5 lesser-known freehold 3-bedroom condos under $1.5m

Given the choice, most Singaporeans generally prefer to own a freehold home. Needless to say, that unfortunately will always come at a premium. 

That said, if you are set on a freehold condo or plan to have a long-term hold, here are five less known freehold three-bedroom condos that you can get for under a $1.5 million budget. Do expect some compromises here, whether it’s in the form of a location or a floor plan that is on the compact side.

Hills TwoOne 

$1,198,888

Attribute	Info
Address	21 Hillview Terrace 669232
Tenure	Freehold
Size	753 SQFT
$PSF	$1,592.25 PSF
Developer	MACLY RL Pte Ltd
TOP	2016

Why I like it

— Ryan

In a busy city in Singapore, it's always a nice respite to come home to a peaceful environment for a change. For those who prefer that lifestyle, this unit at Hills TwoOne might be a suitable choice. 

Hills TwoOne is a boutique condominium located right next to Bukit Batok Nature Park and is also next to the Hillview Park Connector, which is connected to Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. With only 71 units in this project, homeowners can look forward to a more private environment. 

Getting to amenities is rather convenient. It's a short walk to Bukit Batok East Point, which houses a wet market, supermarkets, numerous eateries and typical heartland shops. The nearest MRT Station is at Bukit Gombak (North-South line), which is about one kilometre away, so MRT connectivity here isn't great. 

Interestingly, this unit has a dual-key layout but it is compactly sized at 753 sq ft. Whether you're looking to stay with family and want more privacy, or want to rent out half of the apartment, this layout can make sense. 

There's also a home shelter that is located in the bedroom, which is quite unusual. However, I think it can double as a storage room or even a walk-in closet for homeowners, which is a bonus point. Currently, the unit has a simple design and can be easily renovated to change to newer tastes. 

Jade Residences 

$1,400,000

Attribute	Info
Address	5 Lew Lian Vale 537018
Tenure	Freehold
Size	732 SQFT
$PSF	$1,912.57 PSF
Developer	Roxy Residential Pte Ltd
TOP	2017

Why I like it

— Druce

Let's be clear that at 732 sq ft, this is definitely a very compact unit when it comes to a three bedroom layout. 

What I like about this unit is its extended balcony, which draws out from the living room to one of the common bedrooms, and can double as a yard area. It also brings more natural light into the apartment, making it bright and it is better for ventilation. 

When looking at its location, it's under a seven-minute walk to Serangoon MRT Station (North-East and Circle line) as well as NEX for plenty of dining, shopping and grocery options. Alternatively, there are several coffee shops located nearby. 

For families with children, the project is surrounded by several well-known schools such as Maris Stella High (Primary), Paya Lebar Methodist Girls' (Primary) and St Gabriel Secondary School.

Cassia Edge 

$1,399,000

Attribute	Info
Address	343 Guillemard Road 399764
Tenure	Freehold
Size	915 SQFT
$PSF	$1,528.96 PSF
Developer	MACLY EQUITY Pte Ltd
TOP	2018

Why I like it

— Reuben

As a useful dual-key unit, this freehold unit is sized at 915 sq ft and has three bedrooms and two bathrooms. It comes as a studio and a two-bedder, which is great for those who want to rent out their space while maintaining privacy. 

This unit stands out with its three balconies (two are found in the bedrooms and one in the living room), which is good for those who prefer a brightly lit and well-ventilated apartment. Furthermore, the unit is North or South facing, which means that direct afternoon sunlight would not be an issue. 

With regards to the home shelter, it is tucked away in a corner, which is less jarring to the layout. There's also a small study area in the shared lobby near the entrance, though it could be adapted to fit shoe racks and storage cabinets to keep clutter out of sight. 

Its location is decent but not the closest to an MRT station. It's within a 15-minute walk to three MRT stations, including Dakota MRT (Circle line), Mountbatten MRT (Circle line) and Aljunied (East-West line). Being a short walk to Old Airport Road Food Centre (which has some of the best local delights in Singapore), homeowners are spoilt with a wide variety of food options. It's also near Geylang Road and Sims Avenue, which is loved for its eateries along the shophouses. 

For nature lovers, it's a short walk away from Geylang Park Connector, which leads to Kallang Riverside Park which offers scenic pathways for cycles and runs. 

Last but not least, there are many schools nearby, including Chung Cheng High (Main), Kong Hwa School, Tanjong Katong Girls' School, Tanjong Katong Secondary and Broadrick Secondary. 

Sunshine Regency 

$1,480,000

Attribute	Info
Address	9 Rambai Road 424352
Tenure	Freehold
Size	894 SQFT
$PSF	$1,655.48 PSF
Developer	Fragrance Homes Pte Ltd
TOP	2007

Why I like it

— Stanley

Another unit located in the East, Sunshine Regency is located within a 16-minute walk to the upcoming Marine Parade MRT, which is slated to complete in 2024. 

While it might not be the nearest to MRT stations, it's within walking distance of many malls (such as i12 Katong, Roxy Square, Parkway Parade and Katong Shopping Centre) and the well-loved Joo Chiat shophouses and cafe scene. 

It's also near many renowned schools, such as Tao Nan School, CHIJ Katong Convent (Primary) and St Patrick's School. 

The unit is sized at 894 sq ft and comes with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. 

All rooms can accommodate a double bed with a good amount of walking space left. There's also a balcony in the living room that is overlooking the condo's pool direction and without any afternoon sun, making the space feel bright and airy. For families who are looking for a functional space to call home and near a wide variety of amenities in the East, this unit is one to consider. 

Hilbre28 

$1,350,000

Attribute	Info
Address	68 Hillside Drive 549018
Tenure	999-year Leasehold
Size	861 SQFT
$PSF	$1,567.94 PSF
Developer	Development 72 Pte Ltd
TOP	2018

Why I like it

— Sean

While this unit is not a freehold, it is considered as good with a 999-year leasehold tenure. Hilbre28 is a boutique development that is situated within a landed enclave, which translates to unblocked views and a tranquil environment that residents are able to enjoy. 

The nearest MRT station is at Kovan (North-East line) around a 13-minute walk away, though a slightly further walk away connects residents to Serangoon MRT (North-East and Circle line) and NEX. For those looking to enjoy food nearby, Serangoon Garden Market and Chomp Chomp Food Centre are some options to consider. 

The unit is sized at 861 sq ft and has three bedrooms and two bathrooms. What makes the apartment stand out is that it has high ceilings that goes a long way in a compact sized three bedder. The kitchen comes with a yard space, which is always useful.