Before appointing an agent, agree on representation and fees

Check registration before discussing an appointment

CEA advises consumers to verify an agent in its official public register, including a search using the telephone number in the advertisement. The result should match the agent’s name, registration number and agency. You can check the contact details on this website the same way.

Commission is not a single fixed rate

CEA explains that the parties can negotiate commission. Record the agreement in the applicable Estate Agency Agreement and confirm whether the quoted amount includes GST. Only a GST-registered estate agency can charge the corresponding GST.

Distinguish dual representation from co-broking

An agent may represent only one side in the same transaction. The agent cannot represent both buyer and seller, or landlord and tenant, and collect commission from both sides. Co-broking, where separate agents represent their respective clients and work together on a transaction, is a different arrangement; CEA guidance also addresses commission sharing in that context.

The rule should not be reduced to “agents in Singapore may never share commission”. The useful questions are: who represents you, what have you agreed, and who pays which fees?

Four points to settle before signing

1. Representation: which party does the agent represent?
2. Scope: is the appointment exclusive or non-exclusive, and for how long?
3. Commission and taxes: the amount, calculation and conditions for payment.
4. Ending or overlapping appointments: how are transactions during the appointment or through others dealt with under the agreement?

Clear arrangements make it easier to work together. Ask the agent to explain unfamiliar terms before signing, and seek independent legal advice where needed.

The original commission discussion

The 2024 post’s blanket statement against commission sharing was inaccurate and is not republished as a rule. Use the CEA-based explanation above to distinguish client representation, agreed fees and cooperation between agents.