Property Guides
Strategic, honest guides for Singapore homeowners, investors and upgraders.
Written to help you decide — not to sell you something.
New Launch vs Resale Condo: Which Is Actually the Smarter Choice?
A honest look at the new launch versus resale decision — when each option makes sense and the mistake many buyers make.
How to Evaluate a New Launch Condo (Without Being Sold To)
The six-step framework for staying objective at any showflat — from location fundamentals to exit strategy.
Can You Really Keep Your HDB And Buy A Condo?
ABSD rules, CPF usage, cash requirements and the honest financial calculation most agents don’t show you.
HDB To Private Property: The Upgrade Roadmap
Step-by-step timeline from deciding to upgrade to getting your keys — CPF, loans, MOP, ABSD and everything in between.
Asset Progression: How Singapore Families Build Property Wealth
The proven strategy used by thousands of Singaporeans to grow from HDB to multiple properties — step by step.
What Makes a Singapore Condo a Good Investment?
The five things that actually determine whether a condo is a good investment.
How Much Do I Need to Buy a Condo in Singapore?
Down payment, stamp duties, legal fees, renovation — the full cash and CPF breakdown for a $1.5M to $2.5M condo.
First Timer Buying Guide: BTO, Resale HDB or Condo?
A clear framework for first-time buyers to decide between BTO, resale HDB and private condo based on your real situation.
Primary School Catchment Guide: How to Buy in the Right Zone
What matters when buying near a school — registration phases, distance categories and balloting risks.
Can I Use CPF to Buy a Condo? The Complete Guide
OA usage, accrued interest, Valuation Limit and how lease affects CPF — everything you need to know before you commit.
How to Find an Undervalued Resale Condo in Singapore
What to look for beyond the listing price — transaction history, owner motivation, lease remaining and neighbourhood trajectory.
Singapore Property Market Outlook 2026: What The Data Tells Us
Price trends, transaction volumes, cooling measure impacts and where the market is heading — with data, not headlines.
Should I Buy A Condo Or HDB In Singapore?
A straightforward breakdown of when HDB makes more sense and when a condo is the better fit.
Can I Own An HDB And Condo At The Same Time?
Yes, in certain situations. Here’s what you need to know about MOP, ownership structure and the real costs.
How Much Salary Do I Need To Buy A Condo?
How salary, CPF and existing loans affect what you can afford to borrow.
Freehold Vs Leasehold: Which Is Better?
Why freehold isn’t always the winner and leasehold often makes more sense.
What Is ABSD In Singapore?
What ABSD is, who pays it, and why buyers often underestimate the tax bill.
Condo Buying Process Singapore: Step-By-Step Guide
The six steps to buying a condo in Singapore — from financial planning to collecting your keys.
Can I Buy A Condo Before Selling My HDB?
What to know about buying a condo while still owning your HDB — the trade-offs and timing.
Best Condos Near Good Schools In Singapore
What to look for when buying near schools and what trade-offs to expect.
Condo Investment Strategy Singapore
The three investment approaches and what to check before buying.
Frequently Asked Property Questions
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Can I afford a condo in Singapore on a combined income of $12,000/month?
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With a combined income of $12,000/month, you can typically borrow around $1.4M–$1.6M (subject to TDSR of 55%). With your CPF OA and assuming some cash savings, you can realistically look at condos in the $1.6M–$2M range. Exact figures depend on existing loans, CPF balance, and the property’s lease. Book a free consultation for a personalised assessment.
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What is the difference between a new launch and resale condo?
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A new launch condo is bought directly from the developer — you pay a progressive payment schedule and wait 3–5 years for completion. A resale condo is bought from a private seller and you can move in (or rent it out) almost immediately. New launches typically carry a premium for the “new” factor and customisation, while resale condos can offer better value-for-money and immediate rental income.
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How much ABSD do I pay when buying a second property?
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As of July 2026 (IRAS), Singapore Citizens pay 20% ABSD on their second residential property. Singapore PRs pay 30% ABSD on their second property. Foreigners pay 60% ABSD on any residential property purchase. There are specific rules for married couples buying their first joint property — consult Emmeline for your specific situation.
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Can I sell my HDB and buy a private condo?
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Yes — but you need to have met your HDB Minimum Occupation Period (MOP) of 5 years first. After MOP, you can sell your HDB and use the cash proceeds plus CPF to buy a private condo. If you want to keep your HDB and buy a second property simultaneously, you will need to pay 20% ABSD on the private property (for Singapore Citizens).
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What should I look for when buying a new launch condo?
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Beyond the showflat glamour, focus on: (1) location fundamentals — MRT proximity, amenities, school catchment; (2) developer track record — how have their past projects performed; (3) pricing vs comparable resale condos in the area; (4) unit mix and facing; (5) exit strategy — who are the likely future buyers or tenants? Never buy a new launch purely based on what the agent tells you at the showflat.
Emmeline is a Singapore property agent with more than 15 years of experience advising homeowners, HDB upgraders and private-property buyers. Her new-launch analyses focus on affordability, buyer suitability, exit competition and comparisons with resale alternatives.
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