Hey, 2022 Is About to Get Real Bang‑Bang!
Brace yourselves, because the Prime Location Housing (PLH) flats are heading your way, and the demand is soaring like a pizza‑delivery guy on a caffeine buzz.
Why Your Calendar Should Be Marked
- PLH Arrival – These gorgeous flats are finally in the mix, making the whole housing scene a lot more exciting.
- Demand Eclipsing Supply – The market’s buzzing, and people are lining up like sheep at a farmers’ market.
- HDB’s New Aggressive Game Plan – Starting this year, the Home & Urban Development Bureau is stepping up production so that you won’t have to sell your house for a fortune just to get a new one.
Is 2022 the Time to Hit the BTO Button?
Here’s your quick checklist so you don’t skip a beat:
- Timing – 2022’s new flats + supply boost = a sweet spot for buyers.
- The Future Price Busters – HDB’s plans aim to keep resale prices from sky‑rocketing, so your budget stays in check.
- All Eyes on PLH – Prime locations are the holy grail; choose wisely.
Switch on your enthusiasm, gear up, and let 2022 bring you that dream home without the drama!
A quick note on why these aren’t complete site reviews yet:
What’s the Buzz on the Next HDB Launches?
Since May 2021, HDB swapped out the old “six‑month‑ahead” tease for a tighter three‑month preview. That means we’ll only get the big picture details a bit later, and until then it’s a bit of a guessing game on exact locations, flat types, and how many units will be on offer.
Key Things to Keep an Eye On
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Production Ramp‑Up
Both the 2022 and 2023 projects have seen a surge in production—more buildings, more flats, more chances for you to snag a new home.
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Kallang / Whampoa: Feb’s Most‑Anticipated Spotlight
Talk of the town: if you’re looking for a fresh launch in February, this hot spot is where the title is at.
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Old Airport Road: The First BTO in Almost 15 Years
After a long Mid‑Journey, the BTO launch on Old Airport Road is making headlines. Expect a lot of buzz and maybe even a “new kid on the block” vibe.
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February’s Buildout & February Towns
Four towns slated for launch in February—faster than a coffee order at a bustling hawker centre!
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May’s Grand Umbrella
Six towns will go live by May. That’s a whole marathon of new homes coming into the community.
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Looking Forward: Bukit Merah PLH
Word on the street is that Bukit Merah might be the PLH launch everyone’s talking about this year—spot the biggest splash if you catch it.
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Trend Toward Smaller Households
Mixed‑pair families and smaller households are on the rise. HDB’s upcoming projects recognise this shift, tailoring units to fit the real‑world results.
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Cost Matters After Cooling Measures
With cooling measures gone, the price tag becomes a bigger consideration for many. So keep an eye on those numbers—they’ll shape a lot of decisions.
Bottom Line
We’re looking at an intense lineup of new HDB homes across the year. Three months of early info means you’ll need to stay on your toes—but that’s the thrill of the chase. Oh, and don’t forget to bring a sense of humour; landlords, hand-over ceremonies, and the inevitable paperwork will all need a laugh along the way.
1. Production has been ramped up for 2022 and 2023
Housing Huddle: Singapore’s BTO Flat Frenzy Becomes a Real Estate Revolution
In a bold move to tame the on‑the‑edge rush for new homes, HDB has decided to crank up the BTO (Build-To-Order) supply by a whopping 35 % over 2022 and 2023. That translates to roughly 23,000 additional units—an upgrade from the 17,100 we saw last year. And for those who think that’s a stretch, the agency is cheekily hinting it could roll out as many as 100,000 new flats between 2022‑2025 if the clamor doesn’t subside.
Why The Demand Is So High…
It boils down to flooding appointments and relentless search traffic. Between 2017 and 2020, the oversubscription rates for non‑mature estates jumped from 2.1 to 4.8 times the available units. For mature estates, the numbers climbed even higher—from 2.8 to 6.7. So every year the “real estate dragon” drinks more fire.
Quick Take‑aways
- BTO units up by 35% in 2022-23
- ~23,000 new flats added this cycle
- Potential 100,000 new flats in the next four years
- Oversubscription rates skyrocketing (non‑mature: 2.1 → 4.8; mature: 2.8 → 6.7)
So if you’re on the waiting list, now’s the time to buckle up. The housing market’s wearing a lot of extra sneakers, and it’s ready to sprint into the future—hopefully with less crowding at the finish line!
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BTO — The New‑Kid on the Block, Resales — The Veteran
Stemming from the tight wildlife of the BTO market, the pounce on new flat permits is turning every first‑time buyer’s head into a little yoo‑hoo wish‑yarn. At the same time, the resale market is holding its breath, riding a golden‑rod upward to an eight‑year peak.
