Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore: 2026 Rules
Foreigners without Permanent Residency (PR) in Singapore can purchase private condominiums, apartments, strata-titled landed houses in approved developments, and Executive Condominiums (ECs) over 10 years old, but landed properties require special approval.[1][2][4] HDB flats remain strictly off-limits to non-citizens and non-PRs.[4] This cluster article from Homejourney breaks down eligibility, connecting to our comprehensive pillar guide on foreigners buying property in Singapore for a complete roadmap.
Why Understanding Property Types Matters for Foreign Buyers
Navigating Singapore's property market as a foreigner demands clarity on restrictions under the Residential Property Act (RPA), enforced by the Singapore Land Authority (SLA).[2] With ABSD at 60% for foreigners in 2026, focusing on eligible types like condos maximizes investment potential while ensuring compliance.[1][3][4] Homejourney prioritizes your safety by verifying data from official sources like SLA and URA, helping you avoid pitfalls in a trusted environment.
Properties Foreigners Can Buy Without Approval
Most foreign purchases occur in non-landed private residential properties, offering freehold or 99-year leasehold options, new launches, or resales.[1][2]
- Private Condominiums and Apartments: Fully accessible; includes high-rise units with amenities. Popular spots like Orchard Road or Marina Bay condos average S$2-3 million.[1][3]
- Strata Landed Houses in Approved Condo Developments: Townhouses or cluster houses within condo complexes; treated as condo units under RPA.[2][5]
- Short-Term Leasehold Landed Properties: Up to 7 years, rare for residential use.[2]
For Chinese nationals or PRC buyers, this means seamless access to luxury condos—see our Chinese Nationals Buying Singapore Condo: Complete 2026 Guide ">Chinese Nationals Buying Singapore Condo: Complete 2026 Guide for tailored steps.[4]
Executive Condominiums (ECs) for Foreigners
ECs over 10 years old, post-privatization and Minimum Occupation Period (MOP), qualify as private property.[4][5] Examples include The Vantage or Parc Centros in Punggol, now resale-eligible at S$1.5-2.5 million. Younger ECs are restricted to citizens/PRs.[4]
Landed Properties: Approval Required
Foreigners cannot freely buy bungalows, semi-detached, terrace houses, or strata landed outside approved developments without Land Dealings Approval Unit (LDAU) consent.[2] Sentosa Cove landed homes are an exception but still need approval.[2][5]
- Criteria: 5+ years PR status and exceptional economic contribution (e.g., high employment income taxed in Singapore).[2]
- Conditions if approved: 5-year hold, owner-occupied only, no subdivision.[3]
Insider tip: LDAU approvals are rare; focus on condos unless you qualify exceptionally. Check Projects Directory ">Homejourney's projects directory for verified listings.
Properties Foreigners Cannot Buy
| Property Type | Eligibility for Foreigners | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| HDB Flats | No | Citizens/PRs only.[4] |
| New ECs (<10 years) | No | Post-MOP for resale.[4][5] |
| Landed (Non-Sentosa, No Approval) | No | LDAU required.[2] |
| Shophouses (Residential) | No | Approval needed.[2] |
Financial Implications: ABSD and Costs in 2026
Foreigners pay 60% ABSD on any residential purchase, plus tiered Buyer's Stamp Duty (BSD) up to 6%.[1][3][4] For a S$2M condo: ~S$1.2M ABSD + S$80K BSD. Use Homejourney's ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator & Guide 2026 | Homejourney ">ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator & Guide 2026. Loan-to-Value (LTV) caps at 75%; explore financing via Financing Options for Foreign Buyers in Singapore 2026 | Homejourney ">Financing Options for Foreign Buyers or Bank Rates ">bank rates.
Actionable Steps for Chinese/PRC Buyers
- Verify Eligibility: Confirm non-landed private property via SLA.[2]
- Search Safely: Use Property Search ">Homejourney's property search for verified condos.
- Calculate Costs: Factor 60% ABSD; engage lawyer early.
- Exercise OTP: Pay 5% deposit, stamp within 14 days.[1]
- Complete Purchase: 8-12 weeks post-OTP; follow Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners | Homejourney ">Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners.
Common Mistakes and Insider Tips
Avoid assuming all landed is accessible—90% of foreign buys are condos.[1] Red flag: Unverified agents pushing unapproved properties. Tip: Prioritize freehold condos in core areas like District 9 (Orchard) for value retention. Post-purchase, budget for MCST fees (S$400-800/month) and maintenance—link to Aircon Services ">aircon services for upkeep.
Disclaimer: This is general guidance; consult professionals for personalized advice. Homejourney verifies info for trust but is not legal counsel.
FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore
Can foreigners buy HDB flats in Singapore?
No, HDB flats are reserved for citizens and PRs.[4]
What is the Chinese buy condo step in Singapore?
PRC buyers follow standard condo purchase: search, OTP, ABSD payment—detailed in our PRC condo purchase guide.[1]
Are Sentosa Cove properties open to foreigners?
Landed types need LDAU approval; condos do not.[2][5]
Can foreigners buy ECs?
Yes, resale ECs over 10 years old.[4]
How much ABSD for foreigners in 2026?
60% flat rate on purchase price.[1][3]
Next Steps with Homejourney
Start your safe journey: Search verified properties on Property Search ">Homejourney property search, calculate duties, and connect to our pillar guide. Trust Homejourney for transparent, user-first property decisions in Singapore.
