Chapter 4.4.
Sale of HDB flats

View all Chapters

Learning outcomes of this chapter:

  • Understand the role of HDB and the public housing policies, in particular, key features of the Housing and Development Act (H&D Act) Part IV.
  • Explain the different public housing options available, such as rental flat, new flat, resale flat, Design, Build and Sell Scheme (DBSS) flat, Executive Condominium (EC) from developer or from open market.
  • Explain the allocation policies, including the different priority schemes, for purchase of new flat, DBSS flat and EC from developer.
  • Advise on the eligibility conditions (citizenship, age, family nucleus, income ceiling, ownership in private property, time bar) for a first-timer and second-timer applicant buying a new HDB flat, DBSS flat or EC; and for those buying an HDB studio apartment.
  • Ascertain the buyer’s eligbility to buy HDB resale flat/DBSS flat/EC and the scheme he is eligible for.
  • Ascertain the seller’s eligibility to sell HDB flat/DBSS/flat/EC in the open market.
  • Check whether the ethnic integration policy (EIP) and Singapore Permanent Resident (SPR) quota, if applicable, have been met.
  • Execute the resale checklist for buyer or seller, and observe the procedure for entering into a binding contract using the OTP, including the cooling-off period for seller, the prescribed option fee and deposit, and the option period.
  • Submit the resale application for the buyer or seller, observing the requirements on timeframe and information to be provided; and assist client from the first appointment to resale completion.
  • Execute the above agency work using HDB e-Services across available media platforms.
  • Understand S51 of H&D Act against pledging an HDB flat as security or collateral for any debt.
  • Keep abreast of policy and procedural changes relating to buying and selling of HDB flats.

Related Multiple Choice Questions

What licence must developers obtain before selling properties in Singapore?

Marcus is an investor looking to convert his semi-detached house into a bungalow in Singapore. What is a critical factor he must consider before proceeding with the conversion?

Which unit oversees the approval process for foreign ownership of restricted properties in Singapore?

A developer is planning a new condominium project. Which of the following is a requirement they must fulfill before selling any units?

Charles is selling his house to Diana. After Diana exercises the OTP by paying the remaining down payment, what document becomes binding between Charles and Diana?

Which segment of Singapore's real estate market involves transactions directly from the developer to the buyer?

Sophia is a foreign investor looking to purchase a landed home in Singapore. What must she ensure to comply with?

What is the main purpose of the Sale & Purchase Agreement (S&P) in Singapore?

What is the purpose of the Option to Purchase (OTP) in Singapore real estate transactions?

Linda, who is not a Singaporean or PR, wishes to buy a property in Singapore. Which of the following properties does NOT require her to seek approval from the Land Dealings Approval Unit (LDAU)?

Which type of property in Singapore requires foreign investors to understand and comply with specific rules?

Bob is completing the purchase of a new home. At what point in the process is the legal title of the property officially transferred to him under Singapore's Land Titles System?

When a developer in Singapore plans to convert an old warehouse into a residential complex, they must first seek:

Noah is planning to invest in Singapore's real estate market. Which government policy is aimed at curbing speculation and ensuring market stability?

Which Act allows the Singapore government to acquire land for public use, ensuring fair compensation for the landowners?