Dominic Choa Real Estate

Author name: Dominic Choa

Landed Property in Singapore
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A Complete Guide to Buying, Selling, Renting, and Investing in Landed Properties in Singapore

Landed properties in Singapore represent a highly sought-after segment of the real estate market, offering unique opportunities for affluent homeowners, discerning investors, and those aspiring to elevate their residential experience. This comprehensive guide serves as an in-depth resource for understanding the intricacies of acquiring, divesting, leasing, or investing in landed properties within Singapore’s unique regulatory and market context. Introduction to Landed Properties in Singapore Landed properties in Singapore are residential assets wherein the property owner retains both the land and the dwelling situated on it. Key categories of landed properties include terraced houses, semi-detached houses, bungalows, and Good Class Bungalows (GCBs). Unlike strata properties such as condominiums, landed properties confer exclusivity, substantial privacy, and expansive living environments, which makes them a coveted asset class. Types of Landed Properties Can Foreigners Buy Landed Property in Singapore? Foreign ownership of landed property in Singapore is subject to stringent regulations. Foreign nationals seeking to purchase landed property must obtain approval from the Singapore Land Authority (SLA), with Sentosa Cove being one of the few areas where such purchases are typically permitted. Eligibility hinges on the demonstration of significant economic contributions to the nation and a commitment to owner-occupancy for a specified duration. HDB Upgrading to Landed Property HDB (Housing and Development Board) homeowners contemplating an upgrade to landed property must carefully evaluate the financial, regulatory, and logistical aspects of such a transition. The upgrade involves considerable financial commitments, including increased down payments, higher property taxes, and substantial maintenance expenditures. Understanding the Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR) and Mortgage Servicing Ratio (MSR) is critical for assessing financial feasibility and ensuring sustainable homeownership. Buying Landed Property in Singapore Purchasing a landed property in Singapore constitutes a substantial financial undertaking and requires nuanced knowledge of the market and regulatory landscape. Whether the goal is to acquire a new landed property in Singapore or one within a specific budget such as a landed property less than 2 million, the acquisition process requires a methodical approach. Types of Landed Property for Sale in Singapore Landed properties for sale span a broad spectrum in terms of pricing, tenure, and features. Buyers can choose between freehold and leasehold options, with each having distinct advantages and limitations. Factors to Consider When Buying Steps in the Buying Process Selling Landed Property in Singapore Market Analysis and Trends To successfully market a landed property, it is imperative to understand current Singapore landed property price trends. Monitoring landed property transactions in Singapore offers insight into prevailing market conditions, enabling sellers to set competitive pricing. Preparing Your Property for Sale Optimizing a property’s appeal to prospective buyers requires careful preparation, including essential repairs, decluttering, and home staging. Leveraging professional photography and drafting compelling online listings are instrumental in capturing buyer interest. Legal and Financial Aspects of Selling Steps in the Selling Process Renting Landed Property in Singapore Renting a landed property offers an attractive option for those seeking temporary residence with greater space and privacy without the burdens of ownership. Landed Property for Rent in Singapore: Overview Rental rates for landed properties are influenced by property type, location, and amenities. Prime locations such as Orchard, Holland Village, and Sentosa command premium rental prices. Factors to Consider When Renting The Renting Process Legal Requirements for Renting Investing in Landed Property in Singapore Investing in landed property represents a lucrative opportunity for wealth accumulation, driven by limited supply and consistent demand. Nevertheless, this venture demands substantial financial outlay and strategic planning. Why Invest in Landed Property? Strategies for Investing Affordable Investment Options Risks of Investing Case Studies of Successful Landed Property Investments Case studies illustrating successful investments in areas like Bukit Timah provide practical examples of capital growth and rental income potential. For instance, in District 10 (Bukit Timah), property prices increased by over 560% from $416psf to $2747psf between 2005 and 2024. Comparatively, HDB and private condominium prices rose by only 164% and 247%, respectively, showing that landed properties outpaced other property types significantly. In contrast, across the same 20 years time frame, HDB prices and private condominium prices have only increased by 164% and 247%. This shows that landed properties have increased 4x more than HDBs and 2.2x more than private condominiums. Comparison with Other Property Types Landed Property Trends and Future Prospects Current Trends Government Policies and Impact Government interventions, including foreign ownership restrictions and property tax regulations, significantly shape the landed property market landscape. Staying informed on policy shifts is essential for potential buyers and investors. Market Outlook The Singapore landed property price index is projected to maintain an upward trajectory, driven by constrained supply and consistent demand. Prospective buyers seeking affordable landed properties in Singapore are advised to act decisively in light of rising prices. Future Prospects and Upcoming Areas Common Mistakes and FAQs Common Mistakes to Avoid Frequently Asked Questions Navigating the landed property market in Singapore presents complexities due to high capital requirements and regulatory constraints. However, with well-researched strategies—whether buying, selling, renting, or investing—landed properties can be a compelling avenue for wealth creation and achieving an elevated living experience. From understanding landed property taxes in Singapore to selecting the most suitable landed property for sale, this guide aims to provide the foundational knowledge required for informed decision-making. For personalized advice and expert assistance in buying, selling, renting, or investing in landed properties in Singapore, feel free to reach out to me. I’m here to help you make confident and informed property decisions.

