First-timer Applicants for BTO Flats in Non-mature Estates

Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for National Development (a) how many first-timer BTO applicants have currently made three or more unsuccessful attempts for BTO flats in non-mature estates; (b) how many of the 200 such applicants in July 2013 have been successful in subsequent BTO launches; (c) how many of the 200 applicants have not attempted to apply since then; and (d) whether HDB will consider allowing first-timer applicants who have made four unsuccessful attempts to receive automatic success at the head of the queue at their fifth attempt.

(a) There are 10 first-timer families who have recently chalked up three or more unsuccessful attempts for BTO flats in the non-mature estates.

(b) Of the 200 families identified in July 2013, 60 have since been invited to select a new HDB flat, and another 10 have decided to buy a resale flat, Executive Condominium or Design, Build and Sell Scheme flat.

(c) The remaining 130 have not participated in any HDB sales exercise since July 2013. Some might have gone on to buy a private property. Others may be waiting for another BTO opportunity.

(d) With the significant ramp-up in new flat supply, we have cleared the backlog of first-timer applicants. We will continue to monitor the supply and demand situation and intervene when necessary.