15-8-2023 (SINGAPORE) The adage “third time’s the charm” took on a new meaning for bachelor Zachary Loo, who triumphantly secured a Housing and Development Board (HDB) Build-to-Order (BTO) flat ballot after a determined journey of eight attempts. Loo’s saga sheds light on the intricate process that singles in Singapore navigate to secure their own slice of affordable public housing.
At 38 years old, Loo’s journey towards housing independence was marked by seven fruitless applications for a BTO flat under the singles scheme. However, his determination and resolve bore fruit when he finally clinched a ballot on his eighth try.
Reflecting on his journey, Loo conveyed his unyielding optimism, saying, “I have never given up hope. Honestly, I expected to ballot 20 more times at least, because from what I’ve heard from other singles who are older than me, they only started seeing success in their 40s.”
The eligibility criteria for Singaporean singles seeking an HDB flat stipulate that applicants must be at least 35 years old and earn a maximum monthly income of S$7,000. Furthermore, they are required to pay an additional S$15,000 on top of the flat’s selling price. The housing options for singles are limited to 2-room flats in non-mature estates.
The application process for BTO flats involves a complex balloting system that takes into account various factors, including household status, flat type preferences, and priority schemes established by the government. Loo’s journey included an array of challenges, with his successful ballot number falling in the 800 range out of more than 1,100 available 2-room flats during the November 2022 Yishun BTO launch.
Though Loo had aspired for a unit on higher floors for better views, he acknowledged that his ballot number dictated his choices. Ultimately, he secured a unit on the ninth floor. The price range of S$84,000 to S$122,000 was within Loo’s budget, but the imposition of a S$15,000 singles premium dampened his financial gains. This premium, levied on all single BTO applicants, is refundable only if they later marry.
Loo’s perseverance was further rewarded with a housing grant of approximately S$15,000, although this was counterbalanced by the singles premium he had to pay. He highlighted the challenges faced by singles in the housing market, stating that being single is often a lifestyle choice.
Living with his parents and siblings in an HDB flat, Loo’s experience mirrors that of many Singaporeans who share living spaces due to the nation’s high cost of living. Despite these circumstances, Loo maintained his resolve, remarking, “I have already done everything from the moment I could, which was to start bidding for a BTO flat at age 35.” He expressed gratitude for his family’s understanding and support, and he had always aspired to move out on his own terms.
Loo’s attempts to secure housing were not confined to mere attempts, as he actively targeted launches in specific locations, including his native Hougang. Reflecting on his choices, he acknowledged that location played a pivotal role, noting, “For some of the launches, I felt limited by the location choices, so I didn’t bid.” He recognized the principle of supply and demand at play, urging those seeking flats to consider relocating for greater chances of success.
While Loo acknowledged the reasoning behind Singapore’s public housing policies, he expressed a wish for the government to consider lowering the minimum BTO age for singles. He mused, “The only thing that I’d maybe wish for is for HDB to consider lowering the minimum BTO age for singles to 32 years old, perhaps even 30.” Loo recognized the luxury of waiting for a flat, a privilege not shared by all singles.
