Semi-detached houses are landed properties in Singapore that offer a good blend of privacy, space, and luxury and have become a desirable option for many Singaporeans.

In this guide, we’ll explore what semi-detached houses are, their pros and cons, and the key factors to consider before purchasing any type of semi-detached property.

Definition of a Semi-Detached House in Singapore

According to the Urban Redevelopment Authority’s (URA) guidelines, a semi-detached house is one where two separate homes are constructed together, sharing a common wall between them. This means each homeowner owns their individual house and the land it sits on, but the boundary is defined by that shared wall.

The dimensions of a plot of land for a semi-detached house must have a minimum plot width of 8 meters and a minimum plot size of 200 square meters if they are built side-to-side, or a minimum plot width of 10 meters and plot size of 200 square meters if the semi-detached houses are built back-to-back.

History of Semi-Detached Houses

Semi-detached houses have a long history in Singapore, dating back to the Colonial Era. During the British Colonial Period, this type of landed housing was built in pairs with spacious lawns and gardens and was designed to provide a comfortable and private living space for wealthy colonialists.

Today, semi-detached houses have become a popular form of housing in Singapore, especially among families who want more space and privacy.

Ownership Criteria

When it comes to semi-detached house ownership in Singapore, different residents face varying stipulations when buying landed property. Here’s a breakdown:

Singapore Citizens

Landed property is readily accessible for Singapore citizens. They face no restrictions and can purchase houses freely, owning semi-detached houses fully under their own names.

Permanent Residents

Permanent Residents (PRs) seeking a semi-detached house have more requirements. Due to landed property restrictions for PRs, they must first seek approval from the Singapore Land Authority (SLA) before purchasing any semi-detached properties.

Expatriates

Property ownership for foreigners in Singapore, particularly landed property, is subject to stringent requirements. Like PRs, expatriates must first seek approval from the SLA before they are allowed to purchase any semi-detached properties.

Each applicant will be assessed on a case-by-case basis, and during this process, the following 2 factors will largely be taken into consideration:

• Whether the applicant has been a Singapore permanent resident for at least five years.
• Whether the applicant has made significant economic contributions to Singapore during that period.

Price Range

The price range of semi-detached houses in Singapore can vary, depending on factors such as the location, size, age, and condition of the property. However, the general cost of a semi-detached house typically ranges anywhere from S$4 million to around S$15 million.

Landed properties in prime areas such as Districts 9, 10, and 11 tend to have higher prices, while those in suburban areas tend to have a lower price range.

Popular Locations to Look Out For in 2025

Semi-detached houses can be found in many different locations across Singapore. Some of the most popular  districts for landed properties are Districts 10 and 11, East Coast, and Serangoon Gardens Estate. These are well-loved areas for semi-detached houses with a mix of established neighbourhoods and newer developments.

Districts 10 and 11

Both Districts 10 and 11 are upscale and affluent residential areas in Singapore, comprising many landed properties including semi-detached houses. District 10 covers areas such as Tanglin, Holland Village, and Bukit Timah, while District 11 is located in the central region of Singapore, covering areas such as Novena and Newton.

Below are some of the reasons why people would like to move and live in either of these two districts:

• Prestigious schools – Both districts are home to some of Singapore’s most prestigious educational institutions, such as St Joseph’s Institution, Raffles’ Girls School, and National Junior College.
• Access to green spaces – They are home to several parks and nature spaces, such as the Singapore Botanical Gardens and the Jacob Ballas Children’s Gardens. This makes them ideal places for those who enjoy outdoor activities and nature.
• Amenities – They also have access to numerous amenities such as shopping malls, hawker centres, and restaurants. District 10 is known for its famous high-end Orchard Road shopping district, while District 11 is located near popular malls such as Novena Square.
• Accessibility – Both districts are well-connected to other parts of Singapore via major roads and public transport networks such as the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) and buses. This makes it easy and convenient for anyone to travel to various parts of the island.

