The November 2026 HDB Build-to-Order (BTO) exercise has attracted significant interest, with 35,603 applicants vying for 7,964 new flats, resulting in an application rate of 4.5 times as of 5 p.m. on 11 November.
This marks the highest demand since August 2022, when the rate reached 7.8 times. The increased income ceiling, now at $16,000 for families and $8,000 for singles, may have contributed to the surge in applications.
Toa Payoh Hillside and Plantation Dew in Tengah emerged as the most sought-after projects, each with an application rate of 6.8 times.
Toa Payoh Hillside’s proximity to the Caldecott MRT interchange and future developments in the area have made it particularly appealing.
Kelvin Fong, CEO of PropNex, noted that applicants are keen on areas with potential growth, stating, “Applicants are going where they see potential future growth.”
In Yishun, Chencharu Acres saw an application rate of 4.8 times, the highest among recent projects in the Chencharu precinct. The Bayshore projects in Bedok attracted the highest number of applicants, with 10,293 vying for 2,492 flats, indicating strong demand for waterfront living.
Sembawang Anchor, the only Shorter Waiting Time project, recorded the lowest application rate at 1.2 times. Despite its shorter completion time, its distance from MRT stations may have deterred some applicants.
The Community Care Apartments at Toa Payoh Hillside drew 509 applicants for 256 units, reflecting a 2.0 times application rate, the strongest response since 2021. The lowered eligibility age and reduced service fees may have broadened interest, though further data is needed to confirm this trend.
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