The 15-Month Wait-Out Period Explained

Glossary 3 min read Last reviewed
For: Students of the marketFirst-time buyers
Source: IRAS, MAS, URA
TL;DR
The 15-month wait-out period is a cooling measure introduced on 30 September 2022. Private residential property owners (and ex-owners) below age 55 must wait 15 months after the legal completion of...
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Quick Definition
The 15-month wait-out period is a cooling measure introduced on 30 September 2022.

What Does It Mean?

The 15-month wait-out period is a cooling measure introduced on 30 September 2022. Private residential property owners (and ex-owners) below age 55 must wait 15 months after the legal completion of their private property sale before they can buy a non-subsidised HDB resale flat. Seniors aged 55 and above who move to a 4-room or smaller resale flat are exempt. The rule aims to moderate HDB resale demand from cash-rich downgraders.

Why It Matters

The 15-month wait-out period can strand downgraders for over a year between selling their private home and buying an HDB resale flat. Anyone planning to right-size from private to public housing must budget for interim accommodation and time their sale accordingly — or fall within the age-55 exemption.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who is exempt from the 15-month wait-out period?
Seniors aged 55 and above buying a 4-room or smaller resale flat are exempt. The rule mainly targets private owners below 55.
Does the wait-out apply to BTO flats?
The 15-month wait-out applies to non-subsidised HDB resale purchases. Eligibility for BTO flats is governed separately by HDB rules on private property ownership.
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This glossary article is auto-generated from ShiokNest's financial data and updated periodically. Rates and figures are current as of July 2026. Check official sources for the latest.