If your dream apartment includes swimming pools and gyms but the high private home prices are too steep for your budget, an executive condo (EC) might be an affordable solution for you. Just be sure to do your research first before making any commitment.
Since ECs are still considered public housing from their inception, they must abide by HDB rules in the first ten years – this means observing a Minimum Occupancy Period before selling or renting your property.
1. Lower Upfront Costs
ECs are incredibly popular among Singapore’s “sandwich class”, who find private condos too costly and HDB flats too basic. Subsidised by the government, these affordable hybrid developments offer a viable middle ground between public housing and private condominiums.
One of the primary advantages of owning an EC is its reduced upfront costs compared to private condominiums; they tend to be up to 20% cheaper and may even qualify for CPF housing grants.
One reason ECs offer low upfront costs is due to their shorter lease agreements compared with private condos. After 10 years, your EC will become privatised and you can sell it on the open market without meeting income and citizenship criteria – examples being Copen Grand at Tengah and Tenet at Tampines which have proven popular sellers.
2. Amenities
If you are upgrading from a BTO flat, an Executive Condo (EC) may be your perfect solution. Offering prices that fall somewhere between that of resale HDB flats and private condos, these properties have proven increasingly popular among would-be homeowners.
Our community here is diverse, featuring Chinese, Indian and Western expats alike. There are lots of children aged from babies up to teens – making play dates an easy reality!
Facilities at our location are incredible; with a large gym, a stunning pool with island chill-out area and three temperature spa pools (three temperature spa pools are also provided), tennis courts, a function room/bar offering stunning views, as well as quiet and leafy surroundings featuring many well-maintained green spaces – we are within close proximity to bus stops as well as being just steps from an MRT station for added convenience! Fantastic value!
3. Potential for Appreciation
ECs provide buyers with an opportunity for capital appreciation when located in favorable areas, while also offering similar amenities as private condominiums such as gyms, swimming pools and tennis courts – making them an attractive investment option for those seeking to build wealth through real estate.
New ECs are generally more cost-effective than private condos due to government subsidies; making them an attractive choice for HDB upgraders seeking rental income and capital appreciation.
However, when considering purchasing an EC unit, buyers should not base their decision solely on price alone. They should take into account other aspects such as eligibility criteria for CPF housing grants, lifestyle benefits and potential new developments like Copen Grand EC Smart Home developments as they make up an informed decision.
4. Convenience
For those looking for a luxurious lifestyle without paying high condo prices, Executive Condominiums (ECs) provide an economical option. Constructed by private developers but subsidised by the government, ECs have become an attractive option among middle-class Singaporeans looking for something affordable yet luxurious. Before purchasing an EC, make sure your eligibility meets minimum income requirements before buying one.
Note that ECs remain public properties for their first five years of ownership, making them subject to HDB rules such as renting or selling until that period has elapsed. You’ll also need to meet MOP criteria.
5. Location
ECs can be an ideal investment vehicle for people more focused on investment than home ownership, but before making your purchase decision it’s essential that you determine if they are suitable.
Kranji Singapore stands out for its lush greenery and nature lovers alike, drawing many into its picturesque confines. Additionally, this district contains historic sites like Kranji Reservoir Park and a war memorial.
An executive condominium (EC), also known as hybrid or transitional housing, provides an intermediate solution between public and private housing options for “sandwich class” earners who fall between qualifying for HDB flats but unable to afford private condos. They feature similar amenities as private condos but may be sold on the open market once their minimum occupancy period expires.