The role of young voters in shaping housing policies in Singapore

As Singapore gears up for its general election, the influence of young voters on housing policies is becoming increasingly significant. 

​By Khalil Adis

Young Singaporeans walking along Orchard Road. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy.

Sam (not his real name) and his wife had been waiting for years to buy a flat.

Married to a permanent resident, the couple had to wait three years before they could even begin their home-buying journey.

Like many young Singaporeans that I had met recently, affordability was a major concern.
​
The 4-room flats in their preferred areas were priced between $500,000 and $600,000, leaving them wondering if homeownership was financially realistic.

However, after receiving their HDB Flat Eligibility (HFE) letter, their dream began to feel within reach.
​
Turning dreams into reality

Lower Seletar Reservoir Park Connector. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy.

The good news? They were eligible for a total grant of $150,000—comprising a CPF Housing Grant of $80,000, an Enhanced CPF Housing Grant of $50,000, and a Proximity Housing Grant of $20,000.

With their finances secured, their maximum loan was approved for the upper $300,000 range, giving them a strong foundation for their home purchase.

Armed with their budget, the couple began house hunting.

Their requirements were clear.

Firstly, the unit needs to have a  flexible layout to accommodate their future family needs.

Secondly, it has to be within 4km from Sam's parents.

Thirdly, it has to be within access to park connectors and green spaces - an important factor for their growing child.
​
After two weeks of viewings, they finally secured their dream home in northern Singapore.

To their relief, the unit did not come with any cash-over-valuation (COV), making it even more affordable.

Housing aspirations are evolving

Scaled model of eco-friendly and sustainable HDB estates. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy.

Sam’s journey reflects a growing trend among young Singaporeans—housing affordability remains a top priority but expectations are evolving.

While previous generations also focused on affordability, here are some of today’s additional considerations I noticed young buyers have:
​
Rising cost of living
With inflation driving up prices, many young Singaporeans are rethinking long-term financial commitments.

As a result, co-living spaces have gained popularity among young professionals.

The flexibility of renting appeals to those who prefer mobility, much like digital nomads..​

The gig economy
Unlike previous generations, full-time employment is no longer seen as the only path to stability.

Many now prioritise work-life balance and mental health which affect their housing choices (and how much loan they can get should they decide to switch to freelancing).
​
Sustainability
There’s a growing emphasis on green developments with many young buyers actively seeking eco-friendly features.

So far, the government has kept pace with these changes, introducing Climate Vouchers, rolling out solar panels in HDB estates and prioritising sustainable town planning.

I would also say, young Singaporeans are also health conscious leading active lifestyles.

This explains why some of them prefer living near to gyms or park connectors.

Shifting family patterns
At the same time, marriage and family patterns are shifting.

Rising living costs and career aspirations are leading many to delay marriage and homeownership.

According to data from the Department of Statistics Singapore (2024), the number of single Singaporeans in their 30s has increased by 13 per cent over the last decade
​
Housing challenges for singles

Commuters at Punggol Bus Interchange. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy.

The Singapore Consumer Price Index (CPI) released in January 2025 reported year-on-year increases in transport (3.1 per cent), food (1.5 per cent), health (1.5 per cent), and housing & utilities (1.4 per cent).

With these rising costs, some singles are finding it difficult to secure housing.
​
A friend of mine, for instance, has temporarily relocated to Malaysia while waiting for clearer housing policies.

The government has taken steps to address this issue—since June 2024, singles can now purchase HDB flats in all locations (previously, they were limited to non-mature estates).

However, some still feel that they should be allowed to purchase 3-room flats instead of being restricted to 2-room units.

For low-income earners and freelancers, this limitation makes it harder to afford homes in the resale market.

If you are single and considering homeownership, I would urge you to explore the many available grants.

You can then subsequently upgrade and consider different housing types once you have met your Minimum Occupation Period (MOP).

As we have already seen, the property market is ever evolving and policies may continue to shift post-election.

Government’s response and policy adjustments

Screengrab of a car-lite estate in Bayshore courtesy of HDB.

While bread-and-butter issues will dominate the election, young Singaporeans will prioritise policies that impact their financial well-being and long-term security. 

To address these concerns, the government has introduced  various measures.

Firstly, there is greater transparency in pricing and shorter waiting times for BTO flats.

Secondly, since February 14, 2023, the CPF Housing Grants has been increased for first-time resale flat buyers—by up to $30,000. This makes homeownership an even more attainable dream.

Thirdly, as of March 2025, the government had announced an expanded Fresh Start Housing Scheme  where first-timer families can now apply. Previously, it was limited to second-timers only.

Last but not least, sustainable housing initiatives such as green townships, car-lite communities (such as Tengah and Bayshore) and recycling rubbish chutes as well as solar panel are now being rolled out in BTO flats.

For those seeking rental options, the Public Rental Scheme (PRS) provides affordable housing for lower-income Singaporeans.

However, for professionals who prefer co-living spaces, the Single Room Shared Facilities (SRSF) Pilot remains one of the few available government-backed options.

As we can see from the above examples, the government has consistently adapted housing policies to meet public demand.

However, balancing affordability and long-term sustainability remains a challenge.

With Singapore’s strong emphasis on homeownership, I would encourage young Singaporeans to consider getting their first step into the property market.

Ultimately, owning your home versus long-term rental will be a more sustainable option.
​
Conclusion: The future of housing policies in Singapore

An HDB estate in Punggol. Photo: Khalil Adis Consultancy.

The growing political influence of young voters is undeniable, particularly in shaping housing policies.

As their preferences and expectations evolve, policymakers must respond with innovative solutions to ensure that housing remains accessible, affordable and aligned with modern lifestyles
​
Having said that, Singapore remains one of the few countries where our government continues to offer assistance to make homeownership attainable.  

As a Singaporean, I am proud to say that Singapore has one of the highest homeownership rates in the world at more than 90 per cent, thanks to careful long-term planning.
​
However, as society evolves, housing policies will also need to keep pace.