Family Feud Over $700K HDB Flat Unearths Retirement Planning Pitfalls for Singapore Seniors

SINGAPORE: A routine sale of a Housing and Development Board (HDB) flat in Toa Payoh has escalated into a dramatic legal battle, underscoring the precarious nature of relying solely on property for retirement security.

What was intended to be a joyous occasion for its owners—a mother and son watching their flat's value nearly double—has instead brought to light unsettling financial vulnerabilities that many seniors face.

A Family Torn Apart

According to reports, the flat, valued at around $700,000, was jointly owned by 90-year-old Mrs. Tan and her 69-year-old son, a retired artist. While the son had called this flat home for decades, supplementing his income by renting out two rooms for $1,500 a month, his elderly mother had been residing with her eldest daughter due to her deteriorating health caused by worsening dementia.

In 2023, Mrs. Tan's 71-year-old daughter approached the High Court with a plea to sell the flat. She argued that the proceeds would significantly contribute to covering her mother's mounting medical and nursing expenses as her health continued to decline.

However, the son vehemently opposed the sale, claiming it would leave him homeless and unable to support himself. Following a stroke that incapacitated him from working, he had come to rely on the rental income for his living costs.

Judicial Ruling Reflects Difficult Choices

High Court Judge Choo Han Teck balanced both parties' needs in his ruling. While he sympathized with the son’s concerns about homelessness, he stressed that the mother’s dire health situation had to take priority.

“Nothing can be more inequitable,” Judge Choo remarked, noting the absurdity of the son retaining full ownership of the flat while his mother struggled with escalating healthcare needs.

Ultimately, the court favored the daughter's request, allowing the flat to be sold and ensuring the proceeds were evenly split. Both mother and son would receive at least $350,000 each, with the son expected to use his share for housing stability.

This ruling, while fair, reveals a sobering truth for many: depending solely on one’s property for financial security in old age poses serious risks.

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