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HDB had to engage a massive marketing campaign to advertise on buses, marketing brochures and even a showflat in order to entice more applicants to choose The Pinnacle @ Duxton in 2004
2004
The Pinnacle @ Duxton BTO saw dismal interest from Singaporeans in 2004 when HDB launched this rare iconic BTO in Tanjong Pagar with the government hinting that there may be no more new BTOs in the CBD in future. HDB received 5,171 applications in total for the 1,848 units available at The Pinnacle @ Duxton which is less than 2.8 times oversubscription in 2004.
More than 2,500 applicants were known to have given up their chances when they were called by HDB to lock-in their preferred units at The Pinnacle @ Duxton to select from the 1,232 units of 4-room BTO flats and 616 units of 5-room BTO flats in 2004.
Prices for The Pinnacle @ Duxton BTO units in 2004 ranged from $289,200 to $380,900 for 4-room flats and $345,100 to $439,400 for 5-room flats in 2004. Based on the average prices, these BTO units are priced nearly 50% higher than the prices of older resale HDB flats at Everton Park right beside The Pinnacle @ Duxton BTO flats.
"After The Pinnacle @ Duxton achieved MOP status by end of 2015 and home owners started putting their flats in the resale market for sale, everyone was stunned when resale prices of this city area flats quickly exceeded one million dollars breaking past HDB resale records month after month in Singapore" said real estate professional Kiwi Lim from the largest private real estate agency Huttons Asia. "I believe after this, many Singaporeans start eyeing city area / city fringe HDB BTO launches and demand for such BTO launches soared."
The flats in Dakota One are walking distance from Dakota MRT station and the Old Airport Road Food Centre
2020
Home seekers made a beeline for the four-room Build-To-Order (BTO) flats in Geylang, which has one of the highest application rates in recent years - 14 times oversubscribed. As of 5pm on 18 Aug 2020, HDB announced that the largest flat type in the housing project named Dakota One saw more than 14 first-time applicants vying for each of the 334 four-room flats. These flats are within walking distance from Dakota MRT station and the famous Old Airport Road Food Centre. With Dakota MRT almost at residents’ doorsteps, residents will have direct train access to areas like Dhoby Ghaut, Botanic Gardens, Marina Bay, and Harbourfront.
2021 - 28 times oversubscription
Home seekers made a rush for the 4 room Build-to-order (BTO) flats in Telok Blangah - considered as the most expensive in HDB's sales exercise contributing to one of the highest application rates. Telok Blangah Beacon is located in the mature estate of Bukit Merah, the 70 such flats on offer attracted 3,124 applicants on the last day of May in 2021.
With an amazing 28 times oversubscription rate, only one in more than 28 first-time applicants will get a Telok Blangah Beacon BTO unit there. It was even harder for second-time applicants, with more than 412 applicants vying for each available unit. Prices for the four-room flats, which are within walking distance of Telok Blangah MRT station, range from $602,000 to $710,000. This BTO project drew such strong subscription that it exceeded Dakota One BTO flats the year before.
2021 - Prime Location Public Housing (PLH) Model
In a joint statement on Wednesday (27 Oct), the Ministry of National Development (MND) and the Housing Development Board (HDB) announced a new Prime Location Public Housing (PLH) model of HDB BTO in prime districts that aims to keep HDB flats located in prime districts affordable and inclusive to the majority of Singaporeans.
Under the new scheme, Housing Board (HDB) flats that are built in prime, central locations in Singapore from today onwards will be subjected to a 10-year minimum occupation period (MOP). Additional subsidies will be clawed back by the government upon their resale as well under the new Prime Location Public Housing (PLH) model (find out more by clicking the image above).
In November 2021, HDB tested the market by launching River Peaks I and II - the first BTO to be under the PLH Model in the city fringe location of Rochor. HDB saw a huge drop in demand to only 3 times oversubscription for the four-room flats in the first Build-To-Order (BTO) project under a new Prime Location Public Housing (PLH) model. There were 2,105 applicants vying for the 680 four-room units at the Rochor BTO project - River Peaks I and II - which is next to Jalan Besar MRT station.
