Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore: Your 2026 Guide
Foreigners can freely buy private condominiums and apartments in Singapore without government approval, but landed properties require rare Singapore Land Authority (SLA) permission, and HDB flats are completely restricted.[1][2][5]
This cluster article dives into the exact property types available to non-residents, building on our pillar guide to Singapore property buying for foreigners. At Homejourney, we prioritize your safety by verifying regulations from official sources like SLA and URA, helping you make confident decisions in a trusted environment.[1][2]
Properties Foreigners Can Buy Without Approval
The vast majority of foreign purchases are private condominiums and apartments, both freehold and leasehold, new launches or resale. These include high-rise units in developments like those in Orchard Road or Marina Bay, typically six stories or more.[1][2][3]
No prior clearance needed from SLA under the Residential Property Act. This makes condos the go-to for foreigners, representing most transactions due to unrestricted access and rental flexibility after purchase.[4]
Sentosa Cove Exception for Landed: Uniquely, foreigners can buy landed properties here—bungalows, good class bungalows—without SLA approval, as it's a designated freehold area. A prime Good Class Bungalow in Sentosa Cove might list from S$20 million, ideal for family living near One°15 Marina Club.[1][2]
Why Condos Dominate Foreign Purchases
Condos offer amenities like pools, gyms, and 24/7 security, perfect for expats. Average resale condo prices hit S$2.2 million in 2026, per URA data, with strong rental yields of 3-4% in areas like District 10 (Bukit Timah).[1][3]
Insider tip: Check Projects Directory ">Homejourney's projects directory for verified condo listings with maintenance fee breakdowns—essential for budgeting as fees range S$400-800 monthly.[2][4]
Landed Properties: Restricted but Possible with Approval
Landed properties (bungalows, semi-detached, terrace houses) outside Sentosa are largely off-limits. Foreigners need SLA approval, granted case-by-case to those with 5+ years PR status and exceptional economic contributions, like high-taxable employment income.[1][2][5]
If approved, conditions apply: exclusive family use (no renting), 5-year minimum hold from legal completion or TOP/CSC, and no subdivision.[1][2][4]
- Process: Submit application pre-purchase via SLA portal with financial proofs.
- Timeline: 3-6 months; rare success rate under 10% for non-PR foreigners.
- Example: A Taiwanese executive in tech might qualify after 5 years PR, buying a semi-D in Holland Village for family use.[5]
Homejourney verifies such approvals in our safe transaction process—avoid risks by consulting us first.
Properties Foreigners Cannot Buy
Certain types are reserved for citizens/PRs:
- HDB Flats: Public housing exclusive to Singapore Citizens/PRs; no foreign access.[1][2][6]
- Executive Condominiums (ECs): Only joint SC/PR purchases post-5-year MOP; solo foreigners barred.[1][2]
- Vacant Residential Land: Prohibited.[1]
- Worker Dormitories/Serviced Apartments: Restricted if residential use.[1]
This protects affordable housing stock, per government policy.[1][2]
Financial Implications: ABSD and Costs for Foreign Buyers
Foreigners face 60% ABSD on purchase price or valuation (whichever higher), payable in cash within 14 days of Option to Purchase—no CPF use.[1][2][3]
Example: S$2M condo = S$1.2M ABSD + BSD (up to 6%). Total upfront: ~65% of value. Married to SC? First buy exempt; refunds possible on switch within 6 months.[2]
| Property Type | ABSD Rate (2026) | Approval Needed? |
|---|---|---|
| Private Condo/Apt | 60% | No |
| Landed (ex-Sentosa) | 60% | Yes (SLA) |
| Sentosa Cove Landed | 60% | No |
| HDB/EC | N/A | Prohibited |
Other costs: Property tax (concessionary if owner-occupied), condo MCST fees. For Taiwan buyer mortgage or Taiwanese loan Singapore options, see Taiwan Buyer Mortgage Guide: Singapore Property Financing 2026 | Homejourney ">Taiwan Buyer Mortgage Guide and Bank Rates ">Homejourney bank rates. LTV capped at 70% for foreigners; TDSR applies.[2][3]
Actionable Steps to Buy Safely
- Verify Eligibility: Use Homejourney's tools to confirm property type via Property Search ">property search.
- Calculate Costs: Try our ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator & Guide 2026 | Homejourney ">ABSD calculator.
- Financing: Explore Financing Options for Foreign Buyers in Singapore 2026 | Homejourney ">financing for foreign buyers; Taiwan citizens check local bank tie-ups.
- Full Process: Follow Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners | Homejourney ">step-by-step guide.
- Post-Purchase: Budget for maintenance; link to Aircon Services ">aircon services for upkeep.
Common mistake: Assuming all landed ok—always check SLA first. Seek lawyer for contracts; Homejourney connects verified pros.[1][5]
FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore
Can foreigners buy HDB flats?
No, HDB is reserved for Citizens/PRs only.[1][2]
What is the ABSD for foreigners in 2026?
60% flat rate on all residential buys, cash only.[1][2][3]
Can Taiwan citizens get mortgages for Singapore property?
Yes, via ROC buyer bank loan; LTV 70%, check Bank Rates ">Homejourney rates.[3]
Is Sentosa Cove open to foreigners?
Yes, landed properties unrestricted there.[2]
Can foreigners rent out bought condos?
Yes, post-purchase, per URA rules (min tenancy 6 months).[4]
Ready to explore types of properties foreigners can buy in Singapore? Start safely on Homejourney's verified platform. Link back to our pillar: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore 2026 ">Comprehensive Foreign Buyer Guide. Contact us for personalized advice—your trust is our priority.
