Loans

Mortgage Servicing Ratio (MSR)

Last updated: July 2026 Reviewed & verified by Galvin Mendonca

Definition

A regulatory cap restricting housing loan payments for HDB flats to a maximum percentage of monthly gross income.

Key Takeaways

  • MSR caps HDB flat mortgage payments at 30% of the borrower's gross monthly income.
  • Applies specifically to loans for HDB flats and new Executive Condominiums (ECs).
  • Only counts the property mortgage payment itself, excluding other personal debts.
  • Must be satisfied alongside the 55% TDSR limit for financial institution loans.

Detailed Explanation

The Mortgage Servicing Ratio (MSR) is an additional debt-servicing cap that applies specifically to housing loans for HDB flats (new BTOs and resale flats) and new Executive Condominiums (ECs) in Singapore. It limits the monthly mortgage repayment installment to a maximum of 30% of the borrower's gross monthly income, making it a stricter filter than the general TDSR.

Unlike TDSR, which covers all debt obligations, MSR only looks at the property loan repayment itself. Borrowers must satisfy both MSR (30%) and TDSR (55%) requirements to qualify for an HDB loan or bank loan for public housing.

Real-World Example If a couple has a combined gross monthly income of S$8,000, their maximum monthly mortgage repayment for an HDB flat cannot exceed S$2,400 under the 30% MSR cap, regardless of whether they have other loans.

Disclaimer: Definitions and explanations on this glossary page are provided strictly for general educational and informational purposes. They do not constitute formal financial, investment, legal, or tax advice. Financial regulations, caps, and limits change frequently. Always consult a qualified professional before making any financial decisions.
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