Cathay Garden For Sale: Complete D15 Property Buyer's Guide | Homejourney

Cathay Garden For Sale: The Complete District 15 Property Buyer's Guide

Cathay Garden stands as one of District 15's most established freehold residential developments, offering serious property buyers a unique opportunity to own in one of Singapore's most desirable East Coast neighbourhoods. Located along Jalan Keris in the Bedok area, this 61-unit landed development has consistently attracted both owner-occupiers and investors seeking stable, long-term property value in a mature, well-connected community.

Whether you're a first-time buyer exploring your options, an upgrader seeking more space, or an investor evaluating District 15 opportunities, this comprehensive guide from Homejourney will walk you through everything you need to know about purchasing at Cathay Garden—from current market pricing and available unit types to financing strategies and investment potential.

Table of Contents

• Property Overview & Development Profile
• Available Units & Current Pricing
• Why Buy at Cathay Garden
• Price Analysis & Market Position
• Location Advantages & Connectivity
• Financing Guide for Buyers
• The Buying Process Explained
• Investment Potential & Rental Yields
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Next Steps: Your Homejourney

Property Overview & Development Profile

Cathay Garden is a freehold landed residential development completed in 1995, comprising 61 terrace units across 61 blocks. Developed by Glory Realty Company Pte Ltd, the project was designed to provide an integrated lifestyle for residents seeking a blend of privacy, space, and community living in Singapore's East Coast region.

The development's freehold tenure is a significant advantage—it means you own the land indefinitely with no lease expiry concerns, providing maximum long-term security and investment stability. This is particularly valuable in Singapore's property market, where most residential properties operate on 99-year leasehold terms.

Located at 5 Keris Drive (postal code 456968), Cathay Garden occupies a strategic position within District 15, one of Singapore's most sought-after residential districts. The neighbourhood has matured significantly since the development's completion, with excellent infrastructure, established amenities, and strong community character.

Available Units & Current Pricing (2026)

Unit Configuration

All 61 units at Cathay Garden are configured as 3-bedroom terrace houses, offering consistent floor plans throughout the development. Unit sizes typically range from 1,500 to 2,000 square feet, providing ample living space for families and investors alike.

The standardized unit type means that when comparing Cathay Garden properties, you're evaluating similar-sized homes with comparable layouts—simplifying your decision-making process and making price comparisons more straightforward.

Current Market Pricing

As of January 2026, Cathay Garden units are priced in the following range:

• Price Range: S$5.8 million to S$13.2 million
• Price Per Square Foot (PSF): S$2,894 average (ranging from approximately S$1,577 to S$3,384 psf depending on unit condition and recent upgrades)
• Average Unit Size: 1,500–2,000 sqft

The wide price range reflects variations in unit condition, renovation status, and exact location within the development. Units with recent renovations, prime corner positions, or enhanced finishes command premium pricing, while units requiring updating offer better value for buyers planning renovations.

Unit Availability & Viewing

While Cathay Garden is a mature, established development, units do come to market periodically as owners upgrade or relocate. The freehold status and strong neighbourhood appeal mean that when units do become available, they attract significant buyer interest.

Browse currently available units for sale at Cathay Garden on Homejourney to see real-time listings, detailed photos, floor plans, and unit-specific information. Our platform provides transparent pricing data, transaction history, and direct access to property agents who can arrange viewings at your convenience.

Why Buy at Cathay Garden: Key Advantages

1. Freehold Ownership with Permanent Security

Unlike the vast majority of Singapore's residential properties, Cathay Garden offers freehold tenure—meaning you own the land in perpetuity with no lease expiry date. This provides unmatched security for long-term ownership, eliminates concerns about diminishing lease value, and ensures your property maintains its investment appeal across generations.

For buyers planning to hold property long-term or pass it to heirs, freehold status is invaluable. You'll never face the lease decay that affects leasehold properties as they approach expiry, and your property's value remains fundamentally tied to land value rather than declining lease length.

2. Spacious Terrace Living in an Established Community

Each unit provides a complete terrace house experience—not an apartment or condominium. This means you get your own private entrance, direct street access, and the feeling of a standalone home, while still enjoying the security and community benefits of a managed development.

With 1,500–2,000 sqft of space, these homes comfortably accommodate families, home offices, and entertaining. The terrace format appeals particularly to families seeking space without the maintenance demands of a fully detached house.