Renting an HDB Flat in Singapore
Blog, Real Estate

Renting an HDB Flat in Singapore: Essential Tips and Insights from Dominic Choa Real Estate

In the bustling city-state of Singapore, Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats have long been the cornerstone of affordable and quality housing. With over 80% of Singaporeans residing in HDB flats, these public housing units have become integral to the nation’s landscape and culture. For those seeking comfortable and cost-effective accommodation, HDB flats for rent in Singapore offer an attractive solution. At Dominic Choa Real Estate, we’ve been at the forefront of Singapore’s property market, guiding countless clients through the intricacies of HDB rentals. Our expertise in this sector allows us to provide invaluable insights into navigating the HDB rental landscape. This comprehensive guide aims to equip you with all the essential information you need to make informed decisions about renting an HDB flat in Singapore. Understanding HDB Rentals in Singapore A. What are HDB flats? HDB flats are public housing units developed and managed by the Housing and Development Board, a statutory board under the Ministry of National Development. Introduced in the 1960s to provide affordable housing for Singaporeans, they have since evolved into high-quality homes that cater to various lifestyle needs and preferences. B. Types of HDB flats available for rent C. HDB rental market trends and statistics As of 2024, the HDB rental market in Singapore remains robust. According to recent data from the HDB, the median rent for a 4-room flat in mature estates ranges from $2,300 to $2,800 per month, while similar units in non-mature estates fetch between $2,000 to $2,500. The demand for HDB rentals has seen steady growth, with a 5% year-on-year increase in rental transactions. Eligibility and Regulations for HDB Rentals A. Who can rent HDB flats? B. Landlord eligibility and responsibilities To be eligible to rent out an HDB flat, owners must: Landlords are responsible for: C. Minimum Occupation Period (MOP) rules The MOP is typically five years for most HDB flats, starting from the date of key collection. During this period, owners cannot rent out their whole flat but may be allowed to rent out spare rooms under certain conditions. D. Recent changes in HDB rental regulations As of 2024, HDB has implemented new rules to ensure a more balanced rental market: Finding and Renting an HDB Flat A. Where to search for HDB rentals B. What to consider when choosing an HDB rental C. The rental process step-by-step HDB Whole Unit Rentals vs. Room Rentals A. Pros and cons of renting a whole HDB unit Pros: Cons: B. Benefits and considerations for room rentals Benefits: Considerations: C. Pricing comparisons On average, renting a room in an HDB flat costs about 40-60% less than renting a whole unit. For example, a room in a 4-room flat in a mature estate might cost $700-$1,000 per month, while the entire flat could be rented for $2,300-$2,800. D. Legal considerations for subletting rooms HDB Shops for Rent A. Overview of HDB commercial properties HDB shops are commercial spaces located within HDB estates, providing convenient access to goods and services for residents. B. Eligibility for renting HDB shops C. Finding and applying for HDB shop rentals D. Considerations for business owners Buying vs. Renting HDB Flats A. Comparison of costs: long-term renting vs. buying While renting offers flexibility, buying an HDB flat can be more cost-effective in the long run. For instance, the total cost of renting a 4-room flat for 25 years could exceed the purchase price of a similar unit. B. Eligibility differences for buying and renting Buying an HDB flat has stricter eligibility criteria, including: Renting, on the other hand, offers more flexibility, especially for non-citizens and those who don’t meet buying criteria. C. New rules for buying HDB flats in Singapore Recent changes include: D. Considerations for Singapore PRs looking to buy HDB New HDB Developments and Launches A. Overview of upcoming HDB projects HDB regularly launches new projects in various locations across Singapore. Some notable upcoming developments include: B. Benefits of new HDB flats C. Application process for new HDB launches D. Rental potential of new HDB flats New HDB flats often command higher rentals due to their modern features and amenities. However, owners must fulfill the MOP before renting out their flats. Expert Tips from Dominic Choa Real Estate A. How to negotiate better rental terms B. Common pitfalls to avoid when renting HDB flats C. Maximizing your HDB rental experience D. Future trends in the HDB rental market Conclusion Navigating the HDB rental market in Singapore can be complex, but with the right knowledge and guidance, it can be a rewarding experience. From understanding the various types of HDB flats available for rent to knowing the eligibility criteria and rental processes, this guide has covered the essential aspects of renting an HDB flat in Singapore. Whether you’re a local resident, a PR, or a foreigner looking to rent in Singapore, the HDB rental market offers a range of options to suit different needs and budgets. By leveraging the expertise of seasoned professionals like Dominic Choa Real Estate, you can make informed decisions and find the perfect HDB rental that meets your requirements. Don’t navigate the HDB rental market alone. Contact Dominic Choa Real Estate today for personalized assistance in finding your ideal HDB rental in Singapore. Our team of experts is ready to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth and satisfactory rental experience.

