The Dynamics of Being the First Seller in a New Condo: Risks, Rewards, and Strategies
TLDR Being the first seller in a new condo project offers both opportunity and risk. With no prior transactions, you...
Read More
Surprising Shifts: Evolving Trends in Singapore’s Property Market
TLDR
Singapore’s property market is undergoing surprising shifts in 2025, reshaping long-held assumptions. Rising land costs and cautious developer sentiment are limiting new launches, while resale condos face supply shortages that push prices upward. HDB owners upgrading to new launches often trade space for modern amenities, reflecting evolving lifestyle priorities. Freehold versus leasehold dynamics remain relevant, but performance gaps are narrowing as affordability pressures dominate buyer decisions. At the same time, independent selling is gaining traction, though it requires careful navigation of valuation, marketing, and legal processes. Broader trends—such as intergenerational wealth transfers, shifting upgrade paths, and government cooling measures—continue to influence demand, but buyers are increasingly focused on practical considerations like location, connectivity, and long-term livability. Overall, the market is less about chasing prestige and more about balancing financial readiness with lifestyle needs, signaling a more pragmatic era in Singapore’s housing landscape.
The concept of integrated and mixed-use developments isn’t new to Singapore. However, an interesting trend emerging in the US—converting disused retail spaces in older malls into small, single-bedroom residential units—raises questions about its applicability here. While a 250 sq. ft. unit may not suit a family, it could offer significant convenience for singles and retirees, simultaneously providing a stable customer base for remaining mall businesses. The communal aspect surprisingly fostered in such setups, despite being in a mall, suggests a unique living dynamic.
Could this model thrive in Singapore? Probably not to the same extent as in the US. Our malls, while sizeable, aren’t as vast, and Singapore’s high homeownership rate, largely due to the successful HDB program, reduces the urgency for such innovative housing solutions. A key hurdle might be Singaporeans’ acceptance of internal-facing windows, a common feature in mall-converted units, given that most mall spaces are designed with shopfronts and limited exterior windows.
Nevertheless, a niche demand could exist: for individuals ineligible for HDB flats, business owners within the mall seeking hyper-local living, or even as short-term rental options. This could offer a win-win for aging malls, generating maintenance contributions from otherwise vacant spaces and securing a semi-permanent customer base. However, implementing such a model would necessitate significant regulatory changes concerning zoning, taxes, stamp duties, and the redistribution of maintenance fees.
The Dynamic Nature of Property Trends: A Jolt for Long-Term Homeowners
For individuals who purchase homes infrequently (perhaps only twice in their lifetime), the rapid evolution of property trends can be startling. A gap of 10-15 years between purchases can reveal complete reversals in conventional wisdom, making past expert advice seem outdated.
Consider the perception of HDB flats near condominiums. A decade ago, having an HDB enclave in proximity to a condo was largely seen as undesirable, driven by a desire for “unashamed exclusivity.” Prestigious locations were those furthest from HDB developments, promising unobstructed views and a perceived higher social status. Today, this sentiment has inverted. The presence of an HDB enclave near a condo is now highly advantageous. Real estate agents will readily explain that it provides a large pool of potential HDB upgraders (beneficial for resale) and offers convenient access to local amenities and food options, negating the “exclusivity = nowhere to get a bowl of mee pok after 10 pm” problem.
Another example is the shifting appeal of balconies. Once considered a luxurious feature, even incorporated into HDB flat designs and defining “terrace-style” condos with expansive outdoor spaces, their appeal has waned. As unit sizes shrink, buyers increasingly prioritize larger indoor living spaces, often expressing disinterest in balconies, with one buyer humorously noting, “Only crazy Europeans want to sit outside and burn in the sun.”
Similarly, the once-coveted high-ceiling, loft-style units, popularized in interior design magazines of the 2000s, now evoke a more pragmatic “Tsk. Very hard to clean” response. The awe of grand vertical spaces has been replaced by practical concerns.
It’s unclear whether these shifts are solely due to evolving tastes, or if they are also influenced by the escalating cost of land and changing regulations. The scarcity of traditional penthouses today, often replaced by top-floor units with marginally higher ceilings and larger balconies but lacking the expansive patios and luxury features like jacuzzis of yesteryear, further illustrates this.
