2024 HDB Resale Review: Sustained Growth Despite Moderation

The HDB resale market in 2024 demonstrated remarkable resilience, with resale prices increasing by 9.7% for the year, nearly double the 4.9% growth recorded in 2023. However, the fourth quarter (4Q2024) showed signs of moderation, with a quarterly price increase of 2.6%, slightly below the 2.7% seen in the third quarter. This moderation is a reflection of a more balanced market as cooling measures and other factors influenced buying activity.

Key Drivers of Price Growth

The robust growth in resale prices was primarily driven by the limited supply of flats reaching their Minimum Occupation Period (MOP) in 2024, creating upward pressure on prices. Buyers showed strong interest in newer flats and larger units, such as five-room and executive flats, which cater to the needs of growing families. Executive flats experienced the most significant transaction growth, increasing by 17.6% year-on-year to 1,820 units. This reflects a growing preference for spacious homes amid limited supply.

Resale Volumes and Trends

While resale transactions in 4Q2024 moderated to 6,424 flats, down from 8,142 in 3Q2024, the overall resale volume for 2024 reached 28,986 flats, marking an 8.4% year-on-year increase. This was the highest annual volume since 2021, driven by demand for flats nearing their MOP and larger flat types. Seasonal factors, such as the year-end holiday lull and the October BTO exercise introducing Standard, Plus, and Prime flats, likely contributed to the softer activity in 4Q2024.

Despite the moderation in million-dollar transactions due to cooling measures, the market remained resilient. A total of 1,035 million-dollar resale flats were sold in 2024, more than doubling the 469 transactions in 2023. This underscores the sustained demand for flats with unique attributes, even amid regulatory changes.

Outlook for 2025

In summary, the HDB resale market remains robust despite short-term challenges, with sustained demand for larger units and innovative solutions addressing supply constraints. The strategic mix of immediate and long-term housing options positions Singapore’s public housing landscape for stability and growth in 2025.

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Prepared By:

Mohan Sandrasegeran

Head of Research & Data Analytics

Email: mohan@sri.com.sg