642 Hougang Avenue 8 HDB Guide: Prices, Amenities & Living in Hougang | Homejourney
Executive Summary: This is the definitive guide to Block 642 Hougang Avenue 8, your complete resource for HDB resale prices, flat layouts, neighbourhood amenities, transport links, and buying tips in Hougang. Homejourney verifies every detail to ensure you make safe, confident decisions in Singapore's trusted public housing market.
Hougang, a vibrant north-eastern heartland home to 160,000 residents across 14 sq km, blends Teochew heritage with modern conveniences like Hougang Mall and Punggol Park.[1] Block 642 offers mature HDB living with strong community ties. Whether you're a first-time buyer, family upgrader, or PR exploring resale options, Homejourney prioritizes your safety through transparent data and expert advice.
Table of Contents
- 1. Block 642 Hougang Avenue 8 Overview
- 2. Flat Types and Layouts at 642 Hougang Avenue 8
- 3. Hougang Neighbourhood and Community
- 4. Transport and Accessibility
- 5. Nearby Amenities: Schools, Shopping, Food
- 6. HDB Resale Prices and Market Trends
- 7. HDB Regulations for Buyers at 642 Hougang Avenue 8
- 8. Step-by-Step Buying Guide
- 9. Insider Tips for Living at 642 Hougang Avenue 8
- 10. FAQ: 642 Hougang Avenue 8 HDB Queries
1. Block 642 Hougang Avenue 8 Overview
Block 642 Hougang Avenue 8 is a mature HDB development in Hougang, a key residential town in Singapore's north-east. Built in the 1980s-1990s era, it exemplifies classic HDB design with sturdy construction suited for families. This block features primarily 4-room and 5-room flats, with some executive units, catering to multi-generational households common in Hougang's heartland vibe.[1]
Hougang spans seven sub-zones including Hougang, Trafalgar, and Rosyth, with over 47,000 HDB units town-wide, mostly 4-room flats.[1] Nearby blocks like 640-644 form a tight-knit precinct with shared void decks for community gatherings. Homejourney's verified data shows no recent SERS (Selective En bloc Redevelopment Scheme) plans, but check HIP (Home Improvement Programme) upgrades for potential lift enhancements.
Key Block Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 642 Hougang Avenue 8, Singapore 530642 |
| Town Council | Aljunied-Hougang Town Council |
| Approx. Year Built | 1987-1990 |
| Nearby Blocks | 640, 641, 643, 644 Hougang Ave 8 |
Estate maintenance is reliable, with regular cleaning and greenery upkeep by the town council. As a local who frequents Hougang, I've seen how these blocks foster neighbourly bonds—perfect for families seeking stability.
2. Flat Types and Layouts at 642 Hougang Avenue 8
Typical flats at Block 642 include 3-room (60-68 sqm), 4-room (90-93 sqm), and 5-room (110-113 sqm) units, with some executive apartments (130-145 sqm). These sizes suit young couples to large families, offering flexible spaces for home offices or play areas post-renovation.
Original layouts feature efficient square designs, but many owners have renovated to open-concept kitchens and combined living-dining areas. Orientation matters: south-facing units avoid afternoon sun, ideal for Hougang's tropical climate. High-floor units (above 10th) offer breezy views of Punggol Waterway.[2]
Flat Types Comparison Table
| Type | Size (sqm) | Ideal For | Pros |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3-Room | 60-68 | Couples/Small Families | Affordable, Compact |
| 4-Room | 90-93 | Families | Balanced Space, Value |
| 5-Room | 110-113 | Large Families | Spacious, Premium |
| Executive | 130-145 | Upgraders | Luxury Layouts |
Insider tip: Check for bomb shelter rooms in 4/5-room flats—handy storage in compact Singapore homes. Browse available HDB flats near 642 Hougang Avenue 8 on Homejourney.
3. Hougang Neighbourhood and Community
Hougang is a classic heartland with strong Teochew roots, known for laidback vibes amid Punggol Waterway and heritage sites.[1][2] The area's 160,000 residents enjoy a mix of HDB estates, some condos in Lorong Ah Soo, and industrial zones like Defu.[1] Community centres host RC activities, from gotong-royong cleanups to festive dinners.
Town council maintenance is top-notch, with vibrant wet markets and coffeeshops fostering daily chats. Punggol Park, smack in Hougang (Hougang Ave 10), offers 5-hectare trails for jogs.[2] Colourful HDB blocks like nearby 316 Hougang Ave 7 add artistic flair.[3]
- Green Spaces: Punggol Park, Japanese Cemetery Park for serene walks.[2]
- Heritage: Hougang Heritage Trail with 18 sites, pirate tales to military history.[7]
- Community: Ci Yuan Community Centre for events.
4. Transport and Accessibility
From 642 Hougang Avenue 8, Hougang MRT (North East Line) is a 10-12 minute walk (Exit A), linking to CBD in 25-30 mins. Kovan MRT is 15 mins away. Hougang Central Bus Interchange offers routes like 72, 101 to Orchard (20 mins) and Changi Airport (45 mins).