The surprising resurgence of “ugly, shabby, unsellable” walk-up apartments as “hipster” crown jewels further highlights the market’s complete U-turns. For those returning to the property hunt after a long absence, it can feel like navigating an entirely different country’s housing market. This underscores a crucial point: property market advice and trends are constantly in flux. What is considered desirable today may not hold true when it’s time to sell.
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 Things to Know About Singapore’s Urban Redevelopment and Landscape Changes
As one of the world's most densely populated cities, Singapore has undergone significant urban redevelopment over the past few decades...
Read More
The Real Impact of Industrial Areas on Condo Prices: A Tale of Two Towns
TLDR A case study comparing condos near light industrial areas in Yishun and Bishan found that proximity to these zones...
Read More
The “Sell One, Buy Two” Strategy in 2025: Real Stories from Singaporean Homeowners
The "Sell One, Buy Two" strategy gained popularity in Singapore after the Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) was introduced in...
Read More
Are Suburban Condos In Singapore Still Affordable? Here’s What The Data Actually Shows
TLDR Suburban condos in Singapore remain attractive but affordability has shifted. Data shows that while suburban launches were once significantly...
Read More
Methods to Beat ABSD and Own Multiple Properties in 2024 (Updated)
TLDR Navigating the Additional Buyers Stamp Duty (ABSD) in Singapore can be daunting for property investors. To save on ABSD...
Read More
Discover Affordable Executive Condos in 2024 Starting at $560,000
TLDR The Executive Condos (ECs) offer affordable options compared to private properties in Singapore. Despite price variations, most ECs remain...
Read More
Should I Move to a Private Property?
TLDR When considering an upgrade from HDB to private property in Singapore, it's essential to understand the differences and implications....
Read More
Why Older Freehold Condominiums Are Losing Their Edge in En‑Bloc Deals (2025)
TLDR Older freehold condominiums in Singapore are losing their edge in en‑bloc deals due to several structural shifts. Developers increasingly...
Read More
5 Facilities Selling Points Condo Sellers Should Emphasize To Entice Potential Buyers
TLDR When selling a condo, focusing on highlighting key facilities like gyms, swimming pools, family-friendly amenities, community gardens, and clubhouse...
Read More
Top 5 Factors: Singapore Property Market: Attractive Investment Opportunity Despite Cooling Measures
The Singapore property market has always been a popular investment choice for both local and foreign investors, thanks to its...
Read More
Top 5 Factors : What Is Considered “Luxury” In The Singapore Property Market?
The Singapore property market is known for its high-quality residential properties, attracting both local and international buyers. Luxury real estate...
Read More
Will Your HDB Flat Provide For Your Retirement?
TLDR Singapore's property market presents challenges with high prices, particularly in private housing, while public housing remains relatively more affordable....
Read More
Breaking the New Launch Conflict: Leasehold or Freehold?
TLDR Freehold properties in Singapore offer indefinite ownership but come with a 15–25% premium over 99-year leasehold units. Despite common...
Read More
Should You Be Upgrading To A Condo In 2023?
TLDR The 2022/23 property market is experiencing high prices, making it challenging for individuals to decide whether to upgrade their...
Read More
From Garden City to Smart Nation: Singapore’s Top 5 Goals Building a Sustainable and Livable City
Singapore is a small island city-state with a population of over 5 million people. Its urban landscape is constantly evolving,...
Read More
The Impact of a Real Estate Agent on Your Property’s Selling Price
TLDR In the world of real estate, the value of property agents lies in their ability to create competition among...
Read More
The Unexpected Choices: Why Some Singaporean Homebuyers Opt for Smaller Condos (Even When They Could Afford More Space)
TLDR In Singapore's property market, buyers often prioritize factors beyond just size. Many choose smaller units within their budget due...
Read More
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
5 Secrets To Successful Property Investing In Singapore
Investing in property is a popular option in Singapore, with many investors seeing it as a lucrative way to build...
Read More