Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore: Your 2026 Guide
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).[1][2] HDB flats are off-limits to non-residents, and Executive Condominiums (ECs) are restricted until after the 10-year Minimum Occupation Period (MOP).[2] This cluster article dives into these options, building on our pillar guide to Singapore Property Buying for Foreigners, with actionable steps for safe decisions via Homejourney.
Why Understanding Property Types Matters for Foreign Buyers
Singapore's Residential Property Act (RPA) prioritizes housing for citizens, limiting foreigners to non-landed private residential properties to maintain market balance.[2] In 2026, with ABSD at 60% for foreigners, choosing the right type is crucial—condos offer freehold options in prime areas like Orchard or Sentosa Cove, while restrictions protect public housing.[1] Homejourney verifies listings on our Property Search ">[property search] to ensure transparency and user safety.
For Korean buyers or South Korea citizens, popular spots include luxury condos in District 10 (Bukit Timah) where units start at S$2-3 million, blending urban access with green spaces.[1] Insider tip: Check URA Master Plan via Homejourney's Projects Directory ">[projects directory] for future developments near MRT stations like Stevens MRT (5-min walk to freehold condos).
Private Condominiums and Apartments: The Primary Choice
These are the most accessible for foreigners—99-year leasehold or freehold units in high-rise developments with shared facilities like pools and gyms.[1][2] No SLA approval needed; buy new launches or resales freely. Examples: The Sail @ Marina Bay (freehold, S$3-5 million for 2-bedroom) or resale condos in Tanjong Pagar, near Maxwell MRT (Exit A, 3-min walk).
Pros: Liquidity, amenities, central locations.
Cons: High ABSD (60% on S$2M condo = S$1.2M).[1]
- Freehold: Perpetual ownership, premium pricing (e.g., Leedon Green, District 10).
- Leasehold: 99 years, more affordable (e.g., Piermont Grand, Punggol).
Homejourney's verified listings help Korean investors filter by tenure and yield potential safely.
Strata-Landed Houses: A Niche Option
Allowed only in government-approved condo projects, like those with cluster housing (e.g., in Upper Thomson).[2] These mimic landed homes with private gardens but shared land. Rare approval needed; check SLA for eligibility. Prices: S$4-6 million, ideal for families wanting space without full landed restrictions.
Executive Condominiums (ECs): After 10-Year MOP
Foreigners (non-PR) can buy resale ECs only post-10-year MOP when they privatize into condos.[2] PRs access after 5 years. Example: Parc Canberra (2023 launch, eligible ~2033). Subsidized initially for locals, they offer value (S$1.5-2.5M post-MOP). Verify MOP status on Homejourney's Projects ">[projects] directory.
Landed Properties: Restricted with Exceptions
Bungalows, semi-Ds, terraces require LDAU approval under RPA—rarely granted unless significant economic contribution (e.g., high-income expats with 5+ years PR).[1][2] Conditions: Owner-occupied for 5 years, no subdivision. For Korean investors, focus on condos instead; see our Korean Citizens Buying Property in Singapore: Homejourney Guide ">Korean Citizens Buying Property Guide.
Financial Implications: ABSD, BSD, and Financing
ABSD 60% for foreigners (unchanged 2026); BSD tiered (1-6%).[1] On S$2M condo: ~S$1.26M total duties. LTV capped at 50-60% for foreigners; use Bank Rates ">[bank rates] on Homejourney for IPA. Docs: Passport, payslips, tax assessments.[1]
| Property Type | Foreigner Access | ABSD Rate | Example Price (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Condo/Apartment | Freely | 60% | S$2M |
| Strata-Landed | Approved projects | 60% | S$4-6M |
| EC (post-MOP) | After 10 years | 60% | S$1.5-2.5M |
| Landed | SLA approval | 60% | S$5M+ |
Joint purchase with Singaporean spouse reduces ABSD.[1] Calculate via ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator & Guide 2026 | Homejourney ">ABSD Calculator.
Step-by-Step Buying Process for Foreigners
- Search verified listings: Use Homejourney's Property Search ">[property search] for condos in target districts.
- Get IPA: Submit docs to banks; compare rates on Mortgage Rates ">[mortgage rates].
- Exercise OTP: Pay 5% deposit; lawyer handles duties within 14 days.[1]
- Valuation & Loan: Bank approves post-OTP; complete in 8-12 weeks.
- Completion: Keys handover; maintain with Aircon Services ">[aircon services].
Full details in Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners | Homejourney ">Step-by-Step Guide and Financing Options for Foreign Buyers in Singapore | Homejourney ">Financing Options.
Common Mistakes and Insider Tips
Mistake 1: Ignoring lease decay in 99-year condos—opt for freehold for Korean investors planning long-term.[1]
Mistake 2: Underestimating ABSD—model scenarios early.
Tip: Visit sites like The Marq on Paterson Hill (freehold, 10-min walk from Orchard MRT) for lifestyle fit. Homejourney prioritizes user feedback for trusted verification.
Disclaimer: This is general info; consult lawyers/banks. Rates per URA/IRAS 2026.[1][2]
FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore
Can Korean buyers purchase condos in Singapore?
Yes, freely—see our Korean Citizens Buying Property in Singapore: Homejourney Guide ">Korean guide. ABSD 60% applies.[1]
What is the ABSD rate for foreigners in 2026?
60% on purchase price/valuation.[1] Use ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator & Guide 2026 | Homejourney ">calculator.
Can foreigners buy landed property?
Only with rare SLA approval.[2]
Are ECs available to non-PR foreigners?
Resale after 10-year MOP.[2]
How does Homejourney ensure safe buying?
Verified listings, transparent data, user feedback-driven improvements for trust.
Ready to explore types of properties foreigners can buy in Singapore? Start your safe search on Homejourney's Property Search ">[property search] today. Link back to our pillar for the full foreign buying guide.
