Source : Straits Times - 21 Apr 2009
I REFER to last Friday’s article, ‘Simei condo-style flats: No balloting’.
I believe this news came as a surprise to many people. Of all the Design, Build and Sell Scheme (DBSS) projects launched in the past few months, I believe this is the only one available for booking without the need for a ballot. While those who manage to get in the queue to book a flat will be happy, those who cannot be present will be disappointed.
The HDB’s DBSS website states: ‘Under the DBSS, private developers will be responsible for the entire flow of the public housing development process - from bidding for the land, designing the project, overseeing construction and eventually, selling the flats directly to eligible flat buyers.’
Apparently, private developers are responsible to sell flats directly to buyers, but who determines the mode of selling? Who determines if there is a need for balloting? Who determines if sales should be on a first-come, first-served basis?
The HDB uses the ballot system as demand for flats in Singapore generally outstrips supply, and the ballot system is regarded as a ‘fair’ means in such situations. Flat buyers also do not need to queue overnight. Balloting also gives potential buyers enough time to consider before making a decision.
Ultimately, is there consistency in the selling of DBSS flats?
Zhou Zhiqiang
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