The HDB Resale Process Timeline
A typical resale purchase takes roughly 8–12 weeks from exercising the OTP to key collection. Here's what happens, and when.
Apply for your HFE letter
Confirms eligibility, indicative grants and loan estimate before you start viewing flats seriously.
Search and view flats
Timeline varies widely — could be days for a motivated buyer in a hot market, or months for a specific requirement.
Seller grants you an OTP
Typically against a $1,000 option fee, giving you an exclusive window (commonly 21 days) to decide.
Exercise the OTP
Paying the option exercise fee (up to $5,000 total including the option fee) legally binds both parties to the sale.
Submit the resale application
Both buyer and seller submit required documents via HDB's online resale portal; HDB checks eligibility and any resale levy owed.
HDB valuation and approval
HDB commissions a valuation and reviews the application, issuing an approval letter once satisfied.
Acceptance and Endorsement
The buyer and seller review, agree to, and electronically confirm the HDB resale application details for processing..
Completion & key collection
Balance purchase price is paid, CPF/loan funds are disbursed, and keys are handed over.
Timelines are typical estimates based on HDB's published resale process — actual timing varies by case, including whether any resale levy or additional approvals are required. See our HDB Resale Process guide for more detail on each step.