Answer
Condo vs Landed in Singapore — Price, Space, and Rules
The condo vs landed decision is one of the biggest in Singapore property. Here's a clear comparison on price, space, facilities, rules, and what makes sense for different buyers.
Answer: Condos typically cost $1M–$3M and come with facilities (pool, gym, security) and low maintenance effort. Landed properties range from $3M to $10M+, offer more space and privacy, but require higher upkeep and capital. Foreigners can only buy landed in Sentosa Cove (with SLA approval). Landed makes up only ~5% of Singapore housing, making it a scarcer asset class.
Condo vs Landed — Full Comparison
| Factor | Condo | Landed |
|---|---|---|
| Price range | $1M – $3M (mass market) | $3M – $10M+ |
| Size | 600 – 1,500 sqft typical | 1,800 – 5,000+ sqft (built-up) |
| Land area | None (strata) | 1,500 – 15,000+ sqft |
| Facilities | Pool, gym, BBQ, security, tennis | None (build your own) |
| Maintenance effort | Low — condo management handles | High — you handle everything |
| Maintenance cost | $300 – $800/mo (MCST fees) | $10K – $30K/yr (self-managed) |
| Privacy | Shared walls, common areas | Full privacy, own compound |
| Foreigner eligibility | Yes (+ 60% ABSD) | Sentosa Cove only (SLA approval) |
| Appreciation (historical) | Moderate (3–5% p.a. long-term) | Higher (5–8% p.a. long-term) |
| Rental yield | 3–4% gross (OCR) | 2–3% gross |
| En bloc potential | Yes (collective sale) | No (individual asset) |
Types of Landed Property in Singapore
| Type | Description | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Terrace | Row house, shared walls on both sides | $3M – $6M |
| Semi-Detached | Shares one wall with neighbour | $5M – $10M |
| Detached / Bungalow | Standalone house, no shared walls | $8M – $20M+ |
| Good Class Bungalow (GCB) | Min 1,400 sqm land in gazetted areas | $20M – $100M+ |
| Strata Landed | Landed within a gated development (some condo features) | $2.5M – $5M |
Prices are indicative for 2026. Actual prices vary by district, land size, and condition.
Who Should Buy What?
Condo makes sense if you...
- Budget is $1M–$3M
- Want facilities (pool, gym) without managing them
- Prefer low-maintenance living
- Are a first-time upgrader from HDB
- Want rental income potential (higher yield)
- Are a foreigner or PR
Landed makes sense if you...
- Budget is $3M+ and you want long-term wealth building
- Need more space (large family, multiple generations)
- Value privacy and the ability to customise your home
- Are comfortable managing maintenance and repairs
- Want a scarce asset (only ~5% of Singapore housing is landed)
- Are a Singapore Citizen (foreigners restricted)
Foreigner Rules for Landed Property
Under the Residential Property Act, foreigners (non-citizens, non-PRs) cannot purchase landed residential property in Singapore. The only exception is Sentosa Cove, where foreigners can buy landed homes with prior approval from the Singapore Land Authority (SLA).
PRs can apply to SLA to purchase landed property but approval is not guaranteed — factors include contribution to Singapore's economy and length of residency. Singapore Citizens face no restrictions.
Crunch the numbers for your upgrade
Whether you're looking at a condo or landed, the stamp duty calculator and affordability calculator will show you the full cost picture.
FAQ
What is the average price of a condo vs landed in Singapore?
Condos typically range from $1M to $3M for a mass market unit (OCR/RCR). Landed properties start from $3M for a terrace house and go up to $10M+ for semi-detached and bungalows. Good Class Bungalows (GCBs) in prime districts can exceed $30M.
Can foreigners buy landed property in Singapore?
Foreigners generally cannot buy landed property in Singapore. The exception is Sentosa Cove, where foreigners can purchase landed homes with approval from the Singapore Land Authority (SLA). Foreigners can buy condos freely (subject to 60% ABSD).
Which appreciates more — condo or landed?
Historically, landed properties in Singapore have appreciated faster than condos over the long term, driven by land scarcity (landed makes up only ~5% of housing). However, condos in prime locations can also deliver strong returns. Landed is generally considered a better store of value.
What are the maintenance costs for landed vs condo?
Condos charge a monthly maintenance fee ($300–$800) that covers common facilities, security, and upkeep. Landed owners handle everything themselves: landscaping, exterior painting, roof repairs, pest control. Budget $10K–$30K/year for landed maintenance, more for older properties.
Is it better to buy a condo or landed in Singapore?
It depends on your priorities. Condos offer convenience (pool, gym, security, low maintenance) at a lower price point. Landed offers more space, privacy, and generally better appreciation, but requires higher capital and more upkeep. For most upgraders, a condo is the practical first step.
Related
- Stamp Duty Calculator — BSD + ABSD for any price
- Affordability Calculator — max property from your income
- Can Foreigners Buy Property in Singapore?
- Condo Maintenance Fee
- Rental Yield Singapore Condo
Last updated Feb 2026. Prices are indicative based on 2025–2026 market data. Foreigner rules per Residential Property Act. This is general information, not financial advice.