The Dual Impact of Rising HDB Flat Prices in Singapore: A Balanced Perspective
TLDR HDB flat prices in Singapore have nearly doubled every 16 years, reflecting a long-term trend of appreciation averaging about...
Read More
TLDR
Old HDB landed homes, like those in Whampoa, are rare and now fetch over $1.5 million, but their value growth has slowed sharply compared to regular flats. Over the past decade (2014–2024), standard HDB flats—especially executive units—have outperformed these landed homes, mainly due to lease decay and stricter CPF rules that limit financing for older properties. While these houses offer unique lifestyle perks (land, space, privacy) at a lower entry cost than private landed, buyers should expect flat or minimal gains moving forward. HDB landed homes best suit those prioritizing lifestyle over profit, such as retirees or pet lovers, not investors seeking appreciation. For most buyers, younger executive flats now offer better value and flexibility. The market for old HDB terraces will face more headwinds as leases shorten and financing tightens.
The most budget-friendly landed homes in Singapore typically aren’t private properties; instead, they are HDB terraced units, many of which originate from the 1950s. Due to their rarity, they attract significant attention whenever one is sold – for instance, one of these 52-year-old HDB landed houses in Whampoa was sold for $1.568 million in July 2024. This technically makes it the priciest 3-room “flat” ever sold, although it may not be entirely fair to draw that comparison. Nevertheless, this raised questions about the resale value of these old landed houses, prompting us to investigate further:
Transactions of HDB landed homes since 1990
We were able to identify 41 blocks with landed-type transactions from 1990 to the present. While this figure isn’t particularly high, it’s understandable since these properties are quite uncommon, leading to a lower transaction volume. Additionally, we couldn’t obtain the specific prices for these homes (as is the case with standard HDBs), but it provides some insight into the pricing trends.
| Year | JLN BAHAGIA | JLN MA’MOR | JLN TENTERAM | STIRLING RD |
| 1990 | $86,063 | $59,000 | $90,000 | $99,400 |
| 1991 | $90,409 | $70,000 | $60,000 | $100,800 |
| 1992 | $111,800 | $103,600 | $158,000 | |
| 1993 | $196,385 | $126,000 | $225,333 | |
| 1994 | $283,500 | $297,857 | $288,000 | $283,250 |
| 1995 | $398,500 | $372,143 | $398,700 | |
| 1996 | $498,350 | $445,769 | $430,000 | $498,286 |
| 1997 | $516,282 | $537,750 | $578,000 | $512,028 |
| 1998 | $459,150 | $463,000 | $474,125 | |
| 1999 | $426,677 | $452,989 | $430,000 | $460,000 |
| 2000 | $482,857 | $498,929 | $450,000 | $398,833 |
| 2001 | $476,000 | $468,333 | $469,000 | $426,000 |
| 2002 | $431,955 | $435,800 | $390,000 | $434,600 |
| 2003 | $420,250 | $397,667 | $390,000 | $410,200 |
| 2004 | $416,400 | $479,200 | $515,000 | $406,000 |
| 2005 | $444,429 | $368,333 | $368,000 | $394,800 |
| 2006 | $448,667 | $440,625 | $376,115 | |
| 2007 | $434,933 | $454,750 | $491,722 | |
