Your search results

Should You Pay For A Buyer Agent?

Posted by Jayson Ang on August 10, 2025

| 0

TLDR

The idea of making buyers pay their own property agents in Singapore, as suggested by SEAA, makes sense in theory but faces big hurdles in practice. While splitting commissions seems fair, human nature means most buyers will choose free services over paying out of pocket. Agents aren’t likely to change unless everyone is forced to do so, creating a collective action problem. Voluntary self-regulation isn’t working because agents fear losing clients to those who don’t charge buyers. Real change will likely only come with government intervention and clear laws—not just guidelines. Until then, expect the status quo to continue: agents sticking to what works for their own survival, even if it’s not best for the industry as a whole.

Here’s a sharp take on the buyer agent commission debate in Singapore:

Let’s talk about well-meaning ideas that crash into reality. SEAA’s recent pact asking buyers to pay their agents sounds great on paper. Like banging pots to scare off bears – theoretically sound, practically dubious.

The math makes sense. Split the commission fairly, make transactions cleaner, everyone wins. Right? Except the real estate world doesn’t run on logic – it runs on human nature. And humans love FREE. Tell someone they can get the same service without paying, and watch how fast those noble intentions evaporate.

It’s a classic Mexican standoff. Agent A decides to charge buyers. Agent B doesn’t. Guess who’s updating their LinkedIn profile? The industry faces a collective action problem that would make game theorists weep. Everyone needs to jump together, or nobody jumps at all.

The “tepid” response shouldn’t shock anyone. Property agents aren’t stupid – they’re survivors in a brutal market. Asking them to voluntarily handicap themselves is like asking sharks to become vegetarians. Sure, it might be better for the ocean ecosystem, but good luck getting them all to agree.

SEAA’s heart is in the right place. Self-regulation beats government intervention. But sometimes you need more than guidelines and good intentions. You need rules with teeth. Because in the real world, honor systems crumble when mortgages need paying.

The brutal truth? This probably needs government muscle behind it. Guidelines are nice. Laws are better. Until then, expect agents to stick with what works – even if it’s not what’s best for the industry.

Should You Buy, Sell or Wait?

If you’re reading this, you must be trying to figure out the best course of action right now: is it the right time to buy or sell?

It’s difficult to give an exact answer since everyone’s situation is unique and what works for one person may not necessarily work for you.

I can bring you a wealth of on-the-ground experience and a data-driven approach to provide clarity and direction. From beginners to experienced investors, our top-down, objective approach will help you on your real estate journey.

I can help you by:

Offering Strategic Real Estate Advice – I can help create a comprehensive plan to guide you through your property journey.
Connecting Your Home with the Perfect Buyers – Through stunning visuals, an effective communication strategy, and an in-depth knowledge of the market, we’ll ensure your home is presented in the best possible way to fulfill your goals.

You May Also Like …

All Blog Posts Top List

Discover the Top 11 Most Outstanding Condominiums in Singapore’s Holland Village Areas

Jayson Ang – December 9, 2022 –

Originally established in the early 1900s by Singapore's Dutch community, Holland Village was originally a residential area home to British...

Mandarin Top 5

5 Singapore Property Trends to Watch in 2023: Expert Weigh In

Jayson Ang – May 20, 2023 –

5 Singapore Property Trends to Watch in 2023: Expert Weigh In Top 5 Singapore Property Trends to Watch in 2023...

All Buying Tips Opinion

5 Unexpected Factors That Make Some New Launch Condos Sell Like Hotcakes

Jayson Ang – August 9, 2024 –

TLDR The Singapore property market for new condo launches in 2023 saw varying degrees of success. Factors like limited competition,...

All Opinion Selling Tips

7 Essential Steps to Sell Your House in Singapore

Jayson Ang – August 29, 2023 –

TLDR When preparing to sell your house, research the average prices in your area for a realistic figure. Consider factors...

All Selling Tips

Why Home Staging Is Important In A Competitive Real Estate Market

Jayson Ang – May 7, 2024 –

Singapore's property scene has always been a powerhouse, effortlessly combining the new with the old. It's a real estate playground...

All Buying Tips

Could You Still End Up Losing Money When Buying Property in Singapore During a Market Slump?

Jayson Ang – February 14, 2024 –

TLDR When it comes to property investments, timing is crucial. Buying at the right moment is only half the battle;...

All Opinion

The Perils of Subletting in Singapore: Why Paying Rent On Time Isn’t Always Enough

Jayson Ang – May 3, 2026 –

TLDR Subtenants often mistakenly believe that paying rent consistently guarantees security. However, their rights are limited since the main tenant...

All Blog Posts Buying Tips Opinion Selling Tips

Should You Keep Your Resale HDB Flat When Buying a Private Property? 5 Key Factors to Consider

Jayson Ang – November 3, 2024 –

TLDR In Singapore, owning both an HDB flat and a private property has become complicated due to factors like Additional...

All Blog Posts Opinion

Discover 5 Reasons Executive Condominiums Could Prove To Be A Smart Investment Despite Growing Inflation

Jayson Ang – January 22, 2023 –

TLDR An overview of the article discussing the benefits of Executive Condominiums (ECs) over private condos in the current real...

Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Factors: Singapore Offer A Stable And Lucrative Investment Opportunity In Real Estate?

Jayson Ang – May 17, 2025 –

Singapore, a small yet economically powerful city-state, has long been recognized as one of the most attractive destinations for real...

All Buying Tips Opinion

2024 Will Be A Buyers Market

Jayson Ang – January 23, 2024 –

TLDR 2023 saw a roller-coaster ride in the real estate market, with various challenges like high interest rates and geopolitical...

Mandarin Top 5

5 Key Factors that Affect Singapore’s Property Prices

Jayson Ang – August 29, 2024 –

Singapore, a thriving city-state known for its impressive skyline and robust economy, has one of the most dynamic and competitive...

All Buying Tips

5 Reasons Why Your House Isn’t Selling – and How to Overcome Them!

Jayson Ang – June 24, 2023 –

TLDR When trying to sell your home, ensure it is competitively priced based on its unique features and the current...

All Buying Tips

Using CPF Funds to Finance Your HDB Flat or Private Property in Singapore: A Comprehensive Guide

Jayson Ang – May 13, 2024 –

Discover the extent to which your CPF savings can be utilized for the acquisition of a HDB home in Singapore,...

All Blog Posts Opinion

Singapore Property Price Set to Explode Upwards in 2024?

Jayson Ang – March 10, 2023 –

TLDR Understanding the factors influencing property prices in Singapore for 2024 can help in making informed decisions. Despite high rental...

Buying Tips Mandarin Top 5

5 Reasons Why Timing the Singapore Property Market is a Risk You Shouldn’t Take

Jayson Ang – June 28, 2023 –

5 Reasons Why Timing the Singapore Property Market is a Risk You Shouldn't Take Entering the Singapore property market can...

All Buying Tips Opinion

Is The Condo Dream Getting Increasingly Harder To Achieve For Singaporeans?

Jayson Ang – June 29, 2026 –

TLDR Condominium prices in Singapore have nearly doubled over the past 15 years, with new launches now averaging around $2,390...

All Buying Tips

Simplified Guide to Buying Landed Property in Singapore

Jayson Ang – January 8, 2024 –

TLDR When considering buying a landed property in Singapore, you have options like terrace homes, semi-detached houses, and bungalows. Understanding...