Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore | Homejourney
Foreigners can buy private condominiums, apartments, strata-landed homes in approved developments, and landed properties in Sentosa Cove without special approval. Landed properties elsewhere require rare Land Dealings Approval Unit (LDAU) permission from the Singapore Land Authority (SLA).[1][2]
This cluster article dives into these options, building on our pillar guide to Singapore Property for Foreign Buyers: Complete Rules 2026. At Homejourney, we prioritize your safety with verified listings and transparent guidance to help you navigate restrictions confidently.
Why Property Ownership Matters for Foreigners in Singapore
Singapore's stable economy and world-class infrastructure attract foreign investors, but strict rules under the Residential Property Act protect local housing needs. In 2026, high ABSD rates—60% for foreigners—discourage speculation while allowing genuine long-term buyers access to premium properties.[1][2]
For Chinese buyers comparing Singapore vs Hong Kong Property: Guide for Chinese Buyers | Homejourney ">Singapore vs Hong Kong property, Singapore offers freehold options and political stability versus Hong Kong's volatility. ABSD vs BSD HK shows Singapore's higher entry barrier but stronger capital preservation—key for property investment HK SG strategies.
Homejourney verifies every detail, ensuring you avoid pitfalls in this competitive market.
Private Condominiums and Apartments: The Primary Choice
Non-PR foreigners can freely purchase any private condo or apartment, including freehold, 99-year leasehold, new launches, and resales. No LDAU approval needed, making this the most accessible option.[1][2]
Insider tip: Opt for established estates like Orchard Road or District 10 (e.g., near Grange Road MRT, Exit A, 5-min walk) for rental yields up to 3-4%. A S$2M unit incurs S$1.2M ABSD + S$64,600 BSD, payable within 14 days of Option to Purchase (OTP).[1]
- Freehold condos: Perpetual ownership, e.g., The Marq on Paterson Hill.
- Leasehold: Common in new launches like those in Tengah or Punggol.
- Strata-titled apartments: In mixed-use developments.
Joint purchase with a Singapore Citizen spouse reduces ABSD—citizen rate on their share, 60% on yours. Use Homejourney's ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator & Guide 2026 | Homejourney ">ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator for precise modeling.
Landed Properties: Sentosa Cove Exception
Foreigners can buy landed homes—bungalows, semi-detached, terraces—in Sentosa Cove without approval, thanks to its special status. Prices start at S$5M+ for good plots overlooking the yacht marina.[2]
Outside Sentosa Cove, vacant land, terrace houses, semi-Ds, bungalows, or non-condo strata-landed require LDAU approval via SLA's online portal. Success demands proof of "exceptional economic contribution," like multimillion-dollar investments—rarely granted.[1][2]
Practical step: For Sentosa Cove, check Property Search ">Homejourney property search for verified listings. Factor in 60% ABSD; a S$10M property adds S$6M duty.
Other Eligible Options: ECs and Short-Term Leases
Privatised Executive Condominiums (ECs) over 10 years old are allowed for non-PR foreigners buying alone. Resale ECs post-5-year Minimum Occupation Period (MOP) if buying with PRs.[2]
Leasehold landed estates up to 7 years (renewable) are permitted, ideal for temporary needs. HDB flats? Off-limits—new BTO/SBF restricted, resale only for PRs married to citizens (foreigner as occupier only).[2]
| Property Type | Foreigner Eligibility | ABSD Rate (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Private Condos/Apts | Yes, unrestricted | 60% |
| Sentosa Cove Landed | Yes | 60% |
| Other Landed | LDAU approval only | 60% |
| Privatised ECs (>10 yrs) | Yes (non-PR alone) | 60% |
Disclaimer: Rules per URA and SLA; consult a lawyer for your case. Homejourney links to verified pros.
Financial and Buying Process Essentials
Expect 25%+ down payment for loans (LTV limits for foreigners). Documents: passport, work pass, payslips, tax assessments, overseas credit report.[1]
- Get In-Principle Approval (IPA) from banks via Bank Rates ">Homejourney bank rates.
- Exercise OTP (5% deposit).
- Pay ABSD/BSD within 14 days.
- Valuation, formal loan, complete in 8-12 weeks.[1]
Hidden costs: S$3-5K legal fees, S$500 valuation, insurance. See Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners in Singapore 2026 | Homejour... ">Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners.
Decision Framework: Pros, Cons, and Tips
Condos: Pros—liquidity, amenities; Cons—high ABSD. Ideal for investors.
Sentosa Landed: Pros—privacy, prestige; Cons—S$5M+ entry, maintenance.
- Assess via Projects Directory ">Homejourney projects directory.
- Compare yields: Condos 2.5-4%, landed lower but appreciate.
- Avoid: Unverified agents; use Homejourney's trusted network.
Common mistake: Ignoring valuation gaps—top up cash if below purchase price.[1]
FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore
Can foreigners buy HDB flats?
No, restricted to PRs with citizens. Private properties only.[2]
What's ABSD for foreigners in 2026?
60% on purchase price/valuation, higher than BSD.[1]
Can I buy landed without approval?
Yes, only Sentosa Cove.[2]
Joint purchase with spouse?
Yes, blended ABSD rates apply.[1]
Post-purchase maintenance?
Check Aircon Services ">Homejourney aircon services for upkeep.
Ready to explore? Start your safe search on Property Search ">Homejourney property search and link back to our pillar guide for the full overview. Trust Homejourney for verified, transparent property journeys.
