A 10-Step Guide to Buying

A HDB BTO Flat

Updated May 2024

As of 2024, HDB will hold three launches of ​Build-to-Order (BTO) every year. The first one ​has taken place in February and the next will ​be in June. The locations of the launches are ​announced about 3 months in advance.


Following is a 10-step guide outlining the ​purchasing process to help you understand ​what to anticipate.


If you find yourself confused during your ​buying process , feel free to revisit this guide. ​Remember, stick to the fundamentals! 😊

Step 1: Apply for HDB Flat Eligibility (HFE) ​Letter

The application is done on the HDB website ​and the validity for the HFE letter is 90 ​days.


The HFE will state your eligibility for,

1) the purchase of a HDB flat,

2) HDB housing loan amount,

3) housing grants.


If you intend to take your home loan from a ​bank instead of HDB, please indicate so in ​the application and you will receive an In-​Principal Approval (IPA) from the bank.

Step 2: Look Out for the Launch Date


This will be announced on HDB‘s website, ​social media and the traditional media.

Step 3: Submit your Application

  • This must be done within the launch ​period which will last for 7 days.


  • HDB will then generate a queue number ​for each application.


  • There are various priority schemes ​focusing on first-timers and families. ​You can read more about them on ​HDB’s website.

Step 4: Receive the Application ​Outcome

  • This will take about 2 months after the ​application closes.
  • If your application is successful, you will ​be invited to book a flat at the HDB ​Hub.

Step 5: Shortlist your fFlat Selection

  • The booking date is set for a minimum ​of 4 weeks from now, giving you time to ​start selecting the flat units you prefer.


  • It's advisable to shortlist around 50 ​units and prioritize them. This is ​important as the units you have in mind ​might get taken by those with lower ​queue numbers.


  • The booking process spans across ​multiple days. The HDB website offers a ​helpful feature that allows you to create ​a "watchlist" of your preferred units. ​You will receive notifications if these ​units are taken by others ahead of you ​in the queue.

Step 6: Booking Day

  • Also known as the first appointment with ​HDB. Ensure that you have all the ​required documents with you and be ​punctual.


  • Place your selection and pay the Option ​Fee (this is a part of your downpayment)

Step 7: Sign the Agreement Lease & Pay the

Downpayment

  • About 6 months after booking your flat, ​you will be invited to a second ​appointment with HDB where you will ​sign the Agreement for Lease.

Step 8: Construction Period

  • While waiting for the construction to be ​completed, you should use this time to ​set aside the finances for home ​renovation, new furniture, and other ​expected expenses that come with the ​next stage in life :)


I personally know people who did not plan ​ahead, especially when the construction ​finished earlier than expected. It turned into ​a problem when they discovered they couldn't ​afford the renovation. 😞


Step 9: Key Collection

Finally, the day has come!

The balance of the purchase will be settled ​at this stage, and the key will be handed to ​you.


If you have taken a home loan with HDB or ​a bank, the balance will be disbursed by ​the respective institution, and you will start ​paying the monthly instalment.

Step 10: Conduct Defect Checks

  • Check for any defects in your new home ​and report within 30 days from the ​collection your keys.


Congratulations on your new home!

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