A real talk about property ownership that most Singapore buyers overlook until it’s too late.
A real talk about property ownership that most Singapore buyers overlook until it’s too late.
Picture this: you’re sitting in your car after viewing yet another BTO in Punggol. Your spouse turns to you and asks, “So… when we buy this, how do we actually own it together?”
As a property agent, I hear this almost every week. And here’s the thing — it’s one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make, but no one talks about it until it’s too late.
I’ve seen too many situations where the choice between Joint Tenancy and Tenancy-in-Common turned into a family’s biggest regret.
One case sticks with me: Two friends bought a shophouse together, assuming they’d each “own half.” Years later, one passed away unexpectedly. Because they held it under Joint Tenancy, the surviving friend automatically inherited the whole property. The late owner’s family — who thought they’d receive his share — got nothing.
This wasn’t a sneaky legal trick. It’s simply how Joint Tenancy works. And it’s why you need to understand the difference before signing anything.
Many Singaporeans mistakenly believe HDB automatically divides flats among children. This is incorrect.
Without a will, property distribution follows the Intestate Succession Act—which may not align with your parents’ actual wishes.Critical complications arise when:
The flat is registered under a single name
No eligible family member qualifies for ownership transfer
HDB may mandate a forced sale, creating additional legal complexities and potential loss of the family home
Remember: HDB follows legal requirements, not family sentiments.
With Tenancy-in-Common, you can own the property in fixed proportions — 50-50, 70-30, even 80-20. Your share is separate and distinct.
If something happens to you, your share goes to your estate, not your co-owner automatically.
A real-life example:
Two siblings buy their parents’ Bukit Timah terrace. Brother contributes 80%, sister 20%. Under Tenancy-in-Common, if the brother passes away, his 80% goes to his wife and kids — not straight to his sister.
If they had chosen Joint Tenancy, the sister would’ve inherited his full share, potentially causing serious tension with his widow.
HDB Flats
Most couples default to Joint Tenancy, but you can request Tenancy-in-Common if it suits your situation better — especially in cases like:
Private Properties
You have full flexibility. And with Singapore’s property values, the choice you make can have major estate planning and tax implications.
The biggest mistake? Choosing based on what “sounds simple” without considering the long-term impact.
I once worked with a couple who owned a Clementi condo under Joint Tenancy. When the husband passed, the wife inherited everything. But he had two kids from a previous marriage who expected to inherit part of it. They got nothing.
That “simple choice” created a rift in the family that may never heal.
Choose Joint Tenancy if:
Choose Tenancy-in-Common if:
Whether it’s your first BTO in Tampines or a Marina Bay penthouse, don’t let this be an afterthought. This one decision can protect — or damage — your family’s future.
If you’re unsure, let’s have a quick, no-pressure chat. I’ll help you weigh the pros and cons for your exact situation, so you can move forward with confidence.
Because in Singapore property, the right structure isn’t just about ownership — it’s about safeguarding your legacy.
Have you faced this decision before? What factors influenced your choice between Joint Tenancy and Tenancy-in-Common? Share your experience in the comments below – your story might help another family make the right decision.
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