Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for BTO Flats in 2025

When I first tried to apply for BTO flats, it felt like stepping into a maze. Now that I’ve been through it, I want to make it super simple for you. If you’re dreaming of your own place in Singapore, this guide will show you how to do it from start to finish, with no headache.

What is a BTO Flat?

BTO means Build-To-Order. It’s a flat you book first, then wait for it to be built. It’s also the most affordable way to own a new HDB flat in Singapore. Perfect for couples, newlyweds, or first-timers.

Why Should You Apply for BTO Flats?

Affordable compared to resale
Fresh and new—you’re the first owner
Grants available for eligible buyers
Designed for Singaporeans with future needs in mind

BTO Flat Types & Eligibility at a Glance

Flat Type	Who Can Apply	Monthly Income Ceiling	Typical Wait Time
2-Room Flexi	Singles (35+), Elderly	$7,000 (Single)	3–4 years
3-Room	Couples or Families	$7,000–$14,000	3–4 years
4-Room	Families	$14,000	3–4 years
5-Room	Larger Families	$14,000	3–4 years

Also Read: How to Make Your HDB Flat Smarter

Step 1: Check Eligibility Before You Apply for BTO Flats

First, make sure you can apply. You must:

Be a Singapore citizen (or applying with one)
Be at least 21 years old (or 35 for singles)
Not own private property (or sold one more than 30 months ago)
Meet income ceilings

If you’re not sure, just visit HDB’s Eligibility Checker to confirm.

Step 2: Wait for a BTO Sales Launch

HDB announces new launches about 3–4 times a year (usually in Feb, May, Aug, Nov). Each launch tells you:

Where the flats are
What types are available
When to apply

Watch HDB’s BTO Launch Page or sign up for email alerts.

Step 3: Apply Online Through HDB Website

When the launch opens:

Go to HDB’s portal
Log in with Singpass
Choose the project and flat type
Pay $10 application fee

That’s it. It only takes 10 minutes. You’ll get a queue number a few weeks later. Lower numbers = higher chance.

Step 4: Check Your Ballot Result

About 1 month later, HDB will email or SMS you the results.

If successful: You’ll get a queue number to book a unit.
If not: Try again next launch. No limits to how many times you can apply.

Step 5: Book Your BTO Flat

When it’s your turn, go down to HDB Hub to select your unit. Bring:

NRIC
HLE letter or bank loan documents
Marriage cert (if married)

Tip: Research the unit layout and sunlight direction before booking.

Step 6: Secure Financing for Your Flat

Now it’s time to get your home loan ready.

Two options:

HDB Loan: Up to 80% of flat price, for lower-income buyers
Bank Loan: Up to 75%, but stricter rules

You must also prepare at least 5–20% downpayment, depending on your loan.

Step 7: Sign the Lease Agreement

Within 4 months, you’ll be called to sign the agreement. This locks in your purchase.

Bring:

Downpayment
CPF funds (if using)
Proof of income

Now the flat is officially yours—just wait for construction.

Step 8: Collect Your Keys!

Usually after 3–5 years, HDB will notify you to collect your keys. Go down, do a flat inspection, and you’re good to move in!

Bonus: Tips for First-Time Buyer

Use your HDB priority schemes (e.g. First-timer, Married Child Priority)
Check HLE or IPA early
Keep trying—even if you don’t get it the first time

Also Read: Ultimate 2025 Cost of Living in Singapore Guide for Singles

Important Info to Remember Before You Apply for BTO Flats

1. You Can Only Own One HDB at a Time

Once you get a BTO, you can’t apply for another unless you give it up or sell it after the Minimum Occupation Period (MOP) of 5 years.

2. Minimum Occupation Period (MOP)

You must stay in the BTO flat for at least 5 years before you can sell or rent it out (except for rooms under certain conditions).

3. CPF Housing Grants Available

If you’re a first-time buyer, you may be eligible for up to $80,000 in CPF housing grants. The actual amount depends on your income.

4. Check the Ethnic Integration Policy (EIP)

Each block has quotas for ethnic groups. Your chances depend on whether there’s a slot available for your race.

5. BTO Flats Are Not Immediate

If you need a home urgently, consider Sale of Balance Flats (SBF) or Open Booking instead of BTOs. BTOs take time to build (3–5 years).

First Things First

To apply for BTO flats, all you need is good timing, Singpass, and some patience. Don’t stress. Thousands of Singaporeans do it every year—now, you can too.

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