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Singapore removes 15-month wait for private property owners buying HDB resale flats

Published July 28, 2026 at 8:02 AM UTC

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The Singapore government has scrapped the 15-month wait-out period that previously required private property owners to sell their homes before buying a Housing Board (HDB) resale flat. National Development Minister Chee Hong Tat announced the change, saying it aims to streamline the process for homeowners who wish to downgrade or move to a resale flat. The rule, introduced in September 2022 as part of cooling measures, was meant to cool demand and prioritize first-time homebuyers. However, it also created bottlenecks for owners who wanted to sell their private property and buy an HDB resale flat in a single transaction. Under the new rules, private property owners can now buy an HDB resale flat without waiting, as long as they dispose of their private property within six months of purchasing the HDB flat. This reduces the financial and logistical strain on families moving between property types. The change takes effect immediately, and analysts expect it to boost transaction volumes in the HDB resale market, particularly for larger flats attractive to upgraders. The government will continue to monitor the market and adjust policies as needed.