Buying Property in Singapore
Blog, Real Estate

The Complete Guide to Buying Property in Singapore: Expert Insights from Dominic Choa Real Estate

Singapore, a vibrant Southeast Asian city-state, has long been a magnet for international property investors. With its strong economy, stable political climate, and strategic location, it remains an attractive destination for both local and foreign buyers looking to invest in real estate. Many people see Singapore’s property market as a key part of their wealth-building strategy, which is known for its resilience and potential for long-term growth. For years, Dominic Choa Real Estate has led Singapore’s real estate scene, helping countless clients navigate the ins and outs of buying a home. Whether you’re an experienced investor, a first-time buyer, or someone from abroad eager to dive into this dynamic market, this comprehensive guide aims to provide you with valuable insights into purchasing property in Singapore. Understanding Singapore’s Property Market A. Current Market Trends Even in the face of significant global economic headwinds, the Singapore real estate market has demonstrated incredible resiliency. By 2024, both the public and private housing markets will have experienced consistent expansion. Over the past few years, private residential prices have climbed by an average of 3-5% annually, while HDB resale prices have consistently appreciated as well. B. Types of Properties Available HDB Flats: The foundation of Singapore’s residential environment is Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats, which are public housing. They come in a range of sizes, from flats to executive apartments to executive maisonettes, and are reasonably priced. Condos: Popular among local Singaporeans and Permanent Residents (PR) for their “status”, facilities, and investment potential, these private residential apartments offer a variety of amenities like tennis courts, swimming pools, and gyms for residents. They are available in different varieties, from mass-market condominiums to luxury high-rise apartments.  Landed Properties: These consist of terraced, semi-detached, and bungalow-style homes. Although they are typically more expensive and have some ownership limitations, they provide greater privacy and space. Commercial properties: These include retail stores, office buildings, and industrial properties. Business owners and investors seeking rental income may find these properties appealing. C. Factors Influencing Property Prices Here are several factors that  impact property prices in Singapore: Eligibility and Regulations A. Rules for Singaporean Citizens Singaporean citizens have the most flexibility when it comes to buying property in Singapore. They are not restricted in their ability to purchase private or public (HDB) properties. Still, there are laws to be mindful of, especially when purchasing HDB apartments. Because HDBs are public housing meant for the majority of Singaporeans, there are certain restrictions such as the Ethnic Integration Policy (EIP). The EIP is put in place to preserve Singapore’s multicultural identity and promote racial integration and harmony. It ensures that there is a balanced mix of the various ethnic communities in HDB towns. The EIP limits are set at block and neighborhood levels based on the ethnic makeup of Singapore. B. Regulations for Singapore Permanent Residents (PRs) Singapore Permanent Residents (PRs) have more options than foreigners but fewer than citizens. PRs can: C. Guidelines for Foreigners Buying Property in Singapore Foreigners interested in buying property in Singapore face more restrictions: D. Recent Changes in Property Buying Rules In recent years, the Singapore government has implemented several property cooling measures to maintain a stable and sustainable property market: E. Impact of New Regulations on the Market By limiting price growth, these cooling measures have assisted in averting market overheating and ensuring the Singapore Property Price Index grows at a stable and sustainable pace. Additionally, they have changed real estate investor strategy and buyer preferences to focus on prudent property investments due to the high additional buyer stamp duty for second property purchases.  Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Property A. Assessing Financial Situation and Budgeting Before embarking on your property-buying journey, it’s crucial to: B. Securing Financing and Loan Options Most property purchases in Singapore involve taking out a mortgage. Key considerations include: C. Property Search Process With your budget and financing in place, you can start your property search: D. Working with Real Estate Agents A good real estate agent can be invaluable in your property search.  At Dominic Choa Real Estate, we: E. Due Diligence and Property Valuation Before making an offer, conduct thorough due diligence: F. Making Offers and Negotiation Once you’ve found a suitable property: G. Legal Process and Documentation After accepting an offer: H. Completion and Handover The final steps include: Buying Private Property in Singapore A. Benefits of Investing in Private Property Private properties offer several advantages: B. Types of Private Properties Private properties in Singapore include: C. Restrictions and Eligibility Criteria While there are fewer restrictions on private property purchases, buyers should be aware of: D. Financing Options for Private Property Financing options for private properties include: Landed Property in Singapore A. Types of Landed Property Landed properties in Singapore include: B. Regulations for Different Buyer Categories Regulations vary depending on the buyer’s status: C. Pros and Cons of Landed Property Investment Pros: Cons: Commercial Property Investment A. Types of Commercial Properties Commercial properties in Singapore include: B. Benefits and Challenges Benefits: Challenges: C. Key Considerations for Buyers When buying commercial property, consider: Buying a Second Property A. Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) ABSD rates for second and subsequent properties: B. Strategies for Managing Multiple Properties C. Potential Returns: Rental Income and Capital Appreciation Expert Tips from Dominic Choa Real Estate A. Insider Knowledge of Market Trends B. Areas with Growth Potential C. Common Pitfalls to Avoid D. Maximizing Property Investment Returns Investing in property in Singapore presents a fantastic opportunity to tap into one of Asia’s most stable and prosperous markets. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, an experienced investor, or someone from abroad looking to enter the Singapore property scene, it’s essential to understand the details of the buying process. At Dominic Choa Real Estate, we’re dedicated to guiding you through every step of your property journey. With our deep knowledge of the Singapore real estate market and a personalized approach, we’ll help you make informed choices that align with your investment goals. If you need assistance navigating

