HDB Build-To-Order (BTO) Flats in Singapore

[Update: In the next two years, the median waiting period for BTO projects to be completed will be between four and four-and-a-half years. Some BTO projects continue to be delayed, with delays ranging between six to 12 months, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.]

Build-To-Order (BTO) is one of the modes of sale of new HDB BTO flats in Singapore. An HDB BTO sales launch takes place quarterly and typically offers a range of flat types across a few estates.

This system offers the applicant flexibility in location and timing when applying for his/her new flat. Construction will only begin if the demand for the number of apartments in a specific contract exceeds 70%.

A waiting period of about 3-4 years is usually required since flats are built upon order.

Contents

• 2022 HDB BTO Launches
• Upcoming HDB BTO Launch (August 2022)
  • Non-mature Estates
  • Mature Estates
• HDB BTO Application and Selection
• HDB BTO Eligibility
• HDB BTO Financing
  • HDB Home Loan
  • Bank Loan
• Past HDB BTO Projects (By Estate)

2022 HDB BTO Launches

The BTO supply for 2022 launches, according to HDB:

The 2022 HDB BTO flats are in the following locations:

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BTO Launch Months

Every year, HDB releases new BTO flats in February, May, August and November. 2020 was an exception when the May projects were postponed and eventually combined with the August launch.

BTO Locations

The specific BTO locations vary depending on the launch, but there are typically four to five estates each time. For example, the May 2022 BTO saw projects in five estates, while the August 2022 BTO flats will be located across six estates.

Prime Location Public Housing (PLH) Model

On 27 October 2021, HDB announced the Prime Location Housing (PLH) model. During the Nov 2021 launch, River Peaks I & II in Rochor were the first flats released under the PLH model. The second PLH BTO project is King George’s Heights in Kallang/Whampoa, from the February 2022 launch.

The latest PLH BTO projects were Bukit Merah Ridge and Ghim Moh Ascent, from the May 2022 BTO launch.

The goal of the PLH model is to keep BTO flats launched in prime, central locations such as the city centre and surrounding areas (e.g. the Greater Southern Waterfront) affordable and inclusive. As such, PLH flats are subject to a subsidy clawback, a 10-year Minimum Occupation Period (MOP), and other rules.

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Upcoming HDB BTO Launch — August 2022

The upcoming HDB BTO sales launch will be in August 2022. For the August 2022 launch, new flats will be offered at the following estates:

Note: This page serves the purpose of providing information only. To purchase a BTO, please visit the HDB Flat Portal.  

BTO Flat Types

The projects in the different estates may offer different flat types. For example, if you have a larger family and are looking for a more spacious 5-room BTO flat, not all of the projects may offer it. Likewise, if you want a smaller, more affordable 3-room BTO flat, some of the mature estates may not have it in the unit mix. The most common – but also most popular – flat type is the 4-room BTO flat.

HDB Ethnic Integration Policy (EIP)

HDB implements a policy known as the Ethnic Integration Policy (EIP) to ensure a good mix of households from different ethnic groups. The quota is revised on the 1st of every month, but may be generalized to the following approximate percentages: 85% Chinese, 22% Malay and 13% Indian and Other Households.

Applicants may check their eligibility here for buying into a particular block.

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Upcoming 2022 BTO Launches (Non-Mature Towns/Estates)

Choa Chu Kang

The upcoming BTO in Choa Chu Kang consists of 980 2-room Flexi, 3-room, 4-room and 5-room flats. The new flats will be bounded by Keat Hong Link, Choa Chu Kang Avenue 7, and Choa Chu Kang Grove

This BTO site is just an eight-minute and 10-minute walk from Teck Whye and Keat Hong LRT stations, respectively. Additionally, the BTO flats are right next to Choa Chu Kang Park connector, giving residents access to nature and greenery.

There are also numerous schools within easy walking distance, including ITE College West, Delta Senior School and Choa Chu Kang Primary School.

