COMPARE
BTO vs. Resale
#1
BTO
Mostly cheaper than resale but also depends on the area.
Resale
Mostly higher than BTO price.
#2
BTO
Location depends on HDB site.
Resale
Can select exact location.
#3
BTO
3-4 years wait for new flat construction.
Resale
Available immediately for purchase based on open market.
#4
BTO
Fresh 99 year lease.
Resale
Older flat with shorter leases.
#5
BTO
Only able to estimate the unit from HDB show flat and floor plans.
Resale
Can see and touch the actual unit that you are buying.
#6
BTO
Cannot inspect the property surroundings.
Resale
Can get a feel of the neighbourhood in terms of noise level, view from windows, ventilation breeze and natural sunlight. Also possible to check for morning sun or afternoon sun.
#7
BTO
Does not qualify for proximity grant.
Resale
Qualify for proximity grant.
#8
BTO
Balloting required.
No guarantee of unit availability.
Resale
No balloting required.
#9
BTO
Subjected to income ceiling ($7000 for single).
Resale
No income ceiling.
#10
BTO
Single can only buy 2-room flexi HDB.
Resale
Single can buy all types of flats except 3-Gen flats.
#11
BTO
2-room flexi cannot be rented out during minimum occupation period.
Resale
For 3-room flats or bigger, extra bedroom(s) can be rented out immediately after buying.
#12
BTO
4 maximum occupants.
Resale
6-8 maximum occupants for 3-room flats and bigger.
#13
BTO
8-9 years before flat can be sold (3-4 construction + 5 MOP).
Resale
5 years before flat can be sold.
#14
BTO
8 years before owner can buy private property (3-4 construction + 5 MOP).
Resale
5 years before owner can buy private property.
#15
BTO
Subsidised public property.
Resale
Market price of public property.
#16
BTO
1st owner of brand new property. Little to no renovation needed.
Resale
Buying of used property. May or may not need to renovate.