Blog, Real Estate

The Unique Neighbourhoods of Lorong Chuan and Serangoon Gardens

The Unique Neighbourhoods of Lorong Chuan and Serangoon Gardens Have you ever dreamed of staying in a place not dominated by towering high-rises but filled with greenery and low-rise houses instead? A place with its own unique flair and personality, where heritage and modern lifestyle blend seamlessly? Areas like Katong or Tiong Bahru might come to mind, but they can be a bit too upscale for some. What if we told you there’s a hidden gem in District 19 that offers the same charming living experience?  Welcome to the quaint estate of Serangoon Garden, one of Singapore’s most distinct housing areas. A Brief History Serangoon Garden is a residential estate and a subzone in the Serangoon planning area, located in District 19.  In the 1950’s the estate now known as Serangoon Gardens was built to provide housing for workers and their families in the area, such as teachers, labourers and airmen. These townhouses and bungalows, with their distinctive red roof tiling became synonymous with the area – a distinctive trait that a good number of houses retain, even today. As the area became populated, amenities and conveniences were built into the area, such as shops, eateries started showing up, and a recreational clubhouse, Serangoon Gardens Sports Club. Serangoon Garden Today: Amenities and Landscape Serangoon Garden has kept most of its landscape and architecture from the olden days, retaining its iconic look and feel, while offering modern conveniences to its residents. Many of the residential houses in Serangoon Gardens still retain their distinct red roof tiling, which can be observed over its low-rise skyline. Serangoon Garden Circus, where most of the shops were situated still stands, with their tenants hosting a wide range of food and services catered to the modern tastes of residents.  The recreational clubhouse, now known as Serangoon Gardens Country Club, still stands, with members from the estate frequenting it for sports and recreational activities, as well as classes and enrichment activities for their children. The street food vendors that used to run their businesses out of carts along Serangoon Garden Way were also given a hawker centre to set up stalls and operate out of in 1972. The hawker centre, now known as Chomp Chomp Food Centre, is famous today for its selection of local food (famous dishes there include BBQ stingray and Hokkien Mee) and is one of the more well-known and frequented hawker centres in Singapore. Why Is Serangoon Gardens Such a Popular Estate? Serangoon Gardens is one of the most popular and recognisable estates in Singapore, and for good reasons. Kampong Spirit It is not uncommon to find people that have stayed there their whole lives, with their homes being passed down generations over the last 70 or so years of its existence. This gives the estate a warm, kampong feel with the community fostered between the residents of the estate that residents have fondly dubbed “the feel of an old English village”. A cosmopolitan village In addition to this expatriates, particularly those from Australia or France, tend to rent homes in Serangoon Gardens, due to its proximity to the Australian and French international schools.  With an established community of foreigners and expatriates, there has been an increase in the number of businesses catered to the needs of these communities. You can find cafes and eateries at Serangoon Garden Circus serving western fare, as well as grocery stores such as Little Farms and a French grocer. The presence of these establishments within the landed enclave gives the neighbourhood a distinct, cosmopolitan vibe that can be likened to that of Holland Village. A Wealth of Amenities In comparison to other landed estates or enclaves in Singapore, Serangoon Garden offers more amenities to its residents. The mini hub at Serangoon Garden Circus offers everything for its residents, from food, to enrichment and tuition centres, as well as healthcare, and pet care shops. There is even a shopping mall, MyVillage with a FairPrice Finest for residents to do their shopping, along with dining options, and beauty parlours and hair salons. Scarcity of Housing in Serangoon Gardens Given the popularity of the estate, housing availability is scarce in Serangoon Gardens. This is especially so when we consider that most of the houses in the estate are landed homes. Currently, landed homes are high in demand, with a low supply. As a result, landed homeowners possess strong holding power, with the median price for a house in Serangoon Gardens in 2024 costing $4.62m, making it inaccessible for most homebuyers. With landed houses being scarce, costly, and mostly out of reach for most of us, we automatically look for non-landed private property options in the area. However, a search in the Serangoon Gardens estate would show that there are few condominium or private apartments. Table 1: Non-landed private projects in Serangoon Garden Estate (<500m of Serangoon Garden Circus) Source: PropertyGuru, ERA Research and Market Intelligence For those looking for a private property close to Serangoon Gardens, a fantastic place to look would be its sister neighbourhood of Lorong Chuan. Lorong Chuan – An Alternative Lorong Chuan is a subzone and precinct that neighbours the Serangoon Gardens estate. The precinct is named after a road bearing the same name, which connects the Central Expressway to Serangoon Gardens. It is considered a desirable location to live in by Singaporeans and foreigners alike, for three notable reasons. Firstly, it is close to Serangoon Gardens and Serangoon Central, as well as Bishan and Toa Payoh towns, offering residents of the precinct a wealth of amenities and conveniences. Secondly, the precinct is also serviced by Lorong Chuan MRT, one stop away from Serangoon and Bishan MRT stations – major interchanges on the North-South and North-East lines respectively. Finally, there are a variety of condominium projects here that are allow living near the landed estates of Serangoon Gardens and Braddell Heights at a more affordable price point. Price Growth  Table 2: Non-landed private projects in Lorong Chuan (within <500m of Lorong Chuan MRT) Source: PropertyGuru,

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LTV Cooling Measure for HDB Flats in 2024, Plus More Grant Support for Low-to-Middle Income First-Time Buyers

