{"id":96228,"date":"2026-06-03T12:03:34","date_gmt":"2026-06-03T04:03:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.99.co\/singapore\/insider\/?p=96228"},"modified":"2026-06-19T17:58:15","modified_gmt":"2026-06-19T09:58:15","slug":"ask-an-agent-answers-to-buying-your-first-hdb","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.99.co\/singapore\/insider\/ask-an-agent-answers-to-buying-your-first-hdb\/","title":{"rendered":"Ask an Agent: Answers to buying your first HDB"},"content":{"rendered":"
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For this edition of Ask an Agent, we focused on one of the most common topics among Singaporeans and PRs alike \u2013 buying your first HDB. From grants and down payments to resale rules and lease concerns, here are the questions that were addressed.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep an eye on 99.co\u2019s social channels, where the answers will be shared alongside the latest property insights and market trends. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

These answers were provided by Melina Yap (CEA: R029842I), who has been in the real estate industry for 17 years. <\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Financing, grants & costs <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

\u201cMy brother transferred his HDB flat to me without selling it, but I need to pay for his CPF refund. Can I take an HDB loan? Can I still use the HDB grant given in HFE?\u201d – Albert<\/em><\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

An HDB flat cannot simply be transferred from one sibling to another without going through the proper resale process. Instead, both parties will still need to follow the standard HDB resale route. Firstly, the seller must submit an Intent to Sell. After that, the buyer will need to complete the HDB Flat Eligibility (HFE) process.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The HFE is important because it clearly states whether the buyer qualifies for an HDB loan, CPF housing grants, and the loan amount they are eligible for. Eligible buyers are also generally entitled to up to two HDB loans, provided they meet the required conditions such as the income ceiling.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As for the CPF refund, the seller will still need to return the CPF monies previously used for the flat, along with the accrued interest. HDB will deduct any outstanding home loan and CPF refund amount before any sales proceeds are released.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The transaction will then proceed through the usual stages, including the Option to Purchase (OTP), valuation, exercise of the OTP, resale application, approval, and completion.<\/span><\/p><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u201cHow much would the down payment be?\u201d – Jinitha<\/em><\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The maximum loan amount for both HDB loans and bank loans is currently 75%, which means buyers will need to prepare a 25% down payment. However, the payment structure differs depending on the type of loan chosen.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

For buyers taking an HDB loan, the full 25% down payment can be paid using CPF funds. As a result, there may not be any need for upfront cash unless there is Cash Over Valuation (COV).<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

For buyers taking a bank loan, a compulsory 5% cash payment is required, while the remaining 20% can be paid using CPF funds. If CPF savings are insufficient, the shortfall will need to be topped up with cash.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Buyers should also remember to factor in any COV, since this portion must be paid fully in cash.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u201cI am planning for my first HDB purchase and would like guidance on eligibility checks, available grants and long-term suitability. Specifically, I am searching for a unit within 1km of Opera Estate Primary School.\u201d – Mrs K L Nandhini<\/em><\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The first step for any buyer should still be completing the HFE application. Once the HFE is approved, buyers will have a clearer understanding of whether they are eligible to purchase an HDB flat, the grants they qualify for, and the loan amount available to them.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As for homes located within 1km of Opera Estate Primary School, buyers will mainly be looking at HDB flats in the Chai Chee area.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to choosing a suitable flat, there is no single \u201cbest\u201d option because preferences differ from household to household. Some buyers may prioritise larger and more affordable older flats, while others may prefer newer flats with a longer remaining lease.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Couples without children may not mind purchasing older flats because these units are often more spacious and lower in price. Meanwhile, families with children may prefer newer flats so they can eventually pass the property down to the next generation.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Personal lifestyle preferences matter as well. While many buyers prefer corner units for additional privacy, some homeowners actually enjoy corridor units because they offer more opportunities for interaction with neighbours. Similarly, some buyers prioritise higher-floor units for better views and ventilation, whereas others may prefer lower floors for convenience.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n