Description of landed housing in Singapore

Landed houses in Singapore are unique in the market, representing a comfortable and luxurious lifestyle. These homes are typically single-dwelling units with their own land, thus providing more private space and green space. There are a wide variety of landed houses in Singapore, ranging from traditional black and white villas to modern design styles, meeting the living needs of different groups of people. While these types of properties often come with a higher price tag, they offer unparalleled comfort and independence, making them ideal for families and individuals seeking a high quality of life. In Singapore, owning a landed house is not only a place to live, but also a symbol of status and taste.

Singapore villa area

In Singapore, the eligibility to purchase landed property (property with land) is subject to certain restrictions, mainly based on the nationality and residency status of the buyer. According to Singapore's law, the following are the main groups that are eligible to purchase landed property:

1. Singapore Citizens: Singapore Citizens have no restrictions when buying landed properties, and they are free to purchase any type of landed property they wish.

2. Singapore Permanent Residents (PR): Singapore Permanent Residents are allowed to purchase landed properties, but they must obtain approval from the Singapore government. Typically, this requires meeting specific conditions and criteria, such as contributions or investments made in Singapore.

3. Foreigners: For foreigners, the barrier to purchasing landed properties is higher. Generally speaking, foreigners are not eligible to purchase landed properties directly. However, they can purchase them by applying for and obtaining special approval from the Singapore government. This usually requires a significant economic contribution to Singapore or other special reasons, and the approval process is strict and complex.

In summary, Singapore citizens are generally easier to purchase landed properties compared to Singapore permanent residents and foreigners, who need to meet more conditions. It is important to understand all legal requirements and procedures before purchasing.

1. Special Approval: Foreigners can apply for special approval from the Land Dealings Approval Unit (LDAU) of the Singapore Land Authority (SLA) to purchase landed properties. In this case, applicants must  prove their significant contributions to Singapore, such as contributions in the fields of economy, education, technology, or presenting a special investment plan.

2. Sentosa Cove: In Singapore, the only area that directly allows foreigners to purchase landed properties is Sentosa Cove. It is a high-end residential area located on Sentosa Island. While foreigners who wish to purchase properties here also need to obtain the aforementioned special approval, it is relatively easier to pass the review. Sentosa Cove offers a high-end seaside lifestyle and has attracted buyers from all over the world.

There are several types of landed properties in Singapore, each with its unique characteristics and charm:
1. Detached House: This is a completely independent house with no walls connecting it to other buildings. Detached houses offer the greatest privacy and space, and typically have larger land areas.

Detached House  Source :THE BUSINESS TIMES

2. Semi-Detached House: A semi-detached house is a type of housing where two houses share a wall. Each house still has a larger private space and is an option between independent and terrace houses.

3. Terrace House: A terrace house is a series of closely connected houses, where each house is connected to both sides of other houses, but each unit still has its own entrance and backyard. It is one of the most common landed housing types in Singapore.

4. Corner Terrace: A corner terrace is a house located at the end of a terrace, usually with a larger land area and more private space. Due to its location, a corner terrace enjoys better ventilation and natural light.

5. Bungalow: In Singapore, a bungalow refers to a standalone, single-family home that typically has one to three storeys. These residences offer spacious living areas, privacy, and larger surrounding greenery.

Bungalow Source :THE BUSINESS TIMES

6. Black and White Bungalow: This is a type of colonial-era housing unique to Singapore, known for its distinctive black-and-white appearance and tropical-style design. These bungalows typically feature spacious indoor and outdoor living spaces and are located on lots surrounded by lush greenery.

7. Cluster Housing: Cluster housing is a form of housing that lies between landed housing and apartments, offering independent or semi-independent housing while also enjoying apartment-style shared facilities such as swimming pools, gyms, and security services.

Cluster Housing Source :THE BUSINESS TIMES

8. Condominium Townhouse: "Townhouse" is generally used to refer to a medium-density residential type that combines the features of a detached house and some condominium features. They are usually a row of connected houses, with each unit having a separate entrance and multiple floors, and may include its own small courtyard or garden. Townhouse units also typically provide some shared facilities such as a swimming pool, gym, and playground, which are maintained by the management organization and for which residents pay a certain management fee.

9. Good Class Bungalow (GCB): Luxurious detached houses located in designated Good Class Bungalow residential areas in Singapore, these houses have large land areas and strict planning restrictions, making them one of the most prestigious residential types in Singapore.
There are specific advantages and target buyer groups for each type of landed property in Singapore, ranging from families seeking independence and privacy to individuals who prefer community living and shared facilities. The residential market in Singapore offers a wide range of choices for buyers with different needs.