Today, shophouse Singapore properties are highly sought after for several reasons:
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Architectural Beauty: Each shophouse is unique, with intricate details and historical charm that modern buildings often lack.
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Scarcity: There are only around 6,500 conserved shophouses in Singapore, making them a rare commodity.
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Prime Locations: Many are located in city-fringe or central locations, close to MRT stations and vibrant neighborhoods.
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Lifestyle Appeal: For business owners, shophouses offer street-level frontage in high-traffic areas. For homeowners, they provide a stylish, heritage-rich living experience.
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Investment Value: Given their scarcity and high demand, shophouses tend to hold their value well and are considered a stable asset class.
Conserved vs Non-Conserved Shophouses
When browsing for a shophouse for sale, one major factor to consider is whether it’s a conserved or non-conserved property.
Conserved Shophouses
Conserved shophouses are gazetted under URA’s conservation guidelines to protect their historical and architectural integrity. These properties cannot undergo major exterior changes. The façade, windows, doors, and roof features must be maintained or restored to their original design.
While this ensures the preservation of Singapore’s cultural heritage, it also means limited flexibility for renovations. Owners must obtain approvals before making alterations and follow strict design guidelines.
Pros:
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Strong heritage value
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Prestigious locations
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Timeless architectural appeal
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High potential for capital appreciation
Cons:
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Renovation restrictions
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Higher restoration and maintenance costs
Non-Conserved Shophouses
Non-conserved shophouses are not protected under URA guidelines and therefore offer more flexibility. Owners can modernize the façade, expand the interior, or even redevelop the property depending on zoning and planning regulations.
These are ideal for investors or businesses that want to enhance or reposition the property for higher returns.
Pros:
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More renovation and redevelopment flexibility
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Potential for higher rental yields with enhancements
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Easier to adapt for modern commercial or residential use
Cons:
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May lack historical charm or prestige
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Lesser appreciation in heritage value
Why Investors Are Eyeing Shophouse Properties
In recent years, shophouse Singapore properties have seen a surge in interest, particularly among investors looking for asset diversification. These properties are not subject to Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) if purchased under a company name for commercial use — unlike residential properties.
Moreover, the combination of heritage, location, and limited supply makes shophouses a long-term, value-preserving investment. With demand rising from local and foreign investors alike, the market for shophouse for sale in Singapore remains strong.