UNDERSTANDING HDB & EC
Many of us may be more familiar with HDB flats, which constitute an irreplaceable component of our cityscape. But how well do you know executive condominiums (ECs)?
Executive condominiums are a public-private housing hybrid, which is considered public housing for the first ten years, and private property thereafter. The property type was developed with the sandwich class— homebuyers whose income exceeds the income ceiling for HDB flats, but might find the purchase of a private property to be too great a strain on their finances— in mind.
While executive condominiums do share commonalities with HDB flats, there are distinct differences between the two property types, which prospective homebuyers should take note of. The following is a breakdown of HDB flats and executive condominiums that could help you in your decision-making process.
ABOUT HDB & EXECUTIVE CONDOMINIUMS
HDB
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From fitness facilities to parks and cycling paths, a wide range of amenities is generally available in HDB towns. As such, residents can engage in various recreational activities in thoughtfully crafted spaces nearby.
HDB homeowners have to fulfill the minimum occupation period (MOP) conditions, before they are able to put their property on the open market. This would mean that they have to reside in their HDB flat for five years, before they could sell it.
HDB flats tend to offer homebuyers greater affordability, as compared to the other property types in Singapore. This, in turn, allows for a higher level of accessibility for homebuyers looking to own a property.
The debilitating effects of the Covid-19 pandemic have led to a disruption in the construction industry, bringing about a surge in the cost of construction materials, and hindering the construction of properties. This has, in turn, engendered a surge in the HDB resale market. In fact, cash over valuation (COV) prices have gone up, alongside the increase in the demand for readily available properties which homeowners could move into.
The delay in the waiting time for a new property might not be the most appealing for many. Furthermore, HDB resale flats could also potentially provide them spaciousness at better prices, as compared to condominiums, which might be smaller in size but more expensive.
Many property investors may be inclined to take advantage of the new trend in the HDB resale market. How can you effectively capitalise on the HDB resale market? Check out The S.A.F.E Method, to find out more.
EXECUTIVE CONDOS
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Executive condominiums are generally more affordable than condominiums. Eligible homebuyers could also apply for CPF Housing Grant— the Family Grant or the Half-Housing Grant— in purchasing the public-private housing hybrid.
Homeowners could enjoy access to facilities that are comparable to those in condominiums. The convenience of having swimming pools and barbecue pits among others, at your doorstep is an advantage of executive condominiums that you might not want to miss out on.
Owning an executive condominium would also entail a minimum occupation period (MOP) of five years. Homeowners would therefore have to reside in their executive condominium during this length of time, before they can put it on the market.