Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore | Homejourney
Foreigners can buy private condominiums, apartments, and certain strata-landed properties in Singapore without prior approval, but landed properties require special Land Dealings Approval Unit (LDAU) consent from the Singapore Land Authority (SLA).[1][2] This cluster article details eligible property types, restrictions, and actionable steps, linking back to our pillar guide on Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners | Homejourney 2026 ">Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners for the full journey.
Why Understanding Property Types Matters for Foreign Buyers
Singapore's Residential Property Act (RPA) protects housing for citizens by limiting foreigners to non-landed private residential properties.[2] In 2026, with ABSD at 60% for foreigners, choosing the right type is crucial to manage costs and risks.[1] Homejourney verifies listings on our Property Search ">property search platform to ensure transparency and safety, helping you avoid pitfalls in a competitive market.
Private condos dominate foreign purchases due to free access and liquidity. For example, districts like Orchard or Marina Bay offer high-end options from S$2-5 million, ideal for investors seeking rental yields of 3-4%.[1] Always cross-check with official URA data via Homejourney's Projects Directory ">projects directory.
Eligible Property Types for Foreigners
1. Private Condominiums and Apartments
These are the primary options: freehold or 99-year leasehold condos and apartments in private developments.[1][2] No SLA approval needed, making them straightforward for foreigners. New launches like those in Tengah or Jurong Lake District start at S$1.8 million, with resale units offering immediate possession.
Insider tip: Opt for condos with strong facilities (pools, gyms) near MRT stations like Orchard MRT (5-min walk) for better resale value. Use Homejourney's verified listings to filter by tenure and price.
2. Strata-Landed Houses
Allowed only in government-approved condominium projects, like those with shared facilities.[2] These cluster houses mimic landed living with lower maintenance. Examples include The Beverly in Toh Tuck (S$3-5 million range), where strata title simplifies ownership.
Foreigners face the same 60% ABSD, but shared land keeps costs below pure landed. Check project approvals via SLA before viewing.
3. Sentosa Cove Landed Properties
A unique exception: foreigners can buy landed homes (bungalows, cluster houses) here with SLA approval, often granted due to economic contributions.[1][2] Prices start at S$5 million for good-class bungalows overlooking the yacht marina. Approval requires proving significant investment, like high-income employment.
Pro tip: Approval takes 4-6 weeks; prepare income proofs early. Homejourney's experts guide you through compliant options.
Restricted Properties: What Foreigners Cannot Buy
HDB flats are off-limits to non-PR foreigners; only resale after PR status and family nucleus rules apply.[2] Pure landed properties (bungalows, semi-Ds, terraces) outside Sentosa Cove need rare LDAU approval, typically for top-tier investors.[1] Executive Condominiums (ECs) are buyable only after 10-year MOP privatization.[2]
| Property Type | Foreigners (Non-PR) | PRs | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Condos/Apts | Allowed | Allowed | No approval needed[2] |
| Strata-Landed | Allowed (approved projects) | Allowed | Condo-style only[2] |
| Landed (non-Sentosa) | SLA Approval | SLA Approval | Rare for foreigners[1] |
| Sentosa Cove Landed | Allowed w/ SLA | Allowed w/ SLA | Exception zone[2] |
| HDB Flats | Not Allowed | Resale Only | Family nucleus req.[2] |
Financial Implications: ABSD and Costs in 2026
Foreigners pay 60% ABSD on purchase price/valuation (whichever higher), e.g., S$1.2M on S$2M condo, plus BSD (up to 6%).[1] Joint buys with Singaporean spouses blend rates. Use Homejourney's ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator & Guide 2026 | Homejourney ">ABSD Calculator for precise modeling. LTV limits at 50-60% for foreigners; check Bank Rates ">bank rates for financing.
Hidden costs: legal fees (S$3-5K), valuation (S$500), insurance. Total for S$2M: ~S$1.26M duties.[1] Disclaimer: This is general info; consult lawyers for personalized advice.
Actionable Steps to Buy as a Foreigner
- Verify Eligibility: Confirm non-restricted type via URA/SLA portals or Homejourney Projects Directory ">projects directory.
- Get In-Principle Approval (IPA): Submit passport, payslips, tax returns to banks.[1]
- Search Safely: Use Property Search ">Homejourney property search for verified listings.
- Exercise Option to Purchase (OTP): Pay 5% deposit; stamp duties due in 14 days.[1][2]
- Complete Conveyancing: 8-12 weeks to keys; lawyer handles title transfer.[1]
Common mistake: Ignoring valuation gaps—banks lend on lower of price/valuation, so negotiate wisely.[1] For Liechtenstein citizens, explore EFTA ABSD exemptions in our guide: Liechtenstein Citizens Singapore Property: EFTA ABSD Benefits 2026 ">Liechtenstein Citizens Singapore Property.
Decision Framework: Choosing Your Property Type
- Budget under S$2M: Leasehold condos in Districts 24-28 (e.g., Yishun, S$1.2-1.8M).
- Luxury/Investment: Freehold Orchard condos or Sentosa (higher yields).
- Family Space: Strata-landed for garden feel without full landed hassles.
- Rent Post-Purchase: Condos easiest; maintain via Aircon Services ">aircon services.
Weigh pros/cons: Condos offer liquidity but density; strata provides privacy at premium.
FAQ
Can foreigners buy landed property in Singapore?
Generally no, except Sentosa Cove with SLA approval or rare LDAU cases for non-Sentosa.[1][2]
What is the ABSD rate for foreigners in 2026?
60% on residential purchases, payable within 14 days of OTP.[1]
Can PRs buy more property types than foreigners?
Yes, resale HDB and ECs after MOP, but still need approvals for landed.[2]
How does joint purchase with a Singaporean affect taxes?
Blended ABSD rates apply based on shares.[1]
Where to start searching safely?
Trust Homejourney's verified Property Search ">property search for accurate listings.
Ready to explore? Start with Homejourney's secure platform for types of properties foreigners can buy in Singapore. Link back to our pillar: Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners | Homejourney 2026 ">Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners. Contact us for personalized guidance—your safety is our priority.
