Tag Archives: HDB News

Are homes affordable?

Posted on 27 Sep 2009 | Comments Off on Are homes affordable?

About a year ago, in a special report, I waded into the debate over the affordability of public flats.
The prices of Pinnacle@Duxton’s five-room units, which hit $645,000, sparked the debate on the affordability of Singapore’s public flats. — ST PHOTO: CHEW SENG KIM

The issue had been sparked by the relaunch of Pinnacle @ Duxton last September. With prices of its five-room units reaching $645,000, the Pinnacle has become Singapore’s costliest public housing project.

At that time as well, condo-style flats under the HDB’s Design, Build, and Sell Scheme (DBSS) were going for over $700,000 for the bigger units.

Indignant home buyers flooded The Straits Times Forum with letters on what they saw as an ‘upwards price spiral’ of HDB flats. Netizens also weighed in. Continue reading →

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18 failed attempts to get an HDB flat

Posted on 27 Sep 2009 | 1 comment

With reference to the report, ‘Flat-hunters feeling COV pinch’ (Sept 13), here is my story.

My wife and I registered our marriage in late 2001 but have yet to hold our customary wedding as we have been unsuccessful in our numerous attempts – around 18 times since 2001 – to get an HDB flat.

Over seven years, we had spent much time, effort and money in applying for a flat under various Housing Board schemes, such as the walk-in selection, balloting exercise and build-to-order scheme.

We have also approached our Members of Parliament for help, and written to the HDB to give our feedback.

All those unsuccessful HDB applications have left us poorer and emotionally drained.

Many people can’t believe we still can’t get a flat after so many years and so many applications.

We can only say that we have rotten luck. Continue reading →

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