East Coast

The East Coast is a highly sought-after residential area that stretches along the entire eastern coast of Singapore. It’s well known for its relaxed lifestyle and range of outdoor recreational activities, with many landed properties located there.

Here are some of the advantages of moving and living there:

• Beachside living – The East Coast is home to several beach areas, including East Coast Park and offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as cycling, jogging, and water sports. This makes it an ideal location for those who enjoy beachside living.
• Food options – It’s also well-known for its diverse food options, with a range of hawker centres, cafes, and restaurants. For example, the Katong and Joo Chiat areas are famous for their Peranakan cuisine, while East Coast Road is known for its fresh seafood.
• Good transport links – Lastly, the East Coast is well-connected to other parts of Singapore via major expressways, MRT stations, and bus networks, making it easy for anyone to travel to various parts of the island.

Serangoon Gardens Estate

Serangoon Gardens Estate is also a popular residential estate located in the northeastern region of Singapore, with many semi-detached houses located there alongside other properties such as terrace houses and bungalows.

Similar to the above locations, Serangoon Gardens Estate is also known for its numerous amenities, prestigious schools, and range of green spaces. The area is also easily accessible via major roads, expressways, and MRT stations, making it convenient for residents to travel to different parts of Singapore. 

However, what makes this area unique is that unlike many of the other housing estates in Singapore, Serangoon Gardens was developed way back in the 1950s and 1960s, making it one of Singapore’s oldest private housing estates with a rich history.

Pros and Cons of Purchasing a Semi-Detached House

Similar to other types of landed properties in Singapore, owning a semi-detached house comes with its own set of pros and cons. Here is a brief outline of the challenges of owning a semi-detached house as well as the main benefits of semi-detached houses:

Feature	Pros	Cons
Space & Privacy	– More living space than flats and condominiums – Flexible space usage – Private outdoor areas – Private parking	As compared to a detached home, potential noise from neighbours due to shared wall
Financial Considerations	– Lower price per square foot than condos – Potential for high capital appreciation – No monthly maintenance fees – Attractive rental yield potential	– Higher upfront purchase cost than condominiums – Potentially higher renovation costs
Lifestyle	– Sense of community in landed enclaves – Greater freedom for personalisation – Suitable for multi-generational families	– May require more hands-on maintenance than condominiums – Renovation restrictions due to shared wall and URA guidelines

 

Pros

Maintenance Savings

Another advantage of semi-detached houses is the reduced cost of maintenance. Unlike condominiums, which require residents to pay monthly maintenance fees to the Management Corporation Strata Title (MCST) to cover the upkeep of shared facilities and common areas, semi-detached houses have no such recurring costs. This translates to significant cost savings over the long term.

While homeowners are responsible for their individual landed property’s upkeep, there are some inherent cost efficiencies. Ultimately, homeowners have more control over their maintenance choices, allowing them to prioritise spending and potentially opt for more cost-effective solutions. Hence, when compared to strata properties like condominiums, the maintenance costs for semi-detached houses can be considerably lower over time.

More Space

Semi-detached houses also offer more living space compared to other types of housing, such as flats or condominiums. One of the biggest benefits of landed properties like semi-detached houses is that they typically have multiple bedrooms, bathrooms, and living areas and are ideal for large families or those who require more space due to their unique lifestyle (e.g. work-from-home business owners).

But it’s not just about the number of rooms; it’s about the flexibility that comes with that space. Extra rooms can easily be converted into home offices, gyms, hobby rooms, or guest suites, adapting to the evolving needs of the household. This adaptability makes semi-detached houses particularly appealing to multi-generational families who desire independent living spaces while remaining close.

Furthermore, there are also many family-friendly landed properties that come with generous outdoor areas like gardens and patios, providing private spaces for relaxation, recreation, and entertaining. And let’s not forget the added convenience of private parking spaces, a valuable feature that adds to the overall appeal and convenience of semi-detached living.