LTV Cooling Measure for HDB Flats in 2024, Plus More Grant Support for Low-to-Middle Income First-Time Buyers The Ministry of Development (MND) and Housing Development Board (HDB) have jointly announced a set of cooling measures for the HDB resale market and additional grants to provide further support to lower-to-middle income first-time home buyers.  Adjustment of Loan-To-Value limit for HDB loans With effect from 20 August 2024, the Loan-to-Value (LTV) limit for HDB loans will be lowered from 80% to 75%, akin to mortgage loans granted by financial institutions. The revised HDB LTV limit will apply to complete resale applications received by HDB on or after 20 August 2024. A complete resale application is one where HDB has received both the sellers’ and buyers’ portions of the application. Additional Enhanced CPF Housing Grants (EHG) for lower income families and singles Separately, to provide more support to lower-to-middle income first-time home buyers, the Government will increase the Enhanced CPF Housing Grant (EHG) quantum for new and resale flats to support first-time home buyers. The EHG will be increased by up to $40,000 for eligible first-timer families, from the current maximum grant amount of $80,000, up to $120,000. Additionally, EHG for eligible first-timer singles will increase by up to $20,000, from the current maximum grant amount of $40,000 to $60,000. This is the fourth cooling measure targeted at the HDB market since 2021. The first cooling measure was in December 2021, where LTV for HDB loan was lowered from 90% to 85%. The LTV limit was subsequently reduced to 80% in September 2022. Table 1: Cooling Measures Since 2021 Source: MND, ERA Research and Market Intelligence Possible factors behind the cooling measure implementation The lower LTV has been put in place as a direct measure to cool the HDB resale market. Here are three key metrics behind the implementation of today’s cooling measure.  Between 2Q 2020 (start of pandemic) and today, the HDB Resale Price Index (RPI) rose a staggering 42.5%. The number of resale applications have also trended upwards, reporting a 4.0% growth quarter-on-quarter (q-o-q) and 12.9% year-on-year (y-o-y) growth.  Chart 1: HDB RPI and Resale Applications Source: HDB, ERA Research and Market Intelligence The most crucial metric would be the number of million-dollar flats resold. In 2020, the market saw only 82 of such flats. But in just first seven months of 2024, we have seen 539 million-dollar flats in the market. Among which, 13 of these transactions were at least $1.5 mil or higher. The September 2022 cooling measure requires private property owners to wait-out for 15 months after selling their property before they can buy a non-subsidised HDB resale flat. Between 3Q 2022 and 4Q 2023, the resale market saw an average of 112 million-dollar flat transactions each quarter.  By 1Q 2024, coinciding with the first batch of private property owners completing their 15-month wait-out period, the number of million-dollar flat transactions surged to 183, followed by 236 transactions in 2Q 2024. Chart 2: Million-dollar HDB flats Source: data.gov.sg as at 20 Aug 2024, ERA Research and Market Intelligence How will the lower LTV affect homebuyers? With a lower LTV in place, today’s buyers are expected to fork out a higher deposit. To illustrate, we have provided the following scenarios to help buyers understand the implications of lower LTV.  In both Example 1 and 2, the buyers have combined CPF savings of $150,000, which will require no cash top up for the deposit when buying a 4-room flat. But if they decide to buy a 5-room flat, they will need to top up $20,000 in cash to meet the shortfall in deposit. In the case of these examples, the cash outlay is reasonably manageable by most buyers today. Example 1: Buying a 4-room HDB flat with sufficient CPF to cover the excess deposit Source: data.gov.sg as at 20 Aug 2024, ERA Research and Market Intelligence Example 2: Buying a 5-room HDB flat with insufficient CPF to cover the excess deposit Source: data.gov.sg as at 20 Aug 2024, ERA Research and Market Intelligence However, looking at the example below illustrates a possible cash outlay that many buyers of million-dollar flats are facing. Example 3: Buying a million-dollar 5-room HDB flat with insufficient CPF to cover the excess deposit Source: ERA Research and Market Intelligence Many of these buyers already need to pay a high Cash-Over-Valuation (COV) amount and may need to provide even more cash if they don’t have sufficient CPF funds to cover the higher deposit.  Which buyers are affected by this LTV change? We do not expect this change to affect a large proportion of HDB resale buyers since many of them are financially prudent. But there could be a small group of buyers who may be affected by this change.  EHG to increase, offering support to first-time homebuyers For the eligible Singaporeans, the EHG will be revised to provide additional support for lower-to-middle income households buying new or resale flats. The maximum EHG for First-Timer Families and Singles, depending on monthly household income, will offer them greater help in managing the higher deposit required with the lower LTV limit.  Comparing the current and revised EHG, the lower band of household income will see a significant increase in grants. For First-Timer families that earn less than $5,000 per month, the revised grants will amount to between 40% and 50% more than before. This will provide substantial supports to lower-to-middle income households looking to buy their first home.   Chart 3: EHG for Eligible First-Timer Families Source: MND, ERA Research and Market Intelligence Chart 4: EHG for Eligible First-Timer Singles Source: MND, ERA Research and Market Intelligence ERA’s closing comments Through the implementation of this new cooling measure, it is apparent that the Government recognises financing as an important factor in managing financial prudence among homebuyers. By lowering the LTV for loans granted by the HDB (which are cheaper at 2.6% compared to bank loan rates), it may indirectly compel buyers to be more conservative when making their offers to

Blog, Real Estate

TDSR, MSR and LTV: How Do They Promote Responsible Borrowing?

