As many Singaporeans transition into adulthood, questions about home and property ownership start to crop up. Usually, many of these questions surround the type of housing that would be best. In this article, we are going to look at the most popular housing options so that those interested can learn more about them.
HDB Flats
HDB flats are a very convenient and popular option in Singapore. They are very affordable for most families and this is one of the main reasons they are so appealing. The two main types of HDB flats are resale flats and BTI (build-to-order) flats. BTO flats are a very popular option for younger people and married couples because they are cheaper as they are eligible for many of the housing grants available.
If you are considering a BTO, it is important to remember there are several considerations you need to keep in mind. One of these is the income ceiling that you should not exceed. Instead, you would have to buy a release flat from a previous flat owner.
If you are not eligible for a BTO, then the next best option is a resale flat. These flats are usually more expensive than BTO flats but they have the massive advantage that you can purchase a resale flat almost anywhere as long as the supply is available. Also, you have to apply for a BTO, hope the application is accepted, wait for the development to be completed, and then see if you have the option to buy the property.
For HDB resales, the process can be completed in as little as eight weeks. Buyers can also explore the best HDB resales and property locations through property managers like Property Guru. Property Guru makes it easier to find HDB resales, flats, and condos for rent or for sale. They also provide mortgage comparison services so you can find the best option for you and have a list of real estate agents you can get in touch with when looking to buy or rent.
Executive Maisonettes
Although executive maisonettes are HDB flats that have more than one level, they are still in very high demand. This is because they are an exclusive option since they are no longer being built. These maisonettes are in so much demand because they come with three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a living room. This makes them a great option for larger families or families that need lots of space for each family member.
Executive maisonettes also come with a balcony and storeroom, making them a better alternative to 4- and 5-room HDB flats which are often seen as the more executive flat option. These maisonettes are also located in high-rise areas where the scenery is great and there are fewer issues such as pests.
Condominiums
Although condominiums are a lot more expensive than HDB flats, they are also in great demand in Singapore. This is especially true for more affluent families looking for something different. Because they are found in or near the city, they are a great option for those who commute to work. In addition, they often have better and additional amenities including function rooms, swimming pools, gyms, and more.
Other factors that make them so sought after include better security and the freedom to own pets. Exit and entry into these condominiums are highly controlled and those allowed entry have to prove they have special access or have a specific purpose within the premises. Compared to HDB flats that do not let you keep pets that are bigger than a certain size, pet owners and lovers have the freedom to keep whatever pets they like.
Executive Condominiums
Executive condominiums are usually seen as being in the middle of HDB flats and private condominiums. They are greatly suited for those who are looking for something more than an HDB flat but cannot afford a private condominium.
Executive condominiums are so affordable because you can also take advantage of grants when purchasing them. This is unlike private condominiums which do not have any subsidies applied to them. The availability of grants you would get with a BTO flat and the comforts of a condominium is one of the reasons many of these executive condos turn to private ones after 10 years.
Landed Homes
Landed homes are homes that sit on private pieces of land. Because of land scarcity in Singapore, only 5% of people live in landed homes. These houses are often bigger than most other types of houses which makes them very expensive to purchase. There are many types of landed homes in Singapore including semi-detached houses, terraces houses, and bungalows.
Landed homes in Singapore
If you are a Singaporean looking to buy a home, you probably have a better idea of the types of homes and properties available to you. All of them come with pros and cons and this is why it is important to talk to a property exit to learn everything you need to before completing a purchase.