Investing in Singapore Real Estate
Singapore offers a stable, highly regulated real estate market that attracts global investors seeking opportunities for investment, holiday homes, or retirement planning. This guide explores the key considerations for American buyers looking to enter this dynamic market, comparing costs and practicalities with the US real estate landscape.
Singapore's Housing Market
Singapore's private property market continues to show resilience in upcoming years , with prices increasing 3.33% year-over-year and 0.81% quarter-on-quarter in Q1. This represents a moderation from the double-digit growth seen in previous years, indicating a more sustainable trajectory.
Despite government cooling measures, Singapore's property market remains buoyant due to fundamental factors: limited land supply, strong foreign investment interest, and the city-state's reputation for political and economic stability.
Popular Singapore Investment Areas
Core Central Region
Orchard Road, River Valley, and Marina Bay offer luxury properties with strong expatriate appeal. Prices range from USD $2,070 – $2,590/sq ft with rental yields of 2.5-3%.
City Fringe
Bukit Timah, Tanjong Rhu, and East Coast areas provide a balance of proximity to downtown and family-friendly amenities. Properties average USD $1,400–1,860/sq ft with rental yields of 3-3.5%.
Suburbs (Outside Central Region)
Tampines, Jurong, and Woodlands offer more affordable entry points with significant growth potential due to infrastructure developments. Prices range from SGD $1,200-1,600/sq ft with rental yields of 3.5-4%.
Visa, Residency, and Citizenship
Visas
- Employment Pass (EP): For professionals with job offers in Singapore, minimum salary of ~USD $4,150/month, higher thresholds for financial roles and older applicants.
- S Pass: For mid-skilled workers, minimum salary of ~USD $2,330/month (rising to ~$2,440 in Sept 2025); higher for financial roles and older workers.
- EntrePass: For entrepreneurs launching innovative businesses; no salary requirement but must meet eligibility criteria like venture backing, IP, or incubator support.
Residency
- Permanent Residency (PR): Available to professionals, skilled workers, and entrepreneurs holding valid work passes, through Singapore’s PTS scheme.
- Global Investor Program (GIP): Grants PR to investors who invest ~USD $7.4 million in a local business or ~$18.5 million via a government-approved fund.
- Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP): For family members (spouses, children, parents) of Singapore citizens, PRs, or work pass holders, allowing extended stays.
Citizenship
- Investment Pathway: GIP permanent residents may apply for citizenship after approximately 2 years of residency.
- No Dual Citizenship: Applicants must renounce all other nationalities to become Singapore citizens.
- Citizenship Ceremony: New citizens take an oath of allegiance at a formal ceremony upon approval.
Information deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. Not intended to solicit sellers or buyers under written contract with another REALTOR®.
Steve Luther
Chief Troublemaker
CHORD Real Estate, LLC
Independently owned and operated.
Independently owned and operated.
Ashley Luther
COO/Managing Broker
CHORD Real Estate, LLC
Independently owned and operated.
Independently owned and operated.
713 18th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203