Your Complete Guide to Terrace Houses in Singapore
Welcome to your comprehensive guide to buying and owning a terrace house in Singapore. Terrace houses, also known as row houses, offer a unique blend of community living and private homeownership. They are a popular choice for families looking for more space than a condominium can offer, without the price tag of a semi-detached house or bungalow.
This guide will take you through the different types of terrace houses, the buying process, and the regulations you need to know.
Expert Property Consultants: Nic and Wes
The journey to owning a terrace house can be complex, but you don't have to do it alone. Nic and Wes are your dedicated partners in navigating Singapore's dynamic property market. With their extensive experience and client-focused approach, they can help you find a terrace house that perfectly suits your family's needs and lifestyle.
Contact UsUnderstanding Terrace Houses in Singapore: Types & Features
A terrace house is a home that is part of a row of similar houses joined together by common party walls. They are a form of landed property and come in two main categories.
Intermediate Terrace
An intermediate terrace house is a house in the middle of a row, with houses on both sides. These are the most common type of terrace houses.
Corner Terrace
A corner terrace is located at the end of a row. These are often more sought-after as they typically have a larger land area, and more windows, and offer greater privacy than an intermediate terrace.
Types of Terrace Houses
Terrace houses are further classified by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) into two types, based on their plot width and size:
Type 1
These are older terrace houses with a minimum plot width of 6 meters and a minimum plot size of 150 square meters for intermediate units, and a width of 8 meters and size of 200 square meters for corner units.
Type 2
These are newer terrace houses with slightly smaller requirements, allowing for more efficient use of land.
How to Buy Terrace Houses in Singapore: Complete Process
The process of buying a terrace house is similar to buying any other private property in Singapore. Here's a brief overview:
Budgeting and Loan Pre-approval
Understand your financial capacity and get an in-principle loan approval from a bank.
Finding the Right Property
This is where Nic and Wes can be a great asset. They can help you sift through listings to find the perfect terrace house for you.
Making an Offer and Securing the Option to Purchase (OTP)
Once you've found your ideal home, you'll make an offer. If accepted, you'll receive an OTP from the seller in exchange for a 1% option fee.
Exercising the Option
You will then have a specified period (usually 14 days) to exercise the option by paying a further 4% of the purchase price.
Completion of Sale
The remaining balance is paid upon completion of the sale, which is typically 10-12 weeks from the date of exercising the option.
Foreign Ownership of Terrace Houses in Singapore: Rules & Requirements
Like all landed properties in Singapore, there are restrictions on foreign ownership of terrace houses. Generally, a person must be a Singapore citizen to buy a terrace house.
Foreigners (including Singapore Permanent Residents) who wish to buy a terrace house must get special approval from the Singapore Land Authority (SLA). Approval is granted on a case-by-case basis and is typically reserved for those who have made significant economic contributions to Singapore.
For expert guidance on the regulations surrounding foreign ownership of landed property, it's best to consult with specialists like Nic and Wes.
Beautiful Terrace Houses in Singapore: Featured Projects
Discover our stunning portfolio of terrace house designs. From modern tropical sanctuaries to heritage-inspired classics, each project showcases innovative design solutions for landed living.
Tranquil Retreat
Modern resort-style intermediate terrace with dark chocolate exterior and feng shui principles for energy flow and harmony.
Steel Heights
Industrial-inspired design with exposed structural elements, clean minimalist lines, and rooftop terraces with city views.
Revival Terrace
Classic revival architecture with heritage-inspired details, covered outdoor terraces, and timeless aesthetic appeal.
Resort Living
Modern tropical design with indoor water features, natural materials, and roof terraces offering scenic estate views.
Rainforest Sanctuary
Three-storey lifestyle home with central cascading waterfall, lush tropical greens, and rooftop terrace sanctuary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Terrace Houses in Singapore
1. What is the main appeal of a terrace house?
Terrace houses offer a good balance of space, privacy, and community living. They are more affordable than semi-detached houses or bungalows but offer a similar landed living experience.
2. Are terrace houses freehold or leasehold?
They can be either. Many older terrace houses are freehold, while some newer developments may be on 999-year or 99-year leases.
3. Can a Singapore Permanent Resident (PR) buy a terrace house?
Yes, but only with special approval from the Singapore Land Authority (SLA).
4. What is the difference between an intermediate and a corner terrace?
An intermediate terrace is in the middle of a row, while a corner terrace is at the end. Corner terraces usually have more land and are more private.
5. Can I renovate or rebuild my terrace house?
Yes, but you must follow URA's guidelines on building setbacks, height, and overall design.
6. What are the typical prices for terrace houses in Singapore?
Prices vary widely based on location, size, and whether they are freehold or leasehold. They can range from around S$2.5 million to over S$8 million.
7. Are there maintenance fees for terrace houses?
Unlike condominiums, there are no monthly maintenance fees. However, you are responsible for the upkeep of your own property.
8. What should I look out for when buying a terrace house?
Look out for the condition of the property, any unauthorized extensions or alterations, and the potential for future development in the surrounding area.
9. How can I finance the purchase of a terrace house?
You can get a bank loan for up to 75% of the purchase price, subject to your income and other financial commitments.
10. Why should I engage Nic and Wes for my purchase?
Nic and Wes bring a wealth of experience to the table. They can provide you with a curated list of properties, expert negotiation skills, and a seamless buying experience from start to finish.
Ready to Find Your Dream Terrace House?
Ready to find your dream terrace house? Get in touch with Nic and Wes and take the first step towards your new home.
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