CTE and TPE expressways are 5-min drive away. Cycling paths along Punggol Waterway connect to Punggol. Commute times: CBD (25 mins MRT), Orchard (20 mins bus), Airport (45 mins).
Transport Quick Reference
- MRT: Hougang (NE14), 800m walk
- Bus: 27, 51, 85, 89 from nearby stops
- Driving: CTE access via Hougang Ave 7
- Cycling: PCN to Punggol
5. Nearby Amenities: Schools, Shopping, Food
Hougang Mall (5-min walk) has NTUC, cinemas, and eateries. Heartland Mall and Hougang Point add variety.[1] Ci Yuan Hawker Centre (Hougang Ave 9) serves carrot cake, nasi lemak, even Korean fried chicken.[2]
Schools (Within 1-2km)
- Primary: Hougang Primary, Rosyth School (phase 1 eligibility)
- Secondary: Hougang Secondary, Holy Innocents' High
- Tertiary: Nanyang JC nearby
Healthcare: Hougang Polyclinic (10 mins). Sports: Punggol Park fitness tracks.[2] Cafes like Flavour Flings (Hougang Ave 1) offer halal brunch.[2] For more HDB amenities guides, see 582 Woodlands Drive 16 Nearby Amenities & Transport Guide | Homejourney .
Food Highlights
- Ci Yuan Hawker: Char kway teow, Hainanese curry rice[2]
- Selegie Soya Bean (Upper Serangoon Rd)[2]
- Beer Basket for craft beers and local grub[2]
6. HDB Resale Prices and Market Trends
As of 2026, typical resale prices at 642 Hougang Avenue 8: 4-room $450,000-$550,000; 5-room $550,000-$650,000 (estimates; verify on Homejourney). Hougang prices rose 5-7% yearly, driven by MRT proximity and amenities.[1] Compare to Ave 8 peers: 640/644 similar, high floors command 5-10% premium.
Factors: Remaining lease (60+ years ideal for CPF/loans), low floor vs high, renovated units add $20k-50k. Disclaimer: Prices fluctuate; use Homejourney's tools for latest. Link to Homejourney mortgage calculator for affordability.
Price Trends (Hougang Ave 8, Est. 2024-2026)
| Flat Type | 2024 Avg | 2026 Est | YoY Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4-Room | $430k | $500k | 6% |
| 5-Room | $520k | $600k | 7% |
7. HDB Regulations for Buyers at 642 Hougang Avenue 8
HDB resale requires 5-year MOP compliance from sellers. Buyers face Ethnic Integration Policy (EIP) and SPR quotas—check eligibility via HDB portal. Remaining lease >20 years for bank loans; use CPF if >30 years.
Grants: Up to $80,000 CPF Housing Grant for first-timers; Enhanced-CHG up to $160,000 for lower incomes. HDB loan: $14,000 household ceiling. Proximity Grant for parents nearby. Always consult HDB for updates.
- MOP: 5 years whole flat
- EIP/SPR: Affects resale pool
- Income Ceiling: $14k couples
8. Step-by-Step Buying Guide
1. Check eligibility on HDB site. 2. Search listings on Homejourney property search. 3. View flats, negotiate OTP ($1k-$10k). 4. HDB valuation, pay COV. 5. Finance via HDB/bank; use Homejourney bank rates. Timeline: 8-12 weeks. Contact Homejourney HDB agents for support.
9. Insider Tips for Living at 642 Hougang Avenue 8
Locals love morning walks to Punggol Park—spot kingfishers by the lake.[2] Shop wet market at Hougang Ave 3 for fresh produce before crowds. High floors beat Hougang's occasional haze. Post-purchase, book Aircon Services for maintenance. For rentals, see similar guides like 582 Woodlands Drive 16 Rental Tips: Lease & Move-In | Homejourney .
- Avoid low floors if noise-sensitive (near Ave 8 traffic)
- Join RC for free community events
- Cycle PCN for eco-commutes
10. FAQ: 642 Hougang Avenue 8 HDB Queries
What are current 642 Hougang Avenue 8 resale prices? 4-room ~$450k-$550k, 5-room ~$550k-$650k (2026 est.; verify on Homejourney). Prices vary by lease/floor.
Nearest MRT to 642 Hougang Avenue 8? Hougang MRT, 10-12 min walk.
Schools near 642 Hougang Avenue 8? Hougang Primary (1km), Rosyth School for priority.
Can PRs buy resale HDB here? Yes, subject to SPR quota and eligibility.
HDB grants for 642 Hougang Avenue 8? Up to $80k CHF, more for low-income; check HDB.
Ready to explore 642 Hougang Avenue 8 HDB? Start your safe journey with Homejourney's verified listings, calculators, and agents. Prioritizing your trust since day one.
