In his third blog posting, Minister of National Development Khaw Boon Wan has asked the HDB to consider building more Build-To-Order (BTO) flats in mature estates.
Entitled “Making A Calculated Move”, Mr. Khaw’s third entry acknowledged that his ministry has been hesitant to launch BTO projects in mature estates because of fears that it would draw high subscription rates, which could further alarm the market.
“While this is a valid concern, I believe that Singaporeans will understand that mature estates will always attract very high subscription,” wrote the minister.
“We should not be daunted by such a prospect, but should instead try to meet the aspirations of many young couples wanting to set up nests near their parents.”
He also stressed that HDB doubles the balloting chances of such couples under the Married Child Priority Scheme.
The minister further urged young couples to consider getting HDB flats in newer estates, so as to “better their chances of getting a flat.”
Mr. Khaw’s blog followed the most recent BTO launch, which has witnessed around 8,000 applications for 4,000 new units so far, with the highest demand seen in Tampines, a mature estate.
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