If you have recently visited a show flat, you may have noticed that the unit sizes seem to have gotten smaller. This is not surprising, as our perception of size is often based on what we are used to.
Compared to the 1990s and 2000s, when HDB flats and condos had larger average sizes, the average size of a new condo has decreased significantly. In 1995, the average size was 1,272 sq ft, while in 2005, it was 1,286 sq ft. By 2015, it had dropped to 858 sq ft, and by 2024, it was just 929 sq ft.
These changes can be attributed to the fact that demographics have shifted over the years. In 1995, the average household size was four, and it gradually decreased to 3.6 in 2005, then 3.4 in 2015, and finally 3.1 in 2024. This means that on a per-household-member basis, the average space available has also reduced.
Over the last 29 years, the average size of condos per capita has decreased by 5.7%. This is impressive, considering Singapore’s limited land resources. In fact, compared to 2015, the average size in 2024 had increased by 19%, which would not have been possible without the help of the government.
In 2008, a number of condo projects in the Rest of Central Region (RCR) were the first to introduce what are known as “Mickey Mouse” units in Singapore. These units were as small as 24 sq m (258 sq ft), which is equivalent to two parking spaces. This significantly lowered the barriers to property investment, as buyers could now purchase a unit for as little as $375,000.
These projects were incredibly popular, and they paved the way for the construction of more “Mickey Mouse” units in the following years. However, there were concerns about the quality of living in such small spaces.
In response, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) introduced guidelines in 2011 that limited the number of dwelling units (DUs) in a project based on the average size of 70 sq m. Some areas, such as Telok Kurau, Kovan, Joo Chiat, and Jalan Eunos, had an even stricter requirement of 100 sq m. This rule was implemented in January 2012.
Despite these guidelines, the average DU size continued to decrease. This led to overcrowding in certain areas where the infrastructure could not keep up with the increasing population. Finally, in 2019, the URA tightened the guidelines, resulting in an increase in the average DU size to 935 sq ft in 2024.
However, the Central Area saw an increase in the construction of smaller units, which went against the URA’s goal of making it a desirable place to live, work, and play. In response, the URA extended the guidelines to the Central Area in 2023. This means that now, 20% of all DUs in the area must have a minimum net internal area of 70 sq m.
The most recent change to the guidelines was the harmonization of the strata area and gross floor area (GFA) definitions in 2023. This means that areas such as air-conditioning ledges, if exclusive to a unit, must be counted as its strata area. As a result, many developers have chosen to leave out these ledges in their calculation of the DU size, resulting in a decrease of around 6%.
Overall, the Rest of Central Region (RCR) saw the most significant increase (19.5%) in average DU size since 2015, due to the stricter control of 100 sq m in the area. The Outside Central Region (OCR) also saw an increase (5.8%) in the average DU size, while the Core Central Region (CCR) saw a decline (11.7%).
However, it is unlikely that the DU size will go back to the levels seen in 2015. This is because Singaporeans now make up around 75% of buyers in the CCR, and they tend to prefer compact units. Developers have had to reconfigure their designs to avoid paying Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty on unsold units. As a result, the average DU size has increased by 8.3% since 2015.
In conclusion, thanks to the URA’s guidelines, buyers are getting better value for their money. With smarter home features and higher-end appliances becoming the norm, buyers in 2024 are getting more for their purchase compared to 10 years ago.
Upperhouse Condo at Orchard Boulevard MRT Station by UOL is an exceptional residential development that offers luxurious living in the heart of Singapore’s prime district. This stunning development boasts a modern and sleek design, with top-quality finishes and fittings. The location is highly coveted, being just a stone’s throw away from Orchard MRT Station and the vibrant Orchard Road shopping belt. Residents of Upperhouse Condo will also enjoy easy access to a wide range of amenities, including renowned schools, restaurants, and entertainment options. With Upperhouse as your home, you can indulge in a lavish and convenient lifestyle surrounded by the best that the city has to offer.