Exploring Semi-Detached Houses in Singapore

Where gleaming skyscrapers and sprawling condominiums often steal the spotlight in Singapore, the semi-detached house straddles the line between the grandeur of bungalows and the community spirit of terrace homes, offering a compelling blend of space, privacy, and prestige that’s hard to match in land-scarce Singapore.

Imagine waking up to the gentle rustle of leaves in your private garden, stepping out onto a sun-drenched patio for your morning coffee, all while being just a stone’s throw away from the pulsating heart of the city. This is the daily reality for those fortunate enough to call a semi-detached house their home in Singapore. But what exactly makes these properties so special, and why are they becoming the holy grail for a growing number of property seekers?

What Is A Semi-Detached House?

A semi-detached house is a single-family residential property that shares one common wall with a neighbouring unit. Typically featuring two or three stories, these homes offer more space and privacy than terraced houses while being more affordable than detached homes. In Singapore, semi-detached houses often include individual driveways, private gardens, and flexible interior layouts. 

At its core, a semi-detached house’s shared wall is where the similarity with other properties ends. These homes typically have generous floor plans, often spanning three stories with the possibility of additional basement and attic spaces. The result? A living area that can easily rival that of a bungalow but at a fraction of the price and land footprint.

Source: Brand New Land

The attractiveness of semi-detached houses lies not just in their spaciousness but in their versatility. Many of these properties come with land titles, offering owners a degree of freedom in renovation and customisation that’s simply unheard of in condominiums.

Want to add a rooftop terrace for stargazing? Or transform your basement into a state-of-the-art home cinema? The possibilities are limited only by your imagination  – and, of course, local building regulations!

But more than the physical attributes, semi-detached houses are appealing because some often come with history and character. Modern interpretations of semi-detached houses showcase cutting-edge design in areas like Bukit Timah and Holland Village, blending seamlessly with the lush tropical surroundings.

Semi-Detached Houses vs. Terraced Houses

While both semi-detached and terraced houses fall under the category of landed properties in Singapore, they offer distinct living experiences. The primary difference lies in their structure and layout. A semi-detached house shares only one wall with a neighbouring unit, whereas a terraced house (also known as a row house) is sandwiched between two other units, sharing walls on both sides unless you are lucky enough to be on the edge of the row.

This structural difference translates into several key distinctions. Semi-detached houses typically offer more privacy and space compared to terraced houses. They often feature larger floor plans, more windows for natural light, and more extensive outdoor areas, like side gardens. 

In contrast, while more space-efficient regarding land use, terraced houses generally have a narrower layout and may have limited natural light in the middle sections. However, terraced houses often come with a more affordable price tag, making them an attractive option for those looking to enter the landed property market. 

Both housing types offer the benefits of land ownership and the potential for customisation. Still, semi-detached houses, due to their less constrained structure, usually provide more flexibility regarding renovation and expansion possibilities.

Semi-Detached Houses Positive Investments

Another factor driving the popularity of semi-detached houses is their investment potential. In a city like Singapore, where land is at a premium, landed properties often appreciate at rates that outpace many other real estate segments.

The limited supply of semi-detached houses and their enduring appeal to local and expatriate families create a recipe for robust capital appreciation over the long term. According to the Urban Redevelopment Authority, landed property prices, which includes semi-D’s as they’re often called, increased by 1.8% in the second quarter of 2024, after a 2.6% increase in the first quarter.

Source: Archipro

However, the path to owning a semi-detached house in Singapore is challenging. For one, these properties come with a heftier price than similarly sized apartments. The additional stamp duties for foreign buyers can also make them less accessible to non-residents. Moreover, the maintenance responsibilities of landed property can be daunting for those used to the convenience of condominium living.

Regulations and Restrictions for Semi-Detached Houses

Owning and maintaining a semi-detached house in Singapore comes with specific regulations and restrictions that potential buyers should be aware of:

• Ownership restrictions: While Singaporeans can freely purchase semi-detached houses, foreign buyers face limitations. They typically need approval from the Singapore Land Authority and are restricted to properties in specific developments.
• Renovation rules: Any major renovations or additions must comply with the Urban Redevelopment Authority’s (URA) guidelines. This includes restrictions on the overall height of the building and the plot ratio (the ratio of total floor area to land area).
• Party wall agreements: As one wall is shared with a neighbour, any work affecting this wall requires agreement from both parties and must comply with the Party Wall Act.
• Land use: The land attached to semi-detached houses is typically designated for residential use only. Commercial activities are generally only permitted with specific approvals.
• Conservation guidelines: For semi-detached houses in conservation areas, strict rules govern the maintenance of the facade and architectural features.
• Maintenance responsibilities: Unlike condominiums, semi-detached house owners are fully responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of their property, including the roof, exterior walls, and any outdoor spaces.
• Property tax: Landed properties, including semi-detached houses, are subject to an annual property tax based on their annual value.

Understanding these regulations is crucial for anyone considering purchasing or living in a semi-detached house in Singapore. Consulting with real estate professionals and legal experts is always advisable to navigate these rules effectively.

As Singapore grows, semi-detached houses become more integral to its urban landscape. Architects and developers are innovating, creating homes that are not just places to live but also expressions of modern design and sustainability. 

To learn more about semi-detached houses currently on the market or other landed properties, contact our team at Singapore Luxury Homes. Our top 1% luxury real estate team will help effortlessly guide you through buying your landed home.