3. Mature, Established Neighbourhood

Cathay Garden is located in a neighbourhood that has matured over three decades. This means excellent infrastructure, established schools, proven amenities, and a stable community character. You're not buying into an untested new development—you're investing in a proven, established residential area with strong community bonds.

4. Strategic East Coast Location

District 15 offers the perfect balance of accessibility and residential tranquility. You're close to Singapore's business districts via efficient MRT connections, yet situated in a peaceful, family-friendly neighbourhood away from the city centre's hustle.

The East Coast region has historically been one of Singapore's most desirable residential areas, with strong property value retention and consistent demand from both owner-occupiers and investors.

5. Excellent Value Proposition

Compared to newer developments in similar locations, Cathay Garden offers significant value. You're acquiring a freehold terrace house with proven track record in a prime location at prices substantially lower than new launches in comparable areas.

6. Flexible Investment & Owner-Occupier Appeal

Cathay Garden attracts both categories of buyers. Owner-occupiers appreciate the spacious living, established community, and prime location. Investors recognize strong rental demand in the area and stable capital appreciation potential. This dual appeal means your investment remains liquid—you can always find buyers when you're ready to sell.

Price Analysis & Market Position

Current Market Valuation

Cathay Garden's average price of S$2,894 per square foot positions it competitively within District 15's landed property market. This valuation reflects the development's freehold status, established location, and consistent demand.

For context, this places Cathay Garden in the mid-range of District 15 developments—offering strong value compared to premium new launches while commanding respect as an established, proven investment.

Price Comparison with District 15 Alternatives

As shown, Cathay Garden's pricing is competitive and consistent with comparable freehold landed developments in the district. The S$2,894 PSF valuation reflects strong market confidence in the property.

Investment Appreciation Outlook

While Cathay Garden doesn't have extensive recent transaction data (reflecting its mature, stable nature with lower turnover), historical patterns in District 15 suggest steady long-term appreciation. Freehold properties in established East Coast locations have consistently appreciated over 10–15 year periods, driven by scarcity of freehold land and strong regional demand.

The development's 30-year track record demonstrates value retention and community stability—key indicators of future appreciation potential.

Market Stability Factors

Several factors support Cathay Garden's price stability and appreciation potential:

• Freehold tenure: Eliminates lease decay concerns that affect leasehold properties
• Established location: 30+ years of proven neighbourhood stability
• Limited supply: Only 61 units in a highly sought district
• Strong regional demand: District 15 consistently ranks among Singapore's most desirable areas
• Infrastructure maturity: Excellent MRT connectivity, schools, and amenities already established

Location Advantages & Connectivity

MRT Connectivity & Transport Access

Cathay Garden's location along Jalan Keris provides excellent public transport connectivity:

• Marine Terrace MRT (TE27): Approximately 800m away (10-minute walk), serving the Thomson-East Coast Line
• Kembangan MRT (EW6): Approximately 1.2km away (15-minute walk), on the East-West Line
• Siglap MRT (TE28): Future station on the Thomson-East Coast Line extension

This multi-line connectivity means you have flexibility in commuting options and access to Singapore's entire MRT network. The East-West Line connection provides direct access to the city centre, while the Thomson-East Coast Line offers alternative routes and future expansion benefits.

Neighbourhood Character & Amenities

The Bedok/Joo Chiat area surrounding Cathay Garden is known for:

• Vibrant Heritage: Joo Chiat Road features charming pre-war shophouses, heritage restaurants, and cultural attractions
• Shopping & Dining: Katong Shopping Centre, East Coast Road's diverse dining options, and local markets
• Recreation: East Coast Park nearby for cycling, jogging, and beach activities
• Community Services: Established healthcare facilities, banks, and professional services

Educational Institutions

The area serves families well with established schools:

• Primary Schools: Bedok Primary, Tanjong Katong Primary
• Secondary Schools: Bedok Secondary, Tanjong Katong Secondary
• International Options: Proximity to international schools in nearby districts

District 15 Strategic Position

District 15 encompasses Katong, Joo Chiat, and Amber Road—consistently ranked among Singapore's most desirable residential districts. The area offers:

• Strong property value retention
• Established, mature community character
• Excellent schools and family amenities
• Cultural and heritage attractions
• Strategic location between city centre and East Coast recreational areas
• Consistent demand from both owner-occupiers and investors

Financing Guide for Buyers

Understanding Your Buying Power

Most Cathay Garden buyers finance their purchase through home loans, as the S$5.8–13.2 million price range requires substantial capital. Understanding your financing options is crucial to your buying decision.

