HDB resale prices dip for third straight quarter, even after lifting of 15-month wait-out period

SINGAPORE - Prices of Housing Board resale flats dropped for the third straight quarter, even after a cooling measure imposed on private property downgraders was lifted.

Early estimates published on Oct 1 showed that HDB resale prices fell by 0.2 per cent. Prices dipped 0.1 per cent in the first quarter - the first time in close to seven years - followed by 0.3 per cent in the second quarter.

There were 7,528 transactions in the third quarter of 2026, up 5.2 per cent from 7,157 units in the same period in 2025.

HDB said it has not seen a significant increase in the prices and number of resale flats purchased by private property downgraders following the lifting of the 15-month wait-out period on July 28.

“Nonetheless, we will continue to monitor the resale market,” it said.

Introduced in September 2022, the 15-month wait-out period was aimed at curbing demand from cash-rich private homeowners looking to buy a resale HDB flat.

National Development Minister Chee Hong Tat rules were eased because market conditions have improved and HDB resale prices have moderated significantly.

HDB said the macroeconomic outlook remains highly uncertain, and advised households to exercise prudence when purchasing property and taking out mortgage loans.

“The Government will continue to monitor the property market closely and adjust its policies as necessary to promote a stable and sustainable property market,” it added.

In November, HDB will roll out about 7,960 flats in Bedok, Geylang, Sembawang, Tengah, Toa Payoh and Yishun.

Assisted living flats, also known as community care apartments, will also be offered in Toa Payoh. These flats come with senior-friendly fittings, such as wheelchair-accessible bathrooms and other health and community services.

Isabelle Liew is a journalist at The Straits Times. She covers housing issues in Singapore, with a focus on public housing.