expatriates and buying a cluster house (leasehold)?

[cluster]

We have just started looking for a place to buy. There is a place that we like in a large cluster house complex (99 year leasehold, not freehold). However the estate agent says that we as foreigners need approval from the government to own a cluster house even though it is leasehold.

Anyone know if this is correct? If so can you direct me as to how I can go about this.

[LDU]

You need to be PR to buy landed, then you can apply for permission fm the Land Devt Unit.

[kdown]

D' Manor? oh no way overpriced crowded - we looked at a couple

[KiloKilo]

Foreigners can only buy Condos (and non condo apartments) without permission. For landed property, and non-condo strata developments you need to apply for permission. Some cluster houses are designated as condos, but of course these tend to be a lot more expensive than non-condo developments

Apparently, you don't actually need to be a PR to apply, but it is looked upon favourably if you are

Bear in mind that if you do get permission and buy, that there are restrictions on selling and renting out the property

[I thought]

Foreigners also needed permission for low rise condos (< 6 stories)

[KiloKilo]

I think there used to be restrictions on low-rise non-condo apartments, but not anymore (I think)

[must be PR]

Apparently, you don't actually need to be a PR to apply, but it is looked upon favourably if you are

Actually, on the SLA website it says you must be a PR to submit the application form. Basically, a PR submits the form (Form A), pays the $520 application fee, and waits 30 days. If it's approved they then have 6 months to buy a landed property before the approval lapses.

This applies to leasehold as well as freehold, unless it's on Sentosa.
 

[KiloKilo]

Odd. I did check before posting, and elsewhere on the SLA website is says you don't have to be PR. That said, until then, it was always my understanding that you did have to be

[must be PR]

Me too actually - maybe they changed it recently. I only know this stuff because we're PRs looking to buy a cluster house.