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What is the typical timeline for buying a property in Singapore?

The timeline for buying property in Singapore depends on the type. New launch condominiums involve progressive payments over two to four years of construction. Resale private properties typically take 10 to 15 weeks from OTP to completion, while HDB resale flats take around 3 to 4 months from OTP to receiving the keys.

Last updated: 22 Apr 2026

The property buying timeline in Singapore varies depending on whether you are purchasing a new launch, resale private property, or HDB resale flat. Understanding the timeline helps you plan your finances and logistics.

New Launch Condominium

  • Pay booking fee (typically 5% of purchase price) to secure the unit
  • Sign the Sale and Purchase Agreement within 3 weeks; stamp duties are payable within 14 days of signing
  • Construction takes two to four years, with progressive payments at each construction milestone
  • Loan is drawn down in stages as milestones are reached; interest is charged only on the amount disbursed at any given time

Resale Private Property (typical timeline: 10 to 15 weeks from OTP to completion)

  • Pay 1% option fee to secure the OTP; you have 14 to 21 days to exercise it (commonly 2 to 3 weeks)
  • Exercise the OTP by paying the remaining 4% exercise fee (total 5% deposit)
  • Completion takes a further 8 to 12 weeks, during which lawyers handle conveyancing, the bank processes final loan approval and disbursement, and title transfer occurs

HDB Resale Flat (typical timeline: 3 to 4 months from OTP to keys)

  • Pay option fee (S$1 to S$1,000) to secure the OTP; valid for 21 calendar days
  • Request HDB valuation shortly after receiving the OTP
  • Exercise the OTP; buyer and seller submit resale applications through the HDB Resale Portal within 7 days of each other
  • HDB takes up to 28 working days to accept the application, then approximately 8 further weeks to process and arrange the completion appointment

Key Milestones to Plan For

  • Secure financing before making an offer
  • Engage a lawyer immediately after exercising the OTP
  • Arrange mortgage insurance before completion
  • Plan renovation or moving after the completion date is confirmed

Cashew helps coordinate the financing component of this timeline, ensuring your loan approval is on track to meet the completion deadline and preventing delays that could jeopardise the transaction.