Financial Value

Well built up semi-detached houses with large floor areas are better value for money when it comes to space. This is because the price per square foot of built area is often lower for a well-built semi-detached as compared to a condominium in the same location. This difference in price per square foot contributes significantly to the overall financial value of semi-detached houses.

There are a few reasons for this. Firstly, condominiums come with shared facilities and amenities, which are factored into the selling price. Secondly, land value appreciation plays a significant role in landed property value. Semi-detached houses, with their individual land plots, benefit more directly from land appreciation compared to condominiums built on shared land.

This lower price per square foot, combined with land appreciation potential, makes semi-detached houses an attractive option for those seeking long-term housing with strong appreciation potential. This contributes to the investment value of semi-detached houses over time.

Furthermore, their spaciousness and location in established landed enclaves often translate to better resale value, particularly appealing to affluent buyers who prioritise space and exclusivity. This combination of factors makes semi-detached houses a compelling choice for both comfortable living and smart property investment.

Investment Potential

In terms of investment potential, semi-detached houses tend to appreciate in value over time and are, therefore, good investment options for those looking to invest in landed properties. This appreciation for semi-detached houses is driven by several factors.

Firstly, land scarcity in Singapore inherently increases demand for landed properties, including semi-detached houses. With limited land available for development, these properties become more exclusive and sought-after over time.

Secondly, location plays a crucial role in appreciation. Landed properties situated in prime districts or neighbourhoods undergoing significant infrastructure developments tend to experience higher appreciation rates. For example, new MRT lines, expressways, or urban rejuvenation projects can dramatically enhance the desirability and value of these properties.

Beyond capital appreciation, semi-detached houses also offer attractive rental yields. Their spaciousness and exclusivity appeal to expatriates and families seeking luxury accommodations, contributing to a healthy rental market. While rental yields for landed properties may not be as high as some smaller condominiums, the combination of rental income and long-term capital appreciation makes semi-detached houses a compelling investment in Singapore.

Cons

Limited Flexibility for Renovations

Semi-detached houses may have certain restrictions on the type of renovations that can be carried out. This can potentially limit your ability to customise your home according to your own personal tastes and preferences and is one of the downsides of semi-detached houses.

Renovation restrictions for semi-detached houses often include limitations on altering the shared wall without consent from the neighbour and restrictions on extending the structure beyond specific boundaries. These limitations are often due to URA guidelines for landed property renovations, which dictate permissible modifications to ensure safety and neighbourhood harmony. Hence, modifying semi-detached houses requires careful consideration of these guidelines.

Homeowners can work within these restrictions by focusing on interior remodelling, upgrading outdoor spaces like patios and gardens, or exploring permissible extensions that comply with URA guidelines. 

However, it is important to note that older semi-detached houses may face additional challenges, such as structural repairs or upgrades. These works can be complex due to age and the interconnected nature of the structure, potentially increasing costs and requiring more intricate planning to comply with the landed property limitations.

Potential Renovation Costs for Semi-Detached Houses

Typical renovation costs for semi-detached houses in Singapore can vary significantly. This is because the cost of renovating landed property is influenced by many factors. However, for semi-detached houses, you can expect an average price range of $200,000 to $1,000,000. Basic renovations might fall on the lower end of this spectrum, while extensive remodelling with high-end finishes can push costs towards the higher end.

Several factors affect renovation for semi-detached houses cost:

• Property age: Older semi-detached houses may require more extensive repairs and structural work, increasing costs.
• Size of the house: Larger landed properties naturally incur higher renovation costs due to the increased area requiring work.
• Scope of work: A simple cosmetic refresh will be far less expensive than a complete overhaul involving extensive rewiring, plumbing, and structural changes.
• Materials used: Choosing premium materials and finishes will significantly impact the overall budget.

Hence, it’s crucial to plan your renovation carefully and get detailed quotations from reputable contractors to ensure you have a realistic understanding of the potential costs involved in remodelling your semi-detached house.

Factors to Consider Before Purchasing a Semi-Detached House

Before purchasing a semi-detached house, there are several factors that you need to consider carefully in order to ensure that you make the right decision. Below are some of the more critical factors you need to look at.

