Survey Reveals Consumer Expectations for Property Agents in Singapore

In a recent survey conducted by the Council for Estate Agencies (CEA), it was revealed that 75% of consumers in Singapore expect property agents to close at least one transaction annually to remain updated with the latest industry rules and regulations. This poll, released on June 18, 2025, indicates a significant shift in consumer expectations within the real estate sector, with overall satisfaction with property agent services reaching a record high of 92%.

The necessity for property agents to maintain active engagement in transactions underscores the growing demand for knowledgeable and competent professionals in an industry where approximately 36,058 agents are currently registered, many of whom are reportedly inactive. Senior Minister of State for National Development, Sun Xueling, emphasized the importance of these expectations during her address at the Singapore Estate Agents Conference, highlighting consumer desires for agents to enhance their understanding of client needs and negotiate better terms.

The survey findings come on the heels of government discussions regarding potential regulations that would require agents to complete a minimum number of transactions each year to retain their licenses. Ms. Sun noted that consumers expect agents to conduct thorough checks to ensure compliance with legal standards in property transactions.

According to the CEA survey, which included over 1,500 respondents from October to November 2024, 1,004 had engaged property agents within the previous year, while the rest were contemplating future engagements. This data reflects a growing confidence in the industry's professional standards, as the consumer satisfaction rate has improved from 77% in 2021 and 85% in 2018.

"This is the highest since the survey began in 2012, reflecting the industry's continuous efforts to uplift professional standards and strengthen consumer trust," said Ms. Sun.

Experts in the field have varying opinions on the feasibility of the one-deal-per-year requirement. Claire Loh, an associate district director at Huttons Asia, stated that while it is reasonable to expect agents to complete at least one transaction annually, the emphasis should also be placed on the quality of service provided. She noted that different types of transactions necessitate varying levels of expertise, with residential sales requiring in-depth market knowledge compared to simpler rental transactions.

Conversely, some agents expressed concerns about how this requirement might impact those who are part-time or less experienced. An anonymous agent pointed out that for many, particularly those with other commitments, achieving this benchmark could be challenging, suggesting that the authorities must consider the implications of such regulations critically.

At the conference, Ms. Sun reiterated Singapore's commitment to combat money laundering and terrorism financing, emphasizing the role of property agents in safeguarding the integrity of the real estate sector. The Ministry of National Development has recently passed legislation aimed at enhancing penalties for breaches of compliance and ensuring due diligence is performed by property agents.

Additionally, the Singapore Estate Agents Association (SEAA) announced the merger with the Institute of Estate Agents to form the Singapore Institute of Estate Agents, which will represent over 15,000 members and work closely with the government to promote professionalism and sustainability in the industry.

Mr. Adam Wang, president of SEAA, unveiled a new platform designed to facilitate co-broking among members, enabling agents to collaborate on property listings securely. This innovation aims to address rising operational costs and improve service delivery.

As the real estate landscape in Singapore continues to evolve, the findings of this survey provide crucial insights into consumer expectations and the necessary adaptations agents must make to meet these demands. The future of the industry will likely hinge on balancing the need for active participation in transactions with the provision of high-quality, informed service to clients.