When planning an application, you have to understand the specifics of the estate. Making a distinction between the mature and non-mature towns is the first area of consideration.
According to HDB, non-mature estates are the ones that have been in existence for less than 20 years. Currently, there are multiple estates that fall under the category, including Bukit Batok, Choa Chu Kang, Hougang, Jurong East and West, Punggol, Sembawang, Tengah, Woodlands and others.
Mature estates have been around for a longer period of time and some of them include Ang Mo Kio, Bedok, Bishan, Bukit Merah, Central, Clementi, Geylang, Kallang/Whampoa, Marine Parade, Queenstown, Serangoon, Tampines and others.
Usually, the price of flats in non-mature estates is approximately 10 to 15 per cent lower than the value of a comparable flat in a mature estate.
There are several reasons for the difference. Mature estates are characterised by better infrastructure and a bigger number of amenities. Accessibility also tends to be better there.
Non-mature estates have fewer amenities but the potential for much improvement in the future.
When, for example, Punggol New Town was launched back in 1997, it was only serviced by Punggol MRT Station in terms of commuting/transportation. Today, there are three additional stations that have opened through the years.
Thus, non-mature estates come with fewer conveniences but the potential for growth. These are compensated for by lower prices. People who want to have all amenities available nearby right from the start should consider the purchase of a BTO flat in a mature estate.