From ‘Mature’ to ‘Plus’: Singapore revamps HDB classification

HDB flats will be classified as “Standard”, “Plus”, and “Prime” under the new model.

Singapore has determined that it’s ‘prime’ time to shake-up its system of classifying HDB flats in a bid to better moderate prices of public housing.

Speaking at the National Day Rally, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong revealed that they will be retiring the “mature” and “non-mature” nomenclature for new flats and adapting the Plus model, where estates will be classified as “Standard”, “Plus”, or “Prime.”

Lee noted how the development of towns has blurred the lines between what is considered “mature” and “non-mature.” This is reportedly reflected in BTO applications, where non-mature estates have become even more popular than non-mature estates, he noted. 

“Our solution is to introduce a new “Plus” model for selling HDB flats at choicer locations, with stricter sale conditions so that we can moderate the prices,” Lee said in his address. “As we build more projects in mature areas, this Plus model will help us to meet our three objectives: affordability, good social mix, and fairness.”

Standard flats are defined as good flats built all over the country and will have HDB’s standard subsidies and standard restrictions. 

Plus flats will be located in the choicier locations within the region, with more subsidies and tighter restrictions than Standard flats.

Prime flats are in the choicest and are located in the most central locations, and they will have the most subsidies and tightest restrictions, Lee said.

ALSO READ: New bill balances bargaining power between tenants and landlord in retail leases

Singles and seniors
The new framework will also enable single people to buy 2-room Flexi flats across all types of BTO projects (Standard, Plus, and Prime).

Under the current framework, first-timer singles can apply for new flats, but only 2-room Flexi flats and only in non-mature estates. This meant that singles were shut out from buying new Flexi flats in mature estates, and prime flats.

“More and more Singaporeans are choosing to be single. Singles too hope to own their homes and have more housing choices. We hear your concerns,” Lee said, adding that the HDB will share more details in the near future.

For seniors, Lee promised to make HDB homes and precincts more senior friendly under EASE 2.0.

ALSO READ: Wilmar’s earnings trimmed to 22% in 2023 after ‘disappointing’ H1 earnings

“Many seniors have told us that they want to live out their golden years in their own homes and neighborhoods. It is a familiar environment, a cosy sanctuary, and they have established deep roots and meaningful friendships,” Lee said.

Changes proposed include allowing seniors to have their toilet entrances widened. This expands on the EASE programme’s initial changes, which allowed seniors to install ramps and fittings that will help them get in and out of their homes safely.