Purchasing an HDB flat as a single individual in Singapore is a significant milestone that involves navigating various rules, eligibility criteria, and housing schemes. This guide includes information on flat types, such as resale units, and details about CPF housing grants. For first-time Singapore citizens, understanding the following CPF housing grants is crucial, as well as noting any previous housing subsidies and excluding Proximity Housing Grant considerations.
Requirements for Singles Buying HDB Flats
Eligibility Conditions
To be eligible, an applicant must be a Singapore citizen and at least 35 years old at the time of application. This is under the Single Singapore Citizen Scheme. Alternatively, the Joint Singles Scheme allows up to four single citizens to apply for a flat purchase jointly.
Income Ceiling
The monthly household income ceiling for singles applying for a new HDB or 2-room Flexi flat in a non-mature estate is S$7,000. This income ceiling ensures that HDB flats remain affordable to lower—and middle-income earners. The monthly income ceiling for resale flats does not apply if the first-time single applicant purchases without grants.
Property Ownership
Applicants must not own or be interested in any private residential property in Singapore or overseas, including private property disposed of within the last 30 months. This rule ensures public housing subsidies are directed toward those needing them most.
Citizenship and Residency
The applicant must be a Singaporean citizen. If applying under the Joint Singles Scheme, all applicants must be Singapore citizens. In cases where the single applicant has a non-resident spouse, the latter cannot be listed as an occupier.
Minimum Occupation Period
The minimum occupation period (MOP) is crucial. For HDB flats, the MOP is typically five years, during which the flat cannot be sold or rented out entirely. This ensures that the property serves as a long-term home.
Types of Flats Available for Singles
2 Room Flexi Flats
One popular option is the 2-room Flexi flat, which caters to singles, particularly in non mature estates. These flats are compact and cost-effective, making them ideal for single occupants.
Resale Flats
Singles can also purchase resale flats in the open market. Resale HDB flats offer more variety in terms of location and size. This option is attractive for those who prefer to live in mature estates or need a larger living space.
Housing Grants for Singles
Various housing grants are available to assist singles in purchasing HDB flats. These grants help reduce the financial burden and make flat ownership more attainable.
CPF Housing Grant
The CPF Housing Grant is a significant subsidy for eligible singles. This grant is specifically designed for single citizens purchasing resale flats. It offers financial assistance similar to the previous Singles Grant.
Enhanced CPF Housing Grant (EHG)
The Enhanced CPF Housing Grant (EHG) is an improvement over previous grants, offering higher amounts to eligible buyers. The EHG is tiered based on the applicant's average household income, with lower-income singles receiving higher grants. This grant is available for both new flats and resale HDB flats.
Singles Grant
While previously available, the Singles Grant is no longer offered by HDB.
Proximity Housing Grant
The Proximity Housing Grant is available for singles who wish to live near their parents. This grant provides up to S$10,000 for singles purchasing a resale flat within 4 km of their parents' home and S$15,000 singles living with their parents' home. This grant encourages family cohesion by supporting those who prefer to stay close to their loved ones.
Housing Subsidies
Apart from the grants mentioned, singles can benefit from various housing subsidies offered by the government. These subsidies are aimed at making public housing affordable for all eligible
buyers.
Applying for an HDB Flat as a Single
Flat Application Process
The process begins with submitting a flat application through the HDB website. Applicants must secure a resale agreement with the seller before applying for grants for resale flat purchases.
HFE Letter Application
Before purchasing a flat, singles must obtain an HDB Flat Eligibility or HFE letter application from HDB. This letter is a prerequisite for both new and resale flat applications. It verifies the applicant's eligibility and the grant amounts they qualify for.
Resale Flat Application
Applicants must complete the process within a stipulated timeframe for resale flat applications. This includes submitting all required documents and securing the necessary financing.
Financing Options
Singles can finance their flat purchase through an HDB or bank loans. The HDB loan offers a stable interest rate, making it a popular choice. However, applicants must meet the income and financial criteria set by HDB.
HDB Loan Eligibility
The HDB loan is available to singles who meet the monthly household income ceiling and other financial criteria. It offers a fixed interest rate, providing stability and predictability in monthly repayments.
Grants Exclusion and Conditions
Certain conditions apply when calculating the grants. For instance, the income ceiling note specifies that only the applicant's income is considered. Additionally, previous recipients of housing subsidies must note the restrictions on receiving new grants.
Prime Housing Projects and Non Mature Estates
Prime Housing Projects
Prime housing projects are highly sought after due to their location and amenities. However, the competition and price are higher, making them less accessible for singles on a budget.
