Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore | Homejourney

Foreigners can primarily buy private condominiums, apartments, and landed properties in Sentosa Cove without prior approval in Singapore. Landed properties outside Sentosa Cove require rare Land Dealings Approval Unit (LDAU) approval from the Singapore Land Authority (SLA), while HDB flats and most Executive Condominiums (ECs) are off-limits.[1][3][4][5]

This cluster article dives into the specific property types available to foreign buyers, building on our pillar guide to Singapore Property Buying for Foreigners. Homejourney verifies all listings to ensure a safe, trusted environment for overseas buyers in Singapore, with tools for remote property purchase and virtual property viewing.[3]

Private Condominiums and Apartments: The Main Option for Foreigners

Private condominiums and apartments form the bulk of properties foreigners can buy freely under the Residential Property Act. These include both freehold and 99-year leasehold units, new launches, and resale properties in developments with six or more stories.[1][2][3]

No prior government approval is needed, making this the most straightforward path. Popular areas like Orchard Road, Marina Bay, and District 10 offer luxury options from S$2-5 million, while suburban spots like Holland Village provide value at S$1.5-2.5 million. Insider tip: Check for "strata-titled" units to confirm eligibility—Homejourney's [property search] filters these automatically.[2][5]

Foreigners face 60% Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) on the purchase price or valuation (whichever higher), due within 14 days of Option to Purchase. For a S$2 million condo, that's S$1.2 million ABSD, unchanged through 2026.[1][3][6]

Landed Properties: Sentosa Cove Exception and Approval Process

Foreigners can buy landed properties—bungalows, semi-detached houses, terrace homes—only in Sentosa Cove without approval, a fast-track enclave with sea views and luxury amenities. Outside Sentosa, LDAU approval under the Land Dealings with Foreigners Act is required, typically needing 5+ years PR status and exceptional economic contribution like high employment income.[1][3][4][5][6]

Approval conditions include exclusive family residential use (no renting), a 5-year minimum holding period from legal completion or Temporary Occupation Permit, and no subdivision. Applications are case-by-case; success is rare for non-PR foreigners.[2][3][4]

Sentosa Cove good class bungalows start at S$10-20 million. Use Homejourney's [projects directory] for verified Sentosa listings and market data.[5]

What Foreigners Cannot Buy: Key Restrictions

HDB Flats: Strictly for Singapore Citizens and PRs; foreigners cannot buy new or resale HDB under any circumstances.[3][5]
Executive Condominiums (ECs): Resale ECs only after 5-year Minimum Occupancy Period (MOP) if buying with a PR or Citizen; privatized ECs (10+ years) may qualify similarly.[3][5]
Non-Sentosa Landed: Prohibited without LDAU approval.[1][4]
Commercial/Industrial/Agricultural Land: Restricted.[3]

These rules prioritize local housing needs. Always verify via SLA's official guidelines.[4][7]

ABSD and Financial Implications for Foreign Buyers in 2026

All foreign purchases attract 60% ABSD, with limited remissions: none for first properties unless married to a Citizen (first buy exempt, must sell prior property within 6 months) or under FTAs (e.g., US nationals get Citizen-like rates: 0% first, 12-15% subsequent).[1][3][5][6]

Other costs: Buyer's Stamp Duty (BSD) 1-6%, legal fees S$3,000-5,000, valuation S$500-1,000. Loans up to 75% Loan-to-Value (LTV) possible but subject to Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR). Explore options via Homejourney's [bank rates] comparison.[2][6]

Table: Sample Costs for S$2M Condo (Foreign Buyer)

Item	Amount
Purchase Price	S$2,000,000
ABSD (60%)	S$1,200,000
Buyer’s Stamp Duty (est. 4%)	S$80,000
Total Upfront (excl. loan)	S$3,280,000

Disclaimer: This is indicative; consult professionals. Rates per IRAS 2026.[1][3]

Actionable Steps for Remote Property Purchase

Verify Eligibility: Confirm non-restricted types via SLA site.[4]
Search Safely: Use Homejourney's [property search] for verified condos and Sentosa listings with virtual property viewing.[3]
Calculate Costs: Use our ABSD calculator.[3]
Finance Check: Review financing for foreigners and [mortgage rates].[6]
Legal Review: Engage lawyer pre-offer; follow 8-step process.[2][6]
Post-Purchase: Budget for maintenance; check [aircon services].[2]

For buy property remotely, Homejourney offers secure video tours and verified agents, prioritizing your safety.[3]

Common Mistakes to Avoid as an Overseas Buyer

Avoid assuming all condos qualify—strata title is key. Don't overlook 60% ABSD in budgeting; many foreigners underestimate the S$1M+ hit. Skip unverified agents; stick to Homejourney's trusted network. Real example: A 2025 EU buyer lost deposit on non-strata unit—always check SLA first.[1][3]

Red flags: Pressure to skip lawyer review or promises of easy landed approval outside Sentosa. Seek advice if PR-bound.[4]

FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore

Q: Can foreigners buy HDB flats?
A: No, HDB is reserved for Citizens and PRs.[3][5]

Q: Is Sentosa Cove landed open to all foreigners?
A: Yes, without approval—unique exception.[5][6]

Q: What's the ABSD for foreigners in 2026?
A: 60% flat rate on residential purchases.[1][6]

Q: Can I rent out a foreign-owned condo?
A: Yes, after 1-year occupation if new launch; comply with URA tenancy rules.[2]

Q: How to buy remotely?
A: Use Homejourney for virtual viewings and secure processes. See our remote guide.[3]

Ready to explore types of properties foreigners can buy in Singapore? Start your safe search on Homejourney today—link to our pillar guide for the full overview and book a virtual property viewing. Your trusted partner for transparent property journeys.