| 2008 | $480,600 | $523,762 | $518,571 | |
| 2009 | $608,627 | $609,289 | $568,446 | |
| 2010 | $707,111 | $660,083 | $663,333 | $636,500 |
| 2011 | $759,875 | $768,000 | $769,400 | $740,296 |
| 2012 | $747,750 | $828,397 | $810,000 | $789,450 |
| 2013 | $730,000 | $933,222 | $818,250 | |
| 2014 | $800,750 | $880,750 | $704,000 | |
| 2015 | $837,948 | $842,667 | $794,333 | |
| 2016 | $764,722 | $843,750 | $915,000 | |
| 2017 | $771,000 | $806,481 | $844,630 | |
| 2018 | $878,000 | $810,333 | $645,000 | $873,000 |
| 2019 | $755,000 | $782,500 | $850,000 | |
| 2020 | $833,571 | $827,500 | $678,000 | $871,000 |
| 2021 | $973,320 | $907,500 | $965,000 | $864,000 |
| 2022 | $863,500 | $887,648 | $924,333 | |
| 2023 | $1,021,500 | $1,100,000 | $780,500 | |
| 2024 | $847,222 | $1,266,000 | ||
| Change (1990 – 2024) | 6.96% | 9.44% | 14.98% | 6.44% |
| Change (2014 – 2024) | 0.57% | 3.70% | No Data | 1.15% |
| Year | JLN BAHAGIA | JLN MA’MOR | JLN TENTERAM | STIRLING RD |
| 1990 | $74 | $41 | $89 | $90 |
| 1991 | $80 | $60 | $57 | $88 |
| 1992 | $83 | $69 | $122 | |
| 1993 | $128 | $113 | $189 | |
| 1994 | $247 | $222 | $185 | $279 |
| 1995 | $314 | $341 | $343 | |
| 1996 | $379 | $419 | $425 | $459 |
| 1997 | $400 | $353 | $303 | $477 |
| 1998 | $397 | $331 | $457 | |
| 1999 | $338 | $342 | $425 | $326 |
| 2000 | $429 | $351 | $431 | $396 |
| 2001 | $378 | $334 | $373 | $394 |
| 2002 | $352 | $384 | $385 | $349 |
| 2003 | $376 | $392 | $385 | $393 |
| 2004 | $347 | $298 | $216 | $342 |
| 2005 | $356 | $386 | $364 | $345 |
| 2006 | $309 | $352 | $364 | |
| 2007 | $380 | $395 | $423 | |
| 2008 | $507 | $400 | $503 | |
| 2009 | $507 | $450 | $513 | |
| 2010 | $544 | $607 | $567 | $617 |
| 2011 | $643 | $707 | $760 | $753 |
| 2012 | $822 | $703 | $801 | $818 |
| 2013 | $805 | $592 | $692 | |
| 2014 | $801 | $721 | $752 | |
| 2015 | $781 | $686 | $702 | |
| 2016 | $783 | $666 | $804 | |
| 2017 | $600 | $641 | $885 | |
| 2018 | $643 | $575 | $637 | $873 |
| 2019 | $702 | $806 | $908 | |
| 2020 | $726 | $725 | $670 | $774 |
| 2021 | $737 | $669 | $640 | $781 |
| 2022 | $915 | $867 | $742 | |
| 2023 | $784 | $955 | $783 | |
| 2024 | $762 | $590 | ||
| Change (1990 – 2024) | 7.11% | 8.14% | 12.31% | 6.78% |
| Change (2014 – 2024) | -0.51% | -1.98% | No Data | 0.45% |
Next, we will examine these landed home figures in relation to the performance of standard HDB flats:
| Year | 3 ROOM | 4 ROOM | 5 ROOM | EXECUTIVE |
| 1990 | $42,548 | $81,757 | $132,615 | $186,458 |
| 1991 | $44,390 | $81,761 | $138,103 | $191,167 |
| 1992 | $48,046 | $90,912 | $154,384 | $213,971 |
| 1993 | $70,767 | $134,360 | $227,253 | $296,455 |
| 1994 | $93,896 | $175,046 | $284,072 | $367,723 |
| 1995 | $120,862 | $216,575 | $341,553 | $443,288 |
| 1996 | $172,576 | $295,868 | $441,541 | $572,772 |
| 1997 | $194,325 | $304,947 | $442,182 | $567,156 |
| 1998 | $154,528 | $253,703 | $373,743 | $479,760 |
| 1999 | $145,733 | $243,871 | $355,042 | $447,643 |
| 2000 | $157,157 | $256,708 | $375,507 | $479,089 |
| 2001 | $144,927 | $233,871 | $340,184 | $445,524 |
