Asked by
We are husband and wife age 47 and 49 years old who currently owns own 5 room HDB. My HDB is a 5 room flat that was built in 1984. Its approximate current value is around $650k. My concern is that our flat is getting old and I am afraid that when we are 60 to 65 years old, the flat lease decay issue will be surfacing and at the age we are not able to take any loans from the bank. There is also no clear indication from the government on what will happen to these old flats when their lease is up. What are my current options?

1) Sell my current flat and buy a 5 room flat in a prime estate that is less than 15 years old. When I reach my retirement age at 60-65, I can still sell my flat as it would still have value with 70 years left on its 99 year lease.

2) Sell my current flat and buy condo with 3 bedrooms further away from prime area.

3) Continue to stay in my current flat and downgrade when I reach 65 years old but our property could may well be lesser in value because of the age of property.

We are not eligible for the BTO and EC.
0
252 views
Want this question answered?
Get faster responses from our experts by upvoting.
Be the first to upvote this question.

9 Answers

Dear sir and madam,

Have you worked out on the numbers for example, once you sold at $650k, what will be your sales proceeds like?

On top of that what are your available funds for use in terms of cash on hand after the sale (including the cash proceeds) as well as CPF funds available after all CPF monies from the current flat that are refunded to your CPF account including the accrued interest?

These numbers, including the amount you can loan and the number of years you can loan will matter alot when it come to your decision.

While lease decay is a genuine concern, I have to say that not all old houses cannot be sold. Unless you are looking only into the dollars and cents when it comes to value, then it is definitely the right time to before lease decay further and go into a newer property as much as possible. A consideration of private condo upgrade may also be wise given that condo tend to hold better value as compared to HDB, and you will enjoy a better lifestyle with facilities in the development.

The answer you are looking for will also depend on your family lifestyle. Do you have any children who may prefer the facilities that come with the private development?

Let us know how we can assist you further, perhaps in terms of priorities perhaps.

——

I have been in the real estate business since 2009, with more than 14 years of experience serving the Singapore real estate market.

I am very active in the residential segment of Singapore real estate market, having transacted hundreds of deals from HDBs to private condominiums and landed properties in Singapore, and have handled many unique cases in sales and purchases as well as rental deals.

Over the years, I have also established a network reaching out to more than 9,400 expatriates, bringing my market presence to both in and outside of Singapore. This has created an additional exposure when I manage my client's portfolios, on top of the conventional on and offline platforms, where other estate agents are relying on. This has allowed me to consistently convert leads into results.

With an evolving market, where change is the only constant, I have also been investing in upgrading of my knowledge and skills sets to improve myself and meet the demands of current and future market.

We are offering our clients a complimentary first consultation without obligations (Absolutely FREE!). Schedule for your FREE session today!

Warmest regards,
Geryl Lim
Senior Division Associate Director
Email: geryl.lim@orangetee.com / geryl7772@gmail.com
OrangeTee & Tie Pte Ltd 430 Lorong 6 Toa Payoh #01-01 OrangeTee Building Singapore 319402
Estate Agent Licence No. L3009250K
 +65 92787772 
www.geryllim.com

My self introductory video on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S_2NydENfx0

-----

Note: We value your home as much as you do! Find out the indicative value of your home at http://bit.ly/UrHomeMatters and get monthly update on your home value. Restructure your portfolio with us, speak to us!

Tenants can visit http://bit.ly/SGExpatRental (Official Rental Requirements - Singapore Expatriates) to indicate your rental requirements.

Visit and Like my facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/GerylLimSince2009/ - Aspiring To Be The Best Real Estate Agent In Singapore

Pick up knowledge, skills and Real Estate concepts at https://www.facebook.com/RealEstateXcellence/

New Singapore Expatriates on facebook is up and running. Come join us at https://www.facebook.com/groups/newsgexpats/

-----
Landed Dynamic Alliance
Home of *7772 Hotline
Check out our latest Landed Dynamic Alliance 7772 mobile application on iOS or Android @ http://l.ead.me/7772 Read More
1
Hi, lease decay is a concern that most people have and your unit is likely to be affected by it as well. It is good to assume that the old flats will be returned to the government upon lease expiry. While older units are not impossible to sell, it will usually take a little more time and fetch a slightly lower price than what it can fetch now. All of the options stated by you are very good and possible to be taken into consideration, however the most important thing to check in this situation is what are your plans moving forward, what lifestyle are you looking at and what are the finances you are working wih. All of these will make one option more logical than the other.

