In Singapore's property market, the ideal approach between selling your current property first ("sell first, buy later") or buying a new property before selling your existing one ("buy first, sell later") depends on several factors, including your financial situation, risk tolerance, and market conditions.
**Sell First, Buy Later:**
This approach is generally considered less risky and more suitable for those who prioritize financial stability and want to avoid the burden of servicing two mortgages simultaneously.
**Pros:**
* **Financial Certainty:** You know the exact amount of cash proceeds from the sale, making it easier to budget for your next purchase.
* **No Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD):** You avoid incurring ABSD, which is levied on the purchase of a second or subsequent residential property.
* **Reduced Stress:** No pressure to sell your existing property quickly to meet financial obligations.
**Cons:**
* **Temporary Housing:** You might need to find temporary accommodation between selling and buying, which can be inconvenient and incur additional costs.
* **Missing Out on Opportunities:** In a rising market, delaying your purchase could mean missing out on potential capital appreciation.
* **Limited Choices:** You might have less time to find your ideal new property due to the six-month timeframe to sell your HDB flat (if applicable).
**Buy First, Sell Later:**
This approach is more suitable for those who are confident in their ability to sell their existing property quickly and are willing to take on the financial risk of owning two properties temporarily.
**Pros:**
* **Secure Dream Home:** You can secure your desired property without worrying about missing out on it.
* **Potential for Capital Appreciation:** In a rising market, you could benefit from price increases on both your existing and new properties.
* **No Temporary Housing:** You can move directly from your old property to the new one.
**Cons:**
* **Financial Risk:** You'll need to service two mortgages until your existing property is sold, which can be a significant financial burden.
* **ABSD Liability:** You'll incur ABSD on the new property unless you sell your existing property within six months.
* **Pressure to Sell:** You might feel pressured to sell your existing property quickly to avoid financial strain and ABSD.
**Recommendation:**
The best approach depends on your individual circumstances. Consider the following:
* **Financial Situation:** If you have sufficient funds to comfortably service two mortgages and pay ABSD, buying first might be an option. Otherwise, selling first is generally safer.
* **Market Conditions:** In a hot market, selling first might be better as you can capitalize on high prices and have more bargaining power when buying. In a slower market, buying first could give you more time to sell your existing property at a good price.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider your risk tolerance, urgency to move, and the importance of securing your dream home versus financial stability.
Ultimately, weigh the pros and cons of each approach carefully and make an informed decision that aligns with your financial capabilities and goals. You can also consult with a property agent or financial advisor for personalized advice.
WhatsApp me at: ABLE Toh (65) 98 56 92 55 or through this link.:https://wa.me/6598569255
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