Nicholas Mak

In this engaging discussion, Nicholas Mak, Chief Research Officer of Mogul.sg and veteran of Singapore's real estate market, tackles the hot topic of inflated HDB resale flat prices. He examines the questionable motivations behind the recent $2 million listings, revealing the challenges they pose for buyers. With insights on market trends, he explains how buyers can identify unreasonably high prices. He also discusses the potential role of government policies in shaping demand and affording realistic options for first-time buyers.

Nicholas Mak, Chief Research Officer at Mogul.sg, and Professor Sing Tien Foo from NUS Business School dive into the surge of interest in Prime and Plus BTO flats. They highlight the impressive 35,600 applications, despite restrictions like a 10-year minimum occupancy period. The conversation explores how government strategies and the appeal of prime locations drive demand. They also touch on the complexities of clawbacks and market dynamics, revealing how pricing strategies impact both buyers and sellers in the evolving HDB landscape.

New BTO framework in Singapore, categorized as Standard, Plus, or Prime. Longer minimum occupation period (MOP) discussed. Impact on prices, affordability examined. Factors influencing flat choice, challenges in finding affordable HDB flats. Shifting mindset of homeownership and government efforts to change perception of homes as assets.