Real Estate Advice – Property agents who do not act in clients’ best interests will be disciplined
Property agents who do not act in clients’ best interests will be disciplined
Key message in brief
Property agents in Singapore are expected to place their clients’ interests first. Agents who fail to do so — whether through negligence, conflict of interest, or misleading advice — may face disciplinary action under existing professional and regulatory frameworks.
What does “acting in the client’s best interests” mean?
Acting in a client’s best interests goes beyond simply closing a transaction. It requires agents to provide honest, informed, and objective advice, even when that advice may delay or reduce a commission.
- Disclosing material facts that may affect a client’s decision
- Avoiding conflicts of interest or clearly declaring them upfront
- Recommending options that align with the client’s budget, risk profile, and timeline
- Not pressuring clients into unsuitable purchases or sales
What can agents be disciplined for?
Regulatory bodies may take action against agents who engage in conduct such as:
- Providing misleading or incomplete information
- Prioritising personal commissions over client outcomes
- Failing to explain risks, costs, or long-term implications
- Improper dual representation without informed consent
What this means for buyers and sellers
For consumers, this reinforces an important principle: you are entitled to advice that protects your interests, not the agent’s commission.
- Ask agents to explain why a recommendation is suitable for you
- Request comparisons, alternatives, and downside risks
- Be cautious if advice feels rushed or one-sided
TopBroker perspective
At TopBroker, we believe professional real estate advice should be client-first, data-backed, and transparent. Sometimes the right advice is to wait, not buy — or to explore alternatives that better fit a client’s long-term goals.
Trust in the industry is built when agents are accountable, and when clients feel informed rather than pressured.
Disclaimer
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal or regulatory advice. Consumers should seek professional guidance or refer to official regulatory bodies for specific cases.
