If your name has been added as a co-owner of an HDB flat, even with no monetary consideration, you generally cannot purchase a private condominium in Singapore at any time you wish unless specific conditions are met.
As an HDB flat owner, including co-owners added without payment, you must first fulfill the Minimum Occupation Period (MOP) of 5 years for the HDB flat before you are eligible to buy any private residential property, including a condominium. This MOP rule applies regardless of whether you paid for your share or not. Only after completing the MOP can you proceed to acquire a private property.
If you wish to buy a condo before completing the MOP, you would typically need to remove your name from the HDB flat ownership—commonly by way of a transfer of flat ownership—and demonstrate that you no longer have any interest in an HDB flat.
If you attempt to buy a private condo while still listed as an HDB owner or co-owner before completing the MOP, you will not be eligible under current Singapore regulations.
In summary:
- Being a co-owner of an HDB flat (even with zero monetary consideration) generally bars you from buying a private condo until after the 5-year MOP is fulfilled or your ownership in the HDB flat is officially removed.
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