Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore | Homejourney
Foreigners can buy private condominiums and apartments in Singapore without prior approval, but landed properties require Singapore Land Authority (SLA) approval under the Residential Property Act, and HDB flats or Executive Condominiums (ECs) are off-limits except in specific joint scenarios.[5][1]
This cluster guide dives deep into foreigner property options, linking back to our pillar Complete Guide to Buying Property in Singapore for Foreigners. At Homejourney, we prioritize your safety with verified listings and transparent advice, helping Korean buyers, South Korea citizens, and global investors navigate confidently.
Why Understanding Property Types Matters for Foreign Buyers
Singapore's property market in 2026 remains attractive for foreigners due to stability and high rental yields, but strict rules protect local housing needs. Foreigners face a flat 60% Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) on all purchases, making condos the go-to for most.[1][4]
For Korean buyer Singapore investors or South Korea citizen property seekers, knowing these limits avoids costly mistakes. Homejourney verifies every detail, ensuring a trusted path to ownership.
Properties Foreigners Can Buy Without SLA Approval
The easiest option: private condominiums and apartments. These include high-rise units in developments like The Sail @ Marina Bay or Park Nova in District 10. No government nod needed, just pay ABSD within 14 days.[5][3]
- Condo units: Freehold or 99-year leasehold, from S$1.5M in suburbs to S$10M+ in prime areas like Orchard.
- Strata landed in approved condos: Townhouses in gated enclaves like Upper Thomson, treated as condos.
- Short-term leases: Up to 7 years on landed properties, ideal for temporary stays.
Insider tip: Check URA's Master Plan on Homejourney's projects directory for upcoming condos near MRT like Dover (5-min walk from Exit A).
Real Example: Korean Investor Guide
A South Korean investor recently bought a 2-bed condo at Stirling Residences (Queenstown, S$2.8M). No approval hassle, rented out post-purchase for 4% yield. Use Homejourney's property search to filter foreigner-friendly options.
Landed Properties: Approval Required
Foreigners cannot freely buy terraced houses, semi-detached, or bungalows. SLA approval is case-by-case, favoring those with 5+ years PR status and exceptional economic contributions (e.g., high-taxable income).[5][2]
Sentosa Cove is the exception: Faster approval for luxury villas (S$5M+), but with strings like 5-year minimum holding and no renting.[3]
| Property Type | Foreigner Access | Approval Needed? | ABSD Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Condo | Yes | No | 60% |
| Landed (Terrace/Semi-D) | Limited | Yes (SLA) | 60% |
| Sentosa Cove Landed | Yes (faster track) | Yes | 60% |
| HDB Flat | No | N/A | N/A |
Approval conditions: Residential use only, 5-year hold, no subdivision.[3] Success rate low outside Sentosa.
What Foreigners Cannot Buy: HDB and ECs
HDB flats are reserved for citizens/PRs. Foreigners barred entirely, even with spouse unless specific rules apply (e.g., resale HDB with citizen spouse, but still restricted).[1][6]
ECs: No for foreigners until privatized (10+ years), then treated as condos but rare joint buys only.[4] Misconception: Many assume PR status helps—clarify via SLA site.
Financial Implications: ABSD and Beyond
All foreigner buys hit 60% ABSD (e.g., S$2M condo = S$1.2M duty), plus 1-4% Buyer's Stamp Duty (BSD). No CPF use; loans capped at 75% LTV under TDSR.[3]
Hidden costs: S$2-5K lawyer fees, 1% agent commission. For financing, explore Homejourney's mortgage rates or read Financing Options for Foreign Buyers.
Disclaimer: Rates per 2026; consult professionals. Homejourney provides tools, not financial advice.
Actionable Steps for Korean Investors
- Verify eligibility: Check SLA for landed; condos always ok.
- Calculate costs: Use Homejourney ABSD Calculator.
- Search safely: Filter on Homejourney search for verified condos.
- Follow process: See Step-by-Step Guide.
- Post-buy: Budget for MCST fees; check aircon services for maintenance.
For Korea Singapore property tips, see Korean Citizens Guide.
Common Mistakes and Insider Tips
Avoid assuming all landed ok—SLA rejections common without PR/economic proof. Red flag: Sellers skipping ABSD disclosure.
- Tip: Visit sites like Holland Village condos (10-min from Holland Village MRT) for lifestyle fit.
- Mistake: Ignoring 5-year MOP on approved landed—fines apply.
- Pro advice: Joint with citizen? Still 60% ABSD.[4]
FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore
Can foreigners buy HDB flats in Singapore?
No, HDB flats are restricted to citizens and PRs. Exceptions only for married couples with citizens under strict HDB rules.[1][5]
What landed properties can foreigners buy?
Only with SLA approval, mainly Sentosa Cove. 5-year hold required; rare elsewhere.[5][3]
ABSD rate for Korean buyer Singapore condo purchase?
Flat 60% on purchase price/market value (whichever higher), payable in 14 days.[1][4]
Can South Korea citizens buy freehold condos?
Yes, without approval. Popular in Districts 9/10; check Homejourney for listings.
What's the process for foreigner condo buy?
OTP, pay 60% ABSD, lawyer completion in 8-12 weeks. Full guide on Homejourney.
Ready to explore types of properties foreigners can buy in Singapore? Start your safe search on Homejourney today—verified, transparent, trusted. Link back to our pillar for the full picture.
