Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore | Homejourney
Foreigners in Singapore can primarily buy private condominiums and apartments without approval, Sentosa Cove landed properties with fast-track access, and limited leasehold estates in landed homes.[1][5] Landed properties outside Sentosa require rare Land Dealings Approval Unit (LDAU) clearance, while HDB flats and most Executive Condominiums (ECs) are off-limits.[3][4] This cluster article details your options amid 2026's 60% ABSD rules, linking to our pillar guide on foreign property buying in Singapore for comprehensive strategy.
Why Property Types Matter for Foreign Buyers in 2026
Singapore's Residential Property Act restricts foreigners to protect local housing needs, but private condos remain accessible despite high ABSD at 60% of purchase price.[1][6] With tight supply and no liberalization signaled for 2026, understanding eligible types prevents wasted efforts.[1] Homejourney verifies listings in our property search to ensure safe, transparent decisions for investors and families.
Current market context shows condos dominating foreign purchases—over 90% of transactions—due to unrestricted access and liquidity.[2] For Chinese nationals or PRC buyers following a Chinese buy condo step, start with our China national condo guide.
Properties Foreigners Can Buy Without Approval
These form the core of foreign ownership, offering straightforward purchases.
- Private Condominiums and Apartments: Freely available, including freehold, 99-year leasehold, new launches, and resales. Examples: The Sail @ Marina Bay or upcoming projects in Tengah.[1][2][5]
- Strata Landed Houses in Approved Developments: Terrace or semi-detached within condo-style estates, like those in Upper Thomson.[5]
- Leasehold Estates in Landed Properties: Up to 7 years, renewable, ideal for short-term residency without full commitment.[4][5]
Insider tip: Check URA's Master Plan via Homejourney's projects directory for approved developments—walking distance to MRT boosts value by 15-20%.[2]
Sentosa Cove: Fast-Track Landed Access
Sentosa Cove offers unrestricted landed property purchases for foreigners—no LDAU needed.[4][6] Options include bungalows (S$10M+), semi-detached (S$5-8M), and terrace houses (S$4-6M).[3] Conditions: 5-year minimum hold, owner-occupied only.[2][3] Perfect for high-net-worth families seeking luxury with yacht berths nearby.
Properties Requiring Government Approval
Landed properties outside Sentosa Cove (bungalows, semi-Ds, terraces) need LDAU approval under the Land Dealings with Foreigners Act.[1][5] Criteria: 5+ years PR status and exceptional economic contribution, like S$10M+ annual taxable income.[5] Approval rate under 10%; expect 3-6 months processing.[2]
| Property Type | Approval Needed? | Key Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Private Condos | No | 60% ABSD |
| Sentosa Cove Landed | Fast-track | 5-year hold, residential use |
| Mainland Landed | Yes (LDAU) | PR 5yrs + econ contrib, no rental |
Exemptions: Foreigners married to citizens may avoid ABSD on first property if sold within 6 months of second buy.[3][4]
Properties Foreigners Cannot Buy
- HDB Flats: Reserved for citizens/PRs only—no exceptions.[3]
- Executive Condominiums (ECs): Resale only after 5-year MOP with PR spouse; privatised ECs (10+ years) allowed.[3][4]
- Non-Approved Landed: Without LDAU, fully restricted.[1]
Misconception: Some think all landed is banned—Sentosa Cove proves otherwise.[6] Always verify via SLA.gov.sg before offers.
Financial Implications: ABSD and Costs (2026)
60% ABSD applies universally: S$2M condo = S$1.2M duty, due 14 days post-OTP.[1][6] Total cost breakdown:
- 5% option fee.
- 60% ABSD + BSD (up to 6%).
- 25% cash downpayment.
- Up to 75% LTV bank loan (TDSR applies).[2]
Check ABSD calculator and mortgage rates on Homejourney. Post-purchase: MCST fees (S$400-800/month), property tax (4-16% AV).[2]
Step-by-Step Decision Framework for Foreign Buyers
1. Assess budget post-ABSD—use Homejourney tools.
2. Prioritize: Condo for ease, Sentosa for prestige.
3. Shortlist via property search; factor MRT proximity (e.g., 5-min walk adds 10% value).
4. For PRC condo purchase, follow Chinese Nationals Buying Singapore Condo: 2026 Step-by-Step Guide | Homejourney ">Chinese buyer process.
5. Engage lawyer; see full steps in property buying process.
Pros/Cons: Condos liquid but dense; landed private but costly.[2][3]
Common Mistakes and Insider Tips
Avoid: Assuming HDB access—leads to deal collapse.[3] Overlooking 5-year hold on approved landed.[2] Tip: Buy in Q4 for developer discounts (5-10%).[1] For maintenance, book aircon services early. Homejourney flags red flags like unverified sellers for your safety.
FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore
Q: Can foreigners buy landed property in Singapore?
A: Yes, unrestricted in Sentosa Cove; mainland needs LDAU approval (rare).[4][6]
Q: What is the ABSD for foreigners buying condos in 2026?
A: 60% flat rate on purchase price/valuation.[1][3]
Q: Can Chinese nationals buy condos easily?
A: Yes, same rules; see our PRC condo purchase guide linked above.[1]
Q: Are freehold condos allowed for foreigners?
A: Fully allowed without restrictions.[4]
Q: How does Homejourney help?
A: Verified searches, ABSD tools, and financing links ensure trusted transactions.
Disclaimer: This is not legal/financial advice. Consult professionals; rates per SLA/URA 2026.[5] Explore our pillar on foreign buying for full insights. Start safely with Homejourney's property search today.
