If you’re a Singaporean citizen looking to purchase a flat, you’ll need to meet the eligibility criteria set by the Housing & Development Board (HDB). This can be a complex and confusing process, with different schemes and options available for different groups. However, with the right information and guidance, you can navigate the process with confidence and find the perfect home for you and your family.
Basic eligibility criteria for HDB flats include being a Singaporean citizen, at least 21 years old, and having a stable income. However, there are also special schemes available for different groups, such as singles, seniors, and families. These schemes can provide additional financial support or priority access to certain types of flats, so it’s important to understand which ones you may be eligible for.
When considering purchasing an HDB flat, it’s also important to understand the different types of flats available and their associated eligibility criteria. Additionally, you’ll need to consider your financial planning, such as how much of your CPF savings you can use for the purchase and how much you can afford to borrow. Finally, after purchasing your flat, you’ll need to adhere to certain obligations and conditions set by the HDB.
Basic Eligibility Criteria
If you’re interested in purchasing an HDB flat in Singapore, you’ll need to meet certain eligibility criteria. Here’s what you need to know about the basic requirements:
Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents
Firstly, you must be either a Singapore Citizen or a Permanent Resident to be eligible to purchase an HDB flat. If you’re a Permanent Resident, you’ll need to have been living and working in Singapore for at least six months before you can apply.
Family Nucleus Requirements
To be eligible for an HDB flat, you’ll need to form a family nucleus. This can include you, your spouse, children, parents, and siblings. However, you’ll need to meet certain requirements depending on who you’re applying with. For example, if you’re applying with your spouse, you’ll need to be legally married.
Income Ceiling and Property Ownership
Your household income will also play a role in determining your eligibility for an HDB flat. There are income ceilings in place, which vary depending on the size of the flat you’re applying for and whether you’re applying for a new or resale flat. As of 2024, the income ceiling for new flats ranges from $14,000 to $21,000, while the income ceiling for resale flats ranges from $14,000 to $35,000.
Additionally, if you already own a private residential property, you won’t be eligible to purchase an HDB flat. However, if you’ve previously owned a private residential property but no longer do so, you may be eligible for an HDB housing loan.
Overall, meeting the basic eligibility criteria is the first step towards purchasing an HDB flat in Singapore. By understanding these requirements, you’ll be better equipped to determine whether you’re eligible and what steps you need to take to apply.
Special Schemes for Different Groups
As a single or a joint single, you may be eligible for the Singles and Joint Singles Scheme. This scheme is designed to provide affordable housing options for individuals who are not married and have no children. To qualify for this scheme, you must be at least 35 years old and a Singapore citizen. You must also meet the income ceiling of $7,000 for singles and $14,000 for joint singles.
If you have a family, you may be eligible for the Family and Parenthood Priority Scheme (FPPS) or the Married Child Priority Scheme (MCPS). The FPPS is designed to help families with young children secure a home closer to their parents. The MCPS is for married children who wish to live near their parents. To qualify for these schemes, you must meet the eligibility criteria, including income ceiling, age, and citizenship.
As a senior citizen, you may be eligible for the Senior Priority Scheme (SPS). This scheme is designed to help seniors who wish to right-size their homes or live closer to their children. To qualify for the SPS, you must be a Singapore citizen, at least 55 years old, and meet the income ceiling of $14,000.
Overall, there are various priority schemes available to help different groups of people secure affordable housing in Singapore. Whether you are a single, a family, or a senior citizen, there is a scheme that is tailored to your needs.
Types of Flats and Eligibility
Are you looking to apply for an HDB flat in Singapore? There are various types of flats available, and each has its own eligibility criteria. Here are some of the most common types of flats and their eligibility requirements.
New Flats (BTO) and Sales of Balance Flats
If you’re looking to buy a new flat, you can apply for a Build-To-Order (BTO) flat or a Sales of Balance (SBF) flat. BTO flats are new flats that are built in non-mature estates, while SBF flats are unsold flats from previous sales exercises. To be eligible for a BTO or SBF flat, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must be a Singapore Citizen (SC) or Singapore Permanent Resident (SPR)
- You must be at least 21 years old
- You must form a family nucleus with at least one other SC or SPR
- Your average gross monthly household income must not exceed $14,000 for families, $7,000 for singles, and $21,000 for extended families