Hello Jason,
There are a few parts to your question, and beyond that, there is a very improtant fact to note at the end of this answer thread, I'll start with the answers.
1. Yes there is a fundamental difference between leasehold and freehold properties. Off hand it is a distinction between property ownership, and renting of property. Having said that, the key lies in its implication. Historically, leasehold properties tend to get hit more by economic shocks whereas freehold properties tend to be more resilient, thus if you are looking for a stable safe investment, freehold land is the way to go.
2. As a foreigner, you are restricted to owning apartments and condominiums, the only place that foreigners can own landed property is in Sentosa. HDB is public housing, thus to qualify for that you will need to be a citizen or a PR.
3. Different properties. Even within freehold and leasehold, many properties behave differencely due to their location, or inherent characteristics, thus some locations like Marine Parade, have 99 leasehold land whose properties defy all expectations on leasehold property.
Lastly, your advisor. As you've seen in this thread, many realtors will say different things, it is then up to you to decide which gives the better and sound advice, the more knowledgable, and the more willing to share.
Good luck with your investments Joe, feel free to contact me for more details.
Your Singapore Condo Specialist Team,
Mervin Tang
Senior Marketing Associates
Developer's Appointed Agency
Huttons Real Estate Group
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