Do I need original documents or copies?

Generally, you will need to provide original documents for verification (e.g., NRIC, passport) and copies for submission. Your lawyer or property agent will advise on the specific requirements for each document.

What if some of my documents are not in English?

Documents that are not in English typically need to be officially translated into English by a certified translator. The translated copy, along with the original, will usually be required.

How long should I keep these documents after purchasing the property?

It is advisable to keep all property-related documents, including purchase agreements, loan documents, stamp duty certificates, and renovation permits, for as long as you own the property and even for a few years after selling it, for record-keeping and tax purposes.

Documents Required for Buying Property in Singapore

While this list is comprehensive, always confirm the specific document requirements with your property agent, lawyer, bank, or HDB, as they can vary based on your individual circumstances and the specific transaction.

General Documents (Applicable to Most Purchases)

Identification Documents:
- For Singapore Citizens & PRs: NRIC (National Registration Identity Card).
- For Foreigners: Passport.
- Marriage Certificate (if purchasing as a married couple).
Income Proof (especially for loan application):
- Salaried Employees: Latest 3-6 months' payslips, latest CPF Contribution History Statement, latest Income Tax Notice of Assessment (NOA).
- Self-Employed: Latest 1-2 years' Income Tax Notice of Assessment (NOA), profit and loss statements, bank statements.
- Commission-Based Earners: Similar to self-employed, may need longer income history.
Credit Bureau Report: Often obtained by the bank during loan application to assess creditworthiness.
Bank Statements: To show proof of funds for downpayment and other cash outlays.

Documents for Buying Private Residential Property

1. Initial Stage (Pre-Purchase & Loan Application)

All general identification and income proof documents mentioned above.
In-Principle Approval (IPA) / Approval-in-Principle (AIP) for Loan: While not a document you prepare, it's one you receive from the bank.

2. Option to Purchase (OTP) Stage

Option to Purchase (OTP) Document: Provided by the seller or their agent. Ensure all terms are clear before signing and paying the Option Fee.
Proof of payment for Option Fee (e.g., cheque copy, bank transfer confirmation).

3. Exercising Option & Loan Formalization

Signed OTP (now a Sale & Purchase Agreement).
Letter of Offer (LO) for Housing Loan: From your bank, detailing the loan terms. You'll need to sign and accept this.
Instructions to your appointed conveyancing lawyer.
Proof of payment for Option Exercise Fee.

4. Stamp Duty Payment

Your lawyer will typically handle the e-stamping process. You'll need to provide funds for Buyer's Stamp Duty (BSD) and Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD), if applicable. Use our Stamp Duty Calculator to estimate these.
You will receive Stamp Duty Certificates from IRAS as proof of payment.

5. Completion Stage

Various legal documents prepared by your lawyer (e.g., transfer documents, mortgage documents).
Proof of payment for the balance purchase price and other completion sums.

For a detailed walkthrough of this process, see our Guide to Buying Private Property in Singapore.

Documents for Buying an HDB Resale Flat

1. Pre-Purchase & HFE Letter Application

All general identification and income proof documents.
HDB Flat Eligibility (HFE) Letter Application: You'll need to submit various details and documents via the HDB Flat Portal. The HFE letter is crucial as it confirms your eligibility to buy, receive grants, and take an HDB loan.

2. Option to Purchase (OTP) Stage

HDB's Prescribed OTP Form: This is a standard form used for all HDB resale transactions.
Proof of payment for Option Fee (max S$1,000).

3. Request for Value & Exercising Option

After obtaining the OTP, submit a "Request for Value" to HDB to determine the flat's valuation.
If taking an HDB loan: HDB Loan Eligibility (HLE) letter (now part of the HFE letter).
If taking a bank loan: Bank's Letter of Offer (LO).
Signed OTP (Acceptance portion).
Proof of payment for Option Exercise Fee (total option fees not to exceed S$5,000).

4. HDB Resale Application Stage

Both buyer and seller submit their respective portions of the resale application via the HDB Resale Portal.
Supporting documents as requested by HDB (e.g., proof of relationship, income updates if any).

5. Endorsement & Completion

Endorsement of resale documents online.
Payment of stamp duties (BSD, ABSD if applicable) and legal fees.
Attendance at HDB Resale Completion Appointment.

For a detailed walkthrough of this process, refer to our Guide to Buying an HDB Resale Flat.

CPF-Related Documents

If using CPF savings for your property purchase (downpayment, mortgage, stamp duties, etc.):

CPF Withdrawal Statements (can be accessed via CPF website).
Application forms for using CPF for housing (usually handled via your lawyer or HDB).

Our Guide to CPF Usage for Property provides more details on this.

Key Takeaway:

Organization is key. Keep all your documents systematically, preferably in both digital and hard copies where appropriate. Your property agent (if you engage one) and your conveyancing lawyer will guide you on the specific documents needed at each stage of your transaction.

Before starting, ensure your finances are in order. Use our Affordability Calculator and Mortgage Calculator to plan effectively.