Private homeowners who’ve been eyeing an HDB resale flat might finally catch a break. The government recently signalled it may remove the 15-month wait-out rule if HDB resale prices continue to stabilise. While no official decision has been made yet, this could open the door for more flexible moves and renewed demand.
What does this mean for you? If you’re planning to buy or sell your HDB flat, now’s the time to understand what could change and how to prepare. We break it down with real-time market insights, so you can make your next move with confidence.
Want to see if now’s the right time to sell? Get a data-backed valuation with HomerAI e-Valuation below.
Table of Contents
What Is the 15-Month Wait-Out Rule?
Introduced in September 2022, the 15-month wait-out rule requires private property owners to wait 15 months after selling their home before they can purchase a non-subsidised HDB resale flat.
The rule applies to:
- Singaporeans who sold a private residential property (including condos or landed homes)
- Those who wish to move to a resale HDB flat (excluding seniors aged 55+ buying 4-room or smaller flats)
It was implemented to cool HDB resale demand and ensure that public housing remains accessible, especially to first-time homebuyers and families who need it most.
Why Is the Rule Being Reconsidered?
The main reason is that HDB resale prices are growing more slowly, and the market is showing signs of cooling on its own.
According to early estimates from HDB, resale prices rose by just 0.9% in Q2 2025, a drop from the 1.6% growth in the previous quarter, and the slowest increase since 2020. It’s also the third quarter in a row where price growth has slowed down.
At the same time, fewer resale flats are being sold. From April to June this year, about 6,981 flats changed hands, which is 5% fewer than during the same period in 2024.
This slowdown is likely due to a mix of factors: a more cautious economy, steady interest rates, and a good supply of new BTO flats. Overall, the market is moving at a more stable pace, and that’s what the government has been hoping for.
It’s a good time to stay informed and think ahead, especially if you’re planning to buy or sell an HDB flat soon.
Why It Matters and What You Should Do Now
While the 15-month wait-out rule has not been lifted, recent government signals suggest that change may be on the horizon, if market conditions continue to stabilise. For proactive Singaporeans, this is a chance to plan ahead.
Buyers: What to Know and Prepare
If you’re a private homeowner planning to move into an HDB resale flat, this potential policy shift may work in your favour.
1. You May Soon Enter the Resale Market
If the rule is eventually removed, you won’t need to wait 15 months after selling your private home to buy a resale HDB flat. This gives you more flexibility, especially if you’re rightsizing or relocating.
2. Prices Could Start to Climb Again
If more buyers return, demand may rise, especially for larger flats in mature estates. This could mean:
- More competition
- Less room to negotiate
- Higher prices in popular areas
Sellers: How to Stay Ahead of the Market
If you’re thinking of selling your HDB flat, a policy change could benefit you, but there’s no need to act hastily.
1. More Buyers May Return
Once the rule is lifted, private homeowners currently on hold may come back into the market, boosting demand for flats like yours.
2. Conditions Still Favour Sellers
Even with slower price growth, HDB resale prices remain high. If your flat is in a desirable area, now could still be a great time to sell.
3. Be Strategically Prepared
Sellers who prepare early, by gathering valuation data and setting a pricing strategy, will be better positioned to act fast when the rule changes.
Ready to sell your home? We’re ready to help.
Schedule a consultation with one of Singapore’s top agents.
Ready to sell your home? We’re ready to help.
Schedule a consultation with one of Singapore’s top agents.
Ready to sell your home? We’re ready to help.
Schedule a consultation with one of Singapore’s top agents.
Ready to sell your home? We’re ready to help.
Schedule a consultation with one of Singapore’s top agents.
Ready to sell your home? We’re ready to help.
Schedule a consultation with one of Singapore’s top agents.
What You Can Do Now to Stay Ready
Being prepared now can help you move quickly and confidently when the time is right.
For HDB Resale Buyers
Set yourself up for success before the competition returns.
- Review your finances and work out how much you can comfortably afford
- Shortlist flats that match your needs, from location and flat size to budget and lifestyle fit
- Even with no confirmed change yet, securing your HDB Flat Eligibility (HFE) letter ensures you’re ready to move when opportunities arise.
For HDB Resale Sellers
Position your home to attract serious buyers.
- Find out what your property is worth based on current market trends
- Start preparing your listing materials, photos, floor plan, and key highlights
- Speak with an Ohmyhome Super Agent to map out your ideal timeline and strategy
Stay Ahead with Ohmyhome
At Ohmyhome, we go beyond headlines. We analyse market shifts, anticipate what’s next, and translate complex policies into clear, actionable steps. Whether it’s helping you time your sale, shortlist the right flats, or make sense of your affordability, we’re here to give you clarity at every stage of your journey.
Book a free consultation or message us on WhatsApp to speak with a trusted property expert.
+65 9755 9283 
hello@ohmyhome.com 