Use Homejourney's mortgage calculator to determine your exact buying power based on your income, savings, and preferred loan terms. This tool provides personalized estimates for monthly payments, down payment requirements, and financing scenarios.

Down Payment Requirements

For residential property purchases in Singapore:

• Minimum Down Payment: 5% of purchase price (for first-time buyers with CPF)
• Recommended Down Payment: 10–20% to reduce monthly loan obligations and improve loan approval chances
• For Cathay Garden Example: On a S$8 million purchase, a 10% down payment equals S$800,000

CPF Usage for Cathay Garden Purchases

Singapore citizens can use their CPF Ordinary Account (OA) funds to finance residential property purchases, including Cathay Garden:

• Down Payment: CPF can cover the down payment amount
• Loan Repayment: Monthly loan payments can be made from CPF OA (up to available balance)
• Accrued Interest: CPF funds used for property purchase accrue interest at 2.5% per annum

This CPF flexibility significantly reduces the cash required upfront and improves affordability for eligible buyers.

Loan Quantum & Monthly Payment Estimates

*Estimates based on current market interest rates (approximately 3.5%). Actual rates vary by bank and loan terms. Consult with banks for precise quotes.

ABSD (Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty) Considerations

ABSD is a tax on residential property purchases that varies based on buyer profile:

• Singapore Citizens (First Property): 0% ABSD
• Singapore Citizens (Second Property): 5% ABSD
• Singapore Citizens (Third+ Property): 10% ABSD
• Permanent Residents: 5% ABSD (first property), 10% (subsequent)
• Foreign Buyers: 20% ABSD

For most first-time buyer citizens purchasing Cathay Garden, ABSD is not applicable. However, if you already own residential property, ABSD will apply and significantly impact your total purchase cost.

Loan Approval & Eligibility

Banks typically require:

• Stable employment or income documentation
• Minimum debt servicing ratio (typically 30–35% of gross monthly income)
• Good credit history
• Minimum age requirements (usually 21–65 years)

Cathay Garden's freehold status and established location make it attractive to lenders, typically resulting in straightforward loan approval for qualified buyers.

Exploring Financing Options

Compare current mortgage rates and loan terms from Singapore's major banks through Homejourney's bank rates comparison tool. This helps you identify the most competitive financing options and calculate precise monthly payments for your specific situation.

The Buying Process Explained

Step 1: Property Search & Viewing

Begin by browsing available Cathay Garden units on Homejourney. Review listings, photos, floor plans, and pricing. Contact agents to arrange viewings at times convenient for you. Visit the property in person to assess condition, layout, and neighbourhood feel.

Step 2: Financial Preparation

Before making an offer, confirm your financing capacity. Consult with banks to understand your loan eligibility and maximum borrowing amount. Prepare your down payment funds (typically 5–10% of purchase price). Calculate total costs including ABSD (if applicable), legal fees, and stamp duty.

Step 3: Make an Offer

Work with your property agent to submit a written offer to the seller. Offers typically include proposed purchase price, proposed completion date, and any conditions (such as financing approval or property inspection contingencies).

Step 4: Offer Negotiation & Acceptance

Sellers may counter your initial offer. Negotiate terms until both parties agree. Once terms are acceptable, the offer is accepted and you move to the next stage.

Step 5: Legal Documentation & Due Diligence

Engage a property lawyer to:

• Review the property's title and ownership documentation
• Verify the property has no outstanding mortgages or legal encumbrances
• Confirm freehold status and any relevant restrictions
• Prepare legal contracts

Step 6: Formal Agreement & Deposit

Sign the formal sale and purchase agreement. Pay the deposit (typically 5% of purchase price) to the seller's lawyer, who holds it in trust until completion.

Step 7: Mortgage Application & Approval

Submit your formal mortgage application to your chosen bank. Provide required documentation (income proof, employment letter, CPF statements, etc.). The bank conducts property valuation and approves the loan. This typically takes 2–4 weeks.

Step 8: Final Inspection & Completion

Conduct a final inspection of the property to confirm condition matches the agreement. On completion date, funds are transferred, legal documents are exchanged, and you receive the keys. The property is now yours.

Timeline & Professional Support

The entire process typically takes 8–12 weeks from offer acceptance to completion. Key professionals involved:

• Property Agent: Facilitates search, viewing, and negotiation
• Lawyer: Handles legal documentation and due diligence
• Banker: Manages mortgage application and approval
• Surveyor (optional): Conducts property inspection and valuation

Investment Potential & Rental Yields

Rental Demand in District 15

District 15 experiences strong rental demand from both local and expatriate tenants. The established neighbourhood, excellent schools, and convenient location make it attractive to renters seeking quality residential accommodation.

