Written Answer by Ministry of National Development on whether first-timer applicants who have applied for BTO flats in non-mature estates and still failed to secure a flat three or more times can be placed in a priority scheme

Jul 26, 2021

Miss Rachel Ong: To ask the Minister for National Development whether first-timer applicants who have applied for BTO flats in non-mature estates and still failed to secure a flat three or more times can be placed in a priority scheme beyond being given additional ballot chances and provided with access to a HDB officer to guide their next BTO application to exclude failure due to application errors.

Answer: 

HDB recognises that the housing needs of first-timer applicants are more pressing and hence accords greater priority to them in their flat applications. Currently, first-timer families are given two ballot chances when HDB shortlists flat applicants to book a flat. Those who have been unsuccessful in two or more attempts for Build-To-Order (BTO) flats in the non-mature estates will be given an additional ballot chance at their subsequent application for a BTO flat in the non-mature estates. This is provided they have not been invited to select a flat for any of their earlier BTO or Sale of Balance Flats (SBF) applications. 

As a result, virtually all first-timer families have been successful within their first three tries for a BTO flat in the non-mature estates over the past few years. Hence, there is no need to have a new priority scheme for such first-timer applicants. HDB will continue to monitor the success rates of these applicants.  

To guide them in their flat application journey, flat buyers can refer to the HDB InfoWEB for information on the flat application process and related policies. If they have queries about their application status, the application procedures and policies, or require more guidance, they may contact HDB through the various channels listed on the HDB InfoWEB.