TDSR, MSR and LTV: How Do They Promote Responsible Borrowing? For almost anyone doing it for the first time, buying a home in Singapore can be a confusing process. Throw in a bunch of acronyms, like ABSD (Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty) and MOP (Minimum Occupation Period), and things can get baffling real quick. However, if you’re intending to take out a loan on a new home purchase, two terms that you’ll absolutely need to know are TDSR and MSR. In their full form, TDSR stands for ‘Total Debt Servicing Ratio’, whereas MSR means ‘Mortgage Servicing Ratio’, and they’re both Government initiatives to promote responsible borrowing. Below, we explain how TDSR and MSR came about, their purpose, and how to determine your housing affordability using both ratios. What exactly are TDSR and MSR? And how did they come to be? Introduced by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) in 2013, the TDSR is a framework applying to all property loans extended by banks to borrowers. Its rollout is to promote prudency amongst individuals taking loans, so that they don’t end up borrowing more than they could afford. Therefore, the TDSR, which limits debt repayments to a certain percentage of gross monthly income, is first and foremost a safety net. When the TDSR was first introduced in 2013, borrowers were allowed to spend up to 60% of their gross monthly income on loan servicing. Subsequently, that limit was tightened to 55% in 2021. Put differently, this means that under TDSR guidelines, a borrower should have a total debt value of under 55% of his or her monthly salary to be able to take out a mortgage. Similarly, for the MSR, it places a cap on the percentage of monthly income that borrowers can use for mortgage repayments. In 2013, the MSR threshold was set at 30% for HDB flat purchases that are financed by bank loans, and it has stayed that way since. How are TDSR and MSR applied differently for home purchases? If there’s a key difference between TDSR and MSR that’s worth highlighting, it’s that TDSR applies to all types of housing loans, whereas MSR applies only to loans for buying an HDB flat OR an Executive Condominium (EC) that still hasn’t completed its MOP. Hence, supposing that you’re a homebuyer who wishes to take out a home loan for an HDB flat or EC purchase, you’ll have to comply with both the MSR and TDSR limits.  The differences of both ratios are summarised in the table below. Table 1: Summary of the differences between TDSR and MSR TDSR MSR Definition Refers to the portion of a borrower’s gross monthly income that goes towards repaying the monthly debt obligations, including the loan being applied for Refers to the portion of a borrower’s gross monthly income that goes towards repaying all property loans, including the loan being applied for Properties that this loan applies to All property types HDB flats and ECs only Threshold 55% of borrower’s gross monthly income 30% of borrower’s gross monthly income Debt Obligations included All debt obligations (e.g. Car loans, student loans) Only property loans (Including the one being applied for) How it is calculated TDSR = (Total monthly debt)/(Gross monthly income) x 100% MSR = (Total monthly mortgage repayment(s))/(Gross monthly income)  x 100% It’s also worth bringing up (again) that both TDSR and MSR account for different financial considerations. TDSR factors in all of a borrower’s unsettled debt, including loans taken out for housing, cars, education, credit cards, and so forth. In comparison, MSR is more straightforward as it’s solely calculated on a borrower’s monthly income. For borrowers buying an HDB or EC unit, their household monthly income will first be assessed using the MSR on their loan quantum to calculate the maximum amount they can repay monthly. Thereafter, buyers will be further subject to a second round of assessment, which will consider all their debt repayments are within the TDSR limits. Should the borrowers have outstanding debts such as car loans, it may affect the amount they borrow and they may not get the maximum MSR loan amount. How do you calculate MSR based on your household income? In general, a borrower’s MSR can be derived by dividing their total monthly mortgage repayments by their gross monthly household income. Assuming Party A has a gross monthly income of $10,000, his MSR calculations would be so… $10,000 x 30% = $3,000 In another scenario, if Party A has an existing debt of $4,000 and a gross monthly income of $10,000, his MSR calculations would be so… Maximum MSR loan amount = $10,000 x 30% = $3,000 Maximum TDSR loan amount = $10,000 x 55% = $5,500 Maximum MSR loan amount that can be taken to meet TDSR limit = $5,500 – $4,000 (Existing debt) = $1,500 In other words, even though Party A’s maximum mortgage affordability is $3,000 (based on the current MSR threshold of 30%), their existing debt of $4,000 limits their borrowing capacity to just $1,500. To gauge the estimated loan quantum a household can secure based on MSR, one can refer to the sensitivity analysis table below. With a monthly household income of $16,000, a family can afford a home of up to $1.01mil, which works out to the price of a 2-room condo in the OCR. Table 2: MSR Sensitivity Analysis- Based on Value Of Property on Household Income and Mortgage Rates for a 25 Year Loan Interest Rates Interest Rates Interest Rates Interest Rates Household Income Monthly Payment 3.00% 3.50% 4.00% 4.50% $10,000 $3,000 $633,000 $600,000 $569,000 $540,000 $11,000 $3,300 $696,000 $660,000 $626,000 $594,000 $12,000 $3,600 $760,000 $720,000 $683,000 $648,000 $13,000 $3,900 $823,000 $780,000 $739,000 $702,000 $14,000 $4,200 $886,000 $839,000 $796,000 $756,000 $15,000 $4,500 $949,000 $899,000 $853,000 $810,000 $16,000 $4,800 $1,013,000 $959,000 $910,000 $864,000 $17,000 $5,100 $1,076,000 $1,019,000 $967,000 $918,000 $18,000 $5,400 $1,139,000 $1,079,000 $1,024,000 $972,000 $19,000 $5,700 $1,202,000 $1,139,000 $1,080,000 $1,026,000 $20,000 $6,000 $1,266,000 $1,199,000 $1,137,000 $1,080,000 How do you calculate TDSR? Similar to MSR, it’s possible to derive a borrower’s TDSR with