Why the Resale Market is Throwing a Tantrum
- Supply Myth vs Reality – Even though production is “hotter than a S’more grill,” most of those shiny new units won’t slip into the resale ring until after five years of the so‑called Minimum Occupancy Period (MOP). This delay creates a “supply snowplow” that may later drag prices down, but the urge is hidden under a Time‑Machine cover.
- First‑timers’ Jackpot – Those with a BTO badge on their palms are slated to stand at a less crowded stand. More chances, less waiting. Think of it as a VIP lounge, but with less water‑cooler talk.
- Investor’s Anxiety – For the folks who own, these steady additions could eventually make their own properties feel a bit “house‑hunting” when the market replenishes.
So What Should You Do?
Picture this: you’re a fresh‑out‑of‑ school‑house family, clutching a BTO promise, while the resale rooms are louder and pricier. If you’re looking to step into the market safely, playing the “wait‑and‑see” card with resale might be the sweet spot. But if patience seems like a weird hobby, the BTO runway could be the first wave to catch. Either way, the housing marketplace is at a crossroads — and the best path is the one that feels right for your own journey.
2. The Kallang/Whampoa launch site is the most anticipated for February
Why the Kallang/Whampoa Launch Site is the Talk of the Town in Feb 2022
Spot It, Snap It, Love It
The most talked‑about launch spot for February 2022 is Kallang/Whampoa. Picture this: you’re strolling down the intersection of King George’s Avenue and Jalan Sultan, and within a leisurely walk lies the coveted River Peaks I & II – the inaugural batch of PLH flats.
The “Across‑the‑Street” Magic
- Proximity Pays: Homes just a stone’s throw away catch the distant glow of PLH developments.
- Value Boost: Properties gracing the edges of PLH zones end up a little greener on paper.
- Neighborhood Fever: The buzz around PLH units spills over, turning adjacent rows into the next hotspot.
In short, the PLH flats act like a secret sauce—saucing up the value of neighboring properties and making Kallang/Whampoa a must‑watch playground for buyers. The excitement is real, and the crunch is on!
Kallang/Whampoa vs River Peaks: Is It a Hidden Gem or Just Another Walk?
Location Showdown
Picture this: you’re at Kallang/Whampoa and, in a Houdini‑like move, you’re only five to seven minutes away from River Peaks. The streets are short, the vibe is similar, and the traffic? Not a big deal. That’s a key perk—everything at River Peaks, from the artisanal coffee spots to the sarcastic street art, is practically in your back pocket.
The Fine Print
But here’s the twist. While both spots look alike on a map, Kallang/Whampoa has a five‑year minimum occupancy period (MOP) instead of River Peaks’ ten‑year rule. No Subsidy Recovery (SR) either, and prices might even be a tad cheaper. Current buyers are already shouting “No strings attached!” because you can skip the PLH dance steps.
Who’s Buying?
- People looking for PLH‑level perks without the heavy PLH baggage.
- First‑time buyers who see the lower MOP kicks as their ticket to freedom.
- Investors nudging their portfolios into the Kallang/Whampoa zone as a savvy move.
Bottom Line
With just 390 of those sweet 3‑room and 4‑room units, it feels like a lottery—most buyers think, “Yeah, let’s try our luck.” The anticipation is high, the promise of fewer restrictions is bright, but the numbers are tight. Whether it’s a hot ticket or a niche specialty remains to be seen, but one thing’s clear: the “walk‑and‑shop” vibe doesn’t hurt, even if the deal’s a bit more modest.
3. First BTO launch along Old Airport Road after almost 15 years
New BTO Release Streets Geylang: A Culinary Hotspot Awaits
Thought you’d have to travel far for a taste of Singapore’s legendary street food? Think again! The latest Build‑To‑Order (BTO) launch in Geylang is practically a stone’s throw from the iconic Old Airport Road Food Centre, right where Old Airport Road meets Jalan Enam. That’s, well, a pretty sweet spot for snack lovers and apartment hunters alike.
Why This Neighbourhood Is the Real Deal
- Food Heaven – From char‑coal charred satays to bowl‑fuls of noodle wonder, the food centre offers a bite for every craving.
- Street‑style Vibes – Picture bright umbrellas, bustling stalls, and the aroma of peppered fish cakes drifting through the air.
- Convenient Commute – The nearby Jalan Enam intersection means you’re never more than a min‑walk away from public transport.
- Sense of Community – A lively neighbourhood that prides itself on locals sharing stories over shared plates.
