Key Insights for Singaporeans Buying New Property in Johor Bahru (2024)

Can Singaporeans Buy New Property in Johor Bahru?

Yes, Singaporeans can buy property in Malaysia, including new property in Johor Bahru. Many Singaporeans cross the Causeway daily to stay in their JB condos after making the move. But that’s just the beginning. Questions like, “Can I use my CPF to buy property in Malaysia?” or “Can I own both an HDB and Malaysian property?” often come up. With improved connectivity, like the Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL) to Woodlands and the upcoming RTS Link to Woodlands North MRT station, investing in a condo in Johor Bahru could be a smart choice for frequent Ringgit shopping trips.

Latest Updates on Traveling from Singapore to JB

QR Codes Instead of Passports
Starting 19 March 2024, up to 10 people in the same car crossing the Causeway can use QR codes instead of passports. To do this, download the MyICA mobile app and fill in your passport details (you can even use Singpass for this).

Progress on RTS Link
As of 11 January 2024, construction of the Johor Bahru-Singapore RTS Link is 65% complete on both sides. A major milestone was achievedwith the connection of Malaysia’s pier to Singapore’s pier via the “drop-in span.” The RTS Link is set to open by the end of 2026.

Woodlands Checkpoint Expansion
To prepare for the RTS Link, Woodlands Checkpoint will undergo expansion in 2025. By 2032, the first phase will be ready, making it five times bigger and cutting travel time for vehicles by four times.

KL-Singapore High-Speed Rail: Updates for 2024

For Singaporeans considering buying new property in Johor Bahru or even further north in Kuala Lumpur (KL), the distance might soon be less of a concern. Currently, traveling from Singapore to KL (about 350km) takes about 4 hours by car, 45 minutes by plane (plus check-in and immigration), or 6 hours by coach. Good news! There are talks about Malaysia reviving its Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High-Speed Rail (HSR) project. While not confirmed yet, if it happens, traveling to KL could become much faster and more convenient for those looking to invest in Malaysian property.

Can Singaporeans Buy Property in Malaysia?

Yes, Singaporeans can buy property in Malaysia just like any other foreigner. But before you do, check if you own an HDB flat. If you do, make sure it has passed the Minimum Occupation Period (MOP), which is usually 5 years (or 10 years for Prime Location Public Housing or PLH flats).

While there are limits on property ownership in some Malaysian states, Singaporeans can own as many residential properties as they want. If you’re buying land, you may even get freehold ownership! Before buying new property in Johor Bahru or elsewhere, always check the local rules to ensure you meet the requirements.

Can I Use CPF to Buy Property in Johor Bahru?

The simple answer is no. According to CPF, “CPF savings can only be used to purchase properties in Singapore.” This means you can’t use your CPF savings to buy property in Johor Bahru or anywhere outside of Singapore.

What Property Can Singaporeans Buy in Malaysia?

Universities in Johor

In most cases, Singaporeans can buy property in Malaysia with few restrictions. However, there are some important rules to keep in mind. Each state in Malaysia may set its own rules for foreign property purchases, such as taxes, fees, or minimum purchase prices. So, it’s important to do research on the area where you plan to buy. Generally, the minimum purchase price starts at RM500,000, but in places like Selangor, it can go up to around RM2 million.

Foreigners can buy property in Malaysia for less than RM1 million, but there are exceptions. If you’re looking to buy specific types of property, like high-rise buildings or overhang units, or in certain states like Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Kedah, Penang, Perlis, Sabah, or Sarawak, the minimum purchase price could be lower. However, in most cases, foreigners need to buy property worth at least RM1 million, and in some areas, it may even be RM2 million.

There are also a few federal rules to know. Foreigners cannot buy:

Low-cost properties (defined by each state)
Properties on land reserved for Malays
Properties meant for Bumiputera groups

Other than these, there aren’t many restrictions for Singaporeans buying property in Malaysia, but it’s still important to follow the laws to avoid any issues. Yes, foreigners can buy property in Malaysia without the MM2H (Malaysia My Second Home) visa. However, having an MM2H visa can offer benefits, like lower property prices and a 10-year renewable visa.

Can Foreigners Purchase Property in Malaysia Without MM2H?

Without MM2H, foreigners might face higher property prices and will need to apply for new visas regularly. Additionally, permission from local authorities is required, which can make the process more complicated and expensive. While it’s not a barrier to buying property, having MM2H can make things easier for Singaporeans looking to invest in Malaysia.

Buy a Property with Berinda Properties

If you’re a Singaporean planning to buy a new property in Johor Bahru- whether to rent, move here, or as an investment—connect with Berinda Properties to find your dream home. With over 40 years of experience, we are leaders in property development, helping transform Johor Bahru into a vibrant financial and commercial hub.

We started by building exceptional homes and have since expanded to include top shopping malls and office spaces. At Berinda Properties, we combine suburban charm with modern comforts and city conveniences. Our projects, supported by the well-known Kuok Group (famous for landmarks like the Shangri-La Hotel), set new standards for property excellence. Choose Berinda Properties for your ideal new property in Johor Bahru and experience the difference our decades of expertise can offer. Happy house hunting!