Non Mature Estates
Non mature estates are ideal for singles looking for affordable options. These areas are undergoing development, offering newer facilities and a growing community. The availability of 2-room Flexi and other flat types in these estates makes them attractive to single buyers.
Flat Types and Locations
Flat Types
Singles have a variety of flat types to choose from, though for BTO applications, they are currently limited to 2-room Flexi units. Resale flats offer a wider range of options, from 2-room Flexi to larger units. The choice ultimately depends on the applicant's budget, needs, and preferences.
Locations
Flats in all locations are available to singles, though prices and availability may vary. Resale flats in mature estates may be pricier but offer better amenities, while non mature estates provide more affordable options.
Types of HDB’s Singles Schemes
HDB offers several schemes tailored for singles to assist in their flat purchase:
Single Singapore Citizen Scheme
Under the Single Singapore Citizen Scheme, singles can buy a BTO flat or a resale HDB flat provided they meet the eligibility criteria. This scheme is designed to facilitate homeownership for singles in Singapore.
Joint Singles Scheme
The Joint Singles Scheme allows two to four single individuals to apply for a flat jointly. This can help pool resources to afford a bigger flat. The applicants must all be Singapore citizens and at least 35 years old.
Frequently Asked Questions
What housing grants can I get under HDB’s singles schemes?
There are two grants for singles:
CPF Housing Grant for Resale Flats (Singles): This grant is available for first-time applicants purchasing resale flats. The amount depends on the flat type and location.
Enhanced CPF Housing Grant (EHG) (Singles): This grant can be used for both new flats (BTO) and resale flats. The amount is based on the applicant's income, with lower-income singles receiving more.
If you are a single planning to buy a resale flat with CPF Housing Grants, you would typically apply for the CPF Housing Grant for Resale Flats (Singles) first, and then for the EHG (Singles) if you qualify.
Can a single PR buy HDB in Singapore?
A Singapore permanent resident (SPR) cannot buy a BTO flat independently but can purchase a resale HDB flat. However, the SPR must be at least 35 years old and meet other eligibility conditions similar to Singapore citizens. Know how PRs can buy a flat in Singapore here.
Can you buy an HDB in Singapore without getting married?
Yes, singles can buy HDB flats without getting married. The HDB offers various schemes that cater specifically to singles, allowing them to own their homes without marriage.
Can singles below 35 buy resale HDB?
Singles under 35 are generally not eligible to buy resale HDB flats independently. However, they can explore other housing options, such as buying a private property or living with family. Alternatively, they may wait until they reach the qualifying age of 35 to purchase an HDB flat under the singles scheme.
Can I buy an HDB flat if I am single?
Yes, singles can buy HDB flats in Singapore. However, there are specific conditions and schemes designed for singles to consider. The key eligibility criteria include age, citizenship, and income, which will be discussed in detail.
What type of HDB flats can singles buy in Singapore?
Singapore singles have the option to purchase either BTO flats or resale flats. Understanding the differences between these types of flats is crucial to making an informed decision.
BTO Flats: Build-To-Order (BTO) flats are new flats launched by the Housing and Development Board (HDB) periodically. Singles can apply for 2-room Flexi flats in non-mature estates. These flats are generally more affordable and come with a shorter waiting time from the point of application to moving in, typically about 3-4 years.
Eligibility:
Must be a Singapore Citizen and at least 35 years old under the Single Singapore Citizen Scheme.
Income ceiling applies: S$7,000 monthly household income for a 2-room Flexi flat in a non-mature estate.
Must be a first-time applicant (not received previous housing subsidies).
Type of BTO Flat:
Limited to 2-room Flexi flats.
While singles can't apply for any BTO flat type, the 2-room Flexi option offers a chance for singles to own a brand new HDB flat at a subsidised price. These flats are generally more affordable and come with a shorter waiting time compared to resale flats.
Resale Flats: Resale flats are previously owned flats available on the open market. Singles can purchase any resale flat, depending on their budget and preference. The main advantage of resale HDB flats is the immediate availability, allowing buyers to move in much sooner than BTO flats.
Wider Selection: Resale flats come in various sizes and locations, allowing singles to choose based on their needs and budget. Unlike BTO flats, which are limited to 2-room Flexi options for singles, resale flats can be studio apartments, larger flats, and even those in mature estates with better amenities.
Immediate Occupancy: Resale flats are already built and owned by previous owners. Once you complete the purchase process, you can move in right away. This is a significant advantage compared to BTO flats, which typically involve a waiting period of 3-4 years.
No Income Ceiling: There is no income ceiling for buying a resale flat on the open market. However, eligibility for grants like the Enhanced CPF Housing Grant (EHG) might depend on your income.
