Buying a home in Singapore, you’ve probably heard this saying:
“The higher the floor, the higher the value!”
But is that really true?
Do higher floors always mean better returns?
Why do some buyers actually prefer lower floors instead?
Today, HaoHaoGuo takes you through real market data to uncover the hidden logic behind floor prices and living preferences, whether you’re a first-time buyer, upgrading, or investing for rental, you’ll find insights that truly matter.
HDB Market: Do floor levels really affect prices?
In the HDB resale market, higher floors do hold a natural advantage.
According to transaction data, units above the 10th floor are usually priced 5%–8% higher. For a flat worth S$500,000, that’s a difference of up to S$40,000!
The reasons are clear:
- Better ventilation
- Less street noise
- Broader view and more privacy
- Feels “more premium”
But that doesn’t mean lower floors have no demand.
In mature estates like Bishan, low-floor units in good locations — near MRT stations, markets, or hawker centres — are still highly sought after.
Many of our clients, especially families with kids, elderly members, or pets, specifically look for units below the 5th floor for convenience:
- Easier when using strollers
- No worries about lift breakdowns
- Convenient for walking pets
- Some avoid high floors due to fear of heights
So, price isn’t everything — lifestyle habits are the real logic.
Condo Market: Is the high-floor premium stronger?
Compared to HDBs, condos show a clearer price gap between floors.
In central districts or high-end areas like Districts 9, 10, and 15, each higher floor can cost around S$10,000 more.
New developments often “sell from top down”, with high-floor units snapped up first.
Many investors and expat tenants prefer high floors for the views, privacy, and peace — they feel the living experience is worth the premium.
But increasingly, some buyers are turning to low-floor units for the “lifestyle factor.”
For example, during the pandemic, one client initially wanted a high-floor condo but fell in love with a Bukit Timah ground-floor unit that had a private garden and pool access — and bought it at a premium.
Their reason:
“We can work from home while watching our kids play in the yard. It feels alive.”
Indeed, people aren’t just buying a house — they’re buying a way of life.
Investment View: High floor = high return?
Not always.
While high floors tend to appreciate steadily, low floors can actually offer better rental yields.
Savvy investors often choose low-floor units because:
- Lower entry price (saves tens of thousands)
- Similar rental income compared to higher floors
- Better yield percentage
Low-floor units with garden views, private patios, or corner layouts often rent out faster and for higher rates.
Data shows:
Low floors perform well too!
Which floor should you choose?
It depends on your lifestyle. Each floor type has pros and cons. There’s no absolute “best floor” — only what best suits you.
The best floor is the one that fits you
Market trends are useful, but the real decision depends on the property’s condition, your lifestyle, and your budget.
Don’t be trapped by the “higher floors are always better” mindset.
A truly good home is one that feels comfortable, appreciates in value, and can be easily resold.
If you’re unsure which floor to choose, our HaoHaoGuo consultant team can help. Tell us your family needs, budget, and lifestyle — we’ll recommend the most suitable floor options and help you avoid common pitfalls.
See clearly. Buy smart. Live well. That’s the HaoHaoGuo standard.
A home, big or small, whether for your own stay or rental, is a major investment.
Every detail matters — one small mistake could cause long-term issues.
That’s why you need an experienced, professional real estate team to manage your purchase wisely and help you avoid hidden traps.