| 2002 | $143,714 | $224,189 | $324,428 | $422,226 |
| 2003 | $159,283 | $230,091 | $322,054 | $408,603 |
| 2004 | $173,888 | $237,554 | $315,056 | $386,484 |
| 2005 | $170,063 | $234,454 | $303,456 | $361,812 |
| 2006 | $166,105 | $235,465 | $303,186 | $357,635 |
| 2007 | $180,589 | $254,522 | $327,557 | $384,763 |
| 2008 | $225,845 | $308,725 | $389,542 | $458,551 |
| 2009 | $248,522 | $331,749 | $403,023 | $471,082 |
| 2010 | $286,763 | $372,523 | $454,304 | $522,056 |
| 2011 | $324,178 | $422,694 | $501,826 | $577,826 |
| 2012 | $350,309 | $456,252 | $542,172 | $629,253 |
| 2013 | $361,126 | $479,144 | $568,800 | $661,300 |
| 2014 | $340,068 | $444,921 | $536,065 | $639,124 |
| 2015 | $323,645 | $433,574 | $515,018 | $620,677 |
| 2016 | $321,489 | $434,348 | $522,708 | $624,048 |
| 2017 | $316,668 | $437,120 | $532,277 | $627,211 |
| 2018 | $305,331 | $431,704 | $527,635 | $630,780 |
| 2019 | $298,230 | $429,749 | $526,812 | $617,561 |
| 2020 | $311,381 | $448,559 | $541,457 | $635,395 |
| 2021 | $351,378 | $505,022 | $603,990 | $705,559 |
| 2022 | $388,116 | $549,022 | $654,253 | $782,007 |
| 2023 | $411,272 | $584,035 | $685,338 | $829,310 |
| 2024 | $430,602 | $614,876 | $716,679 | $864,590 |
| Change (1990 – 2024) | 7.04% | 6.11% | 5.09% | 4.62% |
| Change (2014 – 2024) | 2.39% | 3.29% | 2.95% | 3.07% |
| Year | 3 ROOM | 4 ROOM | 5 ROOM | EXECUTIVE |
| 1990 | $58 | $80 | $100 | $116 |
| 1991 | $60 | $81 | $104 | $120 |
| 1992 | $65 | $90 | $116 | $134 |
| 1993 | $97 | $132 | $171 | $187 |
| 1994 | $128 | $170 | $214 | $232 |
| 1995 | $164 | $210 | $257 | $278 |
| 1996 | $234 | $284 | $332 | $359 |
| 1997 | $261 | $293 | $332 | $357 |
| 1998 | $209 | $243 | $279 | $301 |
| 1999 | $198 | $231 | $264 | $277 |
| 2000 | $213 | $242 | $279 | $298 |
| 2001 | $197 | $221 | $256 | $280 |
| 2002 | $195 | $212 | $245 | $266 |
| 2003 | $216 | $218 | $243 | $257 |
| 2004 | $238 | $227 | $240 | $244 |
| 2005 | $233 | $225 | $233 | $230 |
| 2006 | $228 | $227 | $235 | $227 |
| 2007 | $248 | $247 | $256 | $245 |
| 2008 | $310 | $299 | $306 | $293 |
| 2009 | $341 | $322 | $318 | $303 |
| 2010 | $394 | $361 | $356 | $335 |
| 2011 | $445 | $410 | $395 | $373 |
| 2012 | $482 | $443 | $426 | $409 |
| 2013 | $496 | $467 | $446 | $426 |
| 2014 | $465 | $434 | $421 | $412 |
| 2015 | $442 | $422 | $405 | $401 |
| 2016 | $439 | $423 | $411 | $402 |
| 2017 | $432 | $427 | $419 | $404 |
| 2018 | $417 | $422 | $416 | $406 |
| 2019 | $409 | $421 | $415 | $396 |
| 2020 | $427 | $443 | $430 | $407 |
| 2021 | $482 | $499 | $480 | $453 |
| 2022 | $532 | $541 | $519 | $499 |
| 2023 | $562 | $574 | $543 | $530 |
| 2024 | $589 | $606 | $568 | $553 |
| Change (1990 – 2024) | 7.07% | 6.13% | 5.25% | 4.69% |
| Change (2014 – 2024) | 2.41% | 3.39% | 3.05% | 2.97% |
The Numbers Game: HDB Landed vs Regular Flats
Past decade’s data tells an unexpected tale. Regular HDB flats matched or beat terraced houses across all sizes from 2014 to 2024. Lease decay’s fingerprints show clearly here – many terraced homes hit their lease midlife crisis while younger flats powered ahead.
