In the third quarter of 2024, the private property market in Singapore experienced a significant upswing, driven by new project launches and increased buyer optimism. Total new home sales rose from 725 units in the second quarter to 1,160 units in the third quarter, marking a 60% quarter-on-quarter increase. This growth was largely driven by a surge in sales in the Rest of Central Region (RCR) and Outside Central Region (OCR). OCR saw the highest rise, with sales increasing by 72.7%, from 414 units in 2Q2024 to 715 units in 3Q2024. Similarly, RCR sales rose by 70%, reflecting a strong preference for suburban and strategically located properties.

Strategic launches, such as 8@BT, Kassia, and Sora, played a crucial role in driving sales. These projects offered attractive features and pricing, appealing to both homebuyers and investors. Kassia and Sora were among the top-selling projects in OCR, with median prices of $2,052 and $2,153 per square foot (psf), respectively. In the RCR, Pinetree Hill led sales with 88 units sold at a median price of $2,499 psf, highlighting the demand for well-positioned properties offering value for money.

The private property price index, however, showed a slight moderation of -0.7% in 3Q2024, compared to a 0.9% increase in the previous quarter. This decline was primarily attributed to a reduction in high-value transactions, particularly in the Core Central Region (CCR), where fewer properties priced at $10 million or above were sold. Overall, private property prices for the first nine months of 2024 increased by 1.6%, compared to a 3.9% increase during the same period in 2023.

Private resale transactions also showed positive growth, with a 1.5% increase quarter-on-quarter in 3Q2024. A total of 3,860 units were transacted, up from 3,802 units in 2Q2024. For the first nine months of 2024, resale transactions reached 10,351 units, a 21.8% year-on-year increase compared to 2023. This growth has been largely supported by HDB upgraders, who accounted for a significant portion of the transactions. The number of HDB upgraders in the private resale market increased by 20.1% year-on-year, reflecting continued interest in upgrading to private properties despite broader market uncertainties.

Looking ahead, new project launches and a favorable interest rate environment are expected to drive a strong finish for the private home sales market in 2024. The Federal Reserve’s interest rate cuts have improved buyer sentiment, leading to a renewed confidence in property investment. This optimism was evident in the success of the Norwood Grand project, which sold 84% of its units during its launch weekend. If interest rates continue to fall, affordability will improve, potentially boosting demand further.

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Prepared By: 

Mohan Sandrasegeran 

Head of Research & Data Analytics 

Email: mohan@sri.com.sg