Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore | Homejourney
Foreigners can buy private condominiums, apartments, and strata-landed houses in approved developments in Singapore without prior approval, but landed properties require special Land Dealings Approval Unit (LDAU) consent from the Singapore Land Authority (SLA).[3][1]
This cluster article dives deep into these options, 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 make confident decisions in a trusted environment.
Why Understanding Property Types Matters for Foreign Buyers
Singapore's property market welcomes foreign investors, but strict rules under the Residential Property Act protect local housing needs. In 2026, with ABSD at 60% for foreigners, focusing on eligible types like condos maximizes value despite high taxes.[1][2]
Private condos dominate foreign purchases due to freehold/leasehold options and amenities. Homejourney verifies listings via Property Search ">our property search to ensure safety and accuracy, listening to user feedback for continuous improvements.
Properties Foreigners Can Buy Without Approval
Non-residents (without PR status) have unrestricted access to these categories per SLA guidelines.[3]
- Private Condominiums and Apartments: Most popular choice. Buy new launches or resales, freehold or 99-year leasehold. Example: A 2-bedroom unit in District 10 (Bukit Timah) averages S$2.5M–S$3M, with pools, gyms, and 24/7 security—insider tip: Check MRT proximity like Holland Village (5-min walk from Exit A).[1][2]
- Strata-Landed Houses in Approved Condo Developments: Rare but allowed if part of a government-approved project under the Planning Act. These offer landed feel with shared facilities. Example: Good Class Bungalow-style clusters in approved enclaves.[3][4]
- Short-Term Leasehold Landed (≤7 Years): Limited to brief leases, uncommon for residences.[3]
Executive Condominiums (ECs) are off-limits until privatized after 10 years, and HDB flats require PR status with conditions.[3][4]
Real Example: Buying a Condo as a Foreigner
Consider The Carmel (District 10): Foreigner buys a 1,200 sq ft unit at S$2.8M. No SLA approval needed. Pay 5% option fee, then 60% ABSD (S$1.68M) within 14 days of Option to Purchase (OTP).[1] Use Homejourney's Projects Directory ">projects directory for verified details like TOP date and tenure.
Landed Properties: Approval Required
Foreigners cannot freely buy bungalows, semi-detached, terrace houses, or Sentosa Cove landed without LDAU approval.[3]
Criteria: PR for ≥5 years + exceptional economic contribution (e.g., high taxable income).[3][4] Conditions include 5-year minimum hold, no renting, no subdivision.[2][4]
Insider tip: Approval is rare; even high-net-worth expats often pivot to condos. Check SLA's case-by-case assessment via official channels.
Key Restrictions and Taxes in 2026
ABSD: 60% flat rate on purchase price/valuation (whichever higher) for any residential property—first or subsequent.[1][2] Example: S$2M condo = S$1.2M ABSD, due 14 days post-OTP.
BSD: Additional buyer's stamp duty (1–6% tiered).
LTV Limits: Up to 75% loan for foreigners (stricter TDSR/MSR apply).[2] Explore options via Bank Rates ">Homejourney bank rates.
| Property Type | Approval Needed? | ABSD Rate (Foreigners) | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Condos/Apartments | No | 60% | Orchard, Tanjong Pagar |
| Strata-Landed (Approved) | No | 60% | Cluster houses in condos |
| Landed (Bungalow, Semi-D) | Yes (SLA) | 60% | Sentosa Cove (restricted) |
Homejourney's ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator & Guide 2026 | Homejourney ">ABSD Calculator & Guide simplifies computations.
Step-by-Step: Evaluate and Buy Eligible Properties
- Assess Eligibility: Confirm non-PR status; use Property Search ">Homejourney search for condos/apartments.[3]
- Budget Check: Factor 60% ABSD + 5–25% downpayment. Use Financing Options for Foreign Buyers in Singapore 2026 ">Financing Options guide.
- View & OTP: Inspect (e.g., check sinking fund via MCST). Pay 1–5% option fee.
- Pay Duties: Lawyer handles e-stamping within 14 days.[1]
- Complete (8–12 Weeks): Pay balance, get keys. Budget for maintenance fees (S$400–800/month).[2]
Timeline: OTP to completion ~3 months. Post-purchase, service aircons via Aircon Services ">Homejourney aircon services for upkeep.
Pros, Cons, and Decision Framework
- Condos Pros: Liquidity, amenities, no approval hassle. Cons: High ABSD, strata fees.
- Strata-Landed Pros: Privacy, space. Cons: Limited supply.
- Decision Factors: Investment (yield 3–4%) vs residence? Location (CBD yields higher)? Use Homejourney tools for data.
Seek lawyer for personalized advice—Homejourney connects you safely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid assuming all landed is buyable—leads to wasted time. Don't skip ABSD calc; one buyer overlooked, facing 20% penalties.[1] Red flag: Unverified agents—stick to Homejourney's trusted listings. Myth: PR quickens process (still 60% ABSD).[4]
FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore
Can foreigners buy HDB flats in Singapore?
No, only PRs after 3 years with family nucleus, and must sell private properties first.[3][4]
What is the ABSD for foreigner buy property Singapore in 2026?
60% on all residential purchases.[1][2]
Buy condo foreigner: Any restrictions?
None—freely buy private condos/apartments.[1][3]
Can foreign buyer Singapore purchase Sentosa Cove?
Landed requires SLA approval; rare for non-PRs.[3]
Singapore property foreigner guide: Next steps?
Start with Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners | Homejourney ">Step-by-Step Process on Homejourney.
Ready to explore types of properties foreigners can buy in Singapore? Use Homejourney's verified Property Search ">property search for safe, transparent buying. Contact us today for personalized guidance in our trusted platform—your safety first.
