Policy update
The 15-month wait-out period for private property owners is removed
From 28 July 2026, private residential property owners (and former owners) can buy a non-subsidised HDB resale flat with no wait. The measure had been in place since September 2022.
What changed
Private owner buying a non-subsidised (open-market) HDB resale flat
- Before
- Wait 15 months after selling the private property
- From 28 Jul 2026
- No wait
Seniors (55+) moving to a 4-room or smaller resale flat
- Before
- Already exempt
- From 28 Jul 2026
- Still no wait (now the same as everyone)
Why now
The government's stated reason: the HDB resale market has cooled.
Resale price growth fell from 10.4% in 2022 to 2.9% in 2025.
Resale prices declined for two consecutive quarters in 2026 — the first fall in almost seven years.
The measure was introduced in Sept 2022 to slow demand; the government judged it had served its purpose.
Our read
Adds buyers to the resale market quickly — mostly downgraders with strong budgets, competing for larger flats and better locations.
If you were timing a right-size around the 15-month clock, that reason is gone; decide on space, cashflow and the CPF refund instead.
Model the move with our sale-proceeds and affordability calculators before you commit.
Published 2026-09-01