Cathay Garden's spacious terrace format particularly appeals to families and small groups, creating consistent tenant demand. Recent rental data shows monthly rates of S$6,000–7,000 for typical units, reflecting strong market interest.

Rental Yield Analysis

Rental yield is calculated as annual rental income divided by property purchase price, expressed as a percentage:

• Example Unit: S$8,000,000 purchase price, S$6,500/month rental
• Annual Rental Income: S$6,500 × 12 = S$78,000
• Gross Rental Yield: S$78,000 ÷ S$8,000,000 = 0.975% (approximately 1%)
• Net Yield (after expenses): Approximately 0.6–0.7% after accounting for property tax, maintenance, and management costs

While net rental yields at Cathay Garden are modest (typical for Singapore's premium properties), the investment appeal lies in capital appreciation potential rather than rental income alone. Over 10–15 year holding periods, freehold properties in established East Coast locations have demonstrated solid appreciation.

Capital Appreciation Outlook

Cathay Garden's investment case rests primarily on long-term capital appreciation:

• Freehold Status: Eliminates lease decay, supporting long-term value
• Limited Supply: Only 61 units in a highly sought district creates scarcity value
• Established Location: 30+ year track record of stability and desirability
• Regional Growth: East Coast continues to attract premium buyers and investors
• Infrastructure Development: Ongoing improvements to transport and amenities support appreciation

While past performance doesn't guarantee future results, historical patterns suggest freehold properties in District 15 appreciate at 2–4% annually over medium-to-long term periods.

Investor Profile: Who Benefits Most

Cathay Garden appeals particularly to:

• Long-term Capital Investors: Those seeking 10+ year holding periods for capital appreciation
• Portfolio Diversifiers: Investors seeking freehold property exposure in established locations
• Owner-Investors: Those planning to live in the property initially, then rent it out later
• Family Wealth Builders: Those seeking stable, long-term property assets to pass to heirs

Cathay Garden is less suitable for investors seeking high current rental yields or quick capital gains, as both are limited in this mature, established market segment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying at Cathay Garden

General Property Questions

Q: What exactly is Cathay Garden—is it a condo or landed house?

A: Cathay Garden is a landed development comprising 61 terrace houses (not a condominium). Each unit is a complete terrace house with its own entrance and private outdoor space, though the development is managed as a community with shared facilities and security.

Q: What's the difference between Cathay Garden's freehold status and typical Singapore leasehold properties?

A: Freehold means you own the land in perpetuity with no expiry date. Leasehold properties (the majority in Singapore) have 99-year leases that gradually expire, causing property value to decline as the lease shortens. Cathay Garden's freehold status eliminates this concern and provides superior long-term investment security.

Q: How many units are at Cathay Garden, and are they all identical?

A: There are 61 units, all configured as 3-bedroom terrace houses. While the basic layout is consistent, individual units may vary slightly based on position within the development (corner vs. mid-terrace) and renovation history.

Pricing & Market Questions

Q: Why does the price range vary so much (S$5.8M–13.2M) if all units are similar?

A: Price variations reflect differences in unit condition, renovation status, location within the development (corner units command premiums), and exact square footage. Well-maintained, recently renovated units command higher prices than units requiring updates.

Q: Is Cathay Garden a good investment compared to new launches?

A: Cathay Garden offers different investment characteristics than new launches. You get freehold status, an established neighbourhood, and proven track record—but typically at lower prices than new launches. The trade-off is between new construction/amenities versus freehold security and established location. Both can be sound investments depending on your goals.

Q: What's the average price per square foot, and is it competitive?

A: Cathay Garden averages S$2,894 PSF, which is competitive and consistent with comparable freehold landed developments in District 15. This represents good value for freehold terrace living in a prime location.

Financing Questions

Q: Can I use my CPF to buy at Cathay Garden?

A: Yes, Singapore citizens can use CPF Ordinary Account (OA) funds to purchase residential property, including Cathay Garden. You can use CPF for both the down payment and ongoing loan repayment, significantly reducing required cash outlay.

Q: What's the typical down payment for a Cathay Garden purchase?

A: Minimum down payment is 5%, though 10–20% is recommended to reduce monthly loan obligations. On an S$8 million purchase, a 10% down payment equals S$800,000.

Q: Will I have to pay ABSD (Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty)?