HDB launches over 4,500 BTO flats across 5 projects

The May 2022 BTO exercise features two projects under the Prime Location Public Housing model.

More than 4,500 build-to-order (BTO) flats across five projects were launched in the May 2022 exercise, the Housing and Development Board (HDB) reported. 

The five projects include mature and non-mature estates in Bukit Merah, Queenstown, Toa Payoh, Jurong West, and Yishun. 

According to real estate agency OrangeTee & Tie the May 2022 BTO exercise is particularly attractive as the projects are either within walking distance to an MRT station or surrounded by amenities. 

“As prices of private homes continue to rise, more Singaporeans may turn to BTO flats, especially the PLH (Prime Location Public Housing) model flats despite their longer completion periods and selling restrictions under the PLH model,” OrangeTee noted.

“To cash strapped buyers or those with limited financial support from families, the BTO route may be the most affordable or viable option to own a home in a prime location.”

The May 2022 exercise also featured two projects, Bukit Merah Ridge and Ghim Moh Ascent in Queenstown, under the Prime Location Public Housing (PLH) model. 

“Competition will likely be the stiffest for the BTO PLH flats in Bukit Merah and Queenstown owing to their location near the city, which will appeal to those who want to be closer to parents living around the area as well as those who work in the central business district - being just a few MRT stops from Raffles Place and City Hall,” Ismail Gafoor, CEO of PropNex Realty, said. 

On top of the 4,500 BTO flats, 1,952 Sale of Balance units were also offered, bringing the total number of flats launched to 6,535. 

After the May exercise, the HDB will also over about 4,900 BTO flats located in Ang Mo Kio, Bukit Merah, Choa Chu Kang, Jurong East, Tampines, and Woodlands in August. 

Another 9,500 flats in Bukit Batok, Kallang Whampoa, Queenstown, and Yishun will also be offered in November.