Hi, hopefully you managed to get your doubt or query answered. If so, then congrats! Hopefully you are doing well now.

If you are currently or planning to find a property agent, I can assist.

If you are interested in prices of houses in your neighbourhood, you may visit this website to find out more or contact me.

https://www.era.com.sg/R064892F

If you are currently planning to go on a property journey selling/buying/renting/investing, I can be of assistance. Do feel free to reach out to me for more queries and assistance.

Landon Chew
97 39 60 40
landonchew@email.com Read More
0
Hi,

I would be most glad to assist you further and pls feel free to let me know if you need any assistance. Have a good day ahead. By the way, while decaying lease and loan is of utmost concern to you, you may consider of an upgrade to a condo or resale EC

Regards
Aaron Chong
 9730 8455 
aaronchong2774@yahoo.com.sg Read More
0
Hi,
You have clearly highlighted your various options. It all depends on you. Honestly, when you speak to different agents, they will give you their input. For me, I will ask you what you really want to do?

Lease decay for HDB results in slow appreciation over the years. Same with private condos. However, with HDB, you are at the mercy of HDB rules and regulations. With private properties, at least the land belongs to you for a said period ie, FH, 999 or LH99, where the owners have the option of going for enbloc, upgrading etc.

So, whatever agents say, it all depends on you, now and in the future.

Please contact me so that I can be of further assistance.
Cheers!

Elan Govan
MABA (Lancaster)
 90170747 
jayelan@gmail.com
www.goodpropertiesguide.com Read More
0
Hi, appreciate your sharing. I propose to meet up and share what your next 5 to 10 years plan. Whether to stay with children or stay by yourself.
Looking forward to assist you at 9696 4398  or email me at stewartlim96964398@gmail.com

Cheers
Stewart-PropNex (Senior Associate Division Director) Read More
0
Hi Sir/Mdm,

This is the right time to consider these options because once you are above the age of 55 years old, there will be restrictions on your CPF usage and therefore you will need a higher cash outlay when doing the move.

As to whether a newer 5 room flat or a condo, my opinion is that it depends on your financial situation. If you are able to afford a condo, then it is a better option because you can benefit from the appreciation of the condo and downsize back to a HDB flat when both of you are older.

Please contact me privately so that I can assist you to assess your situation and advise you on which is the best approach moving forward.

Regards,
Nick Tan
(M) +65 96 44 48 54
B.Eng(Chemical)(Hons)(NUS) / Cert-in-REA
(E) nick96444854@gmail.com

SEAA Salespersons Achievement Platinum Award 2020/2022/2023

WhatsApp: https://wa.me/qr/X6VRPGSSIHN5D1

Visit my website to get to know me better:
www.nicktan.com.sg

I was featured recently on Council for Estate Agencies (CEA) Newsletter:
http://bit.ly/CEAnews

Testimonial from my Clients
Nick was introduced to me by a friend who learned that my previous property agent wasn’t meeting my expectations. During our first phone call, Nick quickly grasped my concerns and provided a detailed financial plan the next day. Since switching to Nick, selling my house has been much more relaxed. His virtual tour and informative fact sheet eliminated the need for my family and me to be constantly present for viewings by unsuitable buyers.
Nick was invaluable in purchasing my next property. He sourced units within my budget and analysed price trends of condo projects I was interested in. With Nick’s assistance, the buying process was seamless, and he expertly coordinated the sale of my current unit with the purchase of the next. Kudos to Nick for his outstanding service and advice!
Eileen Chen (Seller) June 2024

During Nick’s presentation to us, he showed confidence and resourcefulness. He showed us his various methods of reaching out to potential buyers instead of just relying on Propertyguru. He also saw the potential of our home to sell at our projected price. Where other agents deem impossible to achieve, he did his analysis and deems it reasonable and achievable. Nick proves trustworthy. From time to time, Nick will update us on the progress and on any viewing. He will filter buyers who could not meet our asking price and provide update and advice on the offers. We are grateful that he helps us to negotiate for a good price for our home. In summary, Nick is dedicated, resourceful, trustworthy and willing to take challenges.
Sunny Ng (Seller) April 2024

Selling our house was a pretty stressful ordeal, as we have already committed to buying our new home and hence have a timeline to meet. Losing a substantial deposit and worse still, not getting our dream home caused many sleepless nights as we are nearing our deadline. I am very glad we have decided to switch to Nick and seek his help after the dismal performance of our first agent. Not only is Nick very patient in explaining things to us, time and time again he gives us reassurance to allay our worries. And he walked his talk.
With his help, we finally managed to sell our unit at a price within our expectations, before the deadline. Nick’s service is top notch – he is knowledgeable in his field, swift to respond, easy to communicate with and extremely accommodating.
Thank you very much once again Nick, for this smooth transaction!
Judy Rong (Seller) Dec 2023 Read More
0
Here are some options to consider based on your situation:

### Current Situation:
- You own a 5-room HDB flat built in 1984, valued at approximately $650,000.
- Concerns about lease decay and potential financing challenges when you reach retirement age.

