Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore: 2026 Rules
Foreigners can freely buy private condominiums and apartments in Singapore without approval, but landed properties require Land Dealings Approval Unit (LDAU) consent from the Singapore Land Authority (SLA). This cluster article details eligible property types, restrictions, and actionable steps for buyers like European citizens from Germany, France, or Italy seeking safe investments via Homejourney's verified platform.[5][2]
Understanding these rules is crucial amid 2026's 60% Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) for foreigners, ensuring you focus on high-value options. Homejourney prioritizes your safety by verifying listings on our Property Search to help you navigate confidently.
Properties Foreigners Can Buy Without Approval
The Residential Property Act allows unrestricted access to certain private residential properties, making them ideal for most foreign buyers including EU citizens.[5]
- Private Condominiums and Apartments: Units in multi-story developments (six stories or more). Popular in areas like Orchard Road or Marina Bay, with prices from S$1.5M for a 2-bedroom unit. Foreigners own 30-40% of units in prime condos.
- Strata Landed Houses in Approved Condo Developments: Townhouses or cluster houses within condo enclaves, like those in Upper Thomson.
- Leasehold Estates in Landed Properties: Up to 7 years, renewable, suitable for short-term residency without full ownership commitment.[5]
These options offer liquidity and rental potential post-purchase. Use Homejourney's Projects Directory for verified condo projects with real-time pricing.
Insider Tip for European Buyers
As a non-EFTA EU citizen (e.g., from Germany, France, Italy), you pay standard 60% ABSD on condos—no FTA remission like US or Swiss nationals. Check our guide: European Citizens Buying Property in Singapore: Non-EFTA Guide | Homejourney . Start with Homejourney's search for EU buyer-friendly condos near MRT stations like Orchard (5-min walk from ION Orchard).
Properties Requiring Government Approval
Landed properties demand LDAU approval, granted case-by-case based on 5+ years PR status and exceptional economic contributions (e.g., high-income executives).[5][1]
- Terrace, Semi-Detached, Bungalows: Freehold or 99-year leasehold in areas like Holland Village (S$5M+). Approval conditions: 5-year minimum holding, owner-occupied only—no renting or subdividing.[3]
- Sentosa Cove Landed Homes: Fast-track approval available; luxury options from S$10M, with private yacht berths.
Success rate is low (<20%) without strong ties. Homejourney verifies approved transactions transparently.
Properties Foreigners Cannot Buy
Certain types protect housing for citizens and PRs:[3][4]
- HDB Flats: Strictly for Singapore Citizens/PRs—no exceptions.
- Executive Condominiums (ECs): Only resale ECs post-5-year MOP with one Singapore PR buyer.
- Non-Condo Strata Landed, Shophouses (Residential), Vacant Land: Require approval or fully restricted.[5]
Avoid misconceptions—joint purchases with citizens still trigger 60% ABSD on the foreigner's share.[2]
Financial Implications: ABSD and Costs for 2026
Foreigners face 60% ABSD on purchase price or market value (whichever higher), payable within 14 days—no CPF usage.[2][3] Example: S$2M condo = S$1.2M ABSD + 1-6% Buyer's Stamp Duty (BSD).
| Buyer Status | HDB | EC (Resale post-MOP) | Condo | Landed | ABSD Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foreigner | No | Joint w/PR | Yes | Approval | 60% |
Loans capped at 75% LTV; check Bank Rates or Financing Options for Foreign Buyers in Singapore | Homejourney 2026 . Total costs: 65-70% upfront cash.[1]
Step-by-Step Buying Process for Foreigners
Follow this tactical framework, linking to our pillar on Singapore property basics:
- Search Verified Listings: Use Homejourney Property Search for condos in District 9/10.
- Exercise Option to Purchase (OTP): Pay 1-5% option fee (S$10K-S$100K), valid 14-21 days.
- Pay ABSD: Within 14 days; use ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator & Guide 2026 | Homejourney .
- Secure Financing: If eligible, up to 75% loan.
- LDAU Approval (Landed Only): Submit via SLA portal; 4-8 weeks.
- Legal Completion: 8-12 weeks post-OTP; pay balance.[1]
Timeline: 3-6 months. Engage Homejourney for transparent guidance. See full process: Foreigner Property Buying in Singapore: 8-Step Process & 2026 Rules .
Pros, Cons, and Decision Framework
Condos (Best for Most Foreigners): Pros: No approval, rentable, amenities. Cons: Higher density, S$2M+ entry. Ideal for EU investors seeking yields (3-4% rental).
Landed (High-Net-Worth): Pros: Space, prestige. Cons: Approval hurdles, 5-year lock-in, S$5M+.[3]
Framework: Assess budget (ABSD impact), residency plans, ROI. Prioritize freehold condos in Core Central Region for appreciation.
Common Mistakes and Red Flags
Avoid: Assuming HDB access (illegal), ignoring 5-year MOP for ECs, underestimating ABSD (60% cash hit). Red flag: Sellers promising 'easy landed approval'—verify via SLA. Homejourney flags unverified deals for your safety.
Post-Purchase: Maintenance and Compliance
Pay MCST fees (S$400-800/month for condos), property tax (4-16% of annual value if rented). Schedule aircon servicing via Aircon Services . Comply with URA rental rules.[1]
FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore
Can EU citizens like Germans or French buy condos in Singapore?
Yes, freely without approval, but 60% ABSD applies. No FTA benefits for non-EFTA Europeans.[4]
What landed properties can foreigners buy?
Terrace/semi-detached/bungalows with LDAU approval; Sentosa Cove fast-tracked. 5-year hold required.[5]
Can foreigners buy resale ECs?
Only jointly with a Singapore PR post-5-year MOP.[2]
Is ABSD 60% for all foreigner purchases?
Yes, flat rate on first/subsequent properties; calculate via Homejourney tool.[3]
How does Homejourney ensure safe buying?
We verify listings, provide transparent data, and prioritize user feedback for trusted transactions.
Ready to explore types of properties foreigners can buy in Singapore? Search verified condos on Homejourney's Property Search today. This connects to our pillar on Foreign Property Ownership—link to full guide for deeper insights. Disclaimer: This is general info; consult professionals for advice. Homejourney builds trust through verified, safe property journeys.
