Fraud Blocker
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:

  1. Offering Strategic Real Estate Advice – I can help create a comprehensive plan to guide you through your property journey.
  2. 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 …


Thinking About Investing In An Old Landed Property In Singapore? 7 Crucial Tips To Keep In Mind Before You Make Your Move
All Buying Tips

Thinking About Investing In An Old Landed Property In Singapore? 7 Crucial Tips To Keep In Mind Before You Make Your Move

TLDR Older properties come with unique challenges due to outdated design elements, potential roofing issues, odd land shapes, basement drawbacks,...
Read More
Discover 11 Helpful Tips for Buying an Older Condo : A Comprehensive Guide for Buyers
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Discover 11 Helpful Tips for Buying an Older Condo : A Comprehensive Guide for Buyers

TLDR When considering purchasing an older resale condo, ensure you investigate potential en-bloc bids, lift conditions, parking conveniences, playground safety,...
Read More
Singapore’s Housing Phenomenon: A Success Tale Calling for Tweaks – Insights from the Experts
All Opinion

Singapore’s Housing Phenomenon: A Success Tale Calling for Tweaks – Insights from the Experts

TLDR Singapore's housing system has been praised for its effectiveness in meeting citizens' homeownership desires. The public housing program by...
Read More
Buying HDB Resale : How to Minimise COV
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Buying HDB Resale : How to Minimise COV

TLDR Understanding Cash Over Valuation (COV) is crucial when buying a resale HDB flat in Singapore. COV is the additional...
Read More
5 Dangerous Ideas Singapore Property Investors Have
Mandarin Top 5

5 Dangerous Ideas Singapore Property Investors Have

Singapore's property market has always been a hot topic among investors, both local and international. With its strong economy, stable...
Read More
5 Reasons : Why Investing In Singapore’s Property Market Can Be A Good Retirement Plan
Mandarin Top 5

5 Reasons : Why Investing In Singapore’s Property Market Can Be A Good Retirement Plan

Investing in Singapore's property market can be a good retirement plan for several reasons. Here are five key factors that...
Read More
4 Simple Strategies to Help Future Homeowners Save Money
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

4 Simple Strategies to Help Future Homeowners Save Money

TLDR When it comes to being a new homeowner, it's essential to prioritize regular maintenance to avoid costly repairs down...
Read More
Top 5 Scenic Drives in Singapore
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Scenic Drives in Singapore

Singapore, a small yet bustling city-state, is well-known for its impressive skyline, diverse culture, and delicious food. However, not many...
Read More
HDB’s Policy Shift for Young Couples: Progressive Step or Cause for Concern?
All Buying Tips Opinion

HDB’s Policy Shift for Young Couples: Progressive Step or Cause for Concern?

TLDR Starting July 2025, HDB will let young couples—where at least one partner is a full-time student or NSF—defer income...
Read More
Singapore Property Swapper
All Blog Posts

Singapore Property Swapper

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B1NTnjxDPy4 Jayson Ang, also known as the Singapore Property Swapper, is a certified Propnex agent and top 1% producer who...
Read More
Learn the Essentials of Renting Property in Singapore as a Foreigner
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Learn the Essentials of Renting Property in Singapore as a Foreigner

TLDR Renting in Singapore offers various options for foreigners, such as HDBs, Condos, and even unique properties like heritage homes....
Read More
Are We Truly Headed For A Slowdown? How Will This Affect Property Prices?
All Blog Posts Opinion

Are We Truly Headed For A Slowdown? How Will This Affect Property Prices?

TLDR The pandemic-induced recession has surprisingly boosted property prices in Singapore, defying conventional economic trends. Factors like cost-push inflation, limited...
Read More
Don’t Miss Out: Take Control of Your Life in Your 30s and 40s
All Blog Posts Opinion

Don’t Miss Out: Take Control of Your Life in Your 30s and 40s

TLDR The stages of wealth management vary from ages 30 to 80, with different focuses and considerations at each stage:...
Read More
Navigating Singapore’s Real Estate Market: The Truth Behind 5 Common Misconceptions
Mandarin Top 5

Navigating Singapore’s Real Estate Market: The Truth Behind 5 Common Misconceptions

The real estate market in Singapore is known for its stability and attractiveness to investors both locally and internationally. However,...
Read More
5 Hidden Expenses to Watch Out for When Buying a Home in Singapore
Buying Tips Mandarin Top 5

5 Hidden Expenses to Watch Out for When Buying a Home in Singapore

5 Hidden Expenses to Watch Out for When Buying a Home in Singapore Buying a property in Singapore can be...
Read More
Top 5 Rooftop Bars in Singapore with Amazing Views
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Rooftop Bars in Singapore with Amazing Views

Top 5 Rooftop Bars in Singapore with Amazing Views Singapore, the Lion City, is known for its stunning skyline and...
Read More
Top 5 Reasons : Why Do Singaporeans Still Flood The Property Market?
Mandarin Top 5

Top 5 Reasons : Why Do Singaporeans Still Flood The Property Market?

Singapore's property market has been a hot topic of discussion for many years, with its resilience and growth attracting both...
Read More
Avoid These 6 Terrible Property “Tips” in Singapore
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Avoid These 6 Terrible Property “Tips” in Singapore

TLDR When it comes to property advice, it's crucial to be cautious of common misconceptions. For instance, schemes like the...
Read More
Step-By-Step Guide To Buy Resale HDB (Updated March 2023)
All Blog Posts Buying Tips

Step-By-Step Guide To Buy Resale HDB (Updated March 2023)

TLDR The process of purchasing a resale HDB flat involves steps such as checking eligibility, calculating affordability, registering intent to...
Read More
Purchasing Older HDB Resale Flats: Key Considerations When the Flat Outlives You
All Buying Tips

Purchasing Older HDB Resale Flats: Key Considerations When the Flat Outlives You

TLDR HDB flats have a 99-year lease, and key housing schemes require the lease to cover the youngest owner until...
Read More
1 7 8 9 10 11 34

Compare Listings