HDB vs Condo vs Landed: Which Home Truly Fits Your Lifestyle and Future in Singapore?

The Homebuyer’s Dilemma

One of the biggest questions I hear from clients is: “Should I buy an HDB, a condo, or a landed property?”

It’s a fair question—because in Singapore, this choice isn’t just about where you’ll live today. It’s also about your family’s future, your financial comfort, and even your legacy. And the truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Let’s unpack the options in a way that makes sense for you.

HDB – Practical and Affordable

For many Singaporeans and PRs, an HDB flat is the natural first step. It’s the most affordable entry point into home ownership, with government subsidies if you’re eligible.

Pros: Lower entry price, grants for first-timers, community living.

Cons: 99-year lease, restrictions on renting, income ceiling for new BTOs.

In 2025, a resale 4-room flat averages around SGD $650,000 (subject to location, remaining lease, and nearby amenities), while a new BTO can start from SGD $350,000–$500,000—but you’ll wait 3–5 years for keys.

Condo – Comfort, Facilities, and Investment Potential

Condos appeal to those who want convenience, security, and facilities. They’re also a common “upgrade path” for families moving out of HDB.

Pros: Swimming pools, gyms, prestige factor, potential capital appreciation.

Cons: Higher price, monthly maintenance fees, usually leasehold (99 years).

Treasure at Tampines, a 99-year project launched in 2019 at SGD $1,200 psf, is now transacting at around SGD $1,700 psf. Prices vary greatly depending on location, MRT access, school proximity, and project size.

Landed – Space, Legacy, and Exclusivity

If you’re looking for privacy, space, and legacy value, landed is the dream. These homes are limited in supply (less than 5% of Singapore’s housing), which makes them highly coveted.

Pros: Freehold/999-year tenure common, space for multigenerational living, strong legacy value.

Cons: Highest entry price, full maintenance responsibility, not eligible for most foreigners.

A freehold terrace house in Serangoon Gardens transacted at around SGD $3.5M in 2024, while semi-detached homes in Bukit Timah often exceed SGD $6M–$8M. Again, prices differ widely based on plot size, tenure, and neighbourhood amenities.

Quick Comparison at a Glance

Property Type	Key Benefits	Key Considerations
HDB	Affordable, grants, and community living	Lease decay, restrictions, and income ceilings for BTO
Condo	Facilities, lifestyle, investment upside	Higher costs, 99-year tenure
Landed	Space, exclusivity, long-term legacy	Expensive maintenance, limited foreigner eligibility

So, Which is Right for You?

If you’re starting out or planning to upgrade later → HDB is your stepping stone.

If you’re mid-career, with kids and lifestyle needs → A condo balances comfort and value.

If you’re financially established and planning for legacy → Landed property secures long-term family wealth.

Final Thoughts

Buying a home in Singapore isn’t just about numbers. It’s about what matters to you: Do you want convenience now, flexibility to upgrade, or a place your grandchildren will inherit?

Every family’s situation is unique. I’ve seen clients make confident choices once they align their property purchase with their long-term goals.

If you’d like a personalised review of your options, I’d be happy to walk you through the numbers and practical considerations—no pressure, just a friendly chat to help you make the right move for your family.