Balance Flats: Balance flats are unsold units from previous BTO launches and Selective En bloc Redevelopment Scheme (SERS) exercises, offered during Sale of Balance Flats (SBF) exercises.
Limited Availability: Balance flats are leftover units from the Build-To-Order (BTO) application rounds that haven't been selected by families or couples. These flats are released for sale a few times a year, and the number specifically designated for singles is very limited (usually around 5% of the total available Balance Flats in non-mature estates).
Eligibility: Even for the limited singles quota, eligibility requirements are similar to buying a BTO flat under the Single Singapore Citizen Scheme:
Must be a Singapore Citizen and at least 35 years old.
Income ceiling applies (typically S$7,000 monthly household income for a 2-room Flexi flat).
Must be a first-time applicant (not received previous housing subsidies).
Type of Flat: Similar to BTO options for singles, Balance Flats available for singles are most likely to be 2-room Flexi flats.
Due to the limited availability and competition, especially for desirable locations, securing a Balance Flat as a single applicant can be challenging.
Here are some alternative options for singles to consider:
Resale Flats: As discussed earlier, resale flats offer more variety, immediate occupancy, and no quota restrictions for singles.
Joint Singles Scheme: Singles can pool resources with up to 3 other unmarried individuals to apply for BTO or resale flats of a larger size.
What are the HDB eligibility requirements for singles?
The eligibility criteria for singles applying for HDB flats vary between BTO and resale flats. The following sections outline these requirements.
Eligibility Criteria for Singles Applying for a BTO Flat. To apply for a BTO flat as a single, the following conditions must be met:
Age: Must be at least 35 years old.
Citizenship: Must be a Singapore citizen.
Income Ceiling: The monthly household income ceiling for a 2-room Flexi flat in a non-mature estate is S$7,000.
First Timer Applicant: Must not have previously received housing subsidies such as the CPF Housing Grant.
Eligibility Criteria for Singles Applying for an HDB Resale Flat. For singles looking to buy a resale HDB flat, the requirements are slightly different:
Age: Must be at least 35 years old.
Citizenship: Must be a Singapore citizen or a Singapore Permanent Resident (SPR).
Income Ceiling: There is no income ceiling for buying a resale flat on the open market.
Housing Grants: Eligibility for grants like the Enhanced CPF Housing Grant (EHG) depends on the applicant’s income and other criteria.
Which type of HDB flat should singles get – BTO or resale flat?
Choosing between a BTO flat and a resale flat depends on individual preferences and circumstances. Here are some factors to consider:
BTO Flats
Cost: Generally more affordable.
Waiting Time: Longer waiting period (3-4 years).
Flat Condition: Brand new with the latest designs and fittings.
Location: Typically in non-mature estates.
Resale Flats
Availability: Immediate move-in after purchase.
Location: Wider range of locations, including mature estates with better amenities.
Flat Condition: Varies depending on the previous owner’s upkeep.
Key Terms and Definitions
Single Buying HDB: Refers to purchase of an HDB flat by a single individual.
Resale Flat: An HDB flat sold by a current owner on the resale market.
Proximity Housing Grant: A grant for those buying a flat near their parents or children.
Monthly Household Income Ceiling: The maximum combined income for eligible flat applicants.
Single Singapore Citizen Scheme: Allows singles aged 35 and above to purchase an HDB flat.
2-Room Flexi Flat: A smaller, more affordable flat suitable for singles.
Private Property: Non-public housing, which can affect eligibility for HDB schemes.
Minimum Occupation Period: An owner must live in the premises before selling the HDB flat.
Enhanced CPF Housing Grant (EHG): A significant grant based on income to assist flat buyers.
Executive Condominium: A type of housing that blends public and private features.
Open Market: Buying a flat directly from an owner rather than through HDB.
Final Thoughts
Buying an HDB flat as a single in Singapore involves understanding various eligibility criteria, schemes, and grants. Whether opting for an HDB BTO flat or a resale flat, singles have multiple pathways to owning their homes. With careful planning and consideration of the available options, singles can successfully explore the HDB system to achieve homeownership. Important factors include citizenship requirements, with only Singapore Citizens being eligible, and selecting the right location to suit individual needs. Additionally, options like balance flats provide further opportunities for singles to secure an HDB Resale Flat.
The HDB website offers information on pilot programs that might be relevant to singles, such as the Joint Singles Scheme - Operator-Run (JSS-OR) and Single Room Shared Facilities (SRSF). For more detailed information, please refer to the Housing & Development Board (HDB) official website, where you can find the latest updates and specific details about each scheme and grant.
Looking to sell or buy a new home? Find out more at Mogul.sg.
Commentaires