Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore: 2026 Rules
Foreigners can buy private condominiums, apartments, and strata-landed houses in approved condominium developments without prior approval, but landed properties like terrace houses, semi-detached homes, and bungalows require Singapore Land Authority (SLA) approval.[3][1]
This cluster article breaks down accessible property types for foreign buyers, connecting to our pillar guide on Foreigners Buying Property in Singapore: Legal Process Guide 2026. Homejourney prioritizes your safety with verified data from official sources like SLA and URA, ensuring transparent decisions in Singapore's competitive market.
Properties Foreigners Can Buy Without Approval
Most foreign buyers start here due to simplicity. These options offer high liquidity and rental yields in areas like Orchard Road or Tanjong Pagar.
- Private Condominiums and Apartments: Unlimited purchases allowed. Units in high-rises (6+ stories) dominate foreign transactions. Example: A 2-bedroom condo in District 10 (e.g., near Stevens MRT, Exit A, 5-min walk) averages S$2.5M-S$3.5M in 2026.[1][2]
- Strata-Landed Houses in Approved Condo Developments: Townhouses or cluster houses within condo estates. No approval needed if part of URA-approved projects. Insider tip: Check Sentosa Cove strata options for waterfront views without full landed approval hassles.[3]
These properties suit investors seeking flexibility. Use Homejourney's property search to filter foreigner-friendly listings verified for compliance.
Key Restrictions and Costs
Expect 60% Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) on any purchase, regardless of property count.[2] For a S$2M condo, that's S$1.2M extra. Compare via our ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator & Guide 2026.
Landed Properties: Approval Required
Landed homes are prestigious but restricted. Foreigners need SLA approval for vacant land, terrace houses, semi-Ds, bungalows, non-condo strata-landed, Sentosa Cove landed, or shophouses (residential use).[3]
Approval criteria include: 5+ years PR status, exceptional economic contribution (e.g., high taxable income), property under 15,000 sq ft, and genuine residential intent.[1][3] Processing takes 3-6 months; success rate is low unless you qualify exceptionally.
Post-approval conditions: 5-year minimum holding (from TOP/legal completion), no renting, no subdivision.[1][2] Example: A semi-D in Bukit Timah (near King Albert Park MRT) might cost S$5M+, but only for approved buyers.
What Foreigners Cannot Buy
- HDB flats or executive condominiums (ECs) – reserved for citizens/PRs.[5]
- Resale HDB/EC without SC/PR spouse.[4]
- Good Class Bungalows (GCBs) face stricter rules.[1]
Homejourney verifies eligibility upfront via projects directory, avoiding wasted viewings.
Foreign Buyer Legal Process and Requirements
Follow these steps for compliance:
- Verify Eligibility: Confirm property type via SLA site or Homejourney tools.
- Engage Property Lawyer: Essential for conveyancing foreigner needs. Costs S$3,000-S$5,000. Search Homejourney for vetted lawyers.
- Apply for Approval (if landed): Submit via SLA portal with income proofs, PR docs. Fee: S$1,100 + GST.[3]
- Sign Option to Purchase (OTP): Pay 5% deposit. Include ABSD clause.
- Pay Stamp Duties: BSD (up to 6%) + 60% ABSD within 14 days. Use ABSD calculator.
- Secure Financing: Up to 75% LTV for foreigners, subject to TDSR. Check bank rates on Homejourney.
- Legal Completion: 8-12 weeks post-OTP. Pay balance 20%.[2]
Timeline: 3-6 months total. Total costs: 5-10% purchase price (duties, legal, valuation). Link to full steps in Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners.
Financial and Practical Considerations
ABSD Impact: 60% flat rate makes condos more viable than landed for most.[2] FTA nationals (e.g., US, EFTA) get remissions: 0% first property, 12-15% subsequent.[4]
Financing: Banks cap at 75% LTV, 55% TDSR. No CPF use. See Financing Options for Foreign Buyers.
| Property Type | Approval Needed? | ABSD | Rental Allowed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Condo/Apartment | No | 60% | Yes |
| Strata-Landed (Condo) | No | 60% | Yes |
| Terrace/Semi-D/Bungalow | Yes (SLA) | 60% | No (5-yr hold) |
Post-purchase: Pay MCST fees (S$400-800/month for condos), property tax (4-16% AV).[2] Maintain via aircon services.
Common Mistakes and Tips
Avoid: Assuming all landed is accessible (90% rejected), ignoring ABSD refunds under FTAs, skipping lawyer review. Real example: Foreigner lost S$100K deposit on unapproved landed in 2025.
- Tip: Use Homejourney for property lawyer Singapore recommendations – vetted for legal requirements foreign.
- Check URA Master Plan for zoning via EdgeProp.
- Budget 65-70% cash upfront post-ABSD.
Disclaimer: This is general info; consult professionals for advice. Homejourney verifies data for trust.
FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore
Can foreigners buy HDB flats?
No, HDB and ECs are restricted to citizens/PRs.[5]
What is the ABSD for foreigners in 2026?
60% on all residential purchases.[2]
Do foreigners need approval for Sentosa Cove landed?
Yes, via SLA; strata options may not.[3]
Can foreigners rent out purchased condos?
Yes, after MOP if any; comply with URA tenancy rules.[2]
How to start buying as a foreigner?
Search on Homejourney, engage lawyer, calculate duties.
Ready to explore types of properties foreigners can buy in Singapore? Use Homejourney's property search for safe, verified options. Link back to our pillar: Foreign Buyers' Legal Process Guide. Your trusted partner for secure transactions.
