How to Buy Property in Singapore as a Foreigner: 2025 Guide
Asia’s real estate market is highly valued, with Singapore standing out because of its reliability and appeal to investors, expats, and business families. But how to buy property in Singapore as a foreigner requires an understanding that the rules, taxes, and financial commitments here are very different from those in other countries. Here, we answer all the important questions a foreigner needs to know before buying property in Singapore.
Can Foreigners Buy Property in Singapore?
Yes, foreigners can buy property in Singapore, but with restrictions. The Rules for foreigners buying property in Singapore are primarily set out in the Residential Property Act. In general, foreigners can buy private and executive condominiums after 10 years, strata-titled commercial or industrial properties, and leasehold land for 99 years.
Landing residential properties, like bungalows and terrace houses, cannot be directly bought by foreigners unless given government permission. Usually, such approval is not given unless the buyer’s investment has brought major economic benefits to the country.
Most people buying homes overseas tend to choose condominiums since they provide comfort, convenient features, and less regulation.
New Rules for Buying Property in Singapore (2025 Update)
To address speculation and affordability problems, Singapore put several cooling measures into place in 2023 and 2024. These new rules for buying property in Singapore still apply in 2025:
Foreigners are required to pay 60% of the purchase price or market value (whichever is greater) as Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty.
Tighter loan-to-value limits for second or third-property purchases
New rates for taxes on owner-occupied and non-owner-occupied properties
Foreigner Buying Property in Singapore Tax Breakdown
Make sure you check the tax situation of a foreigner buying property in Singapore before you start the purchase. Here’s a summary of what you’ll likely pay:
1. Buyer’s Stamp Duty (BSD)
Applicable to everyone, calculated in tiers:
First $180,000: 1%
Next $180,000: 2%
Next $640,000: 3%
Remainder: 4% or 5% (for properties above $1 million)
2. Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD)
Foreigners will have to pay 60% ABSD on all residential property purchases starting in 2024 and 2025.
For example: if the condo value is $2 million, the ABSD would need to be $1.2 million.
3. Legal Fees & Other Costs
Set aside about $2,500–$5,000 to cover the legal fees, document handling and stamp duties.
Buying Private Property in Singapore Downpayment Requirements
A downpayment is required only if you are financing with a local bank. This is what you can experience:
Minimum cash downpayment: 5% (if eligible for a loan)
Total downpayment: 25% (including CPF and cash)
Loan-to-value (LTV): Up to 75% (for first-time buyers under certain conditions)
As a person new to Singapore, you are not allowed to draw funds from the CPF to pay your downpayment. Thus, any funds at the beginning must come from cash or international sources.
Buying Property in Singapore for PRs (Permanent Residents)
There are slight differences if you have a Singapore Permanent Residency (PR) compared to others. Buying property in Singapore is possible for those with a PR:
Lower ABSD: PRs pay 5% ABSD on their first property (vs. 60% for foreigners)
Access to resale HDB flats (not new BTO flats)
Better bank loan rates and mortgage eligibility
Many expats who plan to live and work in Singapore for a long time get PR first to enjoy these benefits.
In Singapore, owning property as a foreigner isn't just possible — it's a smart move with the right strategy and expert guidance.
Ascendant Globalcredit Group
Can a Foreigner Buy a Condo in Singapore? (Yes, But With Taxes)
Buying a private condominium in Singapore by foreigners does not require special government approval. Being so accessible, condos are the top real estate option for investors from other countries interested in Singapore. But you need to be aware of key financial and legal issues as well.
All foreign buyers have to pay the regular BSD and also an Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) of 60% either on the price of the property or its market value, whichever is higher. Because foreigners buy condos in Singapore taxes can be high, so you should prepare your budget well in advance.
Using a professional property agent and an experienced law firm is recommended for foreign buyers. They guide you through the complicated paperwork, check that due diligence is done on the property, and oversee all loan documents to make the transaction proceed correctly and legally.
Buying Property in Singapore Calculator
To get a rough idea of your total investment, use a buying property in Singapore calculator to factor in:
Purchase price
BSD & ABSD
Legal and admin fees
Downpayment (cash)
Renovation & furnishing (if applicable)
A good calculator will help you understand the true cost of buying a home in Singapore and prepare your finances accordingly.
What If You're Single and Buying a House in Singapore?
Being single and buying a house in Singapore is entirely possible, even if you're a foreigner. However, there are specific rules to keep in mind depending on your residency status.
Foreigners are not allowed to purchase HDB flats (public housing) unless they are Permanent Residents (PRs) who meet strict eligibility criteria. This means your best option is buying private property, such as a condominium.
You can freely buy a private condo as long as you meet the financial requirements. However, banks in Singapore may impose stricter income verification and credit checks for single applicants, especially those without a local income history.
If you're a single foreign professional, consider purchasing a smaller condo unit in areas known for high rental yield or strong long-term capital appreciation. This ensures both affordability and investment value in the long run.
Conclusion: Work With an Introducer You Can Trust
So, how do you buy property in Singapore as a foreigner in 2025? It comes down to three things:
Knowing the regulations and taxes
Having the funding and downpayment ready
Partnering with an expert in local property laws and market trends
At Ascendant Globalcredit Group, we’re more than just licensed property agents — we’re Singapore’s only Introducer-backed rebate platform. That means you get expert service and money back on agent commissions after your deal closes.
If you're considering buying or selling property in Singapore, contact us today to learn how much you could save with our Agent Rebate Program.