Commentary on HDB’s Announcement on SWT flats and more SBF flats in February BTO exercise

SINGAPORE, 31 January 2026 – HDB will launch 4,692 Build-To-Order (BTO) flats across six projects in the February 2026 sales exercise. Of these, 1,316 units across three projects, or about 28% of the total supply, will be offered as Shorter Waiting Time (SWT) flats, with waiting periods of under three years. This signals a deliberate shift by HDB to meet evolving buyer needs. By introducing more SWT flats, HDB aims to attract first-time buyers who might otherwise turn to the resale market due to urgency, thereby helping to stabilise resale prices that have been climbing in recent years.

This move underscores the Government’s continued commitment to providing timely housing options, particularly for households with more immediate needs, such as young couples and families who are planning for marriage or expanding their households. Additionally, it reduces the need for interim housing arrangements such as renting, which can be costly and erode savings meant for renovation or future investments.

Importantly, the shorter waiting period does not come at the expense of estate quality. These projects will continue to be supported by essential amenities, including retail offerings, food and beverage outlets and preschools, reinforcing HDB’s broader objective of delivering not just homes, but well-planned and liveable neighbourhoods.

Traditionally, BTO projects take about three to five years to complete, depending on site conditions and design complexity. In contrast, SWT projects typically begin construction nine months to a year ahead of launch, enabling faster delivery once flats are offered for sale. Coupled with more efficient designs and streamlined construction processes, this approach gives HDB greater flexibility to calibrate housing supply in response to demand, underscoring Singapore’s agile and forward-looking approach to public housing delivery.

The SWT projects at Sembawang, Tampines and Kim Keat comprise a mix of 3- and 4-room flats, catering to the housing needs of most households. These developments are also well-situated in accessible locations, with amenities nearby and MRT stations within a short bus ride. In addition, Sembawang Deck will include 5-room flats, offering an option for buyers who value both timeliness and space. This is likely to appeal to larger households seeking to move in sooner, without having to compromise on comfort or liveability.

The projects in Tampines and Kim Keat are expected to see strong demand, supported by their locations within well-established, mature towns. Simei Symphony, the most recent BTO launch in the Tampines town area, attracted strong interest from first-time families, recording an application rate of 6.7 for its 140 units in July 2025. Similarly, Toa Payoh’s latest projects, Mount Pleasant Crest and Toa Payoh Ascent, saw robust first-time family subscription rates of 3.3 and 6.4, respectively, at their launches last year. This indicates sustained buyer interest in homes in mature, well-connected areas. 

Due to their strong locational attributes, being either centrally located or near transport nodes, we could see Tampines Nova, Kim Keat Crest and the project at Bukit Merah to be launched under the Plus or Prime Location Housing (PLH) model. 

Buyers with more urgent needs may also consider the SBF exercise. HDB will offer more than 4,300 balance flats under the SBF exercise, a 40% increase from the previously committed 3,000, expanding options for households seeking earlier moves. While SBF flats are typically priced higher than BTO units, about one in five flats has already been completed, with the remainder under construction, offering a viable pathway for buyers who prioritise shorter waiting times.

With approximately 9,000 BTO and SBF units set to be launched in the February 2026 exercise, there will be adequate choices for prospective homebuyers with different location, spatial and timing needs. This also reinforces HDB’s commitment to ensuring public housing is attainable and affordable for most Singaporeans. 

For media enquiries, please contact:

Lisha Rodney

Public Relations Manager, ERA Singapore

Email: Lisha.Rodney@era.com.sg

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