Forum: HDB’s two suggestions don’t address persistent challenges singles face in securing flats
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I thank the Housing Board for its reply “ More 2-room HDB flexi flats to meet demand from first-timer singles No success for single applying for HDB flat after 10 tries
However, I would like to address two of the suggestions it offered – namely, to apply for projects with lower application rates and to consider the resale market with grants.
First, the recommendation to choose Build-To-Order (BTO) projects in areas with lower application rates, such as Jurong West or Queenstown, may sound practical, but it does not consider the constraints that many singles face.
For some of us, our livelihoods, caregiving responsibilities or access to essential services are closely tied to specific regions.
Moving to a location simply because the application rate is lower may disrupt our lives.
Furthermore, even within those developments, the number of two-room flexi units for singles is small, and the odds remain slim.
Second, the resale market is not a feasible alternative for many singles. While HDB points out that grants of up to $115,000 are available, the reality is that resale flats – especially in mature estates – are often priced two or three times more than a comparable BTO unit.
In my case, I am eligible for only one of the three grants, making the cost gap even wider.
Even with maximum subsidies, resale flats remain out of reach for singles who earn modest incomes and do not have the benefit of dual-income households.
I hope HDB can better recognise the real-life challenges that many single applicants face – financial constraints, limited options and repeated balloting disappointments – and consider refining the system. Making the process more equitable, such as by introducing priority schemes for long-time unsuccessful applicants, would be a good start.
Tuan Ming Lee