Despite their location, the Choa Chu Kang flats are likely to be reasonably priced. It is also located next to two proposed health and medical care centres.

Read our full review of the August 2022 HDB BTO launch in Choa Chu Kang or browse HDB resale flats in Choa Chu Kang.

Jurong East

The BTO project in Jurong East which is bounded by Jurong East Street 42 and Bukit Batok Avenue 1, consists of about 560 2-room Flexi, 3-room and 4-room flats. It is located near the Pan-Island Expressway (PIE) and the Jurong East shopping district.

The Jurong East BTO project site does not have a lot of schools nearby nor MRT stations. In part, this is due to the Toh Guan neighbourhood being a largely industrial area. For F&B and entertainment options, residents will have to head to Jem, Westgate or JCube.

Read our full review of the August 2022 HDB BTO launch in Jurong East or browse HDB resale flats in Jurong East.

Woodlands

Despite being in a non-mature estate, the BTO launch in Woodlands has good connectivity. The Woodlands site which consists of about 620 2-room Flexi, 4-room and 5-room flats is located right next to the Woodlands South MRT station.

However, the BTO launch is not located in the heart of Woodlands. Instead, it is situated down south of Woodlands, in a new area of the neighbourhood. New roads and amenities are still in the works.

There are also numerous schools close by, including Singapore Sports School and Yishun Innova Junior College.

Read our full review of the August 2022 HDB BTO launch in Woodlands or browse HDB resale flats in Woodlands.

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Upcoming 2022 BTO In Mature Towns/Estates

Ang Mo Kio

This Ang Mo Kio BTO is located near Ang Mo Kio Public Library, bounded by Ang Mo Kio Avenue 8, Ang Mo Kio Central 2, and Ang Mo Kio Central 3.

The new flats here are about less than 10 minutes’ walk from Ang Mo Kio MRT station on the North South MRT line. It connects directly to Raffles Place MRT station in the CBD and is six stops away from Orchard MRT station, where malls such as ION Orchard, Paragon and TANGS are located.

Young families (or couples planning for children) will be glad to know that there will be larger flat types available in this launch: 890 2-room Flexi, 3-room, 4-room, 5-room and 3Gen flats are up for grabs. There are numerous schools nearby too, including Mayflower Primary School and Anderson Secondary School, just to name a few.

Read our full review of the August 2022 HDB BTO launch in Ang Mo Kio or browse HDB resale flats in Ang Mo Kio.

Bukit Merah

There will be two upcoming BTO launches in Bukit Merah.

One will be located at Alexandra View, right next to Redhill MRT station. This project will consist of 780 3-room and 4-room flats.

Another is situated at Havelock Road, offering 870 3-room and 4-room flats. The nearest MRT stations for the site are Redhill and Tiong Bahru MRT stations, with both stations being a short four-minute walk away.

As seen from the map, both projects have very prime locations and are likely to fall under the PLH model.

Read our full review of the August 2022 HDB BTO launch in Bukit Merah or browse HDB resale flats in Bukit Merah.

Tampines

When you hear, “East side, best side,” the benefits offered by the Tampines neighbourhood are often brought up. If you enjoy living on the eastern side of Singapore, this BTO launch may be for you.

It is located near Tampines East MRT station, giving residents easy access to the Downtown line. There are also numerous nearby schools such as Tampines North Primary School, Pasir Ris Secondary School and Dunman Secondary School, just to name a few.

There will only be 260 units available, so competition is expected to be stiff.

d our full review of the August 2022 HDB BTO launch in Tampines or browse HDB resale flats in Tampines.

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HDB BTO Application And Selection

Flat Types

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The flat types offered are typically 2-room Flexi, 3-, 4-, 5-room flats, and 3Gen flats.

BTO Process

A potential buyer can apply for his/her preferred flat and estate. Balloting will be conducted to determine the outcome of the application.

