How Much Property Can You Afford in Singapore?
Calculate your realistic property budget based on income, CPF balances, and debt obligations. Understand TDSR limits, down payment needs, and total costs (2026).
Affordability Calculation Disclaimer
This calculator estimates property affordability based on TDSR limits and standard lending criteria. Results are estimates only. Always verify with your mortgage broker for actual loan eligibility.
Actual results may vary based on:
- Your specific debt obligations
- Bank-specific income assessment
- Down payment sources (CPF vs cash)
- Credit profile and approval criteria
Key Factors
Key Factors That Determine Property Affordability
Gross Monthly Income
Your total household income before taxes. Banks assess TDSR (55% cap) and MSR (30% for HDB) based on this figure. Include bonuses conservatively (e.g., 50% of average annual bonus).
Existing Debt Obligations
All monthly loan repayments (car loans, personal loans, credit card minimums, existing property loans) count toward your TDSR. Lower existing debt = higher property loan capacity.
CPF Ordinary Account Balance
Your CPF OA can cover down payment (beyond 5% cash) and monthly installments, but leave buffer for retirement. CPF usage reduces cash outlay but depletes retirement savings.
Down Payment & Cash Reserves
You need 5-25% cash for down payment (5% minimum cash, rest CPF/cash). Plus stamp duty (BSD + ABSD if applicable), legal fees, and at least 6-12 months emergency fund after purchase.
Interest Rate Assumptions
Banks stress-test at 4-4.5% interest rate, even if current rates are lower. Plan conservatively: assume rates will rise over your 25-30 year tenure.
Loan Tenure
Longer tenure = lower monthly payments but higher total interest. HDB loans cap at 25 years or age 65. Bank loans can go to 30 years or age 75, but shorter tenures mean you own the property sooner.
Planning Principles
Why You Should Be Conservative
Consider 40% TDSR as a buffer, not just the 55% cap
The 55% TDSR cap is a regulatory limit, not a target. Leave headroom for interest rate increases, income fluctuations, and unexpected expenses. Many financial advisors recommend 30-40% as a sustainable ratio.
Assume higher interest rates
Current mortgage rates (3-4%) may not last. If rates rise to 5-6%, can you still afford the monthly payment? Plan for worst-case scenarios.
Factor in CPF retirement needs
CPF used for property reduces your retirement savings. The Basic Retirement Sum (BRS) is ~$100,000 (2026). Ensure you retain enough CPF for retirement.
Account for all hidden costs
Beyond down payment and monthly loan: stamp duty (can be 3-30% of property value with ABSD), legal fees, renovation, maintenance, property tax, and insurance. Budget an additional 10-15% on top of purchase price.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Related Resources
TDSR Calculator
Check your Total Debt Servicing Ratio and loan eligibility limits
ABSD Calculator
Calculate Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty for your property purchase
Home Loan Calculator
Estimate monthly payments for HDB and private property loans
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Model Your Full Property Journey with Precision
Affordability is just the starting point. LEVR helps you model multi-property strategies, track equity over time, and plan upgrades with confidence.
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