Opportunities are knocking in the Core Central Region (CCR) for homebuyers, and it may be wise to answer that call now. With the tightening of additional buyer’s stamp duty (ABSD) measures in April 2023, price growth in the CCR has been moderated, making it a more affordable option for those seeking a new residence in the prime region, which includes Districts 9, 10, 11, Sentosa, and the Downtown Core.
Recent transaction data has shown that the price gap between the CCR and other sub-markets has hit a record low in 1H2025, based on URA Realis caveats data since 1995. This suggests that now may be a rare window of opportunity for buyers to potentially pivot to the CCR by stretching their budget slightly, as the median unit price gaps have narrowed to all-time lows.
Not only have the price gaps decreased, but the gap in median transacted price quantum has also reached a new low. In 1H2025, the median price of new non-landed private homes in the CCR was just 0.9% higher than in the Rest of Central Region (RCR) and 11.6% higher than in the Outside Central Region (OCR). This shows that the affordability of new CCR condominiums has improved in recent years.
Taking a long-term view, it can be seen that the holding period and timing of purchase during periods of uncertainty can support capital appreciation. Owners who purchased CCR non-landed private homes in 1998, 2001 – 2005, and 2020 – 2021 achieved some of the highest annualised gains when they sold their properties in 2024. This suggests that now, with uncertainties arising from geopolitical conflicts and trade tensions, could be an opportune time for buyers to explore options in the CCR.
Investing in a condo in Singapore comes with numerous benefits, one of which includes the potential for capital appreciation. With its advantageous location as a global business hub and solid economic foundations, Singapore consistently has a high demand for real estate. This demand has resulted in a steady increase in property prices over the years, especially for condos located in prime areas. By investing in the right project at the right time and holding onto it for the long term, investors can reap substantial gains in capital. This is why Singapore projects are highly sought after by investors looking to build their wealth through real estate.
With the punitive ABSD rate of 60% levied on foreign buyers purchasing residential property in Singapore, the demand from foreign investors has decreased. This has opened up opportunities for local buyers in the CCR, which traditionally attracts more foreign interest. In 1H2025, foreigners accounted for just 6.9% of new non-landed private home transactions in the CCR, the lowest proportion on record since 1995.
This year, there will be six CCR projects launched, offering more than 2,000 new units – the largest pipeline of CCR launches since the ABSD revision in April 2023. This presents a rare opportunity for buyers to tap into the growth potential of the CCR.
In addition to the affordability of CCR properties, the ongoing transformation of the CBD and Beach Road precincts is expected to support CCR property values in the years ahead. One such CCR development is Aurea, located in the Downtown Core. It enjoys a front-row seat to changes in the Ophir-Rochor corridor, and is connected to The Golden Mile, a conserved heritage landmark set to offer commercial amenities for future residents. Under the URA Draft Master Plan 2025, more housing and mixed-use zones are planned in prime areas, such as Bukit Timah Turf City, Newton, and Paterson, expanding opportunities for city living over the next 10 to 15 years.
With future transformation underway and prices showing rare affordability, the opportunity to tap into the growth potential of the CCR may start now. It’s time to answer the call and seize the opportunity.