Why Expats Are Choosing to Buy, Not Rent, in Singapore

In an effort to provide greater value to the expatriate community in Singapore, the Singapore Expat Association has established a strategic partnership with 65 Estates. This collaboration aims to deliver information, services, and opportunities tailored for expats who are considering property ownership in Singapore.

With the growing trend of property purchases among expats and the increasing need for trusted professional guidance, the synergy between both parties is expected to help members of the expat community make smarter, safer, and more rewarding decisions in their journey of building a home and life in Singapore.

For years, most expats in Singapore followed the same path: find a rental and settle in. Renting felt flexible and commitment-free. But times are changing. With rents soaring and property rules evolving, more expats are asking whether it’s smarter to own rather than rent.

Rising Rents vs. Building Equity

In recent years, rents in popular expat areas like Orchard, River Valley, and the East Coast have jumped 20–40%. That’s thousands of dollars gone each month without building any equity.

Mortgage repayments, by contrast, are often comparable — but instead of paying off a landlord’s property, you’re building your own asset in one of the world’s most stable markets.

The Power of Ownership

• Equity and Appreciation: Ownership means long-term value, especially in well-located private condominiums.

• Control & Stability: No more landlord restrictions, sudden moves, or unpredictable rent hikes.

• Lifestyle Anchoring: Owning turns a temporary posting into a home base, giving families and professionals a greater sense of belonging.

  
  

For expats planning to stay three to five years or longer, buying often proves more financially and emotionally rewarding than renting.

Did You Know Some Countries Do Not Need to Pay Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty?

Here’s a little-known privilege that gives some expats a huge advantage. Thanks to Singapore’s trade agreements, citizens of the following countries can buy their first residential property without paying Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD):

1. Switzerland

2. United States

3. Liechtenstein

4. Iceland

5. Norway

   
   

This exemption effectively puts them on par with Singaporeans for their first home purchase — a benefit that can save hundreds of thousands of dollars and make buying far more attractive than renting.

For eligible expats, it’s not just a perk. It’s a game-changer.

Who Should Consider Buying?

• Families with children in international schools who want long-term stability.

• Senior professionals and entrepreneurs planning a base in Asia.

• Expats from Switzerland, the US, Liechtenstein, Iceland, and Norway, who can buy their first home without ABSD.

  
  

To Sum It All Up!

The old expat playbook said “just rent.” But today’s reality tells a different story. With rents climbing and ownership offering stability, control, and even hidden privileges for some nationalities, buying in Singapore has never looked more attractive.

If you’ve only ever seen yourself as a tenant here, it may be time to rethink. For some, the best time to stop renting and start owning might be right now.

If you’d like to discuss your options with an experienced realtor in Singapore, contact Edwin from Singapore Realtors Inc at +65 98772081 or edwinwong@sri.sg. 

Or simply WhatsApp Edwin at wa.me/6598772081 (Just click the link!)

Ready to get involved? Email us today at members@expatassociation.com or join us now at https://www.expatassociation.com/join-us and be part of something meaningful.