Prime, Plus and Standard HDB Flats

Prime, Plus and Standard HDB Flats: What Homebuyers Need to Know

Introduction

From the second half of 2024, all new HDB flats will fall into three categories — Prime, Plus, and Standard. This framework introduces targeted subsidies and restrictions to ensure affordability, while moderating resale prices in high-demand locations.

Quick Comparison Table

Flat Type Location Subsidies Restrictions
Standard
  • Majority of supply across Singapore
 Standard amount ($)
  • 5-year Minimum Occupation Period (MOP)
Plus (New)
  • Choice locations within regions
  • Near transport nodes or town centres
 More subsidies ($$)
  • 10-year MOP
  • Subsidy recovery when sold in open market
  • Some BTO eligibility conditions apply to resale buyers (e.g. income ceiling)
Prime
  • Choicest, most central locations
  • City centre, surrounding towns, Greater Southern Waterfront
  • Previously PLH flats
 Most subsidies ($$$)
  • 10-year MOP
  • Subsidy recovery when sold in open market
  • Full BTO eligibility for resale buyers, including:
  • Income ceiling: $14,000 (couples), $7,000 (singles)

Impact on Resale Market

Prime: strictest resale conditions with income ceilings and eligibility rules.

Plus: moderate restrictions, including income ceilings and citizen-only resale buyers.

Standard: follows current rules, no income ceiling for resale buyers.

Singles and the New Framework

Singles can buy 2-room Standard flats directly or from resale. For Prime and Plus resale flats, singles must meet the $7,000 income ceiling and other eligibility criteria.

Conclusion

The new HDB classification balances affordability and fairness:

  • Standard: affordable, flexible, widely available.
  • Plus: attractive locations, higher subsidies, tighter rules.
  • Prime: central, highest subsidies, strictest resale conditions.

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