First-timer applicants enjoy higher priority for new flats.

1. Select Location

Select from location sites announced in the BTO sales launch.

2. Check Eligibility

Check eligibility for BTO applications, including any loan applications or associated costs.

3. Submit Application

Submit an online application with HDB during the 1-week application period.

4. Receive Results

Applicants’ queue positions to book flats are determined. by balloting. Applicants may check for updates on their status. Successful applicants will be invited to book a flat.

5. Book Flat

Check the flats’ availability and option fee before attending the appointment with HDB. Applicants will also need to bring along the required documents.

6. Sign Lease Agreement

Sign the Agreement for Lease. A Letter of Offer must be submitted if the applicant is obtaining a housing loan from banks.

7. Collect Keys

Flat keys can be collected in about three years’ time when construction is completed.

Balloting Process

Each potential buyer may apply for BTO but balloting chances may vary.

In non-mature estates, a first-timer family/couple will get additional chances if the first 2 applications were unsuccessful.

An application is only considered unsuccessful if the applicant is not invited to select a flat, i.e. not balloted. Additional chances are not given for BTO sales launches in mature estates as the supply of these flats is limited.

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BTO Eligibility

BTO Eligibility Criteria

New HDB flats are subsidised and meant for Singapore citizens. Potential buyers and any other applicants and essential occupiers need to meet several eligibility conditions before applying for a flat.

#First-timer households comprising only 1 Singapore citizen and 1 or more Singapore Permanent Residents will have to pay a $10,000 premium at the point of flat purchase.

The additional $10,000 Citizen Top-Up Grant may be applied for upon conversion to Singapore Citizenship or when applicants have a Singapore citizen child.

For more information, please read the Citizen Top-Up Grant eligibility conditions.

Eligibility Scheme

Under any of the 3 existing eligibility schemes, applicants can get a new flat as a couple or a family. Applicants may use the e-Service provided by HDB or refer to the information below to check their eligibility.

* No change of people listed in the application.

BTO Income Ceiling

The income ceiling depends on the type of flat you are planning to purchase. Applicants whose average gross monthly household income exceeds the income ceiling will not be able to apply for the chosen flat type.

The following table lists the types of income/allowance that will be considered for the income ceiling.

Applicants should check what income documents are required for submission based on their nature of employment.

First or Second Time Status

Determining Wait-Out Period

There are instances where the applicant has to wait out a set period before he/she can apply or be listed in a new flat application.

First-timer applicants have more pressing housing needs and thus enjoy greater priority and privileges during the flat application process.

Couples comprising a first and second-timer applicant will be considered as a first-timer couple and enjoy the same priority benefits.

BTO Financing

Costs and Fees

The following is an overview of the costs and fees associated with the purchase of a flat from HDB.

1. Submitting the Application

$10 application fee
Payable by: Credit Card

2. Booking a flat

Option fee
Payable by: NETS

3 Signing of Agreement for Lease

Stamp duty and legal fees
Downpayment
Payable by: Cashier’s Order, CPF

4. Collection of keys

Stamp duty and legal fees
Home Protection Scheme
Fire Insurance
Balance of the purchasing price
Payable by: Cashier’s Order, CPF

The following is an overview of the costs and fees associated with the purchase of a flat from HDB.

Applicants should have sufficient cash savings for:

• Credit card payment of $10 administrative fee when buyers purchase a flat from HDB. For DBSS and EC applications, please check with the developers on the amount payable when submitting an application.
• Option fee
• Cash portion of the downpayment
• Cash proceeds from disposing the last flat to take on a second HDB loan

Financing via CPF

Applicants can use their CPF Ordinary Account (OA) savings for:

• Initial payment in whole or in part (amount payable varies with the type of housing loan taken)
• Partial or full payment for flat purchase
• Monthly housing loan instalments

The CPF withdrawal limit may apply and varies with the type of housing loan taken. See here for more details.

