For many Singaporeans, owning a home is a key life milestone—and one of the most accessible ways to achieve that goal is through the HDB Build-To-Order (BTO) scheme. BTO flats are newly built apartments offered directly by the Housing and Development Board (HDB) at subsidised prices. However, the application process can be complex, especially for first-time buyers.
This guide will walk you through each step of the process, from checking eligibility to collecting your keys.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before applying for a BTO flat, it's crucial to determine if you meet HDB’s eligibility criteria. These conditions vary slightly depending on the scheme under which you apply, but general criteria include:
Citizenship
At least one applicant must be a Singapore Citizen.
For certain schemes, at least one other applicant must be a Singapore Permanent Resident.
Age
You must be at least 21 years old (or 35 if applying under the Singles Scheme).
Family Nucleus
You must apply with at least one other eligible family member under one of the following schemes:
Public Scheme (with spouse, children, or parents)
Fiancé/Fiancée Scheme
Single Singapore Citizen Scheme (for those aged 35 and above)
Income Ceiling
The household income ceiling varies depending on the flat type and scheme. As of 2025, most BTO projects have a monthly income ceiling of $14,000 (or $21,000 for extended families).
Property Ownership
You must not own or have disposed of any private residential property (in Singapore or overseas) within the last 30 months before the BTO application.
You must not own more than one HDB flat or Executive Condominium.
Step 2: Monitor Upcoming BTO Launches
HDB typically launches new BTO projects four times a year — in February, May, August, and November. These launches are announced on the HDB website, property portals, and official social media channels.
Each launch includes detailed information such as:
Project name and location
Flat types available (2-room Flexi, 3-room, 4-room, 5-room, etc.)
Price ranges
Estimated waiting time for completion
Nearby amenities, MRT stations, and schools
Carefully evaluate the locations and pricing to shortlist projects that meet your needs and budget.
Step 3: Submit Your BTO Application
Once you've selected your preferred project, you can submit your application online during the one-week application window via the HDB Flat Portal.
What to Prepare Before Applying:
Your Singpass login credentials
Choice of flat type and project
Personal and co-applicant details
Application Fee:
There is a non-refundable application fee of $10. You can apply for only one flat type in one town/project during each launch exercise.
It’s important to apply during the window period—late applications are not accepted.
Step 4: Wait for the Ballot Results
After the application period closes, HDB conducts a computerised ballot to determine which applicants are invited to book a flat. This process generally takes about 2 to 3 months.
Factors That Affect Your Chances:
Whether you are a first-time or second-time applicant (first-timers get priority)
Family status (families receive more priority than singles)
Proximity to parents or children under HDB priority schemes
Number of available flats and demand for the project
If successful, you will receive a queue number and be invited to book a flat. If your queue number exceeds the number of available flats, you will not be invited to book.
Step 5: Book Your Flat
If you're successful in the ballot and your queue number falls within the flat supply, you will be invited to HDB Hub to select your unit.
Documents to Bring:
NRICs of all applicants
Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.)
Latest CPF contribution history
Income documents (e.g., payslips, employer letters)
During the appointment, you can:
Choose your preferred block and unit
Opt in or out of Optional Component Scheme (for flooring, sanitary fittings, etc.)
Decide whether to take an HDB loan or bank loan
You'll need to pay the option fee upon booking:
$500 for 2-room Flexi
$1,000 for 3-room
$2,000 for 4-room and above
This fee will go toward your down payment later.
Step 6: Apply for a Housing Loan
You’ll need to secure financing before signing the Agreement for Lease.
Two Types of Loans:
HDB Concessionary Loan: Apply for the HDB Loan Eligibility (HLE) letter through the HDB Flat Portal.
Bank Loan: Get an Approval-in-Principle (AIP) from a participating bank.
Choose based on your financial situation, interest rates, and flexibility preferences.
Step 7: Sign the Agreement for Lease
Once your loan is approved, you will sign the Agreement for Lease and make the necessary payments.
What You’ll Pay at This Stage:
Down payment (10% for HDB loan, 20% for bank loan)
Legal fees and stamp duty
Any balance option fees
You can use your CPF savings and/or cash for these payments.
Step 8: Wait for the Flat to Be Built
BTO flats typically take 3 to 5 years to complete, depending on the project. During this time, you should:
Monitor the building progress via HDB updates
Prepare financially for renovation and moving costs
Plan for marriage registration if you applied under the Fiancé/Fiancée Scheme
HDB will notify you when the keys are ready for collection.
Step 9: Collect Your Keys and Move In
Once your flat is ready, you will be invited to collect the keys. At this stage:
Ensure all payments have been made
Inspect the unit and report defects (you can do this within the 1-year Defects Liability Period)
Begin your renovation process
After renovation is completed, you can move into your new home.
Conclusion
Applying for a BTO flat in Singapore may seem complicated at first, but by following the process step-by-step and preparing all necessary documents in advance, you can significantly improve your chances of a smooth and successful experience.
Planning ahead, keeping track of BTO launches, and understanding your eligibility are essential to making a smart and informed decision. With housing affordability and long-term value in mind, a BTO flat remains one of the best ways for Singaporeans to step into homeownership.
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