Part II: Purchasing a New HDB Flat - The Process

The second part aims to give you a brief overview on how to purchase a flat from the Housing and Development Board (HDB) under the Build-To-Order System or Sale of Balance Flats. Normally, the process starts with HDB launching a BTO or Sale of Balance Flats Exercise. The location where the flats will be built will be broadcasted by HDB in the newspapers and other media. They will also indicate the number of units offered. After the exercise, you can then submit your HDB flat applications online through their website, www.hdb.gov.sg. If you don't have internet access, you can just visit the HDB Hub directly or one of HDB's Branch Offices. For this, you need to pay a non-refundable administrative fee of $10. You will receive the outcome of your application. After the application period, HDB will ballot all applications for the queue position. They will then mail you of the outcome. You can also check the status of your application on their website. You will then need to book your flat and pay an Option Fee via cash, NETS or cheque. After booking, HDB will invite you to sign the Agreement for Lease. You will then be required to submit a valid HDB Loan Eligibility (HLE) letter if you are obtaining a housing loan from HDB or a Letter of Offer if you are obtaining a housing loan from banks. You will need to pay the down payment, 1-3% legal and stamp fees either by your CPF money or cash. Now the flat is ready for key collection. Flats offered under the BTO will allow you to collect the keys in three years' time. If you purchased a 2-room HDB flat or bigger, you will need to pay the balance by Cash or CPF or a combination of both. Note that HDB does not grand loan for the purchase of the Studio Apartment. If you choose a Studio Apartment, you are required to pay the remaining 95% of the purchase price of the Studio Apartment in full before you can actually collect the keys to your flat.