### Options:

1. **Sell and Upgrade**:
- Sell your current flat and purchase a 5-room flat in a prime estate that is less than 15 years old.
- This option provides a longer lease (around 70 years) when you reach retirement, maintaining its value.

2. **Sell and Move to a Condo**:
- Sell your current flat and buy a 3-bedroom condo further from a prime area.
- This option may offer better amenities and a longer lease, but the value could be less than a flat in a prime location.

3. **Stay and Downgrade Later**:
- Continue living in your current flat and consider downgrading when you reach 65.
- However, this may lead to lower resale value due to the age of the property.

### Additional Considerations:
- **Lease Decay**: Be aware of how lease decay may impact your property’s value in the future.
- **Market Trends**: Research the current real estate market and future developments in your desired areas.

Evaluate each option carefully to find the best fit for your future needs and financial goals.
WhatsApp me at: ABLE Toh (65) 9856-9255  or through this link.:https://wa.me/6598569255
----------------------------888--------------------------------888--------------------------->>>
"If you need more assistance with property matters:
like renting / selling, buying / or investing, I'm here to help!
WhatsApp me at: ABLE Toh (65) 9856*9255 or through this link.:https://wa.me/6598569255
(Unfortunately, this platform doesn't allow direct contact, but you can easily reach me )

(***) You can check out my reviews here: https://www.propertyguru.com.sg/agent/able-s-k-toh-61591.

For buyers, I offer solutions for sourcing resale and new private homes at no charge.

I can connect you with reputable bankers for private housing loans free of charge and with no obligation.

I also have partners to assist with mortgage home insurance matters.

Let's seal this affinity by technology; please PM me your contact for assistance with your real estate needs. So, I believe in Affinity (Chinese word: 缘份) :), let's SEAL this AFFINITY Not by blood but by Technology > Please PM, Private Message your contact so that I CAN BE (EXTRA) PAIR OF HANDS / BRAIN and LEGS to Assist you NOW or FUTURE REAL ESTATE NEEDS!

*** You can reach me at my Singapore mobile: (65) 9856 9255  or email me at Able.selling@gmail.com.

From: ABLE Toh- Your Property ASSISTANT : )
“ i am ABLE to Help As Much As You are ABLE To PM (Private Message) me ”

*** DEVELOPER SALES TEAM !!! BEST PRICES !!! NO AGENT FEES !! LOWEST PRICE GUARANTEED !!!
*** Connect Singapore Line: (65) 9856*9255
FOR : UPDATED INFO / E- BROCHURE / FLOOR PLAN / PRICE LIST !!!
*** Here are some exciting condominium launches in Singapore scheduled between June and December 2024:

> - Located at Yuan Ching Road in District 22, this 99-year leasehold development is set to preview in June 2024. Sora offers a mix of modern amenities and scenic views near Jurong Lake.
> A freehold development in District 17 at Flora Drive, set to launch in July 2024. Kassia is designed for those who appreciate luxury living in a serene environment.

> This 99-year leasehold property at Bukit Timah (District 21) is expected to launch in September 2024. It caters to families looking for prestigious schools and nature reserves nearby.

> A highly anticipated freehold development in District 2 at Anson Road, launching in Q4 2024. It combines luxury living with proximity to the Central Business District.

> Situated at Shenton Way (District 1), this 99-year leasehold project is ideal for those seeking a prime location near Marina Bay and the financial di Read More
0
Hi,

I would say 2 factors are push factors for the sale. First, as you rightly mention, is the lease decay and balance lease of your existing flat, which is already 59 years balance lease. Lease decay is not that pronounced of an issue now and buyers are able to still overlook this when making their offer, and also CPF and loan restrictions are not as restrictive since 59 + age of typical buyer still can last them until 90 to 95 years old. If you sell when balance lease is 40 - 50 years, there could be challenges to get a higher price than what you could be fetching now, which in history of HDB transactions is at an all-time high. The 2nd factor will be your age. As you near 55, there will be CPF restrictions on the available CPF you can use for the next house, which will make your next move more challenging as you need to put in more cash proceeds.

