HDB Agent Fees Singapore (2025): How Much You Should Pay When Buying or Selling an HDB Flat
Introduction: Why Agent Fees Matter More Than You Think
Thinking of selling or buying an HDB flat in Singapore? One of the first questions that comes to mind is:
“How much are HDB agent fees in Singapore?”
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an owner looking to cash out, understanding agent commission rates helps you make smarter financial decisions — and avoid overpaying.
Let’s break down what you really need to know about HDB agent fees in 2025, how they’re calculated, and how to choose the right agent who delivers the best value for your money.
What Are the Standard HDB Agent Fees in Singapore?
Here’s the general rule of thumb for agent commissions in Singapore’s resale market:
| Transaction Type | Typical Agent Fee | Who Pays |
|---|---|---|
| Selling an HDB Flat | 2% of selling price (negotiable) | Seller |
| Buying an HDB Flat | 1% of purchase price (negotiable) | Buyer |
Example:
If you sell your flat for $600,000, your agent’s commission at 2% would be $12,000.
If you buy a flat for $550,000, your agent’s commission at 1% would be $5,500.
Some hybrid or tech-enabled agencies now offer lower commission rates, as low as 1% + GST for sellers, while still providing full professional services.
Why Agent Fees Vary
Not all agents charge the same — and for good reason. The commission you pay depends on several factors:
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Flat Type & Price – A million-dollar executive flat requires a different level of marketing than a $400K 3-room flat.
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Market Conditions – In a slower market, agents often spend more on ads and staging to attract buyers.
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Marketing Effort – Professional photography, video tours, and featured listings all cost money.
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Experience & Service Quality – A seasoned agent with strong negotiation skills can justify slightly higher fees by securing you a better price.
HDB Agent Fee Comparison Table (2025)
| Flat Sale Price | 1% + GST (Proptech Model) | 2% (Traditional Agent) | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| $400,000 | $4,000 + GST | $8,000 | $4,000+ |
| $600,000 | $6,000 + GST | $12,000 | $6,000+ |
| $800,000 | $8,000 + GST | $16,000 | $8,000+ |
| $1,000,000 | $10,000 + GST | $20,000 | $10,000+ |
The difference can be thousands of dollars, especially for higher-value flats. That’s why choosing the right agent and not just the cheapest is key.
What’s Included in HDB Agent Fees
A good property agent should handle the entire resale or purchase process from start to finish. Here’s what’s typically included:
✅ Market analysis and accurate valuation of your flat
✅ Professional photos, video tours, and online listings
✅ Advertising on major property portals (PropertyGuru, 99.co, etc.)
✅ Buyer screening and scheduling of viewings
✅ Price negotiation to get the best deal
✅ Paperwork submission (HDB resale portal, CEA forms, etc.)
✅ Guidance through completion and key handover
If an agent’s fee sounds low but none of these services are included — that’s a red flag.
Can You Negotiate Agent Fees?
Yes, and you should — politely.
Agent fees in Singapore are not fixed by law; they’re negotiable. Here’s how you can get better value:
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Get multiple quotes before deciding
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Offer exclusivity (3-month contract) for better service commitment
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Ask what’s included in the fee
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Consider a results-based arrangement (higher commission only if sold above target price)
Do You Need an Agent for HDB Resale?
Technically, no as you can DIY your sale or purchase via the HDB Resale Portal.
However, many homeowners find that engaging an experienced agent saves time, stress, and costly mistakes, especially when:
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Pricing the flat correctly
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Handling paperwork and deadlines
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Negotiating for a higher price or avoiding lowball offers
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Dealing with buyers who pull out last minute
An experienced agent often pays for themselves through better negotiation and faster sale completion.
Buyers: What to Know About Agent Fees
For buyers, the standard 1% fee usually covers:
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Flat hunting and viewing arrangements
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Negotiation with sellers
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HDB eligibility and financial calculations
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Paperwork submission and completion coordination
If your agent also helps you with CPF usage, loan assessment, or financial planning, that adds even more value.
HDB Agent Fees Singapore – FAQ
1. Are agent fees compulsory for HDB transactions?
No, but most sellers and buyers engage an agent for guidance, negotiation, and paperwork support.
2. Who pays the agent fees in an HDB sale?
The seller pays their own agent; the buyer pays theirs. Each side covers their own fees — agents cannot double-represent.
3. Can I negotiate agent commission?
Yes, commissions are fully negotiable and depend on market conditions and the services provided.
4. Do I pay GST on agent fees?
Yes, if the agency is GST-registered, GST (currently 9%) is added to the commission.
5. When do I pay the agent fees?
Agent commission is only paid upon completion of the resale transaction, not before.