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Bukit Timah Turf City – What You Need to Know About Bukit Timah’s Upcoming Housing Estate

Bukit Timah Turf City – What You Need to Know About Bukit Timah’s Upcoming Housing Estate Bukit Timah is traditionally known to be a prime residential area consisting predominantly luxury private condominiums and landed homes, as well as being located near the Core Central Region (CCR). But this could soon change over the next 20 to 30 years.  So you see, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) and the Housing & Development Board (HDB) has announced a development plan on May 2024 that will see the Bukit Timah Turf City being redeveloped into a new residential estate.  More importantly, Bukit Timah will see the inclusion of Build-to-Order (BTO) flats for the first time in almost 40 years! Here is what you need to know about this upcoming estate. Bukit Timah Turf City had a colourful past  Spanning 176 ha, Bukit Timah Turf City was  once an area dedicated to sports and recreational activities, and most notably horse racing. Known formerly as the ‘Singapore Turf Club’, the site was used for horseracing from 1933 to 1999, and was a popular haunt for avid punters for over 66 years, According to the Minister of National Development Desmond Lee, “the site was zoned for residential use since 1998, but was leased out for lifestyle and recreational use until the end of 2023”. Since then, Bukit Timah Turf City has been home to a several sports associations such as a saddle club, country clubs, commercial spaces, and other sporting facilities.  When the Singapore Turf Club shifted to Kranji, the site transformed into a shopping complex serving the immediate residents of the private residential enclave.  Football match held at Turf Club Why the Need to Redevelop Turf City?  Currently, the piece of land that was once home to Singapore Turf Club is not being utilised well, and has a high redevelopment potential to make the area lively like it once was. Additionally, Bukit Timah is made up predominantly of private residential properties, available only to a select few, which has cultivated the area’s reputation as a prestigious neighbourhood for the wealthy. Thus, through integrating public and private housing in the upcoming housing estates, this will foster inclusivity among people of different financial background and help breakdown any stereotypes of the area. Furthermore, those working or schooling in the area would be interested in affordable properties that are conveniently located in an esteemed neighbourhood. Diversify Housing options in Bukit Timah This area, together with the rest of Bukit Timah, is widely perceived as exclusive due to the surplus of private residential properties there, and its central and accessible geographical location. Therefore, a greater diversity of housing types would be beneficial to a wider group of people who are looking to live in a centrical location nearer to their workplaces, schools and the CCR. Furthermore, by introducing public housing in this area will allow children from diverse backgrounds to attend popular schools in the area. Better amenities and connectivity Bukit Timah Turf City’s rich history can be seen in the many buildings and structures that represent the former Turf Club’s distinct aspects, and will be studied for retention and repurposing to integrated it with the new residential enclaves in the future. Artist’s Impression of a repurposed Fairways Quarters and community space Other amenities will include recreational spaces and sports facilities, that will bring convenience to users and at the same time, showcasing the area’s distinct past. The new neighbourhood will be built around the former grandstand and the current oval shaped open space will be retained for recreational purposes.  As for transport nodes, Bukit Timah Turf City currently has no bus services, and the nearest MRT station is Sixth Avenue. Therefore, improving the connectivity of Bukit Timah Turf City with new bus services and MRT lines would benefit both new and existing residences living in that area. What Can We Expect with the Upcoming Estate Bukit Timah Turf City is expected to yield 15,000 to 20,000 residential homes, both private and public, across four distinct neighbourhoods, namely Racecourse Neighbourhood, Stables Commune, Saddle Club Knolls and Tinggi Hills.  Map of the 4 New Neighbourhoods in Bukit Timah Turf City To cater to the needs of future residents, these neighbourhoods will feature open public spaces integrated with historic buildings and structures, a variety of amenities including shops, community and recreational facilities, as well as improved transport connections. Additionally, the Bukit Timah Turf City is planned to be car-lite, pedestrian friendly and well-served by public transport. Due to this, there will be fewer spaces dedicated to car parking to free up space for more greenery and community spaces.  Improved connectivity The area is currently served by Sixth Avenue MRT Station on the Downtown Line (DTL), which is 15 minutes away from the site. By 2032, Turf City will have its own MRT station on the upcoming Cross Island MRT Line. Residents will be within a 10-minute walk from either MRT station, increasing convenience and connectivity between Bukit Timah Turf City and the rest of the island, without the need for a private vehicle. Furthermore, new bus services may also be added to allow future residents to have more choices when travelling within and outside the Bukit Timah Turf City estate. Cross Island MRT Line Road improvement works will also be carried out along Dunearn Road, Bukit Timah Road and Eng Neo Avenue to accommodate anticipated traffic to and from future developments at Bukit Timah Turf City. Concurrently, a study is being conducted on the technical feasibility and impact of implementing a new exit ramp from the Pan Island Expressway (PIE) towards Tuas at Bukit Timah Turf City.  BTO flats in Bukit Timah could be a’ golden ticket’ to enter popular Schools After almost 40 years, URA and HDB has announced that HDB flats will be included in this area. The inclusion of HDB flats aims to provide a more affordable housing option for Singaporeans who wish to live in this area. Existing HDB flats are older and area limited in

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Affordable Freehold Properties – Where Are These Hidden Gems?

