HDB Clarifies Access to Balance Flats for All Singaporeans

Singapore’s Housing and Development Board (HDB) has clarified that Sale of Balance Flats (SBF) are available to all Singaporeans, not just those who initially applied for Build-to-Order (BTO) exercises. This ensures a fair and transparent process for all potential homebuyers, providing an additional opportunity to secure public housing.

Understanding Sale of Balance Flats (SBF)

Balance flats include units that were previously unsold, unselected, or returned after initial BTO launches. These flats are offered through the SBF exercise only after all eligible BTO applicants have had a chance to select their preferred units, subject to ethnic quotas .

Response to Public Concerns

The HDB addressed these clarifications in response to a TikTok video posted by user @xinandxuan, identified as Ms. Chua, who questioned the availability of a significant number of SBF units after unsuccessfully applying for a BTO flat in Bukit Merah . Ms. Chua had expressed concern about the number of units seemingly becoming available after the initial application process.

Ms. Chua’s Application History

HDB records indicate that Ms. Chua applied for a four-room flat in 11 BTO and SBF exercises between November 2020 and May 2023 . She was invited to select a flat during the May 2023 SBF exercise but ultimately declined. She subsequently purchased a resale flat with Central Provident Fund (CPF) housing grants.

BTO Application Rates and Demand

The HDB noted that median application rates for first-timer families applying for three-room and larger BTO flats have decreased from almost seven times in 2020 to between 1.1 and 1.9 times in 2025. The latest sales exercise in February saw a rate of 0.9 times . However, Ms. Chua’s applications were focused on highly sought-after locations like Kallang/Whampoa and Bukit Merah, where demand consistently exceeds supply.

HDB’s Role and Future Considerations

As Singapore’s public housing authority, the HDB is committed to providing quality living environments for all citizens . The board encourages applicants with urgent housing needs to consider applying for projects with lower application rates to increase their chances of success. The HDB continues to monitor the housing market and adjust its policies to meet the evolving needs of Singaporeans.

Key Takeaways

• SBF flats are open to all Singaporeans, not just initial BTO applicants.
• Balance flats become available after BTO selections are complete, subject to ethnic quotas.
• Demand for flats in popular locations remains high, leading to competitive application rates.
• HDB encourages applicants to consider less popular projects for better chances of securing a flat.