2023 - Standard, Plus and Prime BTO Flats
At the National Day Rally (NDR) on 20 August 2023, Prime Minister (PM) Lee Hsien Loong announced a new classification of flats to better reflect the locational attributes of HDB’s Build-To-Order (BTO) projects. Potential homebuyers can look forward to more affordable BTO flats in attractive locations.
The distinction between mature estates and non-mature estates has blurred over the years as non-mature estates have become more built-up, with better amenities and transport infrastructure. The Government has invested heavily in these towns, and they now have excellent connectivity and a full suite of amenities.
As announced by PM Lee, HDB will introduce a new classification system from effective from 2nd Half of 2024 to differentiate future BTO projects by their locational attributes:
- Standard flats will come with the standard subsidies and standard restrictions that are applied to all BTO flats. They will continue to form the bulk of the housing supply.
- Plus flats, a new category of flats, will be in choicer locations within each region across Singapore (e.g. near MRT station, town centre). For example, Plus flats could be offered in the upcoming housing precinct in Bayshore, which is close to amenities such as MRT stations, a community club and East Coast Park. These flats will come with more subsidies and tighter restrictions, compared to the Standard BTO flats.
- Prime flats are in the choicest locations within Singapore, usually closer to the city centre. They will come with the most subsidies across the three categories, and will have the tightest conditions. These flats are currently offered under the PLH model.
The government hopes to curb million dollar flat transactions and the new restrictions for Plus and Prime flats could slow wealth accumulation as new homebuyers will be discouraged from using their BTO flats as a stepping-stone to accumulate wealth and upgrade to private property. The change is intended to reinforce the message that public housing is primarily meant to serve as a home for the long term and not to be used for speculative investments or treated as short-term assets.
Keppel BTO - Plus or Prime?
The first BTO project in the Greater Southern Waterfront is expected to be launched within the next three years, which will kickstart the transformation of the area into a mega waterfront development. This project is part of HDB flats that will be built on the 48ha site of the Keppel Club - which will be redeveloped for housing when Keppel Golf Club's lease expired on 31 Dec 2021. Another 3,000 units are expected to be private housing.
Measuring around 48 hectares – about the size of 86 football fields, this area will see about 6,000 Housing and Development Board (HDB) BTO flats built on the site of Keppel Club, with the first Build-to-Order (BTO) project expected to launch within three years as announced by the Minister for National Development Desmond Lee on 12 April 2022 (Tuesday).
Will Keppel BTO flats be launched under Plus or Prime BTO models? How will the subscription take-up rate be? Only time will tell.
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Singapore is set to experience days with peak temperatures of 40 degrees Celsius as early as 2045
Climate scientists use sophisticated climate models to simulate future scenarios based on different levels of greenhouse gas emissions. These models have consistently shown over the past 20 years a warming trend globally and projected that heat will likely soar to record levels in the future based on various comprehensive scientific assessments of climate change and global warming.
With record high temperatures observed globally and heatwaves becoming more frequent, intense, and prolonged in various region with the Arctic warming at a faster rate than the global average, leading to the loss of sea ice and contributing to changes in weather patterns, including heatwaves.
The primary cause has been identified as the increase in greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide from human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes. Heatwaves have killed dozens of people in India, where temperatures soared above 45 degrees Celsius. Parts of Europe, America, Australia, Africa, Asia have also experienced deaths from record-breaking temperatures near or past the 40-degree mark this year.
Last year, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu told parliament that Singapore is set to experience days with peak temperatures of 40 degrees Celsius as early as 2045. Already, we have matched a 40-year temperature record in May when the daily maximum temperature hit 37 degrees Celsius in Ang Mo Kio this year especially with local urban heat island effect – when natural land cover is replaced by urban surfaces that absorb and store heat.
As it get hotter for Singapore and the rest of the world with climate change making its presence felt, real estate professional Kiwi Lim believe that more Singaporeans will choose to stay in integrated private residential condo developments located above shopping malls - supermarket, childcare, eateries & amenities at their doorstep with direct access to MRT stations for the ultimate convenience without being exposed to harsh weather conditions and to avoid the damaging effect of strong UV rays.
