Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore | Homejourney
Foreigners can freely buy private condominiums and apartments in Singapore without approval, but landed properties require rare Singapore Land Authority (SLA) permission, and HDB flats are off-limits.[1][4]
At Homejourney, we prioritize your safety in property decisions by verifying market data and regulations, helping you navigate Singapore's strict rules confidently. This cluster focuses on property types for foreigners, linking to our pillar guide on Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners | Homejourney ">Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners for the full journey.
What Properties Can Foreigners Buy Without Approval?
Private condominiums and apartments form the core of what foreigners can purchase freely under the Residential Property Act.[1][2][4] These include freehold and leasehold units in developments with six or more stories, both new launches and resales. Strata landed houses in approved condo developments also qualify without prior clearance.[4]
Sentosa Cove stands out as a unique exception: foreigners enjoy unrestricted access to landed properties here, bypassing SLA approval for bungalows and other types.[1] This waterfront enclave offers luxury homes with marinas, ideal for high-net-worth buyers seeking prestige without red tape.
Insider tip: Check Projects ">Homejourney's projects directory for verified Sentosa Cove listings and condo options in prime areas like Orchard or Marina Bay, where prices start from S$2 million for a 2-bedroom unit in 2026.[1][2]
Restricted Properties: Landed Homes and Approval Process
Landed properties—bungalows, semi-detached houses, and terrace homes—are largely restricted for foreigners outside Sentosa Cove.[1][2][3] To buy, you need SLA approval, requiring at least five years as a Singapore Permanent Resident (PR) and proof of exceptional economic contribution, like high taxable income or major business investments.[1][4]
Approval is case-by-case and rare; even qualified applicants often face rejection. If granted, conditions apply: exclusive residential use (no renting), a five-year minimum holding period from legal completion or TOP, and no subdivision without further approval.[1][3]
For Chinese citizens, the same rules apply—no special PRC restrictions beyond standard foreigner limits, but verify via SLA for your status. See our detailed guide on Chinese Citizens Property Rules & Restrictions in Singapore | Homejourney ">Chinese Citizens Property Rules in Singapore.
Properties Foreigners Cannot Buy
- HDB Flats: Reserved solely for Singapore Citizens and PRs; foreigners are ineligible under any circumstance.[1]
- Executive Condominiums (ECs): Solo foreign buys prohibited; joint purchase possible only post-5-year MOP if paired with a PR.[1]
- Commercial/Industrial Land: Off-limits to foreigners.[1]
These restrictions protect housing for locals, a policy unchanged in 2026 amid steady demand.[1][2]
Financial Implications: ABSD and Costs in 2026
Foreigners face a flat 60% Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) on all residential purchases, regardless of whether it's your first property.[1][2] For a S$2 million condo, that's S$1.2 million due within 14 days of exercising the Option to Purchase (OTP).[2]
Exemptions: Spouses of Singapore Citizens skip ABSD on their first joint buy; refunds possible if switching properties within six months.[1] Use Homejourney's ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator & Guide 2026 | Homejourney ">ABSD Calculator for precise estimates. Buyer’s Stamp Duty (BSD) adds 1-6% progressively, plus legal fees (1-2%) and maintenance (S$300-600/month for condos).[2][3]
| Property Type | Approval Needed? | ABSD Rate (2026) | Example Price (S$) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Condo/Apartment | No | 60% | 2M+ (ABSD: 1.2M) |
| Landed (excl. Sentosa) | Yes (Rare) | 60% | 5M+ (ABSD: 3M+) |
| Sentosa Cove Landed | No | 60% | 10M+ (ABSD: 6M+) |
Financing caps at 75% Loan-to-Value (LTV) for foreigners; explore options via Financing Options for Foreign Buyers in Singapore | Homejourney ">Homejourney's financing guide and Bank Rates ">bank rates.[2][3]
Step-by-Step: How to Buy as a Foreigner
- Search Verified Listings: Use Property Search ">Homejourney's property search for condos in areas like District 10 (Bukit Timah, 10-min walk from Stevens MRT).
- View and OTP: Pay 1% option fee; exercise within 14-21 days with 4% more (total 5%).
- Pay Duties: Settle ABSD/BSD within 14 days via lawyer.
- Legal Completion: 8-12 weeks later, pay balance (20%+), get keys.
- Post-Purchase: Budget for property tax (concessionary if owner-occupied) and MCST fees; consider Aircon Services ">aircon services for maintenance.
Timeline: 3-4 months total. Always engage a lawyer experienced in foreign buys.[2][3]
Common Mistakes and Tips for Foreign Buyers
Avoid assuming all landed is accessible—90% of applications fail without PR status.[1] Don't overlook the 5-year hold on approved landed, blocking quick flips. Chinese nationals: No unique bans, but confirm visa type affects PR path.[4]
- Tip: Prioritize condos in growth areas like Tengah or Jurong Lake District for value appreciation.
- Red Flag: Sellers pressuring fast OTP without due diligence—walk away.
- Pro Tip: Factor TDSR (60% debt cap) for loans; use Homejourney for verified agents prioritizing safety.
Disclaimer: This is general info; consult professionals for personalized advice. Regulations per SLA/URA as of 2026.[1][4]
FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore
Can foreigners buy landed properties in Singapore?
Yes, but only with SLA approval (rare, needs 5-year PR + economic contribution) or unrestricted in Sentosa Cove.[1][4]
What is the ABSD for foreigners buying condos in 2026?
Flat 60% on purchase price/valuation.[1][2]
Can Chinese citizens buy property in Singapore?
Yes, same as other foreigners: condos freely, landed restricted. No PRC-specific bans.[1]
Are HDB flats available to foreigners?
No, exclusively for Citizens/PRs.[1]
How does marriage to a Singaporean affect buying?
Exempts ABSD on first joint residential purchase.[1]
Ready to explore safe property options? Start with Property Search ">Homejourney's verified search today. For the complete process, read our pillar on Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners | Homejourney ">Step-by-Step Property Buying for Foreigners. Homejourney ensures transparency and trust every step.
