First-Time Buyer Roadmap
From eligibility and grants to shortlisting and completion — a step-by-step plan for your first home.
Start your roadmapBuy or invest in Singapore property with clarity, not pressure.
Whether you’re picking your first home or adding to your portfolio, Mark helps you cut through the noise and act with confidence.
See how Mark works
A buyer’s advisor who sits on your side of the table.
Mark’s role is not to push transactions. It is to help you match every property decision to your life and financial goals — whether that means owning your first HDB flat, upgrading to a condo, or building a rental portfolio.
He brings independent analysis, access to both on- and off-market opportunities, and end-to-end coordination through shortlisting, negotiation and completion. You get clarity at every step, and advice that is measured, evidence-based and free of pressure.
Advisory entry points
Start from where you are. Every pathway is built around your goals, not a sales script.
Upgrader & Asset Progression
Sequence your sale and purchase, manage bridging finance, and upgrade without sleepless nights.
Plan your upgradeSeasoned Investor Advisory
Evaluate rental yield, capital upside, entry timing and portfolio structure across districts.
Review your portfolioNew Launch & EC Selection
Get early previews, compare floor plans, and secure the right unit before public launch.
View new launchesPR / Foreign Buyer Pathway
Navigate ABSD, financing and ownership structures for non-citizen buyers in Singapore.
Discuss your pathwayHow we work together
A clear, five-step process that keeps you informed and in control.
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Discovery call
Understand your goals, timeline, and constraints — with no obligation.
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Financial & eligibility check
Budgets, loans, grants, stamp duties — mapped out before you view anything.
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Strategy & district scan
Match districts, developments and unit types to your plan.
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Shortlist & viewings
Curated options, objective comparisons, and on-site visits.
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Negotiate & complete
Offer strategy, paperwork, and coordination through handover.
Why work with Mark.
- Independent, data-backed advice — no hard selling.
- Full access to resale listings, new launches, and off-market opportunities.
- Skilled negotiation and transaction coordination.
- Clear communication at every step.
- Licensed with CEA R032504C, Huttons Asia Pte Ltd.
Mark Tan · CEA R032504C · Huttons Asia Pte Ltd
Market context at a glance
Indicative snapshots to frame your conversation. Mark will personalise the numbers to your profile.
+5.2%
HDB Resale Price Index (YoY trend)
+2.8%
Private Property Price Index (YoY trend)
2.8–3.4%
Indicative mortgage rate range
3.0–4.5%
Gross rental yield range for condos
Key ABSD summary
| Buyer profile | ABSD rate (indicative) |
|---|---|
| Singapore Citizen — first property | 0% |
| Singapore Citizen — second property | 20% |
| Singapore PR | 5% (first), 30% (second) |
| Foreigner | 60% |
Figures are indicative as of 6 Oct 2026. Speak to Mark for a personalised assessment, including any policy changes that may affect your purchase.
Opportunities worth considering
A hand-picked selection for buyers and investors. Browse the full directories for more.
Curated properties
Leedon Green
$3,280,000
Low-density freehold in a prime Good Class Bungalow enclave, near Botanic Gardens MRT.
Serangoon Garden Terrace
$4,650,000
Contemporary inter-terrace with a private lift, minutes from Serangoon Garden Market.
Hillview Regency
$658,000
Well-kept corner unit near Hillview MRT, ideal for first-time buyers and upgraders.
New launches
Altura EC
From $1.45M
3–5 bedroom units beside the future Tengah Park MRT and upcoming town centre.
Pinetree Hill
From $2.18M
Low-rise luxury near Henry Park Primary and Bukit Timah Nature Reserve.
Do the numbers first
Free tools and guides to sharpen your thinking before you speak with Mark.
Mortgage Calculator
Estimate monthly repayments, loan eligibility and affordability across price bands.
Use calculatorDistrict Guides
Compare amenities, schools, transport and price trends across Singapore districts.
Read guidesMRT & School Guides
Map upcoming MRT lines and preferred schools against your shortlist.
Explore guidesValuation Tool
Get an indicative estimate for your current or target property in minutes.
Get estimateWhat clients say
“Mark never rushed us. He helped us weigh lease decay, location and layout until we found a home that fit both our budget and our future plans.”
“His investor lens saved me from overpaying. We focused on entry price, rental comparables and exit demand — and the numbers stacked up.”
“We were upgrading with two young children. Mark coordinated the sale of our HDB and the new purchase so we never felt stranded.”
Let’s map your next move
Tell Mark a little about your goals and he’ll reply within one business day.
Common questions
Do I pay a fee as a buyer?
In most cases, buyer representation is paid through a co-broke commission shared with the seller’s agent. You typically do not pay Mark directly for helping you purchase a standard listed property. For new launches, developer commissions also cover buyer representation. Mark will explain the fee structure transparently before you engage him.
Can Mark help me if I’m only exploring?
Yes. The initial discovery call is obligation-free. Mark is happy to help you understand budgets, eligibility and districts before you are ready to commit. There is no pressure to view or buy before you feel prepared.
What documents do I need before viewing properties?
Have your In-Principle Approval (IPA) from a bank, latest CPF statements, identification, and proof of funds ready. PR and foreign buyers should also prepare funds-in-escrow documentation and verify ABSD obligations. Mark will provide a tailored checklist based on your profile.
How does ABSD affect my purchase?
Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty depends on your citizenship, residency status and property count. Singapore Citizens pay 0% on a first residential property, 20% on a second, and 30% on a third. PRs pay 5% on a first and 30% on a second. Foreigners generally pay 60%. Rates and exemptions are subject to policy changes, so speak to Mark for an exact calculation.
Should I buy resale or a new launch?
It depends on your timeline, budget and risk appetite. Resale offers immediate move-in, established rental comparables and negotiable pricing. New launches offer progressive payment schedules, brand-new fittings and sometimes lower entry prices, but with completion risk and less certainty on rental yield. Mark will walk you through the trade-offs for your specific goals.