Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced investor, chances are you’ll have a few questions. I’ve put together straightforward answers to the most common concerns, so you can move forward with confidence.

Financing

How much downpayment is required for a private property?

The minimum downpayment is 25% of the purchase price. Of which, 5% must be paid in cash, while the remaining 20% can be covered using a cash or CPF

Can I use CPF savings as part of my downpayment?

Yes, you can use CPF as part of your downpayment. For private property purchases, you can use up to 20% of the purchase price from your CPF Ordinary Account (OA). The first 5% of the downpayment, however, must be in cash.

How much home loan am I eligible for?

In Singapore, your loan eligibility is assessed using the Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR) and, for HDB/EC buyers, the Mortgage Servicing Ratio (MSR). TDSR caps your monthly loan repayments at up to 55% of your gross monthly income, while MSR limits it to 30%. The exact amount you can borrow depends on your income and existing financial commitments.

If you’d like a rough estimate, I can assist — our company has a proprietary tool that instantly calculates your loan eligibility based on your profile.

Let’s Chat

Is the financing process the same for new launches and resale private properties?

While the downpayment and Loan-to-Value (LTV) limits are the same, the payment structure and timeline differ significantly. For resale properties, payment and loan repayment begin much earlier, whereas for new launches, the Progressive Payment Scheme spreads out payments according to construction stages.

This difference can have a big impact on your cashflow planning. If you’re deciding between a new launch or a resale property, feel free to check in with me — I can walk you through the exact timelines and break them down side by side for an easier comparison.

Taxes & Fees

What is Buyer’s Stamp Duty (BSD) and how much do I need to pay?

What is Buyer’s Stamp Duty (BSD) and what are the rates?
Buyer’s Stamp Duty is a tax payable on all property purchases in Singapore, calculated based on the higher of the purchase price or market value of the property. The current BSD rates for residential properties are:

1% on the first $180,000
2% on the next $180,000
3% on the next $640,000
4% on the next $500,000
5% on the next $1,500,000
6% on the portion above $3,000,000

What is Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) and what are the current rates?

ABSD is a tax imposed on top of the Buyer’s Stamp Duty (BSD). It applies if you already own property in Singapore or if you are a foreigner purchasing residential property here. The exact rate depends on your residency status and how many properties you already own:

Singapore Citizens (SC):
• 0% on first property
• 20% on second property
• 30% on third and subsequent properties
Permanent Residents (PR):
• 5% on first property
• 30% on second property
• 35% on third and subsequent properties
Foreigners:
• 60% on any property purchase
Entities (companies, trusts, etc.):
• 65% on any property purchase

Married couples with at least one Singapore Citizen may qualify for ABSD remission if they sell their first property within the stipulated timeframe.

Do I need to pay property tax for a new launch before it reaches TOP?

No. Property tax is only payable once the unit receives its Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP) or Certificate of Statutory Completion (CSC). You don’t need to pay property tax during the construction phase.

Are there maintenance fees payable during the construction phase of a new launch?

No, maintenance fees are not payable during the construction phase. However, once the project obtains TOP, developers typically collect 6 months of maintenance fees upfront.

General Questions

Do you also handle HDB and resale transactions?

Yes, I do. While my primary focus is on new launch condominiums, I also assist clients with HDB and resale private properties when it fits their long-term plans. This way, I can provide a complete view of all your available options.

Do you assist with rentals?

Yes, I also assist clients in renting out their investment units, especially upon key collection at TOP. This helps ensure the property begins generating rental income as quickly as possible.

Can I consult with you even if I’m not ready to buy yet?

Absolutely. My role is to provide clarity and guidance so you can make an informed decision. Even if you choose not to proceed with a purchase, the consultation will still help you understand your options better. Let’s Chat!

Have questions? Let’s sit down and map out your options.

Every client’s journey is built on clear planning, safe execution, and decisions made in their best interest