Main Changes to HDB Classification
HDB Flats will now be classify into three Distinct categories
The three distinct categories of flats will be subject to varying resale restrictions
- Plus flats, a new category of flats, will be in choicer locations within each region across Singapore (e.g. near MRT station, town centre). For example, Plus flats could be offered in the upcoming housing precinct in Bayshore, which is close to amenities such as MRT stations, a community club and East Coast Park. These flats will come with more subsidies and tighter restrictions, compared to the Standard BTO flats.
- Prime flats are in the choicest locations within Singapore, usually closer to the city centre. They will come with the most subsidies across the three categories, and will have the tightest conditions. These flats are currently offered under the PLH model.
- Standard flats will come with the standard subsidies and standard restrictions that are applied to all BTO flats. They will continue to form the bulk of the housing supply.
Resale restrictions will also apply differently to the three categories of flats
Prime flats will enforce comprehensive eligibility criteria for prospective buyers. These criteria include meeting the $14,000 income limit, complying with the ethnic quota, and fulfilling age requirements, among other stipulations typically associated with purchasing a BTO flat.
For Plus flats, partial BTO-style eligibility restrictions will be in place for future buyers. While specific details are yet to be disclosed, it is confirmed that the $14,000 income cap will continue to apply for subsequent resale buyers. Additionally, only Singaporean citizens will be eligible to acquire these Plus flats on the resale market. Purchasers transitioning from private properties are mandated to undergo a 30-month waiting period before being eligible to buy these flats. Similar to Prime flats, leasing out the entire Plus flat is not permitted at any point.
Standard flats will maintain the current regulations, meaning there will be no income ceiling imposed on buyers of resale flats.
The new classification system also benefits singles
Prime flats will enforce comprehensive eligibility criteria for prospective buyers. These criteria include meeting the $14,000 income limit, complying with the ethnic quota, and fulfilling age requirements, among other stipulations typically associated with purchasing a BTO flat.
For Plus flats, partial BTO-style eligibility restrictions will be in place for future buyers. While specific details are yet to be disclosed, it is confirmed that the $14,000 income cap will continue to apply for subsequent resale buyers. Additionally, only Singaporean citizens will be eligible to acquire these Plus flats on the resale market. Purchasers transitioning from private properties are mandated to undergo a 30-month waiting period before being eligible to buy these flats. Similar to Prime flats, leasing out the entire Plus flat is not permitted at any point.
Standard flats will maintain the current regulations, meaning there will be no income ceiling imposed on buyers of resale flats.