CPF rules changed the game in May 2019. Now, your CPF use depends on whether the remaining lease can carry you to age 95. For aging HDB terraced houses with sub-50-year leases, this hits hard. Looking ahead, these properties face a double squeeze: limited financing options and restricted CPF use. Cash buyers become rare birds, choking future price growth.
The Executive Flat Alternative
Enter executive flats – spacious alternatives to landed living. Historical data since 1990 favored HDB landed homes, but the last decade flips this script. Again, age matters. Even old executive flats rarely match the vintage of 1950s terrace houses.
Space hunters face a choice: aging landed charm versus younger executive practicality. Each path carries different trade-offs.
Beyond the Dollar Signs
Real estate veterans share wisdom: HDB landed homes shine brightest for buyers who look past profit margins. Think retirees planning their forever home, gardening enthusiasts craving soil beneath their feet, or pet lovers needing extra space.
Compared to private landed prices, these homes offer similar lifestyle benefits at half the cost. But 2024 marks a turning point – future owners might need to accept minimal gains or even flat returns.
Want deeper insights into Singapore’s property scene? Follow us for market updates, or reach out for personalized property guidance.
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 …
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
Are We Truly Headed For A Slowdown? How Will This Affect Property Prices?
TLDR The pandemic-induced recession has surprisingly boosted property prices in Singapore, defying conventional economic trends. Factors like cost-push inflation, limited...
Read More
The COV Conundrum: Navigating Singapore’s Property Premium
TLDR Cash Over Valuation (COV) is the difference between a property's official valuation and the price a buyer is willing...
Read More
6 Essential Factors HDB Upgraders Should Be Aware Of Before Purchasing a Condo in 2023
TLDR When upgrading your property, consider factors like rental rates, Buyer's Stamp Duty adjustments, higher interest rates for bank loans,...
Read More
2024 Will Be A Buyers Market
TLDR 2023 saw a roller-coaster ride in the real estate market, with various challenges like high interest rates and geopolitical...
Read More
Unveiling the Truth: Why Freehold is Not Always the Optimal Choice for Property Investment
TLDR When it comes to investing in real estate in Singapore, traditional beliefs may not always hold true in today's...
Read More
Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Investing in Singapore Real Estate
Investing in Singapore's real estate market can be a lucrative venture, given the city-state's status as a global financial hub...
Read More
The Lifecycle of an HDB Flat: Essential Stages for Owners and Buyers
TLDR HDB flats in Singapore, home to 80% of residents, begin as state land acquired at fair market value. The...
Read More
What is Buyer’s Stamp Duty (BSD) in Singapore and How Does It Work?
TLDR When it comes to navigating the Additional Buyers Stamp Duty (ABSD) in Singapore, legal strategies are available to overcome...
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
5 Reasons : Why Investing In Commercial Real Estate Can Offer Stable Long-Term Returns
Investing in commercial real estate has become an increasingly popular choice for investors seeking stable long-term returns. There are several...
Read More
Top 5 Reasons : Why Developers Seem Hesitant To Commit To New Projects In Singapore
Singapore, a thriving global city-state, has long been known for its robust economy and attractive real estate market. However, in...
Read More
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
Four Things to Avoid When Renting Out an HDB Flat
TLDR Renting out an HDB flat in Singapore can be a lucrative source of secondary income. Key considerations include adhering...
Read More
Top 5 Vegetarian Restaurants in Singapore
Singapore, a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, offers a diverse range of dining options for food enthusiasts. For vegetarians,...
Read More
What is a Tenancy Agreement (TA)
TLDR When it comes to understanding property jargon, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the specifics of a Tenancy Agreement...
Read More
Thinking of Selling Your Home in 2024? 5 Vital Realities Every Seller Must Face
TLDR From 2022 to 2024, Singapore's housing market underwent significant changes, with a shift from scarcity to a boom in...
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
5 Factors : Why Singapore’s Prime District Properties Are Still In Demand
Singapore's prime district properties continue to be in high demand due to a combination of factors that make them attractive...
Read More
