Foreigners Continue to Invest in Singapore’s Booming Property Market Despite a 60% Hike in ABSD!

Singapore, a bustling metropolis adorned with state-of-the-art skyscrapers and lush green parks, continues to be a favored destination for foreign investors looking to purchase property in Asia. Its resilient economy, political stability, and high-quality infrastructure make it a haven for those who seek a stable investment environment in the midst of global uncertainties.

While a recent 60% hike in the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) may lead some to believe that Singapore’s property market would take a hit from the disincentive, the truth is far from it. Foreign buyers, particularly those from mainland China, are still eagerly snapping up property in the Lion City, unfazed by the increased taxes. In this blog post, we will explore the vital factors behind this undiminished investment trend in Singapore’s real estate market, and what it could mean for prospective investors looking to stake their claim in this thriving urban landscape.

Overview of Singapore’s Property Market

Singapore’s property market has always been a popular investment choice for both local and foreign investors, owing to its stable economy, strategic location, and robust real estate policies. Despite the government’s efforts to cool the market, demand for property investments remains resilient, further fuelled by low-interest rates and the country’s status as a regional financial hub.

Recently, the Singapore government introduced a new round of cooling measures, including raising the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) for foreigners from 30% to 60%. While this may initially deter some foreign buyers from investing in the city-state’s real estate market, experts predict that the market’s attractiveness will continue to draw in ultra-rich foreigners in the long run.

Some foreign investors have already considered applying for permanent residency to benefit from the lower tax rates for Singaporean residents. Additionally, compared to other cities like Shanghai with higher property prices, Singapore remains a relatively more affordable option even with the increased ABSD rates. Ultimately, the safe and comfortable environment offered by Singapore will likely encourage foreigners to continue seeking investments within its property market despite the cooling measures in place. 

Singapore Property Prices vs. Other Countries

Singapore’s property market remains attractive to foreigners despite the recent hike in Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) to 60% for foreign buyers. In comparison to other major cities around the world, property prices in Singapore are still considered reasonable.

For example, cities like Shanghai have much higher property prices that may deter foreign investors from considering real estate investments there. In contrast, even with the 60% ABSD in place, Singapore’s property prices may seem relatively affordable to foreign buyers, making the nation’s real estate market appealing for investment.

Moreover, Singapore’s reputation as a safe, stable, and comfortable environment adds to its allure for foreign buyers looking to invest or settle down in the country. As a result, the nation’s property market continues to hold strong appeal for foreigners, despite the increased costs associated with property purchases. Amid these factors, Singapore’s property market flourishes and remains a competitive option when compared to the property markets of other countries. 

ABSD and its Effect on the Property Market

The recent hike in Singapore’s Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) has had a significant impact on the property market, particularly for foreign buyers. Despite this increase, the city-state continues to attract buyers at a steady pace. For locals, the rates have been incrementally raised, but the most significant change was the doubling of stamp duties for foreign buyers from 30% to 60%. This move aimed to moderate investment demand and ensure that housing stays within the reach of Singaporeans.

Nonetheless, foreign investors seem undeterred by the additional costs, still considering Singapore a top investment destination. The property market is witnessing an increase in luxurious condominium purchases by both foreign and permanent resident buyers, returning to pre-pandemic levels. Furthermore, the resilient demand and consistent rise in property prices have led to the implementation of cooling measures. As Singapore’s property market continues to flourish, it remains to be seen how the latest ABSD hike will affect long-term real estate trends and housing affordability for all. 

Foreigners’ Interest in Singapore’s Property Market

Despite the recent hike in Singapore’s Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) for foreign property buyers from 30% to 60%, market experts believe that foreign interest in Singapore’s property market will remain strong. In fact, Urban Redevelopment Authority data reveals that the proportion of foreign buyers has increased to 6.9% in the first quarter of 2023, up from 3.1% during the same period in the previous year.

Although the higher ABSD rate may initially discourage some foreign investors, property analysts predict that they will eventually come to terms with the change and continue investing in Singapore’s property market. Notably, Singapore is considered a very comfortable and safe environment, making it an attractive investment destination. Furthermore, compared to cities like Shanghai where property prices are much higher, Singapore’s property market may still be deemed relatively affordable, even with the increased ABSD. Overall, it appears that foreign interest in Singapore’s property market will remain robust despite the ABSD hike. 