Affordable Freehold Properties – Where Are These Hidden Gems? If all Government Land Sale (GLS) sites have a 99-year leasehold (99-LH) tenure, then why are there 999-year leasehold (999-LH) or freehold developments? Freehold land parcels were last sold prior to the introduction of GLS Programme in 1967, mostly taking place before Singapore’s independence. In land-scarce Singapore, selling residential land on a 99-year lease allows the government flexibility to reallocate land in the future, and to meet the evolving needs of society. Freehold Land is a Rare Commodity Currently, new freehold developments are available as property developers purchase freehold land via the collective sale of older projects. Such new projects are rare and remain highly sought after, as they are not subject to lease decay. This makes them an attractive option for buyers looking to purchase a property for their own stay, or as a legacy asset. Given a quiet en-bloc market with an abundance of sites released in the 2024 GLS Confirmed List, new freehold condos are becoming increasingly scarce. Developers are unlikely to pay a sizable amount for a freehold site that comes with more encumbrances and costs (e.g. demolition), especially with the wide array of sites available under the GLS scheme. With a slow en-bloc market, particularly for freehold sites, there will be a dearth of new freehold units available in the near future. Only 603 freehold units are expected to be launched in the coming months. When purchasing any property, buyers often have to face an iron triangle – a form of ‘give-and-take’ regarding the attributes of a property. In this case, the balance lies between the age of a property, its locational attributes (e.g. the availability of MRT stations), and lastly affordability. Freehold developments are often on the pricier end, which might make the ‘perfect’ freehold property more elusive to attain. This coincides with ERA’s recently concluded My Dream Home Survey, which found that homebuyers prioritise affordability, size of the property and proximity to public transportation as key considerations for their next home purchase. Among survey participants keen on owning a private property as their next home, over 55% indicated a preference for new launches. Where are FH condos usually located? Freehold condos are spread across island-wide. However, there is a higher concentration of them in the city centre (e.g. Orchard, River Valley, Bukit Timah, Newton and Novena) or the city fringe (e.g. Katong, Joo Chiat, Marine Parade, Upper Bukit Timah). In line with Singapore’s urban development, these more centrally located areas were developed first, before moving outwards. Naturally, being centrally located, these developments would command higher prices. While freehold properties are also found in suburban areas such as in Serangoon or Pasir Ris, their supply is more limited. These areas were developed much later, with land sold with leasehold tenures under the GLS programme. Furthermore, MRT stations were also planned after the GLS Programme was introduced. Therefore, much of the land near MRT stations would have a leasehold tenure, barring those sold prior to the stations being planned. ERA estimates approximately some 44% of non-landed homes to be of freehold or 999 leasehold status, relatively well distributed across market segments. But with the introduction of GLS program, this has helped ramped up the supply of leasehold homes, particularly in the Outside Central Region (OCR). Even though the supply of freehold units in the OCR has remained largely the same, the proportion of such homes in the region has dwindled to 28% due to the growing number of leasehold properties over time. Table 1: Breakdown of Units by Tenure Why do buyers prefer a new development despite the freehold tenure? While older resale condos are typically more affordable than freehold properties in the same location, they could come with higher renovation and maintenance costs. The older unit and development might not be well-maintained, and having outdated building designs and dreary façades could make them unappealing. Additionally, aging facilities that are under-utilized or poorly maintained due to wear and tear might be unpleasant to use or even pose safety risks. Freehold property owners pay a premium for perpetual ownership. Unless the maintenance cost of their unit or the development becomes too high, it is unlikely that they will want to sell, whether individually or via a collective sale.  If the development’s age is a concern, or if buyers prefer a newer property, they may need to scour the market to find what they are looking for. Otherwise, they will have to pay close attention to the en-bloc market. After all, freehold developments are becoming harder to come by as the years go on.  Entry Price Are freehold properties still affordable? Despite commanding a premium, freehold properties are still alluring to many buyers as they offer perpetual ownership. Without the threat of lease decay, freehold properties also retain their value better over time. Chart 1: Median Price psf for Freehold vs 99-Leasehold Furthermore, with the closing gap in prices between freehold and leasehold properties, prospective homebuyers may find freehold homes to be a more attractive purchase. In the 2019, the median price gap between freehold and leasehold properties was 9.8%. As of 2H 2024, this has narrowed to 1.3%.  Table 2: Median Price psf of Freehold Condos in 1H 2024 There were 2,264 freehold condominium units that changed hands in 1H 2024, with the average age and price psf of unit being 14.8 years and $1,953 psf respectively. 43.0% of these transactions were for homes between 10 to 20 years old, as buyers consider the trade-off between age and affordability. The lower psf would mean buyers have a relatively newer and larger home for the same price quantum. Chart 2: Freehold Condominium Transactions in 1H 2024 Should buyers be concerned with Freehold properties’ slower price growth? We often see 99-LH properties outperforming freehold/999-LH property in terms of profitability. This is a result of lower frequency of freehold home transactions. Freehold property owners are likely to be living there long term. They lack the urgency to sell them