Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore | Homejourney
Foreigners can freely buy private condominiums and apartments in Singapore without approval, but landed properties require rare Singapore Land Authority (SLA) approval, and HDB flats are off-limits.[1][4]
This cluster article dives into the specific property types available to foreign buyers, building on Homejourney's comprehensive Homejourney's 2026 Guide: Foreigners Buying Property in Singapore ">2026 Guide: Foreigners Buying Property in Singapore. At Homejourney, we prioritize your safety with verified data and transparent advice to help you navigate Singapore's strict rules confidently.
Why Understanding Property Types Matters for Foreign Buyers
Singapore's Residential Property Act limits foreign ownership to protect local housing needs, making it essential to know eligible types.[1][4] In 2026, with ABSD at 60% for foreigners, focus on condos for straightforward investments.[1][2] Homejourney verifies listings via Property Search ">our property search to ensure trust.
Private condos dominate foreign purchases due to no approval hurdles and rental flexibility.[2][3] Landed options suit long-term residents with economic ties, but approvals are case-by-case.[1][4]
Properties Foreigners Can Buy Without Approval
Private Condominiums and Apartments are the primary option.[1][2][3][4] These include freehold or 99-year leasehold units in multi-story developments (typically 6+ stories).
- Freely purchasable by any foreigner, new launch or resale.
- Locations like Orchard Road (e.g., The Orchard Residences, ~S$2,500 psf) or Tanjong Pagar offer urban access via MRT Exit A (5-min walk).[2]
- Rental allowed after URA minimum periods; ideal for yield (3-4% in prime areas).[3]
Strata landed houses in approved condo developments (e.g., cluster housing) also qualify without approval.[4] Insider tip: Check URA Master Plan for 'strata-landed' zoning—Homejourney's Projects Directory ">projects directory flags these verified options.
Special Case: Sentosa Cove
Sentosa Cove is unique—foreigners buy landed properties (bungalows, cluster homes) without SLA approval.[1] Prices start at S$5M; enjoy waterfront views, 10-min drive to VivoCity MRT. Strict no-rent rules apply, but perfect for family residences.
Restricted Properties: Landed Homes and Approval Process
Landed properties (bungalows, semi-detached, terrace houses) need SLA approval.[1][3][4] Criteria: 5+ years as PR and exceptional economic contribution (e.g., high-taxable income, business investments).[1][4]
Approval conditions include:
- Exclusive family residential use—no renting.[1][3]
- 5-year minimum hold from TOP/legal completion.[1][3]
- No subdivision without further nod.[1]
Rejection is common; apply pre-offer via SLA portal. Example: A tech exec with S$1M+ annual taxable income might succeed, but odds are low (~10% approval rate per anecdotal reports).[1]
What Foreigners Cannot Buy
- HDB Flats: Reserved for citizens/PRs only—no exceptions.[1]
- Executive Condominiums (ECs): Solo foreigners barred; joint with PR post-5-year MOP possible.[1]
- Commercial/Industrial/Agricultural Land: Prohibited.[1]
Married to a Singapore Citizen? First residential buy exempts ABSD if no prior ownership; refunds possible on switches within 6 months.[1]
Financial Implications: ABSD, Costs, and Financing
2026 ABSD: Flat 60% on purchase price/valuation (e.g., S$2M condo = S$1.2M duty, due 14 days post-OTP).[1][2] Use Homejourney's ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator & Guide 2026 | Homejourney ">ABSD Calculator.
Other costs:
Loans: Up to 75% LTV for foreigners; check Foreign Buyer Loans in Singapore 2026: Rates, LTV & Bank Options ">Foreign Buyer Loans guide and Bank Rates ">bank rates. No CPF for foreigners.
Decision Framework: Choosing Your Property Type
Weigh factors:
- Investment vs Residence: Condos for yields; landed for legacy (if approved).
- Location: CBD (high psf, connectivity); suburbs like Holland Village (family-friendly, 7-min to Farrer Road MRT).
- Budget Post-ABSD: S$2M+ effective for condos.
Pros/Cons:
Seek lawyer early; Homejourney connects verified pros.
Common Mistakes and Insider Tips
Avoid: Assuming all 'landed' are buyable—verify strata status.[4] Red flag: Sellers skipping ABSD disclosure.
- Pre-check eligibility on SLA site.[4]
- Use Property Search ">Homejourney search for verified condos.
- Factor post-TOP maintenance; budget for Aircon Services ">aircon servicing.
- Timeline: OTP to completion 8-12 weeks.[2][3]
Pro tip: New launches at One Holland Village—foreign-friendly, TOP 2026, near MRT (2-min walk).
FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore
Can foreigners buy landed property in Singapore?
Yes, but only with SLA approval (5+ yr PR, economic contribution) or in Sentosa Cove. Condos are unrestricted.[1][4]
What is the ABSD rate for foreigners buying condos in 2026?
60% flat rate on price/valuation.[1][2]
Can foreigners rent out purchased condos?
Yes, post-URA minimum tenancy period (e.g., 6 months for whole unit).[3]
Are Executive Condos open to solo foreign buyers?
No; only joint with PR post-5-year MOP.[1]
How does marriage to a Singaporean affect buying?
First buy ABSD-exempt if no prior property; refunds on switches within 6 months.[1]
Ready to explore? Start with Homejourney's safe Property Search ">property search and follow our Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners | Homejourney ">Step-by-Step Buying Process. Trust Homejourney for verified insights—your secure path to Singapore property.
