I find it weird too. Of course there are still good agents but they are probably like dinosaur these days.
There is no proper governance or regulation in Singapore real estate industry. The govt can say all they like but they have to come down to our level to understand us. Clearly, in my view, there is someone there not doing the job at all!
Practice that should be re-looked:
- Pay full commission on first appt: As a consumer, i don't feel good on this. Please, this is Singapore real estate!
- Pay 2% seller commission / 1 % buyer commission: Look at the absolute $$. Property price is no longer at those level 20 years ago. Are we still following on old ruling which works then but not now?
- Buyer (DIY) has to pay 1% commission: You can choose not to but you might not get the flat you want. And i don't understand why i need to pay for the commission if i go find the flat on my own.