Singapore is one of Asia’s most attractive destinations for property investment. Its clean and modern infrastructure, strong legal system, and political stability make it a hotspot for global investors. If you’re a foreigner interested in buying a condo in Singapore, here’s everything you need to know—made simple and easy to follow.
Can Foreigners Buy Condos in Singapore?
Yes, foreigners are allowed to buy condominiums in Singapore, and it’s one of the few property types that don’t require special government approval.
Under the Residential Property Act, foreigners can buy:
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Private condos
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Executive Condominiums (ECs) only if they are more than 10 years old
New ECs, however, are restricted to Singapore citizens and Permanent Residents during the first 10 years. But you can visit the Boulevard Coast EC S
howflat to explore potential investment opportunities or plan ahead once the development reaches the 10-year mark.
What Property Types Are Restricted?
While condos are fair game, some property types are more tightly regulated for foreigners:
| Property Type | Foreigners Allowed? |
|---|---|
| Private Condominiums | ✅ Yes |
| Landed Properties | ❌ No (requires LDAU approval) |
| HDB Flats | ❌ No |
| Executive Condos (<10 yrs) | ❌ No |
| Executive Condos (>10 yrs) | ✅ Yes |
If you're aiming for a condo, you're on the right track. Just avoid HDB and landed homes unless you're a Permanent Resident or obtain special permission.
Key Steps to Buy a Condo in Singapore as a Foreigner
1. Set a Budget
Prices for private condos can vary greatly depending on the location, size, and amenities. Be prepared for:
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Central regions: SGD 2,000 – SGD 3,500+ per sq ft
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City fringe: SGD 1,500 – SGD 2,500 per sq ft
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Suburban areas: SGD 1,200 – SGD 2,000 per sq ft
Also, don’t forget other costs like:
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Stamp duties
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Legal fees
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Maintenance fees
2. Understand Stamp Duties for Foreigners
As a foreigner, you're subject to Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) on top of the standard BSD.
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Buyer’s Stamp Duty (BSD): 1% to 4% of property price
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Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) for foreigners: 60%
Yes, the ABSD is high, but Singapore's market stability and potential for long-term appreciation can still make this worthwhile for serious investors.
3. Choose the Right Location
Foreigners tend to prefer areas with:
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Excellent amenities
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International schools
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Easy MRT access
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Expat-friendly neighborhoods
Top condo districts include:
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District 9 (Orchard, River Valley)
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District 10 (Holland, Bukit Timah)
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District 15 (East Coast, Marine Parade)
For those looking for a fresh launch with future value potential, the Boulevard Coast EC Showflat is worth a visit—especially if you're considering long-term or family-focused investments.
4. Engage a Property Agent
Working with a licensed real estate agent can simplify the process, especially if you're not familiar with Singapore’s property laws and documents.
A good agent will help you:
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Shortlist suitable units
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Negotiate prices
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Handle paperwork
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Connect with lawyers and banks
5. Secure Financing
Foreigners can apply for a mortgage loan in Singapore, but loan-to-value (LTV) limits apply.
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LTV limit for foreigners is usually 60% – 75%
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Must provide proof of income or assets
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A healthy credit rating is required
You may also need to pay a higher interest rate or offer more documents than a local buyer.
6. Submit an Option to Purchase (OTP)
Once you choose a condo, the buying process kicks off with the Option to Purchase (OTP):
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Pay 1% of the property price as “option fee”
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You get 14 days to decide
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Pay the remaining 4% to exercise the OTP
After this, the sale becomes legally binding.
7. Hire a Lawyer for Conveyancing
Your lawyer will:
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Check legal titles and ownership
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Ensure no encumbrances
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Lodge the necessary documents with authorities
Most law firms are very familiar with assisting foreign clients.
Why Consider the Boulevard Coast EC Showflat?
Even though new Executive Condominiums are not open to foreigners until after 10 years, many savvy investors and future PR applicants monitor EC developments for future entry. The Boulevard Coast EC Showflat is one such project drawing attention with its:
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Prime East Coast location
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Strong resale value potential
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Proximity to amenities and top schools
Register your interest early to get updates and book a showflat appointment.
Final Thoughts: Is Buying a Condo in Singapore Worth It?
Despite the high ABSD, many foreigners still find value in Singapore’s property market due to:
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Strong legal and financial systems
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Currency stability
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Attractive rental yields
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Long-term capital appreciation
If you're planning for residency, relocation, or long-term investment, buying a condo in Singapore can be a smart and secure move.
Quick Tips Recap
✅ Foreigners can buy private condos
❌ HDB flats and landed properties require special permissions
💰 Be ready for 60% ABSD
📍 Choose location wisely
🧑💼 Work with an agent and lawyer
🏢 Visit the Boulevard Coast EC Showflat for future investment opportunities