The October 2025 Build-To-Order (BTO) application results have shown a significant interest in Bukit Merah’s 4-room flats, with 5,111 applicants marking the highest demand across all flat types and towns. This surge in interest, despite higher prices and clawback rates for Prime flats, was anticipated by Realion (OrangeTee & ETC) Group’s Chief Researcher and Strategist, Christine Sun. She noted that buyers are keen on the first-mover advantage of owning the first HDB flats in the area, with limited resale options and private condominiums priced over $1.46m (S$2m).
Yishun Chencharu also saw a strong response, particularly for its 2-room flexi flats, which attracted many first-timer singles. Over 1,400 applications were received for the 3-room and larger flats. The project’s appeal lies in its proximity to schools and the MRT station, along with a short waiting time and a five-year Minimum Occupation Period (MOP), offering buyers a quicker market exit compared to Prime and Plus flats.
The application rates for first-timer singles in areas like Bedok, Bishan, and Jurong East exceeded 14, highlighting a strong desire for new flats despite longer MOP periods and stringent resale criteria. This trend underscores a genuine need for affordable housing options for singles, who previously faced higher costs with resale flats or private homes.
Conversely, community care apartments saw less interest, with an application rate below 1. Many applicants preferred the 2-room flexi flats in Yishun Chenchuru, which offer a shorter completion time and lower pricing. A new scheme prioritising families applying for two flats within the same project may have also influenced these choices.
