As realtors, one of the most common questions we get from retirees or soon-to-retire couples is:
“We each own a private condo. Can we sell one and downgrade to an HDB flat for our retirement?”
Let’s walk through Melissa’s case, which mirrors the questions many Singaporeans have as they plan for retirement.
🧩 The Scenario
Melissa and her husband are in their 50s.
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Wife: Singapore Citizen, owns a condo, turning 55 this July.
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Husband: Singapore Permanent Resident (SPR), owns another condo, turning 55 next November.
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The wife wants to sell her condo and buy an HDB flat to downsize.
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They are wondering if:
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The husband can be listed as an occupier?
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The wife can buy an HDB alone or must form a family nucleus (perhaps with their son)?
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The husband can retain his condo after the HDB is bought?
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🏡 The HDB Rules at a Glance
Let’s break it down based on current HDB regulations:
✅ 1. Can the Husband be Listed as an Occupier?
Yes — since Melissa and her husband are married, they form a valid family nucleus under HDB rules. She can list her husband as an essential occupier, even though he owns a private property.
However, this comes with a major limitation...
🚫 2. Can She Buy an HDB Flat While Her Husband Still Owns a Condo?
No. If either applicant or essential occupier owns a private property, they must dispose of it before or within 6 months of taking possession of the HDB flat.
So, even if the wife sells her condo and applies for a flat with her husband, his condo must be sold within 6 months after the HDB flat is bought.
💬 “Can she buy alone and exclude her husband?”
That’s a common thought — but not possible in this case. Since she’s married, HDB will still require her to form a family nucleus with her husband — she cannot “exclude” him from the application to sidestep the rules.
🎂 What Happens at Age 55?
Once both Melissa and her husband turn 55, they can apply to buy a 4-room or smaller resale HDB flat under the Senior Downsizing Scheme, provided both have sold their private properties.
This rule applies only if both buyers are 55 and above, and allows them to enjoy more flexibility — including the 15-month wait-out period waiver.
🧭 How Real Estate Agents Can Help
As agents, here’s how we can add value and support clients like Melissa:
✅ Timeline Planning: Coordinate the sale of both condos and plan the HDB purchase process, taking into account the 6-month disposal requirement.
✅ HFE Application Guidance: Assist in the HDB Flat Eligibility (HFE) letter application, which is a must-have before any flat purchase.
✅ Alternative Options: Explore options such as temporary renting, interim housing, or right-sizing strategies.
✅ Financial Assessment: Provide CPF usage and retirement planning referrals to ensure funds are used wisely for retirement housing.
🏁 Final Takeaway
For couples who both own private properties, buying an HDB together will require both condos to be sold — even if only one party is applying.
To take advantage of the senior downsizing benefits, the couple must wait until both are aged 55 and then plan accordingly.
📞 Need Help Planning Your Retirement Move?
Whether you’re looking to right-size, sell your property, or understand how CPF and HDB rules apply to you, let’s connect. We'll help you map out the smartest route for your next chapter in life.