If you have a stake in property, here’s how the Solidarity Budget will make a difference. Alas, no direct relief was announced for real estate developers even as the authorities ordered condo sales galleries to shut and all property viewings to cease during the circuit breaker period. Instead, more property agents could directly benefit under an enhanced Self-Employed Person Relief Scheme (SIRS). But one step down the chain, contractors who hire foreign workers on work permits and ‘S’ Passes will receive help from the government. The Foreign Worker Levy will be waived for the month of Apr. In addition, employers will also receive a Foreign Worker Levy Rebate of $750 for each work permit or S Pass holder. The Foreign Worker Levy Rebate will provide the construction and renovation industries some breathing space for both cost and cash flow, and encourage businesses to bounce back quickly after the one-month circuit breaker measures are lifted. Homeowners who are really cash-strapped can also choose to defer their mortgage. This is available to homeowners regardless of job status and income.... Continue Reading