Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore | Homejourney
Foreigners can buy private condominiums, apartments, commercial and industrial properties, privatized Executive Condominiums (ECs over 10 years old), and limited landed properties in Sentosa Cove without prior approval; other landed properties require rare Singapore Land Authority (SLA) approval.[1][2][3][4]
At Homejourney, we prioritize your safety and trust in Singapore's property market by verifying every detail to help you make confident decisions. This cluster guide focuses on property types available to foreigners, linking back to our comprehensive Pillar Guide to Property Buying for Foreigners in Singapore for the full process.
Why Understanding Property Types Matters for Foreign Buyers in 2025
Singapore's property market remains attractive for foreigners due to stability and growth, but strict rules protect locals. In 2025, with 60% Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) on residential purchases, choosing the right type minimizes costs and risks.[1][2] Homejourney verifies listings on our Property Search ">Property Search to ensure transparency.
Common misconception: Many think all condos are equal—yet options like strata-titled landed in approved developments offer unique appeal without approval.[3] Insider tip: Focus on freehold condos in areas like Orchard or District 10 for long-term value, as prices averaged S$2,500 psf in Q4 2025 per URA data.
Properties Foreigners Can Buy Without Prior Approval
These form the bulk of foreign purchases, offering straightforward access.
- Private Condominiums and Apartments: Fully accessible; no restrictions. Popular in districts like 9 (Orchard), 10 (Bukit Timah), and 15 (East Coast). Example: A 2-bedroom unit at The Sail @ Marina Bay, around S$2-3 million.[1][3]
- Commercial and Industrial Properties: No ABSD, ideal for investors. Shophouses in Jalan Besar or industrial spaces in Jurong yield 4-6% returns. Exempt from residential taxes.[1][2]
- Privatized ECs (Over 10 Years Old): Treated as private condos post-TOP +10 years. Eligible after full privatization; check URA for status.[3]
- Strata-Titled Landed Houses: In approved condo developments, no approval needed. Rare but luxurious.[3]
Homejourney's Projects Directory ">Projects Directory lists verified options with market data.
Landed Properties: Sentosa Cove and Restricted Options
Sentosa Cove is the only mainland-free zone for foreigner landed purchases—no SLA approval required for bungalows or cluster houses here. Prices start at S$5 million for a Good Class Bungalow (GCB) equivalent, with marina views.[2]
For mainland landed (terrace, semi-D, bungalow): Foreigners need SLA approval via Land Dealings Approval Unit (LDAU). Criteria: Singapore Permanent Resident (SPR) for 5+ years, exceptional economic contribution (e.g., high employment income taxed in Singapore). Approval is rare; conditions include 5-year hold, no renting.[4][5]
Table: Foreign Ownership Summary
| Property Type | Approval Needed? | ABSD Applies? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Condo/Apt | No | Yes (60%) | Most popular[1][3] |
| Commercial/Industrial | No | No | Investment-focused[1] |
| Privatized EC (>10 yrs) | No | Yes (60%) | Like condos[3] |
| Sentosa Cove Landed | No | Yes (60%) | Exclusive[2] |
| Mainland Landed | Yes (SLA) | Yes (60%) | Rare approval[4] |
Financial Implications: ABSD, BSD, and Financing for Foreigners
Residential buys trigger 60% ABSD (e.g., S$1.2M on S$2M condo) plus BSD (1-6% tiered).[1][2] No ABSD on commercial. Foreigners face 50-60% Loan-to-Value (LTV) limits, per MAS TDSR/MSR rules—check Bank Rates ">Bank Rates or .
Seller's Stamp Duty (SSD) applies if selling within 3 years (2025 rates up to 12%). For sell property foreigner, plan exit strategy foreign owner early—read our Exit Strategy Guide for Foreign Property Owners in Singapore | Homejourney ">Exit Strategy Guide for Foreign Property Owners in Singapore | Homejourney . Property resale foreign owners face ABSD on new buys, so time carefully. Selling as foreigner? Use Homejourney for verified agents.
Step-by-Step: How to Evaluate and Buy as a Foreigner
- Assess Eligibility: Confirm non-restricted types via URA/SLA sites.[4]
- Budget with Taxes: Use ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator & Guide 2025 | Homejourney ">ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator & Guide 2025 | Homejourney for ABSD.
- Search Safely: On Homejourney's Property Search ">Property Search , filter foreigner-eligible.
- Finance Check: Pre-approve loans; foreigners max 60% LTV.
- Legal Review: Engage lawyer for Option to Purchase. Full process in Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners | Homejourney ">Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners | Homejourney .
- Post-Purchase: Budget for maintenance via Aircon Services ">Aircon Services .
Timeline: 8-12 weeks. Documents: Passport, proof of funds, employment.
Common Mistakes and Insider Tips
Avoid assuming HDB access—foreigners can't buy except as essential occupier with spouse.[1] Mistake: Ignoring 5-year SLA hold for approved landed, leading to forced sales. Tip: Prioritize District 4 (Harbourfront) condos near Sentosa for lifestyle; walk 5 mins from MRT Exit A to One@KentRidge.
Red flag: Unverified agents—Homejourney verifies all for trust. For maintenance, locals know high humidity demands regular checks; use our services.
FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore
Can foreigners buy HDB flats?
No, except limited essential occupier roles with Singaporean family.[1][4]
What landed properties can foreigners buy?
Sentosa Cove freely; mainland requires rare SLA approval.[2][4]
Are commercial properties ABSD-free?
Yes, no ABSD—great for investors.[1][2]
Can foreigners buy new ECs?
No; only privatized ECs over 10 years.[3]