Integrated Condo Projects
Integrated condo projects in Singapore typically refer to mixed developments that incorporate private residential condo units with other components such as commercial spaces, retail outlets, amenities and transportation hubs. These integrated condo projects aim to create a self-contained environment where residents have convenient access to various services and facilities. Below are some common features of integrated condo projects in Singapore:
- Residential Units: The integrated development includes condominiums or apartment units, offering residents a place to live within the integrated complex.
- Commercial Spaces: Integrated condo projects often feature commercial spaces, such as retail shops, restaurants, cafes, or offices. This adds convenience for residents who can access essential services and amenities without leaving the development.
- Amenities: Integrated condo residents usually get to enjoy a range of amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, parks, and communal spaces to enhance the quality of life for residents.
- Transportation Connectivity: Integrated condo projects are strategically connected with direct access to transportation hubs making it easy for residents to access public transportation, including MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) stations or bus interchanges.
- Mixed-Use Components: Beyond residential and commercial spaces, integrated condo projects might include other mixed-use components, such as hotels, offices or medical facilities.
- Green Spaces: Developers often incorporate green and landscaped areas to create a more pleasant environment within the development.
J'den offers direct access to Jurong East MRT (East-West Line & North-South Line) & upcoming Jurong Regional MRT Line
Top 12 Integrated Condo Projects in Singapore
J’den, redefining the skyline of Jurong Lake District setting a new precedent for integrated living. One where you are emboldened to realise the potential of Singapore’s next largest business district, providing broadened prospects and golden opportunities for growth. Strategically positioned near edenic lake gardens, J'den offers unrivalled lifestyle experiences with 38 levels of residences, including a sky terrace and state-of-the-art amenities, above a two-storey commercial podium. Countless conveniences extend both within and without, interweaving organically with sheltered pedestrian network J’Walk for easy access to Jurong East MRT Station, malls and more.
Project details of J'den:
Land Size: 84,023 sqft (estimated)
TOP: 2028
Tenure: 99-year leasehold from 30 Aug 2023
Developer: Capitaland Limited
Type: Condo / Apartment
Total Units: 368
Region: OCR
District: D22 - Jurong
Direct Access MRT station: Jurong East MRT (East-West Line & North-South Line) & upcoming Jurong Regional MRT Line
The Reserve Residences enjoy direct access to the Beauty World MRT (Downtown Line)
Located at the foothills of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, The Reserve Residences offers vibrant living in touch with nature within an inclusive urban centre in the rejuvenated Beauty World neighborhood. The Reserve Residences is a thoughtfully curated integrated development with transport hub that features a blend of 1- to 5-bedroom luxury residences, serviced residences, retail and public spaces. Thoughtful residence layouts maximise spatial flexibility and connect to the outdoors with seamless connection to transport networks and nature attractions. Residents will enjoy direct access to Beauty World MRT station and the upcoming bus interchange, quick connection to major expressways, and malls, eateries, schools and nature parks are just a short walk away.
Project details of The Reserve Residences:
Land Size: 322,731 sqft (estimated)
TOP: 2028
Tenure: 99-year leasehold from 29 Nov 2021
Developer: Sino Group and Far East Organisation
Type: Condo / Apartment
Total Units: 732
Region: RCR
District: D21 - Upper Bukit Timah, Clementi Park, Ulu Pandan
Direct Access MRT station: Beauty World MRT (Downtown Line)
Located at the foothills of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, The Reserve Residences offers vibrant living in touch with nature within an inclusive urban centre in the rejuvenated Beauty World neighborhood. The Reserve Residences is a thoughtfully curated integrated development with transport hub that features a blend of 1- to 5-bedroom luxury residences, serviced residences, retail and public spaces. Thoughtful residence layouts maximise spatial flexibility and connect to the outdoors with seamless connection to transport networks and nature attractions. Residents will enjoy direct access to Beauty World MRT station and the upcoming bus interchange, quick connection to major expressways, and malls, eateries, schools and nature parks are just a short walk away.
