What’s A Fair Price For An HDB Flat in 2025? A Savvy Buyer’s Guide
TLDR There’s no single “fair” price for HDB resale flats—what’s fair depends on your needs, motivation, and timing. To navigate...
Read More
The Shifting Landscape: Why More Singaporeans Are Opting for Larger HDB Flats Over Condos for Upgrades in 2025
TLDR
By 2025, more Singaporeans are choosing larger HDB flats over condominiums as their upgrade path. Rising condo prices, especially for family-sized units, have priced many households out, while resale HDB flats offer comparable space at far lower costs. Families highlight practical benefits—proximity to schools, familiar neighborhoods, community ties, and affordability—as reasons for preferring bigger HDBs. For some, what began as a “temporary” solution became a permanent choice, offering comfort without financial strain. Others prioritize accessibility for aging parents or value the social networks built around HDB living. This shift reflects a broader recalibration of housing aspirations: rather than chasing private property for prestige or investment, many now favor stability, space, and lifestyle needs. The trend underscores how affordability pressures and evolving priorities are reshaping Singapore’s upgrade culture, making larger HDB flats a viable and even desirable long-term option.
The traditional “upgrade” path for many Singaporeans involves transitioning from an HDB flat to a condominium or Executive Condominium (EC). However, as of 2025, a noticeable shift is occurring. We’ve encountered an increasing number of homeowners deferring condo plans, settling for smaller private units, or, more frequently, choosing to upgrade to a larger HDB flat instead. Is this merely a temporary measure, or have condominium prices become genuinely unattainable for some families? We spoke with several homeowners who decided to prioritize a bigger HDB flat for their upgrade.
1. Priced Out Post-COVID: The Case of PV’s Family
LV, a Permanent Resident, and his Singaporean wife initially owned a 4-room HDB flat in Yishun and had planned to upgrade around 2018. They eyed Jadescape but decided to wait until their daughter completed her PSLE. However, an unexpected delay occurred when LV’s employer closed down, though he quickly secured a new job just before the pandemic.
LV recounts, “The bad part is after COVID, all the prices went up so high. That’s when we changed our target to resale [condos], but all the resale condos near Jadescape were very old.” He expanded his search to other neighborhoods but found himself priced out of family-sized units (around 1,200 sq. ft., which he desired for his two children). By late 2021, he observed resale listings for this size at approximately $1.7 million, exceeding the original new launch price of Jadescape.
Upon his wife’s colleague’s suggestion, LV, initially favoring a private property for its appreciation potential, eventually warmed to the idea of a larger HDB flat. The moment they viewed their current home, they were convinced: “The place was as big as the resale condos we’d seen. With the price difference we saved, we wouldn’t even need a reno loan. There’s a 24-hour coffee shop, where we go for supper all the time, and the bus stop outside has a direct bus to my workplace.” The seller even accepted their initial offer, despite their agent’s claim it was low.
Today, LV’s family is comfortable, and he finds a family-sized condo currently out of reach. While he would consider upgrading if his income substantially increases, he is content with his 5-room HDB as their permanent home.
2. Choosing a “Temporary” Home as a Permanent Solution: VV’s Experience
VO and her husband planned to upgrade to a condo in 2016 after their first child was born, seeking a property with facilities like pools, a luxury their parents never had. They envisioned an “eastside” neighborhood (Bedok, Tampines, Pasir Ris). VO also emphasized the importance of family proximity and the desire for a pet-friendly environment for her brother’s dogs.
When VO’s sister went overseas, her vacant 5-room HDB flat became a temporary residence for VO’s family, allowing them to sell their 4-room flat and take their time searching for a suitable condo. However, the temporary arrangement unexpectedly transformed into a permanent solution. VO’s family grew to love the 5-room flat: “It was close to many good preschools, my husband has three friends who live within walking distance, and I like having a wet market because we rarely eat out. The best part is it’s on the highest floor and an end-unit, with an unblocked view of Bedok Reservoir.” Although her brother’s dogs couldn’t permanently stay, the close proximity allowed for convenient visits.
Ultimately, they decided to purchase her sister’s flat. This decision not only saved a significant sum for their child’s future but also eliminated the stress of a second move. VO and her husband developed an “evening hanging out routine” with nearby friends, solidifying their contentment with their larger HDB home.
