Navigating the housing landscape in Singapore can present unique challenges for singles, particularly for those in the LGBTQ+ community. If you’re a single LGBTQ+ individual preparing to purchase your first home, understanding the latest changes in HDB policies will empower you to make informed decisions. Here’s a comprehensive guide tailored specifically to your needs for buying HDB flats in 2025.
What’s New for Singles in 2025?
Significant changes took place as of October 2024, opening up new opportunities for single individuals. If you are 35 years or older, you can now apply for 2-room Flexi flats in all BTO (Build-To-Order) projects, including those in mature estates.
Additionally, starting mid-2025, the Family Care Scheme (FCS) allows singles—including LGBTQ+ individuals—to gain priority access to BTO flats near their parents, fostering family connections and support.
These updates create more housing possibilities for singles, including those in the LGBTQ+ community.
Key Highlights:
- Eligibility: You must be at least 35 years old to apply for either a BTO or resale flat as a single under the Singapore Citizen Singles Scheme.
- Housing Grants: Eligible grants for singles can reach up to $115,000 for resale flats, which includes:
- Enhanced CPF Housing Grant (Singles): Up to $60,000
- CPF Housing Grant for Resale Flats (Singles): Up to $40,000
- Proximity Housing Grant (Singles): Up to $15,000
- Family Care Scheme (FCS): Commencing mid-2025, the FCS allows singles, including LGBTQ+ individuals, and married children priority access to BTO flats near their parents.
HDB Flat Options for Singles
New BTO Flats
- The updated HDB flat Standard, Plus and Prime classification framework as of October 2024 provides singles with a wider array of housing options, including BTO flats in various locations. You can now apply for 2-room Flexi flats (99-year lease) in all housing schemes. Although certain restrictions apply, these manageable and budget-friendly flats serve as an excellent entry point to home ownership for LGBTQ+ individuals wishing to live independently.
Resale Flats
- For those desiring immediate occupancy, the resale market can be an appealing choice. You can purchase various flat types (excluding 3Gen flats). While resale flats may involve higher costs and required renovations, they offer the advantage of being available right away.
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- Previous Flats: The new classification won’t affect those launched before the October 2024 sales launch, allowing singles to buy resale flats of any size (except 3Gen flats and PLH model flats).
- Standard, Plus, or Prime Flats: When previously launched flats become available on the resale market, singles can purchase a Standard or Plus resale flat of any size (excluding 3Gen flats), or a 2-room resale Prime/PLH flat, subject to specific resale conditions.
Executive Condominiums (ECs)
- As a single applicant aged 35 and above, you can qualify to buy a new EC under the Joint Singles Scheme. While ECs typically come at a higher price, they can offer a more upscale living experience.
Another option is to buy resale ECs from the open resale market after it passes its 5year Minimum Occupation Period (MOP). This hybrid option is like private housing and singles can also buy it before hitting 35 years old, and SC and SPR are eligible.
Eligibility Criteria Overview
Here’s an overview of the eligibility requirements for purchasing different types of flats:
|
Flat Type |
Citizenship |
Age Requirements |
Monthly Household Income |
|
New Flat (2-room Flexi) |
Must be SC |
At least 35 years old |
$7,000 |
|
Resale Flat |
Must be SC |
At least 35 years old |
None |
|
EC (new) |
Must be SC, at least 2 co-owners (Joint Singles Scheme) |
At least 35 years old |
$16,000 |
For clarity on your housing and financial options, apply for an HDB Flat Eligibility (HFE) letter, which will help you understand your eligibility for grants and housing loans.
Understanding CPF Housing Grants
If you’re considering purchasing an HDB flat as a single LGBTQ+ individual, checking your eligibility for CPF housing grants is critical:
- Buying Alone: Sole owners of a BTO will incur an additional $15,000, which is included in the price.
- Buying with Others (Joint Singles Scheme): Collaborate with 2 to 4 singles to broaden your purchasing options.
Eligible grants can total up to $115,000 for resale flats and include the following:
- Enhanced CPF Housing Grant (Singles): Up to $60,000
- CPF Housing Grant for Resale Flats (Singles): Up to $40,000
- Proximity Housing Grant (Singles): Up to $15,000
Conclusion
Ready to secure a place of your own? If you’re a LGBTQ+ individual, a Singapore citizen, and at least 35 years old, the year 2025 offers a wealth of opportunities for you to purchase an HDB flat! With expanded options and eligibility for housing grants, you can make informed choices that align with your financial goals.
Don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance—consider contacting Haus of Pride to discuss your housing plans. We specialize in helping the LGBTQ+ community navigate the property sale and purchase journey, ensuring you feel supported and empowered every step of the way.
Embrace this exciting opportunity to find a home that reflects who you are, in a city that is ever-evolving. Together, let’s turn the dream of homeownership into a reality!
