SINGAPORE : The HDB launched its latest build-to-order four-room
housing project, called Tivela in Sengkang on Thursday.
This is despite two other build-to-order projects, The Anthias in
Punggol and Coral Green in Sengkang, being shelved because the
take-up rate was not high enough.
Of the 22 projects launched so far, five have been aborted.
When Phase 1 of Pinnacle @ Duxton was launched in May last year, it
was an instant success with the 500 available units oversubscribed
by six times.
With such overwhelming response, HDB released all 1,850
units.
However, not all projects enjoy such success.
The board announced that two projects, one in Punggol and the other
in Sengkang, are being scrapped because of poor take-up.
Analysts said it could be due to location.
Now the HDB is launching another project in Sengkang, of 374
four-room units. Each unit cost about $200,000.
With easy access to either Sengkang or Buangkok MRT Stations, it
could attract more buyers.
They will also have the option of having better finishings for an
additional cost of about $1,600.
It is the availability of choice in finishings that makes
build-to-order flats attractive to homebuyers.
But it is this same attraction that makes it even more
disappointing when HDB decides not to build them.
Siti Nor Zulaikah, a home buyer, said: "I missed the previous
Punggol and Sengkang build-to-order. So we are trying our luck,
because we are planning (to get married).
"As an applicant, when you apply, you get excited. So let's say if
there's not enough applications and they decide to go without
building the flats, it will be really disappointing."
Edwin Sng, a home buyer, said: "You may put all your hopes and
wants into it. But at the end of the day, let's say you close all
other options, and pin your hopes on it, but they decide not to
build it, then you are at the losing end."
Applicants who were disappointed by the two cancelled
build-to-order projects in Punggol and Sengkang can transfer their
applications for this latest project.
Bookings are open until April 20. - CNA
