Kallang/Whampoa is one of the most coveted mature estates to live in, and the upcoming February 2023 BTO exercise proves just that. There will be 2 projects within the neighbourhood, one by Jalan Rajah bordering Toa Payoh, and the other by Farrer Park.
Before balloting commences, we take a look at the 2 locations in Kallang/Whampoa to suss out what’s so great about living there and whether or not you should try your luck with one of these sought-after properties.
Location of Jalan Rajah BTO site
Image credit: HDB
The first BTO project in Kallang/Whampoa is along Jalan Rajah, specifically the plot that was formerly occupied by Moulmein Primary School and the Global Indian International School. There will be around 500 units built here in 3- and 4-room configurations, making it suitable for couples and small families.
What we immediately noticed was its close proximity to the Pan-Island Expressway which will deter those who are particularly sensitive to noise and dust. There are also no public transport hubs in its immediate vicinity. Even Toa Payoh MRT is relatively far away, requiring a 20-minute walk across the Kallang River and PIE. This might also drive it away from the exclusive PLH club as let’s be honest – Jalan Rajah is not entirely a prime location.
Image credit: Google Maps
On the other hand, it’s also right by the Kallang River if you’re after some scenic waterway views, and some stacks would be treated to a clear vista of the Toa Payoh estate. The popular cafe Wheeler’s Yard is also just a quick 7-minute walk away so brunch and coffee are always within reach.
Sporty people will also appreciate the fact that Toa Payoh Swimming Complex, Toa Payoh Stadium, and SAFRA Toa Payoh are all within walking distance of the BTO project.
Schools
Within 1KM:
- Hong Wen School
- Kheng Cheng School
- Pei Chun Public School
Between 1-2KM:
- Bendemeer Primary School
- CHIJ Primary (Toa Payoh)
- Farrer Park Primary School
- First Toa Payoh Primary School
- Marymount Convent School
- St. Andrew’s Junior School
- St. Joseph’s Institution Junior
Verdict for the Jalan Rajah BTO
At first glance, the Jalan Rajah BTO does not seem like it’d be as popular as its counterparts in the same estate. The lack of 5-room options might also put off those who have big families. However, this might also mean that you’ll have a higher chance of successfully applying for one of the 3- or 4-room units here if you’re willing to sacrifice convenience.
Active people who love working out and swimming will also have easy access to affordable facilities across the Kallang River.
Location of Farrer Park BTO site
Image credit: HDB
The other Kallang/Whampoa BTO project is located in the Farrer Park enclave, specifically along Race Course Road where Farrer Park Field currently stands. Around 1,270 units in 2-room Flexi, 3-, and 4-room layouts will be made available for those lucky enough to score a spot in the hallowed BTO queue.
Along with the BTO stacks, part of the area has been slated for redevelopment into sports facilities that will integrate with the housing blocks. Expect things like a multi-purpose community sporting space and jogging paths to be added on top of the existing swimming complex and tennis courts.
An artist’s impression of the multi-purpose sport space.
Image credit: HDB
Image credit: Google Maps
The biggest perk of living at this upcoming BTO project is the accessibility and nearby amenities. The 2 MRT stations – Little India and Farrer Park – are within walking distance and provide access to both the North-East Line and Downtown Line. City Square Mall and the mixed-used Picadilly Grand with a commercial space will also fulfill all your shopping needs. Foodies will also love that Serangoon Road with its plenty of food haunts and late-night eateries is so nearby.
All these perks and its central location lead us to believe that the Farrer Park BTO would most likely fall under the PLH category, which means residents will be subject to a 10-year minimum occupation period.
Schools near the Farrer Park BTO site
Within 1KM:
- Anglo-Chinese School (Junior)
- Farrer Park Primary School
- St. Joseph’s Institution Junior
- St. Margaret’s School (Primary)
Between 1-2KM:
- Anglo-Chinese School (Primary)
- Hong Wen School
Verdict for the Farrer Park BTO
It’s a no-brainer that the Farrer Park BTO will be one of the most-subscribed BTO launches this coming February. With over one thousand units in various configurations and plenty of amenities at its doorstep, there are many reasons why people might want a shot at buying one of these units. The potential resale value in the future is also something worth considering.
That being said, there is a very high chance that this project will be classified as a PLH project, which means a MOP of 10 years. The resale route is slightly hindered and less attractive for PLH projects, but as it was only rolled out last year, we’ll have to wait and see if it’s a bane or a boon for housing in prime locations.
Indicative prices of the Kallang/Whampoa Feb 2023 BTO launch
Based off the previous BTO launches in the Kallang/Whampoa estate, SRX estimates that the 3-room units will start at $300K and have a ceiling of $470K, while the 4-room units start at $430K and can go up to $710K.
The wide range might be due to the fact that there are 2 different projects launching in quite different areas. We posit that the Jalah Rajah BTO might have prices closer to that of the Toa Payoh estate instead which has traditionally been lower than the usual Kallang/Whampoa BTO launch prices.
Kallang/Whampoa February 2023 BTO review
Earlier this month, we conducted a straw poll to see which of the February 2023 BTO launches has the most interest, and it’s not surprising that Kallang/Whampoa garnered over 1,000 votes out of nearly 2,000. The prime location within a mature estate coupled with many facilities and amenities make it a strong contender when compared to Jurong West and Tengah.
We could see young couples who love keeping fit being one of the main target audiences for both the Jalan Rajah and Farrer Park BTO sites. The availability of 2-room Flexi flats in the Farrer Park site might also attract single pringles who are above 35 years of age.
Check out the reviews of the other BTO projects launching this February:
- Tengah February 2023 BTO Review
- Jurong West February 2023 BTO Review
- Queenstown February 2023 BTO Review
Read other housing articles:
- A real estate agent predicts SG’s housing market in 2023
- How to save on your home loan in 2023
- Should HDB regulate the sale of resale flats?
Cover image credit: HDB, Google Maps
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