18/11/2021
HDB announced the launch of 4,501 flats under Nov 2021 BTO exercise. Of interest is the additional subsidy HDB is offering for buyers of PLH flats and the clawback subsidy.
Looking at the price of Rochor flats, they are priced very similar to the BTO flats at Kallang. HDB has already adjusted the prices to take into account the additional subsidies but they did not want to reveal the actual subsidy. The PLH 4-room flats are also smaller than the usual 90 sq m.
The BTO exercise at Telok Blangah in May 2021 starts from $602,000 for a 4-room flat. The Rochor 4-room flats are priced from $582,000 which is $20,000 lower. The additional subsidies may be more than $20,000 if we account for time, differences in location, and smaller flat size.
It is difficult to say whether the clawback subsidy is fair since there is no precedent. We did a simple comparison on what buyers might have to pay back to HDB when they sell 16 years (construction period 71 months and 10 years MOP) down the road.
If the future selling price for a 4-room flat is $1 million, with a clawback subsidy of 6%, sellers will have to pay back $60,000 to HDB. This amount appears to be almost similar to the additional subsidy HDB is giving upfront to buyers.
Resale Price of $1.0 million
Clawback Subsidy Percentage of 6%
Clawback $60,000
Based on the assumption of the lowest-priced flat at $582,000 and a resale price of $1 million
Nevertheless, we expect a good response to the Rochor PLH flats. The higher price, smaller flat size, and clawback subsidy are not likely to deter buyers. The application rate may range from 4 to 6 similar to past BTO exercises.
The Tengah flats may have potential in the future. Centralized cooling systems, greenery, and smart solutions may mean the homes are designed for the future. Furthermore, they are closer to the MRT station.
The Yew Tee flats for seniors may see popular demand. It is integrated with healthcare services like a polyclinic and kidney dialysis center. The community club and hawker center are all integrated. Its location right next to an MRT station means the elderly do not need to walk far or take a bus to a train station. The whole development is designed with accessibility in mind for seniors.