1. Foreign buyers pay a 60% additional buyer’s stamp duty in Singapore

Despite the substantial hike in Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) rates, foreign investors continue to show interest in Singapore’s property market. In July 2018, the Singapore government increased the ABSD rate from 15% to 20% on the property’s purchase price for foreign buyers. This means that foreigners now need to pay a hefty 60% ABSD on their property investments in Singapore.

However, this increased tax has not stopped foreigners from buying properties in the region. This is due to a variety of factors, such as the country’s stable political climate, strong economy, and top-notch infrastructure. Singapore has often been seen as a safe investment destination that is relatively resistant to global economic fluctuations.

In recent years, the high demand for luxury residential properties has grown, with a significant portion being fueled by foreign buyers. Even with the additional costs associated with the property purchase, foreigners consider Singapore’s real estate to be a worthwhile and lucrative investment. As a result, the Singapore property market remains relatively robust and continues to attract buyers from all over the world.

Real estate consultants expect demand to remain strong despite the hike

Despite the recent increase in Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) for foreign buyers of residential property in Singapore, real estate consultants believe that the demand for property in the city-state will continue to be robust. The government recently doubled the ABSD for foreign buyers from 30% to 60% as a part of its cooling measures. However, experts argue that this hike will not significantly dampen demand in the long term.

One reason for the continued interest in Singapore’s property market is the safe and comfortable environment it offers to foreign investors. Some may consider applying for permanent residency ahead of their planned timeline just to be able to buy properties without the heightened ABSD rates. Moreover, even with the 60% ABSD, property prices in Singapore still compare favorably to those in other global cities such as Shanghai. Therefore, it is expected that ultra-rich foreign buyers will still consider Singapore an attractive investment destination despite the higher stamp duties. 

Foreign buyers may consider applying for permanent residency in Singapore

Contrary to expectations, the recent increase in Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) for foreign buyers, from 30% to 60%, has not discouraged them from considering property investments in Singapore. In fact, the hike is making some of them ponder applying for permanent residency in the city-state, a move that would allow them to enjoy lower property taxes.

One of the reasons behind this is that Singapore is viewed as a safe, comfortable environment, especially for ultra-rich individuals looking to safeguard their wealth. Despite the 60% ABSD rate, many foreign investors still find property prices in Singapore to be relatively more attractive compared to other cities in the region, such as Shanghai, where real estate costs are significantly higher. 

As a result, the long-term demand for property in Singapore among foreign buyers remains strong, and the increased ABSD rate is unlikely to dampen their interest in the city-state’s real estate market. 

Property market in Singapore remains attractive to foreigners as an investment

Despite the latest round of cooling measures introduced by the Singapore government, which includes a hike in the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) for foreigners from 30% to 60%, the property market in Singapore remains attractive as an investment for ultra-rich foreign buyers. This is because the city-state is seen as a safe and comfortable environment for them to settle down in, and real estate prices here remain relatively affordable in comparison to cities such as Shanghai.

Moreover, according to data by the Urban Redevelopment Authority, the proportion of foreign buyers has risen to 6.9% in the first quarter of 2023, compared to 3.1% in the same period last year. This indicates that despite the increased ABSD, demand for residential properties in Singapore by foreign investors is unlikely to be dampened in the long run. Experts, such as Aric Lim from Huttons Asia and Dr Lee Nai Jia from PropertyGuru Group, also believe that the property market in Singapore will continue to entice foreign buyers who are seeking a stable investment environment. 

ABSD rate increase aims to dampen local and foreign investment demand

The latest round of Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) rate increases in Singapore is designed to dampen both local and foreign investment demand in the property market. This is aimed at prioritizing Singaporeans who are buying homes for owner-occupation. According to National Development Minister Desmond Lee, property prices were at risk of being pushed up by investors, making it difficult for locals to purchase properties.

With the increases, the ABSD rate for foreigners buying residential property in Singapore has been raised from 30% to 60%. This significant hike may seem discouraging, but Mr. Lee explains that the government had to calibrate the rate to effectively dampen investments from abroad. Despite this increase, experts predict that the ultra-rich foreigners will continue to invest in Singapore’s property market due to the country’s safe and stable environment. This targeted approach aims to maintain a balance between supporting local property buyers and allowing investments from abroad to drive the market. 

ABSD rate doubling targets foreigners and entities

In an attempt to cool down Singapore’s property market, the government has recently announced a significant hike in the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) for foreign buyers. With the ABSD rate doubling from 30% to 60%, the government aims to target foreigners and entities that have contributed greatly to the heated property market. This move comes as a surprise to many, but it reflects the government’s dedication to maintaining affordable housing for locals while keeping property prices in line with economic fundamentals.