Property Location

The location of the semi-detached house is one of the key factors you need to consider as part of your decision-making process. It’s important that you choose a location that’s easily accessible to public transport networks and near amenities such as schools, hospitals, and shopping centres you are familiar with and enjoy going to.

Additionally, historically, landed properties in Singapore across all regions and districts have shown strong long-term appreciation, making them a relatively good investment. Therefore, beyond existing amenities, you should also consider futureproofing your semi-detached house by researching planned infrastructure developments. For instance, a new MRT station nearby can improve access to the area and boost appreciation potential. Similarly, planned upgrades to nearby parks and recreational facilities can enhance the liveability and, hence, the overall value of your semi-detached house.

Size and Layout

The size and layout of a semi-detached house are also important factors to consider, as they can affect the overall living experience for both you and your family.

The size of the landed property will determine the amount of living space that you have, so it’s important to ensure it meets both your current and future needs, especially if you have a growing family. You should factor in considerations such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms required, whether you desire a home office or dedicated play areas for children, and if you envision needing space for extended family members or guests.

As for the overall layout, it can have a significant impact on the functionality and flow of your living space. For example, an open-concept layout creates a sense of spaciousness and connectivity between different parts of your home, while a more compartmentalised layout offers more privacy and personal space.

Furthermore, the layout should also take into account factors such as natural light and ventilation, as these can affect your overall living experience as well. For example, having windows and doors placed strategically will allow natural light and fresh air to circulate throughout your home, improving indoor air quality and reducing the need for artificial lighting.

Condition

Another area to look at is the overall condition of the semi-detached house. For this, it is advisable to engage the services of a professional inspector for landed houses, who will be able to conduct a thorough inspection of the property and identify any potential issues.

Such work would include examining the building structure and foundation, inspecting the electrical and plumbing systems, checking for safety hazards, and looking for signs of pest infestation (e.g. termites, rodents).

Budget and Financing

Financing is a major consideration when purchasing a semi-detached house. Before purchasing any landed property, you should first determine what your budget will be and adhere to it strictly to avoid overspending. At the same time, take into account any additional expenses such as property taxes, maintenance costs, and insurance premiums.

If you need to finance your purchase, spend time exploring the various financing options available and choose the one that best suits your own financial situation. You can choose to either opt for a bank loan, use your Central Provident Fund (CPF) savings, or apply for various financing schemes offered by specific property developers.

Resale Value 

The resale value of the semi-detached house is another factor to look at, and it’s important to choose a landed property that has good potential for appreciation over the long term. Research property market trends and consult with an experienced property advisor to get valuable insights into the potential resale value of the property.

Legal Matters

Finally, you need to ensure that all legal matters associated with the semi-detached property are in order. This includes checking the relevant title deeds, confirming that the property is not under any legal disputes, and verifying that the seller has the legal right to sell the house.

As the legalities of property ownership can be quite challenging to understand, it is highly recommended that you engage the services of an experienced legal professional who will be able to work with you and ensure that all legal requirements for purchasing the landed property are properly complied with.

Engaging a Property Developer

On the whole, purchasing a semi-detached house can be a complicated and overwhelming process, especially if you’re doing it for the first time.

Hence, aside from engaging with a property agent, utilising the services of an experienced landed property developer or landed property advisor could also help when it comes to navigating such a process.

This person can help you search for semi-detached homes that meet your requirements and guide you through the entire process. They can also provide you with valuable insights at various stages of your purchasing journey.

Conclusion

Why buy a semi-detached house in Singapore? The simple answer is that semi-detached houses are an excellent option for those seeking a spacious and luxurious home, as well as those looking for good investment opportunities in the property market.

With this detailed guide providing an insightful overview of semi-detached houses, you’re well-equipped to begin your journey towards owning a landed property. However, it is essential to conduct your own careful and systematic research, planning, and budgeting to find the ideal semi-detached house that suits your lifestyle and long-term investment goals.