4 Things to Consider Before Buying HDB Resale Flat in 2016

An updated version of this article from July 2022 is available here.

Having the world’s best airport (Singapore Changi Airport) and the world’s highest and the largest rooftop pool (found in Marina Bay Sands), Singapore is undeniably one of the most successful and sustainable countries of today.

Before reaching its current state of stability, Singapore used to face a difficult housing crisis during the early 1950’s. But since the HDB’s establishment in the 1960’s, it has been successfully providing low-cost, sustainable homes that can accommodate any kind of lifestyle. HDB flats has become home to over 80% of Singapore’s resident population, with about 90% of these resident households proudly owning their homes.

If you are a Singaporean citizen, you can either choose to purchase a brand new flat or opt for an HDB resale. In the third quarter of 2016, the total number of resale applications was 5,514.

Here are 4 things to consider before buying an HDB Resale Flat:

1. Know Your Flat Type

While every HDB unit can fit all kinds of people, you still have to consider exactly what type you’re going to get. Of course, you’ll want it to fit your lifestyle. For example, a 2 room flat is great for singles or low-income families whilst the bigger, 4 room types that have amenities to go with it are more suited for young couples or big families.

In actuality, HDB properties come in a wide variety of styles, all of which are designed to be able to offer public housing for all those who are still not ready to jump into the private sector. It can come in forms such as:

• Studio Apartment – For one or two people who wish to live independently. They are available in 36 and 45 sqm varieties. Even the elderly can avail of these.
• 2 Room Flat – Hovering at 45 sqm, this dwelling targets small households.
• 3 Room Flat – Coming at 60 to 65 sqm each, this flat is a great living option for growing families who are still on a budget.
• 4 Room Flat – At a modest 90 sqm, this unit affords its owners an adequate amount of space. The best part about it is that it’s customizable; the space can be tailor-fit for whatever your needs may be.
• 5 Room Flat – A much more spacious variation of the other flats, this variety offers a full 115 sqm of living space – more than enough for most.
• 3 Gen Flat – Specifically for multi-generational families, the 3Gen comes at 115 sqm. If you want to see them for yourself, units like these can be found at Yishun.

2. Track the Prices

Knowing the right HDB price for the resale flat you’re eyeing is essential. Be aware of the HDB Resale Price Index when gauging property prices while still keeping in mind that it will still vary depending on location as well as availability.

3. Find the Best Deals

You can search for available HDB resale flats through a wide variety of mediums: a newspapers’ classified ads section, an online property listings, or even via a salesperson or HDB agent. To make things easier though, do it through Ohmyhome App. It’s free, easy to use, and best of all, it gets rid of the middleman when conducting HDB transactions.

4. The Financial Aspect

Buying an HDB flat is more than just buying the property itself. There are other fees that you will have to consider: its insurance, legal fees, administrative fees, among others. Make sure that your finances are in check before you decide to buy an HDB. Ensure that you also choose the right payment method – get to know the many HDB schemes or loans available that you may be eligible for or simply pay with cash instead.

If you need more assistance, Ohmyhome provides Buyer Documentation Service.