Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore | Homejourney
Foreigners can buy private condominiums, privatised executive condominiums (ECs over 10 years old), resale ECs after 5-year MOP, strata-landed homes, and landed properties in Sentosa Cove without prior approval, while other landed properties require Land Dealings Approval Unit (LDAU) permission.[1][3]
This cluster article dives into these options, building on our pillar guide to Buying Property in Singapore as a Foreigner. At Homejourney, we prioritize your safety with verified data and transparent advice to help you navigate restrictions confidently.
Why Understanding Property Types Matters for Foreign Buyers
Singapore's Residential Property Act (RPA) restricts foreigners from buying HDB flats to preserve public housing for citizens.[1] This leaves private market options, but Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) at 60% for first purchases applies unless exempted under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) like those with the US or EFTA nations.[1]
In 2025, with cooling measures intact, focus on non-restricted properties for seamless transactions. Homejourney verifies listings via our property search to ensure trust and security.
Non-Restricted Properties: Buy Without Approval
These are the easiest for foreigners, offering freehold or 99-year leasehold tenure.
- Private Condominiums and Apartments: Fully accessible, including freehold units. Popular in Orchard (e.g., freehold condos at S$2,500-S$4,000 psf) or District 10. No LDAU needed.[1][3]
- Privatised Executive Condominiums (ECs over 10 years old): Treated as private condos post-privatisation. Example: Punggol's older ECs at S$1,800-S$2,500 psf resale.[1]
- Resale ECs after 5-year Minimum Occupation Period (MOP): Available if sold by owners post-MOP. Check via Homejourney projects directory for eligible ones.[1]
- Strata-Landed Homes: Within approved condo developments (e.g., townhouses). Prices start at S$3M in good locations.[1]
Insider tip: Prioritise condos near MRT like Thomson-East Coast Line for liquidity—units in Serangoon sell 20% faster.[1]
Sentosa Cove: Unique Landed Exception
Foreigners can directly buy landed properties here—terrace houses (S$5M+), semi-D (S$8M+), bungalows (S$20M+). Fast-track LDAU approval applies, but it's routine. One Waterfront Place units offer sea views and resort living, 10-min drive to CBD.[1]
ABSD applies, but FTAs may remit for eligible buyers. Use Homejourney's ABSD calculator guide for estimates.
Restricted Properties: Approval Required
Landed outside Sentosa Cove needs LDAU approval under RPA. Eligible: vacant land, terrace/semi-D/bungalows, non-condo strata-landed, shophouses (residential use). Case-by-case; factors include 5+ years PR status, economic contribution (e.g., S$30M+ investments).[1][2][3]
Good Class Bungalows (GCBs) face stricter rules—limit to 15,000 sq ft, exceptional merit needed. Approval timeline: 4-6 weeks; success rate low for non-investors.
| Property Type | Approval Needed? | Typical Price (2025) | Pros/Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Condominiums | No | S$1.8M-S$10M | High liquidity / Facilities shared |
| Sentosa Cove Landed | Fast-track | S$5M-S$50M | Privacy, views / High ABSD |
| Other Landed | Yes (LDAU) | S$4M+ | Exclusivity / Approval risk |
Data from URA/HDB; prices Q4 2025 estimates.[1]
Financial and Regulatory Considerations
ABSD: 60% on first buy, 65% subsequent (2025 rates).[1] LTV: 75% max for foreigners, tighter if over 65 or long tenure (55-15%).[3] No CPF use.
For Chinese buyers, monitor CNY SGD exchange—RMB weakened 5% vs SGD in 2025; time payments wisely. See Homejourney bank rates for developer financing.
Steps: 1) Verify eligibility via LDAU portal. 2) Calculate duties with ABSD guide. 3) Engage lawyer. Full process in Step-by-Step Guide.
Common Mistakes and Insider Tips
Avoid assuming all ECs qualify—only post-10-year or post-MOP resale. Red flag: Sellers skipping Option to Purchase (OTP) caveats.
Tip: District 15 (East Coast) condos yield 3-4% rental; Sentosa Cove appreciates 8% annually. Post-purchase, budget for aircon servicing in humid climate. Homejourney verifies agents for safety.
Decision Framework for Foreign Buyers
- Budget: Under S$3M? Condos. S$5M+? Sentosa.
- Lifestyle: Family? Strata-landed. Investment? Freehold condos.
- Risk: Approval-averse? Stick to non-restricted.
- Financing: Check foreign financing options.
Disclaimer: This is general info; consult professionals. Homejourney provides verified tools, not financial advice.
FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore
Can foreigners buy HDB flats?
No, restricted to citizens/PRs.[1]
Are freehold condos allowed for foreigners?
Yes, without approval.[1][3]
How to buy landed property as a foreigner?
Sentosa Cove direct; others via LDAU approval.[1]
What is ABSD for foreigners in 2025?
60% first property, 65% after.[1]
Can PRs buy resale HDB with foreigners?
Yes, if one is SC/PR.[1]
Ready to explore? Search verified properties on Homejourney property search and link back to our pillar for the full guide. Trust Homejourney for safe, transparent Singapore property journeys.
