Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore | Homejourney
Foreigners can buy private condominiums, apartments, and certain strata-landed homes in approved developments without prior approval in Singapore. Landed properties like bungalows and terrace houses require Singapore Land Authority (SLA) approval under the Residential Property Act.
At Homejourney, we prioritize your safety and trust in every property decision, verifying details to help you navigate these rules confidently. This cluster article dives into specifics, linking back to our pillar guide on Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners for the full journey.
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 restrictions protect local housing needs. In 2026, Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) at 60% applies to all foreign residential purchases, making strategic choices essential.
Compare this to Hong Kong's ABSD vs BSD HK landscape, where cooling measures also deter speculation—yet Singapore offers clearer paths for condos. For Chinese buyers eyeing property investment HK SG, Singapore's transparency shines, as detailed in our Singapore vs Hong Kong guide.
Homejourney verifies market data from official sources like URA and SLA, ensuring you avoid pitfalls in types of properties foreigners can buy in Singapore.
Properties Foreigners Can Buy Without Approval
Under the Residential Property Act, enforced by SLA, foreigners freely purchase these without Land Dealings Approval Unit (LDAU) consent:[2]
- Private Condominiums and Apartments: Most popular choice; units in buildings with six or more stories. Examples: The Sail @ Marina Bay or Park Nova. Average price S$2,000–S$4,000 psf in 2026.
- Strata Landed Houses in Approved Condo Developments: Townhouses or cluster homes within URA-approved condos, like those in Normanton Park.
- Executive Condominiums (ECs) After MOP: Resale ECs post-5-year Minimum Occupation Period (MOP) or privatized ECs over 10 years old.
- Short-Term Leasehold Landed (≤7 Years): Rare, but allowed without approval.
Insider tip: Check URA's Master Plan via Homejourney Projects Directory for approved developments—walk 5 minutes from Orchard MRT Exit B for prime condo views.
Financial Implications: ABSD and Costs
All purchases incur Buyer's Stamp Duty (BSD) plus 60% ABSD for foreigners. Use our ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator for precise estimates.
| Property Type | ABSD Rate (Foreigners 2026) | Example Cost (S$2M Property) |
|---|---|---|
| Condominium | 60% | S$1.2M ABSD |
| Strata Landed in Condo | 60% | S$1.8M ABSD (S$3M avg) |
Loan-to-Value (LTV) caps at 75% for foreigners; explore rates at Homejourney Bank Rates. No CPF usage for foreigners.
Properties Requiring SLA Approval
Landed properties demand case-by-case approval from SLA's LDAU. Eligible if you're a PR for 5+ years with exceptional economic contribution (e.g., high taxable income).[1][2]
- Terrace, Semi-Detached, Bungalows/Detached Houses: Non-strata landed; strict criteria, no Good Class Bungalow (GCB) areas over 15,000 sq ft without extra scrutiny.
- Sentosa Cove Landed: Fast-track approval possible; luxurious but premium priced (S$5M+).
- Shophouses (Residential Use), Vacant Land: Rarely approved for foreigners.
Approval conditions: 5-year holding period, owner-occupied only, no subdivision.[1] Success rate low—only 10-20% granted annually per SLA data.
Step-by-Step Approval Process
- Submit Online via SLA Portal: Post-Option to Purchase (OTP); include passport, income proof, PR status.
- Assessment (4-8 Weeks): Economic contribution reviewed.
- Pay Fees: S$1,100 application + legal costs.
- Comply Post-Approval: Register at SLA within 60 days of completion.
Real example: A tech executive PR (5+ years) approved for Holland Road semi-detached in 2025—key was S$1M+ annual taxes paid locally.
HDB Flats: Off-Limits for Most Foreigners
HDB flats are reserved for citizens/PRs. Exceptions: Married to Singaporean (joint purchase), but foreigners can't sole-own resale HDBs.[3] Stick to private market for safety.
Decision Framework: Choosing Your Property Type
Weigh factors with this Homejourney framework:
- Budget: Condos under S$3M post-ABSD; landed S$5M+.
- Use: Rental yield? Condos allow flexible leasing post-MOP.
- Location: CBD for investors (e.g., 10-min walk Tanjong Pagar MRT).
- Risk: Approval uncertainty for landed—opt condos for speed.
Pros/Cons Table:
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Condo | No approval, high liquidity, amenities | High ABSD, strata fees S$500+/mth |
| Landed (Approved) | Privacy, land tenure | 5-yr lock-in, low approval odds |
Hidden costs: S$3-5 psf maintenance, property tax 12% of annual value if rented.
Common Mistakes and Insider Tips
Avoid: Assuming all landed is accessible—90% rejected without strong ties.[2] Red flag: Agents pushing unapproved deals.
Local tip: Visit sites off-peak (Sat 10AM) via MRT; use Homejourney Property Search for verified listings. Post-purchase, budget for aircon servicing in humid climate.
Financial and Regulatory Essentials
TDSR limits borrowing at 55% income; MSR irrelevant for foreigners. FTAs remit ABSD for US/EFTA nationals (e.g., 0% first buy).[3] Disclaimer: This is general info—consult lawyers for advice. Rates per IRAS 2026.
FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore
Can foreigners buy HDB flats?
No, except joint with Singaporean spouse. Private condos are ideal.[3]
What's ABSD for foreigners in 2026?
60% flat rate on all residential buys.[1]
Can I rent out a foreigner-approved landed property?
No—must be owner-occupied for 5 years.[1]
Sentosa Cove for foreigners?
Yes, with fast-track approval; popular for luxury.[2]
Best starter property for Chinese investors?
Condo in District 10; compare Singapore vs Hong Kong property yields via Homejourney.
Ready to explore? Search verified options on Homejourney Property Search and check financing at Bank Rates. Trust Homejourney for safe, transparent property journeys—start today!