Project details of The Reserve Residences:
Land Size: 322,731 sqft (estimated)
TOP: 2028
Tenure: 99-year leasehold from 29 Nov 2021
Developer: Sino Group and Far East Organisation
Type: Condo / Apartment
Total Units: 732
Region: RCR
District: D21 - Upper Bukit Timah, Clementi Park, Ulu Pandan
Direct Access MRT station: Beauty World MRT (Downtown Line)
Sceneca Residence enjoys direct access to Tanah Merah MRT (East-West Line)
Sceneca Residence is the first and only integrated condo development with direct access to Tanah Merah MRT Interchange along the East-West Line. Built by renowned developer MCC Land, Sceneca Residence comprises of 268 private residential units ranging from 1-bedroom to 4-bedroom layouts with a shopping mall within a single development offering convenient services and amenities right at the doorstep for residents. Tanah Merah MRT Interchange offers an easy connection to Changi Airport and one stop to the Expo MRT Interchange for the Downtown MRT Line. In the near future, the East-West MRT line will be connected to the Cross Island Line at Pasir Ris Station which is only 3 stops from Tanah Merah MRT Station.
Project details of Sceneca Residence:
Land Size: 96,008 sqft (estimated)
TOP: 2027
Tenure: 99-year leasehold from 10 Feb 2021
Developer: MCC Land (Singapore) Pte Ltd
Type: Condo / Apartment
Total Units: 268
Region: OCR
District: D16 - Bedok, Upper East Coast, Eastwood, Kew Drive
Direct Access MRT station: Tanah Merah MRT (East-West Line)
Midtown Modern has direct access to Bugis MRT (East-West Line & Downtown Line)
Midtown Modern, is a transformational integrated condo project in the always-in-demand Beach Road – Bugis area with the “live, work, play” concept spread across two sites, tailored to modern, professional living. Building on GuocoLand’s success with high-end integrated developments and luxury residences, including Wallich Residence / Guoco Tower, Leedon Residence and the near sold out Martin Modern, Midtown Modern's ultra-prime area combining culture, heritage, dining, wellness and unrivalled proximity to the CBD makes it a very attractive option for homebuyers who desire prestige and convenience.
Project details of Midtown Modern:
Land Size: 124,672 sqft (estimated)
TOP: 2024
Tenure: 99-year leasehold from 10 Dec 2019
Developer: Guocoland and Hong Leong Holdings Limited
Type: Condo / Apartment
Total Units: 558
Region: CCR
District: D07 - Middle Road, Golden Mile
Direct Access MRT station: Bugis MRT (East-West Line & Downtown Line)
Midtown Modern, is a transformational integrated condo project in the always-in-demand Beach Road – Bugis area with the “live, work, play” concept spread across two sites, tailored to modern, professional living. Building on GuocoLand’s success with high-end integrated developments and luxury residences, including Wallich Residence / Guoco Tower, Leedon Residence and the near sold out Martin Modern, Midtown Modern's ultra-prime area combining culture, heritage, dining, wellness and unrivalled proximity to the CBD makes it a very attractive option for homebuyers who desire prestige and convenience.
Project details of Midtown Modern:
Land Size: 124,672 sqft (estimated)
TOP: 2024
Tenure: 99-year leasehold from 10 Dec 2019
Developer: Guocoland and Hong Leong Holdings Limited
Type: Condo / Apartment
Total Units: 558
Region: CCR
District: D07 - Middle Road, Golden Mile
Direct Access MRT station: Bugis MRT (East-West Line & Downtown Line)
CanningHill Piers enjoys direct access to Fort Canning MRT (East-West Line)
CanningHill Piers, is an iconic integrated development jointly developed by CapitaLand and City Developments Limited (CDL). There is no place quite like CanningHill Piers - on one side lies glittering Singapore River and its vibrant cafes, bars and restaurants, on the other side, the verdant tranquility of Fort Canning Hill provides the perfect foil. Beyond its unmatched position overlooking two of Singapore’s historic sites, this new luxury residence is set to be a landmark in its own right. Bearing the bold signature of lauded architectural practice Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), CanningHill Piers rises proudly above Clarke Quay and Fort Canning MRT. And as part of a transformative integrated precinct housing an inspired mix of F&B, retail, hotel and serviced residence too — truly, the very best of life is yours for the taking.
