In an exciting development for lower-income families in Singapore, the Fresh Start Housing Grant has seen a significant increase, now set at S$75,000 as part of the Budget 2025 enhancements. This increase, which rises from the previous S$50,000, is designed to help families achieve the dream of homeownership, especially for those currently living in public rental flats. Starting from July 2025, this enhanced grant will serve as a beacon of hope for second-timer families looking to secure a more stable living situation. To qualify for the Fresh Start Housing Grant, families must meet specific criteria. This includes being second-timers with children, where at least one child must be a Singaporean aged 18 or younger. Additionally, families need to show steady employment for at least the past year and have an average gross monthly income of S$7,000 or less—ensuring that the support truly targets those in need. Having lived in a public rental flat for a minimum of one year is another requirement that grounds the application process in reality. Furthermore, the eligibility criteria also encompass previous housing experience for applicants, ensuring support for those in need.
Moreover, the announcement brings good news to first-timer families as well. They can now apply for this grant if they have children living in public rental flats, broadening the scope of who can benefit from this initiative. First-timers can also access the Enhanced CPF Housing Grant, which can provide up to S$120,000. However, families need to choose, as they cannot use both grants simultaneously.
The disbursement structure is equally thoughtful, with S$60,000 given upfront to aid in downpayments and initial costs, while the remaining S$15,000 will be disbursed over five years—ensuring a gradual shift into homeownership. This initiative also aims to support enhanced Fresh Start Housing Scheme efforts in Singapore that reflect the government's commitment to facilitating better living conditions for families.
To further ease the journey, additional support measures such as financial counseling and homeownership guidance have been introduced, helping families build resilience and navigate their new environment smoothly.
In total, around 13,000 families are estimated to be eligible for this grant, marking a significant step towards breaking the cycle of rental dependence and fostering homeownership in Singapore.