Inside the New BTO Units
While the building itself showcases sleek, modern designs, the real gem is the location’s harmony of traditional charm and contemporary living. The units are laid out to maximise natural light and airflow – a dream for anyone who appreciates high‑rise living with a peaceful, earthy feel.
What You’re Gonna Love Most
Breakfast? Check. Lunch? Check. Dinner? Check. Even a midnight snack would feel a little guilty since you’re literally next to a ten‑hour-old food center!
Bottom Line
If you’re looking to merge the comforts of a modern condo with the soul‑soaked flavours of Geylang’s famed street foods, this new BTO launch is your golden ticket. Don’t miss out on a place that offers the best of both worlds – where the smell of satay and the buzz of city life coexist in perfect harmony.
The BTO Comeback: A Fresh Kick‑off
After a long lull, the next big BTO spectacle has finally broken out of the dust. The only recent blocks around here are Pine Close (completed in 2000) and Pine Green (finished in 2005). Behind us, the ancient Blocks 93‑95 on Old Airport Road date all the way back to 1969—a real time capsule of the yesteryears.
Why This Launch is “It” (for February)
- Proximity to MRT: Dakota and Mountbatten stations sit just a five‑minute stroll from the launch site, both on the Circle Line. That means instant commutes and a casual “yes, I’ll walk to work and back” vibe.
- School‑friendly terrain: The location boasts a cluster of top‑teacher schools.
- Broadrick Secondary is right next door.
- Chung Cheng, Dunman High, and Tanjong Katong Girls’ School all fall within the priority enrolment zone.
- No rivals nearby: In contrast, the Kallang/Whampoa launch has no schools in close proximity—so this spot might outshine the competition in the parenting market.
The Numbers Game
A total of 440 units—spanning 2‑room, 3‑room, and 4‑room options—are on offer. With so much buzz, you’ll be hard‑pressed to spot an open unit. Expect the application field to be cluttered with many times the demand, probably four or five times overstated, just like always.
Bottom Line
So, if you’re looking to snap up a BTO unit that’s walk‑to‑MRT, brimming with schools, and as historic as it is modern, this launch is the place to be. Grab your notepad, lock in your finances, and get ready to race the other hopefuls—because in this market, fortune favors the fast‑footed!
4. Four towns in February, six towns in May
HDB’s Sneaker‑Speed Release: Where the Housing Hotspots Are This May
Picture this: HDB drops the exact site spots only three months before the boom‑bust of the balloting frenzy. That means we’re left with a postcard‑size snapshot of the town names for May, but nothing that tells us which block or block terrace each apartment lives in.
February’s “Rockstars” Re‑listed
- Geylang – the classic veteran hotspot.
- Kallang/Whampoa – the dynamic duo that keeps you on your toes.
- Yishun – that reliable under‑the‑radar spot.
- Tengah – the “non‑mature” finish that rounds out the list.
Got a hankering for a street that isn’t “mature”? Yishun and Tengah have you covered. If those two don’t stir up excitement, May offers a buffet.
May’s Wider Menus (Mature & Non‑Mature)
- Bukit Merah (Mature) – a classic catch‑all.
- Jurong West (Non‑mature) – the new kid on the block.
- Queenstown (Mature) – the timeless favorite.
- Tampines (Mature) – because who doesn’t love a good old family town?
- Toa Payoh (Mature) – staying true to form.
- Yishun (Non‑mature) – that hidden gem you already know.
Counting the units, the numbers have gone up dramatically: up to 5,700 new units in May, compared to the roughly 3,930 back in February. That means your chances of snagging a spot through the ballot are looking a lot brighter.
Why Tengah’s On the Backburner?
Somewhat of a plot twist: HDB decided not to push Tengah in May. That’s surprising, because Tengah has been a recurring star in every launch. Maybe it’s pulling a “wait-and-see” strategy, or perhaps the planners are refining the town’s scenery before the spotlight hits.
So grab your coffee, kick back, and watch how the housing drama unfolds. Good luck, future warden of a tiny slice of Singapore!
5. Bukit Merah might be the PLH launch of the year
HDB’s Bold One‑PLH‑Per‑Year Plan
HDB is turning its words into action – every year, a brand‑new PLH (Public‑Limited Home) will launch. It’s a straight‑ahead pledge that the next decade will be packed with new floors and fresh faces for Singlish families.
Why Bukit Merah is the Hot Spot Right Now
When you hear “smart money”, you’re looking at where the folks who understand Singapore’s housing game think the next big move will happen. That spot is Bukit Merah – a quiet, leafy corner that’s suddenly become the next arena for PLH excitement.
