Paying lesser property tax on multiple properties

Property tax is something we have to pay when we own any property. The owner-occupied property incurs less tax than one that is not owner-occupied. 

Let's you own Property A, for which IRAS has assessed the Annual Value at $18,000, then:  

• If it is owner-occupied, the first $8,000 is tax-free. The next $10,000 @ 4% will incur $400.  
• But if it is non owner-occupied, then the tax is $18,000 @ 10% = $1,800.

And if you also own Property B, for which the Annual Value is $24,000, then:

• If it is owner-occupied, the first $8,000 is tax-free. The next $16,000 @ 4% will incur $640.
• But if it is non owner-occupied, then the tax is $24,000 @ 10% = $2,400.

Clearly, it makes sense to be paying property tax on Property B (which has a higher Annual Value) as owner-occupied, and Property A as non owner-occupied.  The total property tax is then $640 + $1,800 = $2,440.  The reverse would have incurred total property tax of $400 + $2,400 = $2,800.

Getting the switching done is pretty straightforward and fuss-free. Just proceed to IRAS website to effect the change. IRAS will automatically refund the excess if you have overpaid. Totally fuss-free.

Above is my simplistic understanding. The taxation levels are actually different if you own higher-end properties. Check out IRAS website for official information.