Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore | Homejourney
Foreigners can buy private condominiums, apartments, and certain executive condominiums (ECs) in Singapore without prior approval, but landed properties require Land Authority approval under the Residential Property Act.
At Homejourney, we prioritize your safety and trust in navigating Singapore's strict property rules. This cluster guide details eligible property types for foreigners, linking back to our pillar Complete Guide to Foreign Property Ownership in Singapore. Use our verified Property Search to find compliant options securely.
Why Understanding Property Types Matters for Foreign Buyers
Singapore's Residential Property Act (RPA) restricts foreigners to protect local housing supply. In 2026, with ABSD at 60% for foreigners, choosing the right type minimizes costs and risks.
Current market data shows condominiums dominating foreign purchases due to no-approval access. Homejourney verifies listings to ensure transparency, helping you avoid pitfalls.
Properties Foreigners Can Buy Without Approval
Under SLA guidelines, foreigners freely purchase these without Land Authority nod.
- Private Condominiums and Apartments: Most popular; includes high-rises like those in Orchard or Marina Bay. No restrictions on freehold or 99-year leasehold.
- Strata Landed Houses in Approved Condominiums: Townhouses or cluster houses within URA-approved developments.
- Short-Term Leases: Up to 7 years on landed residential properties, ideal for temporary stays.
Example: A foreigner buys a unit in The Sail @ Marina Bay (freehold condo) for S$2.5M. No approval needed, but 60% ABSD applies (S$1.5M payable in 14 days).
Insider Tip for Condo Selection
Locals know: Prioritize condos near MRT like Dover (Exit A, 5-min walk to new ECs). Check MCST fees (S$400-800/month) via Homejourney's Projects Directory .
Properties Requiring Prior Approval
Landed residential properties need SLA approval, assessed case-by-case (e.g., 5+ years PR, economic contribution).
- Vacant Residential Land, Terrace/Semi-Detached/Bungalows: Null and void without approval.
- Strata Landed Outside Approved Condos: E.g., standalone townhouses.
- Sentosa Cove Landed: Fast-track approval possible; exclusive use only.
- Shophouses (Non-Commercial): Residential use restricted.
Approval conditions: 5-year minimum holding, no renting/subdividing. Only ~10% approved annually per SLA data.
HDB Flats and Executive Condominiums for Foreigners
Foreigners cannot buy new or resale HDB flats directly. Exceptions:
- ECs After MOP: Post-5-year Minimum Occupation Period (MOP), or privatized ECs (>10 years old). Joint buy with Singapore Citizen/PR possible if PR held >3 years.
| Property Type | Foreigner Access | ABSD | Approval Needed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDB Flat | No | 60% | N/A |
| Resale EC (post-MOP) | Yes (joint with citizen) | 60% | No |
| Private Condo | Yes | 60% | No |
| Landed House | Approval | 60% | Yes |
Source: SLA, HDB 2026 rules. Use Homejourney's ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator & Guide 2026 | Homejourney for precise calculations.
Financial Implications: ABSD, LTV, and Costs
Foreigners pay flat 60% ABSD on residential purchases (higher of price/market value). No CPF use; cash payment within 14 days.
- Loan-to-Value (LTV): Max 75% for bank loans; TDSR caps at 55% of income.
- Other Costs: BSD (1-6%), legal fees (S$3-5K), agent commission (1-2%).
Exemptions: US, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein nationals treated as citizens for first buy (0% ABSD). Check Financing Options for Foreign Buyers in Singapore | Homejourney 2026 for rates via Bank Rates .
Singapore vs Taipei Property: Taiwan Investor Comparison
Taiwan investors compare: Singapore condos yield 3-4% vs Taipei's 2-3%; but 60% ABSD vs Taiwan's low barriers. Singapore offers stability, English law.
- Pros SG: Global hub, no capital gains tax.
- Cons: High ABSD vs Taiwan's flexible ownership.
See full analysis in Singapore vs Taipei Property: Taiwan Investor Guide 2026 | Homejourney . Homejourney verifies for safe property investment Taiwan SG shifts.
Step-by-Step Buying Process for Foreigners
- Search & Verify: Use Property Search for compliant properties.
- Exercise Option to Purchase (OTP): Pay 1-5% option fee.
- Pay ABSD: 14 days post-S&P agreement.
- Secure Financing: Via Mortgage Rates .
- Legal Completion: 8-12 weeks; pay balance. Follow Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners | Homejourney .
Post-purchase: Pay property tax, MCST fees. For maintenance, book Aircon Services .
Common Mistakes and Red Flags to Avoid
Avoid unverified agents promising landed without approval—illegal per RPA. Real example: 2025 case voided S$10M bungalow sale.
- Red Flag: No ABSD disclosure.
- Tip: Always consult lawyer; Homejourney connects verified pros.
Disclaimer: This is general info; seek professional advice for your case. Data current as of 2026 per SLA/URA.
FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore
Q: Can foreigners buy HDB flats?
A: No, except joint with citizen/PR under strict rules.
Q: What's the ABSD for my first condo?
A: 60% flat rate for foreigners; exemptions for FTA nationals.
Q: How to buy landed property?
A: Apply to SLA; expect 5-year hold if approved.
Q: Can I rent out my foreign-owned condo?
A: Yes, after 1-year MOP for non-landed; comply with URA.
Q: Best for Taiwan investors?
A: Condos in CBD; compare via our tools vs Taipei yields.
Next Steps with Homejourney
Start safely: Search verified listings on Property Search . Calculate costs with ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator & Guide 2026 | Homejourney . Homejourney ensures trust through verification and feedback-driven updates. Explore our pillar guide for full foreign ownership details.
