HDB FLATS
More than 80% of Singaporeans live in Housing Development Board (HDB) flats. These HDB flats are classified into 3-room (2 bedrooms), 4-room (3 bedrooms), 5-room (3 bedrooms) and executive flats (3 bedrooms). For 4-room, 5-room and executive flats, though all have 3 bedrooms, the difference is in the floor sizes of the flats. All of them come with a kitchen, living room and two toilets (except for older 3-room flats). Some models have a study room.

Rental rates vary according to size and location. Typically those located near MRT and other amenities are slightly higher in rates. Popular locations like Bishan, Toa Payoh, Holland and Clementi which are within 20-minute MRT ride to the city also fetch slightly higher rates.

The current average rental rates for HDB flats are:

• S$550 - $700 per month for one room if it’s one person. Add $100 if it’s for a couple. Add another $50 for air-conditioned room.
• S$1,800 - $2,200 per month for 3-room flat.
• S$2,000 - $2,500 per month for 4-room flat.
• S$2,200 - $3,000 per month for 5-room and executive flat.

HOUSING OF FOREIGN TALENTS (SHiFT)
This scheme, started in 1997 by Jurong Town Corporation (JTC), is open to new or existing permanent residents, employment pass holders and skilled work permit holders. Applicants must be at least 21 years old and does not own any private residential property in Singapore. This scheme allows foreigners to rent HDB flats, in areas such as Ang Mo Kio, Bedok, Jurong East/West, Tampines, Woodlands/Marsiling and Yishun, at a lower rate. Initial term of tenancy is two years and can be renewed. For the latest rates, check out JTC’s website at www.jtc.gov.sg.

HDB RENTAL SCHEME FOR NEW PR
Integrated Non-Citizen Housing Scheme for New PR, employment pass and skilled work permit holders who are at least 21 years old and have not lived in Singapore for more than two years can apply for this housing scheme. To qualify, applicants must not have gross monthly incomes that exceed $2,500 for singles and $5,000 for married couples. The term tenancy is two years with no provision for renewal. Rental rates are based on market rates. For more information, check out www.hdb.gov.sg.

PURCHASE OF HDB FLATS
For those who are interested in purchasing HDB or HUDC flats, here are some of the conditions:

• Applicant must either be a Singapore citizen or PR with at least one other sibling who is a PR.
• Applicants must be at least 21 years old.
• Applicants must form a family nucleus, comprising two unmarried siblings whose parents are not Singapore citizens and not residing in Singapore permanently. For parents who are on less than six-month social visit pass, applications must be supported by a Statutory Declaration to affirm that the non-citizen parents will not be residing in Singapore permanently.
• No other siblings are allowed to apply to rent or purchase a flat separately.
• The combined income of all persons in the application must not exceed S$8,000 a month.

For more details, go to www.hdb.gov.sg.

PRIVATE APARTMENTS, CONDOMINIUMS AND HOUSES
Rental has risen tremendously in the past 1 year because supply cannot meet the overwhelming demand. It is now almost impossible to find private housing for less than S$2,500, except in very outskirt areas or very old apartments. Rates generally now go for S$3,000 a month onwards for a 2-bedroom apartment and $3,500 for a 3-bedroom apartment. Rentals for decent terrace houses and semi-detached houses are S$4,000 and S$6,000 upwards respectively. In D09, 10 & 11 be expect to pay more than S$10,000 for a semi-d. Rates will vary according to location, age of house and facilities.The prime areas are district 9 (Orchard Road, Tanglin Road and River Valley), district 10 (Holland Road and Bukit Timah), district 11 (Newton) and district 15-16 (East Coast, Fort Road, Marine Parade). Other popular areas are housings in Woodlands near the Singapore American School and Lorong Chuan near Australian School.

Monthly maintenance fees for condominiums are usually borne by the landlords. It comes with the use of facilities such as swimming pool, gymnasium, function room and parking.

PR and non-citizens are now allowed to purchase any type of private apartments for buyer’s own occupation.

For foreigners who wish to buy landed properties, application must be made to L.D.U. for permission to buy. It must be stated in the option that sale is conditional upon approval by LDU. Approval can take about 4-8 weeks. Foreigners can buy a landed property with a land size of up to 15,000sf which can vary according to the background of the prospective buyer.