The Single Singapore Citizen (SSC) program promotes the purchase of a 2-bedroom flat for singles from HDB in an immature state. This means that singles are not limited to buying apartments only on the second-hand market. In fact, they can afford to buy on their own through the attractive and affordable grants offered by the HDB. It has been over a year since the new housing policy was implemented in July 2013. About 2,765 units were sold out of 5,200 2-bedroom apartments offered for sale in the immature markets. Applications came from the Non-Citizen Spouses Scheme, the Singles Joint Scheme and the Singapore Single Citizen Scheme.
How does it work
For the singles scheme, the government has set about 30% of 2-bedroom apartments, which includes first-time applicants, those who are 35 and over and earning up to $5,000 per month only. Units were priced from $76,000 to over $80,000. Considering that the resale price of the 2 bedroom unit in the neighborhood is between $230,000 and $250,000, I would gladly consider buying the HDB 2 bedroom apartment. This means getting over 50% off regular resale prices.
Eligibility
Singaporeans over the age of 35 who are unmarried, divorced but not applying with any children, and widowed but not applying with any children are encouraged. Eligibility criteria are only a first time buyer, earn up to $5,000 per month, and do not own any other property or have even sold a property in the last 30 months, which could be classified as eligible single can purchase a 2 bedroom BTO apartment rooms in an immature state.
Singles with income less than or equal to $2,500 can apply for a grant of up to $20,000 in the Single Singapore Scheme. Singles with income less than or equal to #3250 can apply for a grant amount of up to $10,000 in the Single Citizens of Singapore Program under the Special CPF Housing Grant for Singles. Singles with income less than or equal to $5,000 may apply for a grant of up to $40,000 in the Joint Singles Program. Singles with income less than or equal to $5,000 may apply for up to $20,000 of the grant amount under the CPF Special Housing Grant for Singles through the Joint Singles Program.
The applicant may receive different grant amounts depending largely on their income. Build To Order (BTO) has been offering help by allowing singles to apply for apartments in their preferred location from the list of targeted sites launched. The offer is irresistible for singles.