Understanding HDB Eligibility Schemes and Grants: Key Insights for 2026 Buyers
HDB eligibility schemes and grants such as the Enhanced CPF Housing Grant (EHG) and Proximity Housing Grant (PHG) provide crucial financial support for Singaporeans buying Build-To-Order (BTO) or resale flats, with income ceilings at $14,000 for families and $7,000 for singles as of 2026.[1] These schemes directly influence affordability amid rising HDB prices, where median resale prices hit $500,000-$600,000 in mature estates like Toa Payoh, up 5-7% year-on-year.[1] Homejourney verifies this data to ensure you navigate the market safely, linking back to our comprehensive HDB Eligibility Schemes & Grants: Homejourney 2026 Guide for the full pillar overview.
Core HDB Eligibility Schemes Explained
HDB eligibility starts with the HDB Flat Eligibility (HFE) letter, valid for 9 months, assessing your ability to buy a flat, qualify for CPF grants, and secure HDB or bank loans in one streamlined process via Singpass.[2] At least one applicant must be a Singapore Citizen aged 21+, with others as Citizens or PRs; singles need to be 35+ under the Single Singapore Citizen Scheme.[1]
Key schemes include:
- Public Scheme: For family nuclei (spouses, children, parents), income ceiling $14,000 ($21,000 for multi-gen).[1]
- Fiancé/Fiancée Scheme: Pre-marital couples, one Citizen required.[1]
- Single Singapore Citizen Scheme: 35+ singles for 2-room Flexi flats, $7,000 ceiling.[1]
- Joint Singles Scheme: 2-4 singles forming a household, $7,000 ceiling.[1]
- Non-Citizen Spouse/Orphans Schemes: Specific for mixed-status or sibling groups.[1]
No private property ownership allowed (dispose within 6 months if any), and limits on prior HDB loans or grants apply.[1] Insider tip: Check HFE early on Homejourney's property search to match eligibility with real listings in areas like Punggol, where BTO waits average 3-5 years.
Step-by-Step HFE Application Process
- Log into HDB Flat Portal via Singpass, input applicants/occupiers and property declarations.[2]
- Within 30 days, select HDB or bank loans (e.g., DBS, UOCB); get bank IPA if needed.[2]
- Wait up to 21 working days for approval (longer in peaks).[2]
- Use HFE to apply for BTO or secure OTP for resale.[2]
This ensures compliance with Loan-to-Value (LTV) up to 75%, MSR (30% of income), and TDSR rules.[5] Homejourney recommends cross-checking with our mortgage rates tool for personalized financing.
CPF Housing Grants: EHG, PHG and Eligibility
Enhanced CPF Housing Grant (EHG) tiers up to $120,000 for lower-income first-timers (e.g., $80,000 at <$1,500 income), calculated on average household income over 12 months.[1][2] Proximity Housing Grant (PHG) offers $20,000-$30,000 for living near parents within 4km, stackable with EHG.[1]
Grants are CPF top-ups, non-withdrawable, reducing loan quantum. Eligibility requires HFE and no prior grant receipt (exceptions for second-timers). From Jul 2025, flexibility for NSFs/students in couples.[3] Real example: A young couple in Sengkang earning $9,000 qualifies for $40,000 EHG + $20,000 PHG, slashing downpayment on a $450,000 4-room BTO.
| Grant Type | Max Amount | Income Ceiling |
|---|---|---|
| EHG (First-Timer) | $120,000 | $9,000 |
| PHG | $30,000 | None |
| Family Grant (Step-up) | $40,000 | $14,000 |
Data from HDB; always verify via HFE.[2] Homejourney's verified insights prevent grant miscalculations common among 20% of applicants.
2026 HDB Price Trends and Market Analysis
HDB resale prices rose 6.5% in 2025 to median $558,000 islandwide, driven by BTO supply constraints (18,000 units/year) and demand in mature estates like Bedok ($650,000 median 5-room).[1] BTO prices start at $200,000 for 2-room in non-mature areas, up to $600,000+ for prime like Kallang.[1]
2026 forecast: 4-6% growth due to steady incomes vs. cooling measures (BSD up to 6%, ABSD 60% for foreigners).[1] Price-to-income ratio at 4.5x remains accessible with grants. Charts show Punggol BTOs appreciating 10% post-MOP, ideal for investors eyeing Homejourney's projects directory.
Trend Table (2024-2026 Medians):
| Estate Type | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 Est. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mature (e.g., Toa Payoh) | $520k | $558k | $580k |
| Non-Mature (e.g., Tengah) | $420k | $450k | $470k |
Grants offset 15-25% of costs; e.g., EHG covers premium on 3-roomers under $7,000 ceiling.[1] Link to our HDB Schemes, Grants & Loans: 2026 Financing Playbook for loan synergies.
Actionable Tips and Common Mistakes
Decision Framework: Assess income vs. ceilings first, then grants (EHG >50% coverage for low earners), factor 5% OTP + 25% downpayment (staggered options available).[3]
- Tip: Use PHG for family proximity in walkable estates like Yishun (MRT Exit A, 10-min walk to flats).[1]
- Mistake: Ignoring 30-month private property sale rule—delays eligibility.[1]
- Red Flag: Exceeding MSR; simulate on Homejourney bank rates.
Post-purchase, budget for maintenance via Homejourney aircon services. Disclaimer: This is general info; consult HDB/Homejourney advisors for personalized advice. Homejourney prioritizes your safety with verified data and transparent processes.
FAQ: HDB Eligibility Schemes and Grants
What is the income ceiling for HDB family schemes in 2026?
$14,000 for standard families, $21,000 multi-gen, $7,000 singles—confirmed via HFE.[1]
Can I get EHG and PHG together?
Yes, up to $150,000 combined for eligible first-timers near parents.[1][2]
How do grants affect HDB prices?
They reduce effective cost by 10-25%, countering 5% YoY rises in resale markets.[1]
Do foreigners qualify for HDB grants?
No, grants for Citizens/PR families only; foreigners face ABSD.[1]
What's next after HFE for resale?
Secure OTP, submit resale app—Homejourney's property search verifies listings.[2]
Ready to apply? Start your safe journey on Homejourney—explore eligibility, trends, and properties today. Dive deeper in our HDB 2026 pillar guide.
