Written answer by Ministry of National Development on rationale for setting limit on HDB 2-room flexi flats in each BTO project for seniors

Nov 12, 2024

Question No: 6834

Question by: Ms Hazel Poa

To ask the Minister for National Development (a) what is the basis for setting the number of HDB 2-room Flexi flats reserved for seniors in each BTO project at 40%, subject to a minimum of 100 units; and (b) what is the total percentage of HDB 2-room Flexi flat supply that is set aside for seniors at the October 2024 BTO exercise.

Answer:

The 2-room Flexi Scheme was introduced in 2015 to cater to the housing needs of families, seniors and singles, replacing the previous Studio Apartment and 2-room flat schemes.

Seniors aged 55 and above can buy a 2-room Flexi flat on a shorter lease. This supports seniors who wish to monetise their existing property and right-size for retirement. The flats that they sell on the open market tend to be bigger flat types, and can cater to other larger households which may need more space.

To ensure adequate supply to meet seniors’ housing needs, at least 40%, subject to a minimum of 100 units, of 2-room Flexi flats in each Build-To-Order (BTO) project are set aside for seniors with the remaining for families and singles. Any unused seniors’ quota are subsequently made available to other families and singles who applied in the same BTO exercise. In the October 2024 BTO exercise, around 60% of the 2-room Flexi flats were set aside for seniors.