Short answer
The Government uses stamp duties (SSD, ABSD), credit limits (TDSR, MSR, loan-to-value) and housing rules (MOP, income ceilings) to cool or support the market. Recent changes have gone both ways: tighter Executive Condo rules from 8 May 2026, then two easing steps, the removal of the 15-month wait-out for private owners buying non-subsidised HDB resale flats in late July 2026, and higher BTO and EC income ceilings from 24 August 2026. ABSD rates have been unchanged since April 2023.
The tools
- SSD: discourages quick resale.
- ABSD: discourages multiple and foreign purchases.
- TDSR / MSR: cap borrowing relative to income.
- LTV limits: raise the cash needed.
- MOP and income ceilings: shape who can buy public and EC housing.
Recent changes
| When | Change |
|---|---|
| Apr 2023 | ABSD raised for citizens' 2nd and 3rd homes, foreigners to 60% |
| 4 Jul 2025 | SSD holding period lengthened from three to four years, with rates 4 points higher in each band (16% in year 1), for homes bought on or after this date |
| 8 May 2026 | EC rules: 10-year MOP, 15-year privatisation, no DPS, 90% first-timer quota. Details |
| Late Jul 2026 | 15-month wait-out removed for private owners buying non-subsidised HDB resale flats |
| 24 Aug 2026 | BTO household income ceiling raised from S$14,000 to S$16,000; EC ceiling from S$16,000 to S$18,000 |
Sources to check
Frequently asked questions
Will ABSD be removed?
There has been no announcement to remove it as of 4 Oct 2026. The 2026 easing steps (the wait-out removal and the higher income ceilings) did not change ABSD rates.