Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore | Homejourney
Foreigners can freely buy private condominiums, apartments, and certain executive condominiums (ECs) in Singapore without approval, but landed properties require Land Dealings Approval Unit (LDAU) consent from the Singapore Land Authority (SLA).
This cluster article dives deep into types of properties foreigners can buy in Singapore, linking back to our pillar guide on Foreigner vs PR vs Citizen: Singapore Property Buying Guide Foreigner vs PR vs Citizen: Singapore Property Buying Guide | Homejourney . At Homejourney, we prioritize your safety with verified data and transparent advice, helping you navigate restrictions confidently.
Why Understanding Property Types Matters for Foreign Buyers in 2026
Singapore's property market remains attractive for foreigners due to stability and high rental yields, but strict rules under the Residential Property Act protect local housing needs. In 2026, Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) at 60% for foreigners applies across all purchases, making strategic choices essential.
Foreigners face foreigner PR citizen comparison in eligibility: citizens access HDB flats, PRs buy resale HDB after conditions, while foreigners stick to private market options. Homejourney verifies latest URA and SLA rules to ensure you avoid pitfalls.
Properties Foreigners Can Buy Without Approval
Under SLA guidelines, no prior approval is needed for these core types, forming 90% of foreign purchases.
- Private Condominiums and Apartments: Freely purchasable units in multi-story developments (6+ stories). Examples include The Sail @ Marina Bay or upcoming projects in Tengah. Freehold options like those in District 10 appeal for long-term value.
- Strata Landed Houses in Approved Condo Developments: Townhouses or cluster houses within URA-approved condos, like those in Upper Thomson.
- Short-Term Leasehold Landed Properties: Up to 7 years, rare but available for temporary needs.
These offer immediate access via Homejourney's property search Property Search , with full strata title ownership.
Executive Condominiums (ECs): A Hybrid Option
Foreigners cannot buy new ECs but can purchase resale ECs after the 5-year Minimum Occupation Period (MOP), or privatized ECs over 10 years old. Pairing with a Singapore Citizen or PR enables joint buys under HDB rules.
Insider Tip: Check Piermont Grand or Parc Canberra on Homejourney's projects directory Projects for ECs hitting MOP in 2026—yields average 3-4% in mature estates like Punggol.
Landed Properties: Approval Required
Landed homes—terrace, semi-detached, bungalows—demand LDAU approval via SLA's online portal. Criteria include 5+ years PR status and exceptional economic contributions, like high taxable income.
- Sentosa Cove: Fast-track for landed villas; popular with Americans, per market trends.
- Conditions if Approved: 5-year minimum holding, owner-occupied only, no subdivision.
Success rate is low; only 10-15% approved annually. See our guide on Why Americans Are Biggest Foreign Property Buyers Why Americans Are Biggest Foreign Property Buyers in Singapore | Homejourney .
Properties Foreigners Cannot Buy
HDB flats are off-limits unless married to a citizen/PR and meeting eligibility—no solo foreign purchases. New ECs and non-Sentosa Cove landed without approval are restricted, preserving public housing for locals.
Foreigner PR Citizen Comparison: Ownership and Costs
Use this property buying comparison table for clarity:
| Buyer Type | HDB Resale | New EC | Resale EC (post-MOP) | Private Condo | Landed (non-Sentosa) | ABSD Rate (1st Property) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Singapore Citizen | Yes | Yes (lottery) | Yes | Yes | Yes | 0% |
| PR (>3 yrs) | Yes (with citizen) | No | Yes (with citizen) | Yes | Approval | 5% |
| Foreigner | No | No | Yes (joint) | Yes | Approval | 60% |
ABSD Different Status: Foreigners pay flat 60% on purchase price or market value (higher), payable in 14 days, no CPF use. Joint buys take highest rate—e.g., citizen-foreigner pair pays 60% total. Use Homejourney's ABSD tool ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator & Guide | Homejourney 2026 .
Loan-to-Value (LTV) for foreigners: 75% max; Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR) at 55%. Check mortgage rates Bank Rates .
Financial Breakdown and Hidden Costs
For a S$2M condo: ABSD S$1.2M, Buyer Stamp Duty (BSD) ~S$80K, legal fees S$5K. Total upfront: 65%+. No CPF for foreigners.
- OTP: 5% option fee.
- 14 days: ABSD/BSD.
- 8-12 weeks: Balance 20% downpayment.
Post-purchase: Property tax (4-16% of annual value), MCST fees S$400-800/month. Plan maintenance via aircon services Aircon Services .
Step-by-Step Buying Process
Follow our detailed guide Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners | Homejourney :
- Verify eligibility on Homejourney.
- Search verified listings Property Search .
- Exercise Option to Purchase (OTP).
- Apply for LDAU if landed.
- Secure financing Financing Options for Foreign Buyers in Singapore | Homejourney .
- Legal completion: Title transfer at SLA.
Timeline: 10-14 weeks. Disclaimer: This is general info; consult lawyers for personalized advice.
Common Mistakes and Insider Tips
Avoid assuming all landed is accessible—90% rejected. Red flag: Sellers skipping ABSD disclosure. Tip: Prioritize freehold condos in Core Central Region for appreciation; e.g., walk to Orchard MRT Exit A in 5 mins from Claymore Hill projects.
Joint buys? Ensure highest ABSD applies. Homejourney flags verified deals for safety.
FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore
Can foreigners buy HDB flats in Singapore?
No, only with a citizen/PR spouse under strict rules.
What is the ABSD for foreigners buying condos?
60% flat rate on first or any property, regardless of status.
Can foreigners buy landed property without approval?
No, except Sentosa Cove (fast-track) or 7-year leases.
Foreigner PR citizen comparison for ECs?
Foreigners: resale post-MOP joint only; PRs: with citizen; Citizens: full access.
How to calculate ownership costs?
Use Homejourney's tools for ABSD, BSD, and LTV simulations.
Ready to explore safe options? Start your types of properties foreigners can buy in Singapore journey on Homejourney's property search. Link back to our pillar for full property buying comparison.
