Condo vs Apartment: Understanding the Differences in Singapore

In Singapore, there are various types of housing options available, including public housing, private housing, and executive condominiums. However, the terms “condominium” and “apartment” are often used interchangeably, leading to confusion among potential buyers or renters.

While both condos and apartments are privately-owned residential units, there are some key differences between the two. Condominiums are typically larger and more luxurious than apartments, and offer a range of amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, and security services. On the other hand, apartments tend to be smaller and more affordable, with fewer facilities and services.

It’s important to understand the differences between condos and apartments before making a decision on which type of housing to choose. In this article, we will explore the main differences between the two, and provide some tips on how to decide which option is best for your needs and budget.

Ownership

When it comes to ownership, there are a few key differences between condominiums and apartments in Singapore.

Ownership Differences

Condominiums are privately-owned buildings, whereas apartments are typically owned by a single entity, such as a corporation or individual. This means that if you purchase a condominium, you own the unit and a share in the common areas of the building. In contrast, if you rent an apartment, you do not own any part of the building.

Another key difference is that condominiums can be purchased by foreign citizens, while apartments are generally only available to Singaporeans and permanent residents. This means that if you are a foreigner looking to purchase property in Singapore, a condominium may be your best option.

Additionally, condominiums tend to have more amenities and facilities than apartments. This is because the cost of maintaining these facilities is shared among all the owners of the building. In contrast, apartments may have fewer amenities due to the fact that the cost of maintaining them falls solely on the owner of the building.

Finally, it is worth noting that public housing in Singapore, such as HDB flats, is owned by the government and leased to residents. Private housing, including condominiums and landed properties, is owned by individuals or corporations.

Facilities

Amenities

Condos in Singapore usually provide maintained private amenities that are enjoyable by their residents. These amenities include gyms, swimming pools, tennis courts, and gardens. The list goes on. These amenities can be enjoyed by the residents without having to worry about maintenance and upkeep. The amenities are usually well-maintained and kept clean by the management.

On the other hand, apartments in Singapore do not usually come with such amenities. Residents of apartments may have to pay extra to use such facilities, which are usually located outside the apartment complex. This can be a hassle for residents who want to use the facilities frequently.

Common Facilities

Condos in Singapore also usually come with common facilities that are shared by all residents. These facilities can include function rooms, BBQ pits, playgrounds, and more. These facilities are usually well-maintained and kept clean by the management. They are also a great way for residents to meet and interact with each other.

Similarly, apartments in Singapore also come with common facilities that are shared by all residents. However, the facilities in apartments are usually less generous compared to those in condos. This is because apartments are generally more affordable than condos, and therefore have fewer facilities to offer.

Eligibility

Eligibility Criteria

To purchase a private condominium or apartment in Singapore, there are certain eligibility criteria that must be met. These criteria include:

• Being a Singapore citizen, permanent resident, or a foreigner who has been granted approval to purchase property in Singapore
• Being at least 21 years old
• Not owning any other residential property in Singapore, unless certain conditions are met
• Meeting the income requirements set by the government

For executive condominiums, there are additional eligibility criteria that must be met. These include:

• Having a household income that does not exceed $16,000
• Being a Singapore citizen or permanent resident
• Not owning any other residential property in Singapore, unless certain conditions are met
• Meeting the family nucleus requirements set by the government

Affordability

Private condominiums and apartments in Singapore tend to be more expensive than HDB flats. However, there are options available for those who are looking for more affordable options. For example, 3-room flats are generally more affordable than larger flats or private properties. Executive condominiums are also designed to be more affordable for middle-income families.

Other Property Types

Singapore offers a wide range of property types for people to choose from. Apart from public housing such as HDB flats and hybrids, there are also private residential properties. These can be broadly divided into two categories: non-landed and landed. Non-landed properties include condominiums, apartments, and executive condominiums (ECs). ECs are a hybrid of public and private housing, offering the benefits of both. Landed properties include bungalows, semi-detached properties, shophouses, and terrace houses. Private residential properties come with their own set of benefits, such as privacy, exclusive facilities, and more space. If you’re looking for other property options in Singapore, there are plenty to choose from.