LTV Ratio Singapore: Limits, Why It Matters & Homejourney Benefits
Back to all articles
Mortgage Basics5 min read

LTV Ratio Singapore: Limits, Why It Matters & Homejourney Benefits

H

Homejourney Editorial

Discover what LTV ratio Singapore means, current limits, down payment requirements & why it matters. Learn benefits of applying via Homejourney for best rates & easy approvals. Start today!

LTV Ratio Singapore: Limits, Why It Matters & Homejourney Benefits

The Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio is the percentage of a property's value that banks in Singapore will lend you, determining your down payment. For example, an 80% LTV on a S$1 million condo means you borrow S$800,000 and pay S$200,000 upfront. Understanding LTV ratio Singapore helps buyers plan finances safely, and applying via Homejourney simplifies access to optimal rates from DBS, OCBC, UOB and more.[1][2]



What is Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratio?

The loan to value ratio calculates how much of your property purchase price a bank finances. It's expressed as: LTV = (Loan Amount / Property Value) x 100%. In Singapore, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) sets LTV limits to ensure financial stability, currently up to 75% for first-time private property buyers and 80-90% for HDB flats depending on grants.[1]

For a S$800,000 HDB resale flat, a 90% LTV allows a S$720,000 loan, reducing your down payment requirements to S$80,000 (payable via cash and CPF). Higher LTV means lower upfront costs but potentially higher interest over time. Homejourney's mortgage calculator at https://www.homejourney.sg/bank-rates#calculator instantly computes your property loan percentage based on these rules.[2]



Current LTV Limits in Singapore (2026)

MAS enforces LTV limits based on buyer profile, property type and existing loans:

  • First-time HDB buyers: Up to 90% LTV (with grants).
  • HDB resale without grants: 75% LTV.
  • Private property (first home): 75% LTV.
  • Second property: 45% LTV.
  • Refinancing: Up to existing LTV, capped at 75%.[1]

These LTV limits MAS prevent over-leveraging amid rising property prices. For instance, in popular areas like Punggol, a S$600,000 BTO flat at 90% LTV requires just S$60,000 down, making homeownership accessible. Always verify latest rules via official MAS guidelines, as they adjust with market conditions.[1]



Why LTV Ratio Matters for Singapore Buyers

Your LTV ratio Singapore directly impacts affordability and loan costs. A higher LTV lowers down payment requirements but increases monthly repayments under TDSR (Total Debt Servicing Ratio, capped at 55% of income). For investors eyeing condos in Orchard, a 55% LTV on a S$2 million unit means S$900,000 down—crucial for cash flow planning.[2]

Low LTV signals lower risk to banks, unlocking better property loan percentage and rates. Homejourney prioritizes user safety by verifying data, helping you avoid pitfalls like overborrowing. This connects to our pillar guide on LTV Ratio Singapore: Limits, Calculations & Homejourney Guide for full mortgage basics.



How LTV Affects Down Payment Requirements

Down payment requirements = (100% - LTV) x Property Price. Breakdown:

  1. HDB Flat (S$500,000, 85% LTV): S$75,000 down (5% cash + 80% CPF).
  2. Private Condo (S$1.2M, 75% LTV): S$300,000 down (25% cash/CPF for first S$1M, 10% above).
  3. Second Property (S$1.5M, 45% LTV): S$825,000 down.

Pro tip: Use CPF for down payments to preserve cash, but note the 20% cash minimum for private properties. Homejourney's eligibility tool at https://www.homejourney.sg/bank-rates factors in CPF balances via Singpass for precise estimates.[1][2]



Benefits of Applying for Loans via Homejourney

Homejourney transforms LTV applications into a trusted, efficient process. Skip bank queues—submit one Singpass-enabled form to partners like DBS, OCBC, UOB, HSBC, Standard Chartered, Maybank, CIMB, RHB, Public Bank, Hong Leong and Citibank. Auto-fill income, CPF and employment data for instant pre-approvals.[1][2]

Key advantages:

  • Multi-bank comparison: View side-by-side loan to value offers tailored to your LTV eligibility.
  • Real-time tracking: Monitor status and receive the best property loan percentage without multiple visits.
  • Safety first: Verified platform reduces scam risks, aligning with our user-centric values.
  • Free tools: Pair with property search at https://www.homejourney.sg/search to find homes matching your LTV budget.

Users save weeks; one application yields offers from all major banks. For refinancing, compare rates post-LTV assessment seamlessly.[5]



Step-by-Step: Maximize Your LTV via Homejourney

Follow these actionable steps for optimal LTV ratio Singapore outcomes:

  1. Calculate eligibility: Use Homejourney's tool at https://www.homejourney.sg/bank-rates#calculator—input income, debts for instant LTV/max loan.
  2. Compare rates: Browse DBS to Citibank packages filtered by your LTV band.
  3. Apply via Singpass: One-click submission to 10+ banks; data auto-fills.
  4. Review offers: Track in-app, select best property loan percentage.
  5. Finalize: Connect with our mortgage brokers for personalized advice.

Common pitfall: Ignoring TDSR—Homejourney flags this upfront. Documents needed: NRIC, income slips (last 3 months), CPF statements. Prep via Singpass for 80% faster processing.[2]



Pro Tips to Boost LTV Approval Chances

Insider advice from Singapore's market:

  • Lower existing debts before applying to improve LTV/TDSR ratios.
  • Time applications post-CPF top-up for higher Ordinary Account balances.
  • For HDB upgraders, check ABSD implications on LTV—Homejourney verifies eligibility.
  • Avoid overpaying: Use our market data from Projects Directory to negotiate within LTV limits.

Disclaimer: This is general guidance; consult professionals for advice. Rates fluctuate—check live updates via Homejourney.[1]



FAQ: LTV Ratio Singapore

What is the maximum LTV for first-time condo buyers in 2026?
75% for private properties, meaning 25% down payment (5% cash min).[1]



How does LTV affect my monthly repayments?
Higher LTV increases loan size, raising instalments under 3M SORA + margin (typically 3.5-4% now).[2]



Can I get 100% LTV in Singapore?
No, MAS caps prevent it; max 90% for HDB with grants.[1]



Why apply via Homejourney for LTV loans?
One app to multiple banks, Singpass speed, verified safety—best rates without hassle.[5]



What's the LTV for refinancing?
Up to your original LTV or 75%, whichever lower. Use Homejourney to compare.[2]



Master What is Loan-to-Value LTV Ratio and Why It Matters: Benefits of Applying via Homejourney with our tools. Start your secure journey at https://www.homejourney.sg/bank-rates—compare, calculate and apply today. For full coverage, read our pillar on LTV Ratio Singapore: Limits, Calculations & Homejourney Guide . Homejourney: Your trusted partner for safe property decisions.

References

  1. Singapore Property Market Analysis 1 (2026)
  2. Singapore Property Market Analysis 2 (2026)
  3. Singapore Property Market Analysis 5 (2026)
Tags:Singapore PropertyMortgage Basics

Follow Homejourney

Get the latest property insights and tips

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for general reference only. For accurate and official information, please visit HDB's official website or consult professional advice from lawyers, real estate agents, bankers, and other relevant professional consultants.

Homejourney is not liable for any damages, losses, or consequences that may result from the use of this information. We are simply sharing information to the best of our knowledge, but we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability of the information contained herein.