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Selling Property in Singapore: The Real Exit Costs (Not Just Agent Fee)

Last updated: February 2026

Most buyers model entry costs (BSD/ABSD) and monthly instalment. Almost nobody models exit friction. But selling costs can materially change your net proceeds — and your ability to buy your next home.

CPF refund can absorb proceeds: CPF accrued interest explained.

Jump to What You Need

• 1) Agent commission (and what you’re actually paying for)
• 2) Legal & admin fees
• 3) Loan redemption & timing penalties
• 4) Seller’s Stamp Duty (SSD) as exit friction
• 5) Net proceeds checklist (what to model)
• FAQ

1) Agent Commission

Agent commission is usually the largest explicit selling cost. The common market range is roughly 1%–2% + GST, depending on your agreement, property type, and how competitive the listing is. Don’t treat it as “optional” — in practice it’s part of the exit price you pay for distribution and execution.

Rule of thumb: If your expected upside is slim, selling friction can erase it. That’s why timing decisions matter: Buy now or wait.

2) Legal & Admin Fees

You’ll usually pay conveyancing/legal fees for the sale, plus small admin disbursements. The absolute number is often smaller than agent commission, but still relevant when modelling net proceeds.

3) Loan Redemption & Timing Penalties

When you sell, your outstanding loan is redeemed. Depending on your package, you may face:

• Early redemption penalties (within a lock-in period)
• Notice periods / interest-in-lieu
• Administrative fees

This is why refinancing or repricing decisions should be made with your potential holding period in mind.

4) Seller’s Stamp Duty (SSD) as Exit Friction

SSD is the big one. If you sell inside the SSD window, it can dominate your exit cost. This turns “maybe I’ll flip” into “I’m trapped” — especially in uncertain markets.

Practical framing: Before buying, ask “If I had to sell in 12–24 months, what does it cost me?”. Use this page as your exit model layer.

5) Net Proceeds Checklist (Model This, Not Headline Price)

When you sell, your usable cash is:

If your goal is to upgrade, net proceeds is what funds your next downpayment and liquidity floor. Model this alongside: cash required to buy property.

FAQ

How much does it cost to sell a property in Singapore?

Typically: agent commission (often ~1%–2% + GST), legal fees, and possibly SSD or early loan redemption costs depending on your holding period and loan terms.

Do I have to pay SSD?

SSD may apply if you sell within the SSD holding period rules. If you might sell early, model SSD before buying — it can be the largest exit friction.

What matters more: sale price or net proceeds?

Net proceeds. It determines your liquidity, your next downpayment capacity, and your ability to move. Headline price is incomplete without friction and loan redemption.

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