Project details of CanningHill Piers:
Land Size: 139,765 sqft (estimated)
TOP: 2024
Tenure: 99-year leasehold from 17 Sept 2021
Developer: City Developments Limited (CDL) & Capitaland Limited
Type: Condo / Apartment
Total Units: 696
Region: RCR
District: D06 - High Street, Beach Road (Part)
Direct Access MRT stations: Fort Canning MRT (East-West Line)
Pasir Ris 8 condo is a fully integrated condo in the east at Pasir Ris Central
Pasir Ris 8, the first integrated development in the heart of Pasir Ris Town. Set to be rejuvenated into a vibrant hub, the Pasir Ris town centre serves as the backdrop for the bustling development that also comprises the upcoming Pasir Ris Mall with seamless connectivity to transport hub - MRT and bus interchange, Pasir Ris polyclinic, childcare centre and Town Plaza with Heritage Garden. Close to nature with the idyllic Pasir Ris Park and Beach just minutes away, Pasir Ris 8 is a home made for coastal living with everything you desire right at your doorstep.
Project details of Pasir Ris 8:
Land Size: 327,281 sqft (estimated)
TOP: 2027
Tenure: 99-year leasehold from 5 July 2021
Developer: Allgreen Properties & Kerry Properties
Type: Condo / Apartment
Total Units: 487
Region: OCR
District: D18 - Tampines, Pasir Ris
Direct Access MRT stations: Pasir Ris MRT (East-West Line) & upcoming Cross Island MRT Line
Marina One Residences is an integrated condo project that offers city dwellers the perfect home
Marina One Residences is located in the much sought after Marina Bay area, featuring 1,042 high end luxury residential units as well as several internationally renowned retail and dining outlets. What makes Marina One Residences stand out however, is its very own biodiversity garden tropical paradise – The Green Heart, a 65,000 sqft biodiversity garden featuring a 13-metre high waterfall giving the whole development a feeling of calm and tranquility despite being located right in the centre of one of the busiest cities in the world. Marina One Residences is also connected to 4 MRT lines, while car owners will have easy access to the MCE, ECP, AYE and the KPE, giving island-wide connectivity. Marina One Residences’ close proximity to Marina South Pier also means that residents have.
Project details of Marina One Residences:
Land Size: 494,000 sqft (estimated)
TOP: 2017
Tenure: 99-year leasehold from 1 July 2011
Developer: M+S Pte Ltd
Type: Condo / Apartment
Total Units: 1042
Region: CCR
District: D01 - Raffles Place, Cecil, Marina, People's Park
Direct Access MRT stations: Marina Bay MRT - North-South Line, Circle Line & Thomson East Coast Line
Piccadilly Grand residents enjoy direct access to Farrer Park MRT (North-East Line)
Piccadilly Grand is a 99-year leasehold 407-unit 23-storey residential mixed development by established developers City Developments Limited (CDL) and MCL Land located in the Farrer Park area in District 8. Located in the city fringe, away from the hustle and bustle of city living but yet stays close enough to make travelling to and from the city centre very convenient, the neighborhood around Piccadilly Grand comes with an abundance of amenities, from hawker centres to shopping malls to schools. According to the URA Master Plan, the up and coming healthcare city in Novena and redevelopment along the Kallang River will create positive knock-on effects for those planning to live at Piccadilly Grand.
Project details of Piccadilly Grand:
Land Size: 94,419 sqft (estimated)
TOP: 2026
Tenure: 99-year leasehold from 2 Aug 2021
Developer: City Developments Limited & MCL Land
Type: Condo / Apartment
Total Units: 407
Region: RCR
District: D08 - Farrer Park
Direct Access MRT station: Farrer Park MRT (North-East Line)
The Woodleigh Residences has direct access to Woodleigh MRT (North-East Line)
The Woodleigh Residences located at Bidadari in District 13 has many shops and amenities nearby which would ease the process for residents and they do not need to go far to find what they need. The Woodleigh Residences has many charms to it with various facilities that residents can enjoy with direct access to Woodleigh MRT. The closest bus stops are located at Woodleigh Station, Singapore Power Training Institute and after Bartley Road. For those with vehicles, the shopping district located at Orchard Road can be easily accessed via Central Expressway and Bendemeer Road in 15 minutes.
