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Sembawang Anchor, the other Standard project on offer, was less popular despite being the only shorter waiting time project in this exercise, with an estimated waiting time of less than three years.<\/p>\n
The four-room and five-room units were undersubscribed, with an application rate of less than one among first-timer families, meaning such families were almost guaranteed a chance to pick a unit. \u00a0<\/p>\n
Ms Sun said this is within expectations because of the ample supply of new flats in the area, with almost 4,000 flats launched in both the February and June sales exercises collectively.<\/p>\n
\u201cThose who intended to stay here would have applied in the past. Moreover, there are more attractive projects launched in this exercise, which may have diverted buyers away,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Huttons\u2019 Mr Lee added that the longer distance to an MRT station was a \u201cbig minus\u201d for applicants. Sembawang MRT station is about a 10-minute bus ride from the project.<\/p>\n
The last Standard project, Chencharu Acres at Yishun, had an application rate of 8.9 among first-timer singles for two-room flexi units. Its three-room, four-room and five-room flats had application rates of 2.3, 2.6 and 2.7, respectively.<\/p>\n
The Community Care Apartments (CCA) at Toa Payoh Hillside saw stronger-than-usual demand, with 509 applicants vying for 256 units \u2013 an application rate of two.<\/p>\n
Experts attributed this to policy changes for CCAs. In July, the government lowered the minimum age for CCAs from 65 to 55, amid tepid demand for the apartments.<\/p>\n
The basic service package fee was also lowered, making it more affordable for seniors.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe higher take-up shows that the policy change is in the right direction,\u201d said Huttons\u2019 Mr Lee, adding that another possible reason for its popularity is the high proportion of seniors in Toa Payoh.<\/p>\n
Ms Sun noted that the project is also well located, beside Caldecott MRT station and within Toa Payoh town.<\/p>\n
\u201cMoreover, there are many old flats in Toa Payoh. Therefore, many home owners may be keen to sell their existing resale flats and downsize to a CCA, which is smaller and cheaper,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
The next BTO sales exercise will be held in February 2027, with about 4,300 flats in Bishan, Tampines, Tengah and Toa Payoh on offer. A concurrent Sale of Balance Flats exercise will also offer about 5,000 flats.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe will continue doing our best to offer a robust supply and good mix of public housing options, so that more Singaporeans can achieve their housing aspirations,\u201d said Mr Chee.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
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