Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore | Homejourney
Foreigners can freely buy private condominiums, apartments, and strata-titled properties in approved developments without approval, but landed properties require rare Singapore Land Authority (SLA) approval, except unrestricted Sentosa Cove landed homes.[1][3]
This cluster article dives into types of properties foreigners can buy in Singapore, building on our pillar guide to Singapore property buying for foreigners. At Homejourney, we prioritize your safety with verified information to help you make confident decisions in a trusted environment.[1]
Properties Foreigners Can Buy Without Approval
Private condominiums and apartments form the core of accessible options for foreigners. These include high-rise units in districts like Orchard, Marina Bay, and Tanjong Pagar, with prices starting from S$1.5 million for a 2-bedroom resale condo in 2026.[1][2]
Strata landed houses within approved condominium developments are also permitted, offering townhouse-style living with shared facilities. Leasehold estates in landed properties for terms not exceeding seven years are allowed, ideal for short-term stays.[3]
Sentosa Cove stands out as a unique exception: foreigners can buy landed properties here without SLA approval, including bungalows and good class bungalows, due to its special zoning. A Sentosa Cove detached home averages S$10-20 million, attracting high-net-worth expats for luxury waterfront living.[1]
Key Examples and Insider Tips
In real-world scenarios, expats from the US or Europe often target freehold condos like The Marq on Paterson Hill (S$5-10 million range) for prestige, or value-for-money leasehold options like Parc Clematis near Cantonment MRT (5-minute walk, Exit A).[1][2]
Insider tip: Check URA's Master Plan on Projects via Homejourney for upcoming launches in foreigner-friendly areas like District 10 (Bukit Timah), where yields average 3-4% for rentals.[1]
- Private Condos/Apts: No restrictions; 99% of foreign buys.
- Strata Landed in Condos: Limited but growing in GCB areas.
- Sentosa Cove Landed: Unrestricted; premium pricing.
Restricted Properties: Landed Homes and Approval Process
Landed properties—bungalows, semi-detached, terrace houses—are largely off-limits. Foreigners need SLA approval, requiring at least five years as a Singapore Permanent Resident (PR) and proof of exceptional economic contribution, like high-taxable income or major investments.[1][3]
Approval is case-by-case and rare; SLA assesses employment income, business ties, and economic impact. Even if granted, conditions apply: exclusive residential use (no renting), five-year minimum hold from legal completion or TOP, and no subdivision.[1][3]
HDB flats are completely banned for foreigners. Executive Condominiums (ECs) allow joint buys only post-MOP if one buyer is PR. No access to commercial, industrial, or agricultural land for residential use.[1][3]
Step-by-Step SLA Approval Guide
- Confirm Eligibility: 5+ years PR status; gather tax records showing S$1M+ annual contribution.
- Submit Application: Pre-offer via SLA portal; processing takes 3-6 months.
- Await Decision: If approved, proceed with Option to Purchase.
- Comply Post-Buy: Adhere to residential-only rule; monitor via Homejourney's verified updates.
Link to our Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners | Homejourney 2026 for full process details.[5]
ABSD and Exemptions: FTA Eligibility and Remission
FTA eligibility ABSD exemptions apply for buyers from Free Trade Agreement (FTA) countries like the US, UK, or Australia. To qualify ABSD exemption, meet FTA conditions property: first-time buy under bilateral agreements, own no other Singapore property, and use as primary residence.[1]
Foreigners face 60% ABSD on purchase price/valuation (whichever higher) in 2026—e.g., S$1.2M on S$2M condo—payable within 14 days of Option exercise.[1][2] Spouses of Singapore Citizens skip ABSD on first buy if no prior property owned; remission if selling first within 6 months.[1]
Remission requirements: For FTA or marital cases, full remission possible if conditions met, like becoming PR within timeframes. Use Homejourney's ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator & Guide 2026 | Homejourney tool for precise calculations.[1]
Financial and Practical Considerations
Beyond ABSD, factor Buyer Stamp Duty (BSD) at progressive rates up to 6%, plus legal fees (1-2%), and 25% LTV bank loans for foreigners (TDSR compliant).[2] No CPF use; cash or overseas funds only. Check Bank Rates for latest foreign buyer mortgage rates via Homejourney.[2]
| Property Type | Approval Needed? | ABSD Rate | Example Price (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Condo | No | 60% | S$2M |
| Landed (Mainland) | Yes (Rare) | 60% | S$5M+ |
| Sentosa Cove Landed | No | 60% | S$15M |
Annual costs: Property tax (4-16% of Annual Value), condo MCST fees (S$400-800/month). For maintenance, explore Aircon Services post-purchase.[1][4]
Common Mistakes and Decision Framework
Avoid assuming all landed is accessible—90% applications rejected.[3] Don't overlook five-year hold risking liquidity. Use this framework:
- Budget Check: Add 60% ABSD + BSD.
- Use Case: Residence vs investment (renting restricted).
- Location: Prioritize MRT proximity (e.g., 10-min walk).
- Verify: Search Property Search on Homejourney for verified listings.
Married to SC? Confirm ABSD remission first. Always consult lawyers; Homejourney verifies data for your safety.[1]
FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore
Can foreigners buy landed property in Singapore?
Generally no without SLA approval (5-year PR + economic contribution), except Sentosa Cove.[1][3]
What is FTA eligibility ABSD for foreigners?
Exemption for first buy if from FTA country, no prior property, primary residence.[1]
How to qualify ABSD exemption as foreigner?
Meet FTA conditions property or marry SC; check remission requirements via Homejourney tools.[1]
Are HDB flats available to foreigners?
No, reserved for citizens/PRs only.[1][3]
What are landed property approval conditions?
Residential use only, 5-year hold, no rent/sale.[1][3]
Ready to explore types of properties foreigners can buy in Singapore? Start your safe search on Homejourney's Property Search and link to our pillar guide on foreign property buying. Prioritizing your trust, every step verified.