Why the Buzz? Here’s the Lowdown:
- Proximity to work – Many people live and work nearby, making it a perfect daily commute.
- Green surroundings – It’s surrounded by parks and nature trails, giving you the best of both worlds.
- Future potential – The area’s already slated for upgrades, so you’ll be riding the wave of new roads, better schools and closer amenities.
What You Get, If You Wait:
Imagine a sleek, modern apartment with a balcony overlooking the calm, sunset‑tinged hills – that’s
- 5‑storey luxury
- private Wi‑Fi, eco‑friendly utilities
- and a community that supports & celebrates you.
All with the assurance of a trustworthy, state‑backed housing system.
The Bottom Line
HDB’s goal isn’t just a slogan – it’s a game changer for those who are ready to step into the future. If the Bukit Merah site feels like the right fit, now’s the time to get ahead of the curve, headline your housing story, and smile at the fresh, digital cityscape you’ll now call home.
Snagging a Home in the Heart of Central Singapore
This spot sits smack‑in‑the‑middle of the Central Area – think of it as the “Goldilocks zone” for your next retreat. Grab your keys and:
- Drive, stroll, or pedal? It’s a sweet eight‑minute drive to Orchard Road, a breezy 11‑minute bike ride, and a leisurely 8–10‑min walk from Redhill MRT.
- Train‑tastic perks. Holland Village and Raffles Place are less than four stops away along the North–South Line.
Now, before you start nudging the heap of “non‑prime” likes, trust me – this place is anything but that. In terms of convenience it can stand toe‑to‑toe with the likes of River Peaks, and resale 4‑room flats in Bukit Merah are already sailing around the $740,000 mark.
Why This Plot Could Be the Jackpot
- Ever heard the saying “size is a virtue?” This plot could churn out up to 1,500 brand‑new homes, dramatically boosting your chances in the balloting fray.
- PLH may have some quirks, but if you’re not picky and can’t get in on Kallang or Whampoa this February, keeping an eye on this site is definitely worth it.
Bottom line – a few minutes of commuting, a few train stops, and a whopping 1,500 potential units. That’s a recipe for a truly prime spot, ready to serve up convenience, value, and a little slice of Singapore’s vibrant life.
6. Acknowledgement of the trend toward smaller households
Singles Decide to Build Their Own Little Home
In a refreshing change of pace, the Singaporean authorities are finally taking notice of the growing number of people who prefer to live solo or with just a partner. Instead of pushing big, stand‑up family homes, the government’s new strategy aims to launch more compact apartments suited to single–person and couple households.
Why the Shift?
- Lower birth rates – Fewer families mean less demand for traditional large flats.
- Smaller living units – With less space needed, the architecture adapts.
- Wider audience – Singles, first‑time buyers, and young couples get a seat at the table.
What Singles Are Saying
- “We’ve been left out of the housing conversation for years. Until now.
- “PLH flats weren’t built with us in mind. Adequate, but not quite exciting.”
- “Now it’s like, ‘Hey, we’re ready for a flat as big as we are.’”
How the Policy is Changing
With the latest revisions – no longer restricting PLH ownership to couples and families – singles can finally grab their own slice of the housing market. The plan also opens the door for more small but smart BTO projects that fit a single person’s lifestyle.
So if you’re a singleton or a couple looking for a clean, modern space without the overhead of a dad or mom knocking on your door, the upcoming residential wave might just be your next “home.” Stay tuned—Singapore’s housing scene is getting a whole lot more personal!
7. Cost is more of a factor for some, after cooling measures
Heads‑Up: New Cooling Measures for 2022 Homebuyers
Buying a flat in 2022? The rules on financing just got a little cooler. Here’s what you need to know without the long, boring legalese.
HDB Loans – The 85% Cutdown
- Previously, you could get up to 90% of the flat’s price from the HDB loan.
- Now it’s 85%. That means borrowers must stash at least 15% for the down payment.
- Good news: most Singaporeans usually hand over more than 15% anyway, so this change won’t shake things up much.
Bank Loans – Stay the Same
Bank‑backed deeds? No change there. The maximum you can borrow remains at 75% of the property value.
Why It Matters
Most people conduct a reality check: if you’re heading into one of those BTO flats or a resale condo, you’ll already have a larger down payment out of your own stash. Keep that spirit alive, and you’ll ride through the cooling curve with ease.
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Going Full Detail?
Check out our in‑depth reviews of new and resale condos – whether you want a private alternative or just love a good comparison.
Published by Stackedhomes – the place where your home‑buying journey gets a little less dusty and a lot more fun!