CPF Housing Grant

CPF Housing Grants are government housing subsidies for eligible Singapore citizens. They are credited to an applicant’s CPF OA. Applicants can use them for a flat’s initial payment to reduce the housing loan amount.

Applicants can apply for the Enhanced CPF Housing Grant (EHG). In Sep 2019, it was announced that the EHG would replace the Additional CPF Housing Grant (AHG) and Special CPF Housing Grant (SHG).

The EHG will be available to those buying a new HDB flat or a resale flat. Additionally, there are no restrictions on flat type and location.

The monthly household income ceiling for the EHG is $9,000.

Applicants can receive grants under any 1 of the 6 categories:

1. First-Timer Applicants
2. Second-Timer Applicants
3. First-Timer and Second-Timer Couple Applicants
4. Non-Citizen Spouse Scheme
5. Single Singapore Citizen Scheme
6. Join Singles Scheme or Orphan Scheme

Conditions:

Eligibility depends on:

• income ceiling
• previous housing subsidies
• employment status
• remaining flat lease
• ownership of property

Applicants should check here for more information

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Taking an HDB Loan

HDB provides housing loans at a concessionary interest rate to eligible flat buyers.

Eligibility Conditions

Applicant and essential occupiers must meet the following criteria:

• At least 1 buyer is a Singapore citizen
• Monthly household income does not exceed $14,000 (or $21,000 for extended families)
• Have not taken more than 2 HDB loans previously
• Must not own any private residence (in Singapore or overseas)
• Must not have disposed of private residential property within 30 months before the loan application

If the buyer is eligible for an HDB loan, he/she needs to apply for an HDB Loan Eligibility (HLE) letter. The HLE letter has a validity of 6 months.

Application Process

Before

1. Complete the questionnaire beforehand to assess eligibility
2. Applicants and their spouse must have a valid SingPass
3. Prepare income and supporting documents

During

1. Upload documents at www.hdb.gov.sg/hleapply
2. Submit documents

After

1. Application will be processed within 14 days of submission
2. Log in to My HDBPage to view application status

Contra Payment Facility For New Flats

Buyers who are selling their current flat can choose to apply for the Contra Payment Facility. Applicants are granted an additional loan on top of their housing loan after all their available CPF balance is used for the flat purchase.

The loan is redeemed with the net sale proceeds of the applicant’s current flat.

The interest charged is based on prevailing HDB loan interest rates.

HDB Housing Loan Information

Taking a Bank Loan

Applicants can choose to finance their flat with a housing loan from a bank regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). Those who are not eligible for an HDB housing loan can also opt for a bank loan.

When to apply:
Applicants should apply early as the bank’s Letter of Offer has to be presented before he/she signs the Agreement for Lease.

Where to apply:
Applicants should approach any bank to find out the loan amount he/she can get based on his/her current income.

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Past BTO Projects by Estates

HDB BTO Prices in District 3 (Queenstown, Tiong Bahru) and 4 (Telok Blangah, Harbourfront)

HDB BTO Prices in District 7 (Rochor)

HDB BTO Prices in District 12 (Toa Payoh)

HDB BTO Prices in District 13 (Bidadari)

HDB BTO Prices in District 14 (Kallang/Whampoa, Geylang)

HDB BTO Prices in District 18 (Tampines, Pasir Ris)

HDB BTO Prices in District 19 (Sengkang, Punggol, Hougang)

HDB BTO Prices in District 20 (Ang Mo Kio, Bishan)

HDB BTO Prices in District 22 (Boon Lay, Jurong, Tuas)

HDB BTO Prices in District 23 (Hillview, Dairy Farm, Bukit Panjang, Choa Chu Kang)

HDB BTO Prices in District 24 (Lim Chu Kang, Tengah)

HDB BTO Prices in District 25 (Woodlands)

HDB BTO Prices in District 27 (Yishun, Sembawang)