It is a good time to explore the sale now based on above 2 factors, to protect your wealth in property and also to secure your retirement in a way. Which next move makes the most sense will definite on lifestyle factors as well as funds available.

Just my 2 cents, and hope the above clarifies. I am well-versed with HDB and private property transactions, having helped more than 100 homeowners transit smoothly with their housing plans. Please reach out to me at 97432395  for a more in-depth discussion :)

May I have more info on your requirements so as to make better recommendations? Thanks and looking forward to chat more

Warm Regards,

Ivan Ng Realtor
ERA Senior Marketing Director
ERA Multiple Diamond Award Achiever

SEAA Salesperson Achievement Award (Gold)
SEAA Singapore Accredited Mortgage Planner (SAMP)

ERA Top 11th Achiever in Feb 2024 (Top 1% Company Level)
ERA Top 64th Achiever in March 2024 (Top 1% Company Level)
ERA Top 37th Achiever in Oct 2023 (Top 1% Company Level)
ERA Top 93th Achiever for Full-Year 2020 (Top 1.5% Company Level)
ERA Top 11th Achiever in June 2020 (Top 1% Company Level)

SMU BBM (Finance), Magna Cum Laude
Proactive. Sincerity. Feedback.

Contact: (+65) 97432395 
Whatsapp: wa.me/6597432395
Email: Ivanng10@gmail.com
IG: instagram.com/ivanngrealtor
WeChat: ivanng10
FB: fb.com/IvanNgRealtor
Web: ivanng10.com/clientreviews
(Client's Testimonials)
CEA: R052114D

**Note: We are not prompted when you respond here, hence please get in touch directly. Look forward to hear from you soon! **

-- HDB Toa Payoh 5-RM Sellers of Million-Dollar HDB, Mr. & Mrs Leong

We were fortunate to have met Ivan Ng. He was thorough in going through what the complicated home-selling process required of us and more so in understanding what we would like to achieve from the sale of our unit. His responsiveness and assurance, was a trait that we really appreciate. We managed to secure a sale that exceeded our expectation with Ivan’s advises. The offered price for our unit was a record set for the flats in the neighborhood. This was definitely supported by the fact that Ivan’s listing of our unit was detailed and stood out from other listings. Because of this, we also engaged Ivan's service to help us search and buy our new resale home. After some searches and viewings, we managed to secure one at a reasonable price with his help. With Ivan’s cheery and positive demeanour, selling our unit to procuring a new one, was a smooth journey for us. It was a pleasure to have worked with him.

-- HDB Yishun BTO 5-RM Sellers, Private Property Upgraders Mr. & Mrs. Koh --

I would like to express my appreciation to Ivan Ng for his excellent work. Ivan is a dedicated, client-focused, patient and sincere agent. Throughout the whole process of selling and looking for our next property, he has always acted very professionally that makes my wife and I feel at ease and assured. Ivan is not a pushy and hard sales agent. Ivan listens and understands our needs and carefully guided us through. We are fortunate to have Ivan as our agent. Thank you Ivan.

-- HDB Jurong West 5-RM Sellers, Exec Read More
0
Good day to you,

Based on the options that you have provided, it appear that you require 3 bedrooms due to your family size. Decaying lease is definitely a major concern for most Singaporean but there are HDB units with less than 50 years lease still going at good closing price.
In respect to your concern, I would sell my current 5 room flat and purchase a younger 5 room flat. This would ensure that I do not stress myself with the higher mortgage repayment, for condo purchase.

Navigate Property Decisions with Confidence

With over 15 years of experience in Singapore's residential property sales and purchase (S&P) cases, I understand the complexities involved in the process. My goal is to guide you every step of the way with clear communication, ensuring that all parties are legally represented and protected.

I offer in-depth knowledge in:
Ø Estate Planning and Distribution: Planning for the future can feel daunting. Let’s work together to create a smooth, transparent process that brings peace of mind.
Ø Divorce: Navigating property settlements during a divorce can be challenging. I provide expert guidance to help you achieve a fair and efficient outcome.
Ø And More: From Power of Attorney to navigating financial challenges, I handle various situations to address your concerns and empower you to move forward confidently.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today! Let's discuss how I can assist you in your property journey. For more informative insights, follow our short video here: https://www.youtube.com/@YourSGHomeCompass-MLnU.

Regards
Mike Lim
 96929209 
R026708F
m52i@yahoo.com Read More
0

Still looking for answers?

Get answers from PropertyGuru experts in 24 hours

Previously Asked Questions