HDB Flat Guide – How to Buy, Rent, and Live in Singapore’s Public Housing

If you’re new to Singapore, the term “HDB flat” pops up everywhere – from ads to family conversations. It’s the backbone of the city‑state’s housing, offering affordable homes for most locals. This guide breaks down what an HDB flat is, how the system works, and what you need to know before buying or renting.

How HDB Flats Work

HDB stands for Housing & Development Board, the government body that builds and manages these apartments. They’re not private condos; they’re subsidised units meant to keep housing costs low. To qualify, you usually need to be a Singapore citizen or a permanent resident, meet an income ceiling, and not own another property overseas.

The typical HDB block has 8 to 12 storeys, with a mix of 2‑, 3‑, 4‑ and 5‑room layouts. Prices vary by location, size, and resale market trends. New launches are sold directly by HDB through a balloting system, while existing flats can be bought on the resale market.

Financing is straightforward: most buyers use a HDB loan, which offers a lower interest rate than standard bank loans. The loan‑to‑value (LTV) ratio is usually capped at 90 % for new flats and 80 % for resale units, meaning you’ll need a down‑payment of at least 10‑20 % of the purchase price.

Tips for Buying or Renting an HDB Flat

First, check your eligibility. Use the HDB website’s calculator to see if your income, family size, and citizenship status line up with the requirements. If you’re eligible, decide whether you want a new flat directly from HDB or a resale unit. New flats often have lower resale value initially but come with fresh fittings. Resale flats might be cheaper but could need repairs.

When buying resale, look at the flat’s remaining lease. HDB requires a minimum remaining lease of 10 years for eligibility for a loan. The longer the lease, the better the resale value, so aim for flats with at least 60 years left if possible.

Renting works a bit differently. HDB flats can be rented out after you’ve lived in them for a minimum of 5 years (or 3 years for certain owner‑occupier schemes). Rental rates are set by the market, but you can check recent listings to gauge a fair price. Make sure the landlord provides a proper tenancy agreement and that the flat meets basic safety standards.

Don’t forget the extra costs. Buyers pay a 4 % stamp duty plus a buyer’s stamp duty if you’re a foreigner, while renters should budget for a security deposit (usually one month’s rent) and the first month’s rent upfront.

Finally, think about the neighbourhood. Proximity to MRT stations, schools, and shops can boost both livability and resale value. Use Google Maps or a walk‑through to see how convenient daily life would be.

Whether you’re buying your first home or looking for a rental, the HDB system is designed to be transparent and affordable. By checking eligibility, comparing new versus resale options, and keeping an eye on lease length and location, you’ll make a decision that fits your budget and lifestyle.