3. From Central to Fringe HDB: WX’s Calculated Move
KX, his wife, and son previously resided in a “small and old” 3-room HDB flat on Cross Street, inherited from his late father-in-law, just a few minutes’ walk from Chinatown MRT. Two factors prompted KX to consider upgrading: a property agent’s valuation of his current flat (surprisingly high, though the final sale price was lower) and his father’s early dementia, which raised concerns about future living arrangements for his parents.
Initially, the couple explored condos in the Clementi area due to its proximity to NUS, even considering a one-bedroom unit for their son during university. However, his son deemed it unnecessary. After a year of deliberation, their upgrade took an entirely different turn: KX’s family moved to an executive flat in Bedok.
KX explained, “My mum and dad are already familiar with the place. They’ve lived in Bedok since I was born, which is very important to my dad due to his dementia. Our place is about two bus stops from his previous flat, so it’s familiar. Also, my parents have old friends in the area who can help them.” The realization that his son might study abroad also influenced their decision to prioritize affordability.
Surprisingly, KX believes many Singaporeans exaggerate distances: “This is not Australia where far away means several hours or several days. Almost everywhere you want to go is at most 20 to 30 minutes. We act like moving to Bedok or Jurong is like moving to Malaysia.” This perspective enabled him to embrace a larger HDB flat in a familiar neighborhood, unburdened by the perceived loss of a central location or the absence of a condo.
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 …
What Will Happen When Your 99-Year Housing Lease Expires?
TLDR We delve into the challenges faced by Singaporeans with expiring 99-year housing leases. It explores the types of leases...
Read More
Top 5 Factors to Look for in a Property Developer
With a highly competitive property market, it's crucial to choose a property developer that you can trust to deliver quality...
Read More
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
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
Is Singapore’s Property Market on the Verge of a Crash? Understanding the 5 Factors at Play
The Singapore property market has long been an attractive option for both local and international investors. However, as with any...
Read More
Top 5 Best Green Spaces to Picnic in Singapore
Singapore, a bustling city-state known for its modern architecture and vibrant culture, is also home to numerous green spaces that...
Read More
5 Factors : Why Now Is The Perfect Time To Invest In Singapore Property
Investing in property is an excellent way to build wealth and secure a stable source of passive income. If you...
Read More
An Essential Guide to Buying a Home in Singapore 2023
TLDR When navigating the complexities of purchasing a property in Singapore, ensure you meet eligibility criteria, consider affordability factors, and...
Read More
Top 5 Things to Do in Singapore on a Rainy Day
Singapore, the beautiful island city-state, is known for its sunny weather and stunning attractions. However, even in this tropical paradise,...
Read More
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
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
Learn the Essentials of Renting Property in Singapore as a Foreigner
TLDR Renting in Singapore offers various options for foreigners, such as HDBs, Condos, and even unique properties like heritage homes....
Read More
I Regret Buying A DBSS: 5 Homeowners Share Their Biggest Regrets
TLDR Singapore's DBSS scheme faced challenges such as design flaws, developer responsiveness issues, and restrictions on selling. Residents reported various...
Read More
Uncovering Hidden Details: Key Questions to Ask at a New Launch Condo Show Flat
TLDR Show flats can be impressive but may hide important details. Buyers should ask about room sizes, furniture fit, balcony...
Read More
6 Reasons to Think Twice Before Hiring a Friend or Family Member as Your Agent
TLDR In Singapore, hiring a friend or family member as your property agent can be risky. Disclosing sensitive financial details...
Read More
Navigating the Singapore Property Market as a Foreign Investor: What You Need to Know
Singapore, a thriving hub of business and commerce in Southeast Asia, boasts a highly developed economy and a robust real...
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
5 Impacts Of The Singapore-Malaysia High-Speed Rail On The Property Market
The proposed Singapore-Malaysia High-Speed Rail (HSR) is a joint project between the two countries that aims to improve connectivity and...
Read More
Top 5 Best Non-Touristy Things to Do in Singapore
Singapore, a vibrant city-state known for its iconic skyline and diverse culture, offers a plethora of experiences for both tourists...
Read More