risky
All Buying Tips

Navigating Property Purchases in Singapore: Why Going Without an Agent Can Be Risky

TLDR Many homebuyers hesitate to engage their own real estate agent due to misconceptions about costs and conflicts of interest....
Read More
Top 5 Shopping Malls in Singapore for Luxury Shopping
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Shopping Malls in Singapore for Luxury Shopping

Singapore, a bustling city-state known for its stunning architecture and diverse culture, is also a paradise for luxury shopping enthusiasts....
Read More
Why Some New Condo Releases Outperform Others
All Buying Tips Opinion

Why Some New Condo Releases Outperform Others

TLDR When it comes to the real estate market, familiarity plays a crucial role in the success of larger condo...
Read More
How Can Decoupling Help You in Buying a Second Property?
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

How Can Decoupling Help You in Buying a Second Property?

TLDR Decoupling property ownership in Singapore can help you avoid hefty Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty fees when purchasing a second...
Read More
URA 2025 Draft Master Plan: 6 Under The Radar Changes You May Have Missed
All

URA 2025 Draft Master Plan: 6 Under The Radar Changes You May Have Missed

TLDR The URA 2025 Draft Master Plan outlines major developments in Singapore over the next 10-15 years, with 80,000 new...
Read More
5 Risks Upgraders Should Be Aware of To Avoid Financial Troubles When Progressing Their Property
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

5 Risks Upgraders Should Be Aware of To Avoid Financial Troubles When Progressing Their Property

TLDR The article delves into the intricacies of property asset progression in Singapore's real estate market. It highlights the risks...
Read More
Discover the 3 Top Factors Impacting HDB Resale Valuation in Singapore: What Every Buyer Must Know!
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Discover the 3 Top Factors Impacting HDB Resale Valuation in Singapore: What Every Buyer Must Know!

TLDR The blog post discusses the increased demand for HDB resale flats and the impact on prices. It emphasizes the...
Read More
Revival of Singapore Luxury Housing Market in 2023
All Blog Posts Opinion

Revival of Singapore Luxury Housing Market in 2023

TLDR The property market in Singapore has witnessed significant shifts in the past two years, with a surge in prices...
Read More
5 Reasons : Why Investing In Conservation Shophouses In Singapore Can Be A Unique Opportunity
Mandarin Top 5

5 Reasons : Why Investing In Conservation Shophouses In Singapore Can Be A Unique Opportunity

Conservation shophouses are a unique and valuable investment opportunity in Singapore. These historic buildings are a key part of the...
Read More
Should We Upgrade to a Condo Now or Wait for Interest Rates to Go Down?
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Should We Upgrade to a Condo Now or Wait for Interest Rates to Go Down?

TLDR Considering the Singapore property market trends and financial factors, it's crucial to make informed decisions about upgrading from an...
Read More
The Changing Faces of Orchard Road
All Buying Tips

The Changing Faces of Orchard Road

Should You Buy, Sell or Wait? If you're reading this, you must be trying to figure out the best course...
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
Buying a Mega Development Condo? Here are 5 Overlooked Issues You Should Know
All Buying Tips

Buying a Mega Development Condo? Here are 5 Overlooked Issues You Should Know

TLDR In the world of mega-developments, living in a large condo with over 700 units can bring challenges like ongoing...
Read More
Top 5 Nature Walks in Singapore for Hikers
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Nature Walks in Singapore for Hikers

Singapore, a bustling city-state known for its impressive skyline and modern architecture, is also home to a plethora of natural...
Read More
Singapore’s Luxury Real Estate Market: The 5 Most Luxurious Neighborhoods
Mandarin Top 5

Singapore’s Luxury Real Estate Market: The 5 Most Luxurious Neighborhoods

The 5 most expensive neighborhoods in the city, and are home to some of the most exclusive and opulent properties...
Read More
1 … 4 5 6 7 8 … 36

Compare Listings