LTV Ratio Singapore: Limits, Bank Rates & Downpayment Guide | Homejourney
The Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio is the percentage of a property's value or purchase price (whichever is lower) that banks or HDB will lend you, determining your down payment requirements. In Singapore, the maximum LTV ratio Singapore is typically 75% for first-time buyers under MAS rules, meaning a minimum 25% downpayment with 5% in cash.[1][5] This guide explains what is Loan-to-Value LTV Ratio and Why It Matters: Bank Rate Comparison Guide, with actionable steps to maximize your loan on Homejourney.
Understanding LTV limits MAS helps you budget accurately for HDB flats in Toa Payoh or condos in Orchard. Homejourney verifies all data for your safety, letting you compare real-time rates from DBS, OCBC, UOB and more at https://www.homejourney.sg/bank-rates.
What is Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratio?
The loan to value ratio calculates as: LTV = (Loan Amount / Property Valuation or Price, whichever lower) × 100%.[1] For a $1,000,000 condo valued at $950,000, a 75% LTV allows $712,500 loan, requiring $287,500 downpayment (5% cash minimum).
MAS sets property loan percentage caps to curb over-leveraging, updated August 2024 to 75% for HDB loans (from 80%), aligning with banks.[1][2] This protects buyers in Singapore's high-cost market, where a Bedok HDB might need $100,000+ upfront.
Why it matters: Higher LTV means less cash needed upfront, but banks assess your profile. Use Homejourney's calculator at https://www.homejourney.sg/bank-rates#calculator to check your LTV ratio Singapore instantly.
Current LTV Limits in Singapore (2026)
MAS enforces these LTV limits MAS for individuals:[1][5]
| Housing Loans | LTV Limit | Min Cash Downpayment |
|---|---|---|
| 1st property (no prior loans) | 75% or 55%* | 5% (75%); 10% (55%) |
| 2nd property | 45% or 25%* | 25% |
| 3rd & onwards | 35% or 15%* | 25% |
*Lower if age + tenure >65 years or tenure >30 years (25 for HDB).[2][4] HDB loans allow full CPF OA for 25% downpayment; banks require 5% cash on first properties.[1]
For investors eyeing a second Tampines condo, expect 45% LTV max—crucial for cash flow planning.
LTV Factors: Age, Tenure & Property Type
Banks lower LTV for risks: properties abroad or in poor condition get reduced offers.[2] Example: A 60-year-old buying a 35-year leasehold flat in Jurong faces 55% LTV cap.
- First HDB BTO: 75% LTV, ~2.6% p.a. HDB rate vs bank SORA options.
- Private condo resale: 75% max, but valuation gaps (e.g., $1.2M purchase, $1M val) hike cash needs.[1]
- Refinance: Existing loans count toward property count, dropping LTV.
Insider tip: Check valuations early—Homejourney's Projects Directory shows recent transacted prices for accurate budgeting.
Why LTV Matters: Impact on Downpayment & Affordability
A 75% LTV slashes upfront cash vs 55%, freeing funds for renovations (link to Aircon Services for post-purchase maintenance). But pair with TDSR (55% debt-to-income) for full picture—$10,000 income limits debts to $5,500 monthly.[1]
High LTV suits first-timers; investors optimize via refinancing. Track SORA trends—Homejourney shows live rates to time applications.
The chart below shows recent interest rate trends in Singapore:
As seen, SORA fluctuations affect effective rates, amplifying LTV's role in total costs.
Bank Rate Comparison Guide: Top Singapore Lenders
Compare property loan percentage across Homejourney partners (rates as of Feb 2026; verify live):
| Bank | Key Product | Effective Rate (SORA-based) | LTV Offered | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DBS | SORA PEA Plus | SORA + 0.7% (~3.2%) | Up to 75% | First-timers, fast approval |
| OCBC | 360 Account Loan | SORA + 0.65% (~3.15%) | Up to 75% | High savings offset |
| UOB | GRD20 | SORA + 0.8% (~3.3%) | Up to 75% | Refinancers |
| HSBC | Fixed-SORA | 2.5-3.5% blended | Up to 75% | Fixed rate seekers |
| Standard Chartered | Priority Loan | SORA + 0.6% (~3.1%) | Up to 75% | Premium service |
| Maybank/CIMB/RHB | SORA Variable | SORA + 0.75% (~3.25%) | Up to 75% | Competitive promos |
Pros: DBS/OCBC lead in digital apps; Cons: Lock-ins (2-3 years) with penalties. All respect MAS LTV.[7] Compare instantly on Homejourney at https://www.homejourney.sg/bank-rates—submit one Singpass app for multi-bank offers.
Actionable Steps: Maximize Your LTV on Homejourney
- Calculate LTV: Use our tool at https://www.homejourney.sg/bank-rates#calculator with property price/valuation.
- Compare banks: View real-time rates from 11+ lenders.
- Apply via Singpass: Auto-fill docs, get competing offers—faster, safer.
- Search properties: Filter by budget at https://www.homejourney.sg/search.
- Consult brokers: Free guidance on LTV optimization.
Disclaimer: Rates fluctuate; Homejourney provides verified info but consult professionals. See our pillar LTV Ratio Singapore: Limits, Calculations & Homejourney Guide for full details.
FAQ: LTV Ratio Singapore
What is the current max LTV for first HDB flat?
75%, with 25% downpayment (full CPF OK).[1]
Does age affect LTV ratio Singapore?
Yes, if age + tenure >65 or tenure >30 years, drops to 55%.[2]
Bank vs HDB LTV limits MAS?
Both 75% max for first-timers; banks need 5% cash.[5]
How to lower downpayment requirements?
Qualify for 75% LTV, negotiate valuation, use Homejourney multi-bank apps.
Where to compare property loan percentage?
Homejourney's bank-rates for live SORA + spreads.
Maximize your LTV ratio Singapore safely with Homejourney—start comparing today for trusted, verified loan options. Link back to our pillar for complete mortgage basics.
