I share the sentiments of Mr Richard Chan Yong Huat regarding the HDB levy under the Build-to-Order (BTO) scheme ("Have uniform HDB levy for second BTO flat purchase"; Sept 26).

My first home with my husband was a four-room flat, bought directly from the HDB.

We then sold it so we could upgrade to a resale five-room flat to accommodate our growing family.

I inquired with the HDB in March 2013 about downgrading to a BTO flat, now that my husband and I are approaching retirement age.

I was shocked to learn that the resale levy payable would amount to about $193,000, comprising $91,350 (22.5 per cent of the resale price of my first flat sale in December 1997) and accrued interest (5 per cent a year from December 1977 to March 2013).

I also learnt that the revised levy of $40,000 payable on a four-room first flat was applicable only to those who made the application to sell their first subsidised flat on or after March 3, 2006.

The high levy has made it difficult for my husband and me to downgrade. Perhaps, the authorities could consider the predicament of those like Mr Chan and myself.

Liu Siok Ming (Madam)