Buying a resale HDB flat in Singapore can be a rewarding journey for those who value space, location flexibility, and quicker move-in timelines compared to new BTO flats. However, the process involves several detailed steps — from financial planning to completing paperwork — that buyers must follow carefully to ensure a smooth transaction.
Whether you're a first-time buyer or upgrading from your current flat, this guide provides a comprehensive step-by-step checklist to help you navigate the process of buying a resale HDB flat in Singapore in 2025. Read more about Thomson View En Bloc Condo
Check Your Eligibility
Before starting your property search, ensure you meet HDB’s eligibility criteria. As of 2025, buyers must qualify under one of the following schemes:
- Public Scheme – For families (e.g. married couples, parents and children)
- Fiancé/Fiancée Scheme – For engaged couples planning to marry
- Single Singapore Citizen Scheme – For singles aged 35 and above
- Orphans Scheme – For orphaned siblings buying together
Additional requirements:
- At least one buyer must be a Singapore Citizen
- Household income ceiling: Typically SGD 14,000/month (can vary for grants)
- Buyers must not own or have disposed of private property in the last 30 months
Assess Your Financial Situation
Estimate your affordability before shortlisting flats.
- Use the HDB Loan Eligibility (HLE) tool if you plan to take an HDB loan
- Or get a Letter of Offer (LO) from a bank for private financing
- Factor in:
Down payment (10–25% depending on loan type)
CPF savings in your Ordinary Account (OA)
Cash savings for stamp duties and legal fees
Don’t forget these costs:
- Buyer’s Stamp Duty (BSD)
- Option Fee and Option Exercise Fee
- Legal and valuation fees
- Renovation and furnishing (if needed)
Apply for a HDB Flat Eligibility (HFE) Letter
Starting in 2023 and continuing in 2025, all resale buyers must obtain a HDB Flat Eligibility (HFE) letter before proceeding with any transaction. This replaces the earlier HLE process.
The HFE letter informs you of:
- Eligibility to buy a resale flat
- Grant eligibility (e.g., CPF Housing Grant, Enhanced Housing Grant)
- Loan eligibility (HDB loan or bank loan)
Apply for the HFE letter online at HDB’s portal using your Singpass. It may take 2–3 weeks to process, so plan ahead.
Start House Hunting
Now that you know your budget and eligibility, begin your property search:
- Browse listings on portals like PropertyGuru or 99.co
- Shortlist by location, size, floor level, condition, and amenities
- Consider:
Lease remaining (important for CPF and resale value)
Proximity to MRT, schools, and markets
Renovation needs and flat orientation
Arrange viewings and compare several flats before deciding.
Negotiate and Secure the Option to Purchase (OTP)
Once you’ve found a flat you like, negotiate the price with the seller.
To secure the flat:
- Pay an Option Fee of SGD 1 to 1,000 to the seller
- Seller grants you an Option to Purchase (OTP), valid for 21 calendar days
- Use this period to finalize your loan, complete legal checks, and exercise due diligence
Exercise the OTP
To confirm the purchase:
- Pay the Option Exercise Fee (not more than SGD 5,000 including the Option Fee)
- Engage a lawyer (HDB or private) for conveyancing
- Submit your Resale Application on the HDB portal
You and the seller must each submit your portion of the application within 7 days of each other.
Wait for HDB Processing and Approval
After submission, HDB will:
- Review your application
- Schedule appointments (if needed)
- Conduct valuation (if taking an HDB loan)
This process typically takes 8 to 10 weeks, depending on case complexity.
Sign Documents and Pay Fees
Once HDB approves the transaction:
- You’ll be notified of your Completion Appointment at the HDB Hub
- Sign legal documents (Deed of Assignment, Mortgage, etc.)
- Pay all outstanding fees:
Stamp duties
Legal fees
Remaining down payment
Resale levy (if applicable)
Collect Keys and Move In
On the completion date, you'll:
- Collect the keys from the seller at HDB
- Officially become the owner of the flat
Congratulations — you can now begin renovations and move into your new home.
Post-Purchase Considerations
After the purchase:
- Update your residential address with ICA, CPF, banks, etc.
- Purchase home insurance (e.g., fire insurance, contents insurance)
- Plan your renovation timeline and contractor selection
- Monitor your monthly mortgage payments and CPF usage
Timeline Summary:
StepDurationHFE Letter Application2–3 weeksHouse Hunting & OTP1–4 weeksOTP to Resale ApplicationUp to 21 daysHDB Processing & Approval8–10 weeksCompletion AppointmentScheduled after approval
Total Estimated Time: 3 to 4 months
Grants Available for Resale Buyers (2025)
Eligible first-time buyers may receive:
- Enhanced CPF Housing Grant (EHG): Up to SGD 80,000
- Family Grant: Up to SGD 50,000
- Proximity Housing Grant (PHG): Up to SGD 30,000
These grants are credited to your CPF OA and used to offset the purchase price.
Conclusion
Buying a resale HDB flat in Singapore can be a smooth and efficient process if you understand the steps and prepare adequately. From securing the HFE letter to managing your finances and coordinating the completion appointment, each phase requires attention to detail.
With proper planning and the right property agent or legal advisor, you'll be well on your way to securing a home that fits your lifestyle and budget in 2025.