ELI5: What are HDB flats in Singapore?

HDB flats in Singapore are like building blocks that make up most people's homes.

Imagine Singapore is a giant Lego city. Most people live in apartment buildings made from special Lego blocks called HDB flats. HDB stands for Housing & Development Board, which is a special group that helps build and sell these homes.

Think of it like this:

• You want a toy house, but building one yourself is hard and expensive.
• The HDB is like a toy store that sells ready-made houses (the flats) at prices more people can afford.

• You need to be a Singaporean citizen (like having a special pass to enter the Lego city).
• You need to be part of a family (like having enough Lego people to live in the house).
• You can't already own another house (like not already having a Lego house).

• They provide affordable housing. Without them, many people wouldn't be able to afford a home.
• They help build communities. Many families live in the same block, so kids play together and neighbors know each other.
• They are located all over Singapore, so people can live close to their work, schools, and family.