SINGAPORE — Rolling out the new 2-Room Flexi Scheme for the first time, the Housing and Development Board (HDB) will be offering 2,093 units in two sizes for this scheme in Bidadari, Bukit Batok, Choa Chu Kang, Punggol, and Sengkang under the latest Build-To-Order (BTO) exercise.

The scheme, which was first announced during National Day Rally earlier this year, will give elderly citizens aged 55 years and above the option to choose the length of the lease for their 2-room Flexi flat, based on their age, needs and preferences.

Eligible elderly buyers can still choose to buy a 99-year lease if they are eligible, or opt for a shorter lease between 15 and 45 years in five-year increments, provided it covers them and their spouse until they are at least 95 years old.

At least 40 per cent or a minimum of 100 units of the 2-room Flexi flats in a BTO project will be made available to the elderly. Half of this quota will be set aside for the elderly who apply for a unit near their current flat or near their married child under a new Senior Priority Scheme, said the HDB today (Nov 17). First-timer and second-timer families, as well as first-timer singles, will continue to be offered 99-year 2-room Flexi flats, the HDB added.

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In a Facebook post, Minister for National Development Lawrence Wong said the flats under this scheme will cater to a diverse group of applicants, from families to singles and the elderly. “They make up almost 30 per cent of the BTO flat supply, and are offered in five out of the six towns in this BTO exercise. This will help ensure a broad range of options and locations to meet demand,” he said.

Available in two sizes, 36 sqm and 45 sqm, buyers will have the option of flooring and sanitary fittings under the Optional Component Scheme. Grab bars will be provided in all short-lease two-room units but elderly buyers who prefer a flat in move-in condition can also choose an additional package that include fittings such as lighting, built-in kitchen cabinets and built-in wardrobe.

As of 5pm today, there were 364 applications for flats under the scheme, with Punggol receiving the highest number of 193 applications, followed by Sengkang with 69.