Despite the vast increase in levies, foreign buyers have not been deterred from Singapore’s real estate market. This may be due to a variety of factors, including the country’s stable economy, strong infrastructure, and high standard of living. It appears that the hike in ABSD rates has not dampened foreign interest in Singapore’s property market, which remains attractive even with the steeper taxes in place. 

Foreign buyers tend to purchase high-end properties in prime areas in Singapore

Foreign buyers have always been drawn to Singapore’s high-end properties in prime areas. The luxurious real estate available in these prestigious locations offers top-notch amenities, accessibility, and stunning views that appeal to affluent individuals looking for a prominent address. Singapore’s reputation for being a stable, secure, and well-connected city only adds to its allure for foreign property investors.

Despite the hefty increase in Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) to 60% for foreign buyers, demand for high-end properties in Singapore is expected to continue. Experts believe that the city-state’s property market will remain resilient as foreign buyers are willing to pay a premium for these prime properties. The enduring appeal of Singapore as an investment destination, along with its excellent infrastructure and reputable education system, is likely to keep drawing wealthy individuals to its shores. 

Ultra-wealthy foreigners may still be willing to pay for the higher ABSD rate

Despite the recent additional buyer’s stamp duty (ABSD) hike to 60% for foreign buyers in Singapore, ultra-wealthy foreigners are still expected to invest in the city-state’s property market. The increase, implemented as a cooling measure to stabilize the real estate market, may initially discourage potential investors looking to settle down in Singapore.

However, experts believe that these buyers will eventually come to terms with the changes, bite the bullet, and continue investing in the country’s property market. The robust demand is partially driven by Singapore’s reputation as a safe and comfortable environment for foreign nationals. 

Some potential buyers may even explore the option of applying for permanent residency to secure property in the city at a lower tax rate. Moreover, when compared to other major cities such as Shanghai, Singapore’s property prices, even with a 60% ABSD, may still be considered reasonable to affluent foreign investors. 

CCR condos may be most impacted by the new cooling measures

The recent increase in Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) rates has primarily targeted foreign buyers, leading to concerns that Singapore’s Core Central Region (CCR) condos may be the most impacted by these new cooling measures. Experts believe that this is due to the fact that foreign buyers tend to prefer high-end properties located in prime areas, such as CCR condos in districts 9 and 10, as well as luxurious bungalows on Sentosa Cove.

Interestingly, the CCR has experienced the slowest pace of price growth in comparison to other regions in Singapore. Over the past decade, property prices in the CCR have grown by only 25% as opposed to the more than 32% and 37% in the Rest of Central Region (RCR) and Outside Central Region (OCR) respectively. Despite the higher ABSD rates, it seems that the allure of Singapore’s property market, particularly CCR condos, remains strong for well-heeled foreign buyers looking for a safe investment option. 

The government fears a flight to safety among wealthy foreign buyers.

The Singapore government has recently expressed concerns about wealthy foreign buyers seeking a safe haven in the city-state’s property market. This follows the latest round of property cooling measures, which saw an increase in additional buyer’s stamp duties (ABSD) for foreign purchasers. Despite the ABSD rate doubling to a whopping 60%, real estate experts believe the demand from affluent foreigners will not be dampened in the long term.

In fact, some ultra-rich foreigners may even consider applying for permanent residency to continue investing in Singapore’s property market. This is primarily because Singapore is seen as a comfortable, safe environment with attractive prospects compared to other cities. While the government’s worries may persist for a while, it is clear that Singapore remains an attractive destination for discerning property investors from around the world. 

Government Measures to Ensure a Sustainable Property Market

The Singapore government has recently announced measures to ensure a sustainable property market. With increasing home prices and demand for residential properties, the authorities have taken proactive steps to prevent a potential housing bubble. One of the key changes implemented is the significant increase in Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) rates, which came into effect on April 27, 2023.

The new ABSD rates aim to manage investment demand and prioritize housing for owner-occupation. The most notable change is the doubling of stamp duties for foreign buyers from 30% to 60%, signaling the government’s intention to moderate investment demand. This measure, however, has not deterred foreign buyers, who continue to view Singapore as a top investment destination, with their luxury condo purchases almost returning to pre-pandemic levels. Even so, the government remains committed to promoting a stable and sustainable property market, ensuring that prices remain aligned with economic fundamentals and reducing the risk of an unhealthy price surge.