Introduction
HDB has released the application rates for the June 2026 BTO exercise. While many buyers focus on which projects are the most popular, I believe the more important question is what these application rates tell us about buyer behaviour and future BTO opportunities.
If you missed this exercise, these trends can also provide useful insights for future BTO launches.
Overall Results
| Town | Project | Demand |
|---|---|---|
| Bishan | Lakeview Cascadia | High |
| Bukit Merah | Berlayar Rise | High |
| Ang Mo Kio | Kebun Baru Breeze/Ridge | Moderate |
| Woodlands | Woodgrove Acres | Higher than expected |
| Sembawang | Brook & Portico | Low |
Berlayar Rise Was the Most Popular 4-Room Project
Application rate: 5.34 applicants per flat
Why?
- Rare Bukit Merah launch
- Prime location
- Near the city
- Limited opportunities in this estate
👉 Read my full review of Berlayar Rise here.
Lakeview Cascadia Proved Bishan Is Still Highly Desired
4-room application rate: 5.33 applicants per flat
Even with a 10-year MOP and subsidy recovery, buyers still value mature estates.
👉 Read my full review of Lakeview Cascadia here.
The Biggest Surprise: Woodgrove Acres
Before the application closed, I expected Woodgrove Acres to attract steady demand due to its affordability and future growth potential.
However, the actual application rate exceeded many people’s expectations, showing that buyers are increasingly willing to consider emerging towns if the pricing and long-term prospects make sense.
Instead:
- 2-room: 7.2
- 3-room: 4.7
- 4-room: 5.1
- 5-room: 3.2
In my view why this happened:
- Affordable pricing
- Buyers becoming more open to Woodlands
- Future RTS and regional developments
- Limited supply of Standard flats with ready amenities in Woodlands
👉 Read my full review of Woodgrove Acres here.
Sembawang Was Easier to Ballot
A lower application rate doesn’t automatically mean a project is less attractive.
While these projects attracted fewer applicants, that doesn’t necessarily make them poor choices. In fact, buyers were likely to enjoy a much better chance of securing a queue number and having a wider selection of units. For some families, that can be a significant advantage.
👉 Read my full review of Sembawang Brook here.
👉 Read my full review of Sembawang Portico here.
Ang Mo Kio: A Mature Estate That Continued to Attract Steady Interest
Although the application rates for Kebun Baru Breeze and Kebun Baru Ridge were lower than some other mature-estate projects in this launch, both developments continued to attract healthy interest. Located in the established Ang Mo Kio estate, they offer excellent connectivity, everyday conveniences and strong long-term liveability. For some buyers, the more moderate application rates may also have translated into a better chance of securing a queue number and having a wider selection of units.
👉 Read my full review of Kebun Baru Breeze here.
👉 Read my full review of Kebun Baru Ridge here.
What Can Future Buyers Learn?
Lesson 1
Popular doesn’t always mean better.
Lesson 2
The best location isn’t always the best investment.
Lesson 3
Lower application rates can mean a better choice of units.
Lesson 4
Think beyond the ballot.
Choosing the right stack, facing and floor level can matter more than simply getting into the most popular project.
My Thoughts
Every BTO exercise tells a story.
Many buyers focus only on application rates, but I believe that’s only one part of the decision-making process.
If you’re planning to apply for a future BTO exercise, it’s worth looking beyond application rates. Factors such as stack selection, facing, floor level, sun orientation and future surroundings can all influence your home’s long-term appeal. Taking the time to evaluate these aspects before submitting your application can help you make a more informed decision.
Buying a home isn’t just about getting a queue number, it’s about making the right decision for your future. If you’re planning your next property move and would like a personalised discussion on your housing options, you’re welcome to reach out. I’d be glad to see if I can help you make a more informed decision.