If you’re looking to purchase your first home, chances are you’ll be familiar with the Build-to-Order (BTO) and Sale of Balance Flats (SBF) exercises. Did you know that in addition to these, you can also apply for flats through the Open Booking exercise and book a unit as early as the next working day?

Read on to find out more about HDB’s different sales modes!

Build-To-Order (BTO)

HDB offers a range of flat types in different towns during each BTO sales exercise, providing home seekers with a range of housing options for every budget and need. You can check information on the BTO projects available at the next sales launch on the HDB Flat Portal.

At the close of each exercise, a ballot is conducted, and results are announced approximately 3 weeks later. If you want a flat faster, look out and apply for  BTO projects that have a shorter waiting time of less than 3 years.

Sale of Balance Flats (SBF)

With SBF exercises, you can apply for balance flats from earlier BTO sales launches, surplus flats in projects built for those affected by the Selective En bloc Redevelopment Scheme (SERS), as well as flats repurchased by HDB. As such, there is usually a variety of flat types across different towns. You can indicate your preferred flat type and town during your application.

The flats could be under construction, near completion, or already completed. Hence, this is an option if you prefer to buy flats with a shorter waiting time compared to new BTO flats. But do note that the number of such balance units offered in each town is usually limited, and likely to attract high demand.

Open Booking of Flats

Open Booking of Flats lets you apply for a flat online any time throughout the year and to book a unit as soon as the next working day.

If you are unsure how to find your dream home, check out our handy Buy Your Flat guides on your first steps to buy a BTO or resale flat.