Project details of The Woodleigh Residences:
Land Size: 275,064 sqft (estimated)
TOP: 2023
Tenure: 99-year leasehold from 18 Sept 2017
Developer: Kajima Development Pte Ltd & Singapore Press Holdings
Type: Condo / Apartment
Total Units: 667
Region: RCR
District: D13 - Macpherson, Braddell
Direct Access MRT stations: Woodleigh MRT (North-East Line)
Sengkang Grand Residences has direct access to Buangkok MRT (North-East Line)
Sengkang Grand Residences comprises of 680 residential units in 9 blocks and residents can enjoy full condominium facilities with 50m Lap Pool, Gymnasium, Social Function Room, and myriad pavilions and greenery landscaping beautifully curated around the development. Integrated with Buangkok MRT station, bus interchange and Sengkang Grand Shopping Mall, managed by Capitaland, residents are spoilt for choice with plenty of dining, retail, Buangkok Hawker Centre and Community Club managed by People’s Association (PA).
Project details of Sengkang Grand Residences:
Land Size: 401,012 sqft (estimated)
TOP: 2023
Tenure: 99-year leasehold from 13 Nov 2018
Developer: Frasers Centrepoint Limited (FCL)
Type: Condo / Apartment
Total Units: 680
Region: OCR
District: D19 - Serangoon, Hougang, Punggol
Direct Access MRT station: Buangkok MRT (North-East Line)
North Park Residences has direct access to Yishun MRT (North-South Line)
North Park Residences, situated in the heart of District 27, on top of Northpoint City - the largest mall in the north of Singapore, North Park Residences couldn’t be more conveniently placed. As well as the 400 retail and dining options in the mall, there is also a bus interchange, library and cinema on site, as well as Yishun MRT Station on the North South Line. A commute into the city would take 25 minutes on the MRT, and slightly less by car. North Park Residences itself has 920 residential units ranging from 1 bed units and studios, up to 5 bed units, with a wide range of configurations including dual key options for the 2 and 3 bed units. North Park Residences also has an impressive number of facilities – 88, as well as 10 themed coves and 3 gardens.
Project details of North Park Residences:
Land Size: 444,227 sqft (estimated)
TOP: 2018
Tenure: 99-year leasehold from 19 March 2015
Developer: Frasers Centrepoint Limited (FCL)
Type: Condo / Apartment
Total Units: 920
Region: OCR
District: D27 - Yishun, Sembawang
Direct Access MRT stations: Yishun MRT (North-South Line)
The Poiz Residences - direct access to Potong Pasir MRT (North-East Line)
The Poiz Residences is a mixed use 731 residential units development located in District 13 integrated with 77 retail units and 7 restaurants inside the shopping mall below. The Poiz Residences is situated right beside Potong Pasir MRT Station on the North East line giving commuters and shoppers a quick and easy journey while there are many good eateries to choose from nearby ond just 2 stops to the Serangoon Interchange where NEX is also located.
Project details of Poiz Residences:
Land Size: 106,841 sqft (estimated)
TOP: 2018
Tenure: 99-year leasehold from 17 Nov 2014
Developer: MCC Land (Singapore) Pte Ltd
Type: Condo / Apartment
Total Units: 731
Region: RCR
District: D13 - Macpherson, Braddell
Direct Access MRT station: Potong Pasir MRT (North-East Line)
Real estate professional Kiwi Lim from Huttons Asia believe that going forward, more and more homebuyers will desire the convenience that integrated condo developments offer when searching for their dream homes in the future due to their preference for work-life balance lifestyle especially with the unfair advantage over other condos in terms of seamless connectivity to transport hub like MRT and / or bus interchange, supermarket, eateries and amenities at their doorstep.
