How to Avoid Them

Selling a landed property in Singapore can be just as challenging as buying a landed property in Singapore—especially in today’s dynamic real estate landscape. Whether you’re a legacy owner who has held onto a property for decades, an investor looking to exit, or a homeowner planning to upgrade or downsize, the market in 2025 presents new hurdles shaped by policy changes, interest rate fluctuations, and buyer caution.

The landed property market in Singapore has seen notable shifts in landed property price trends, transaction volumes, and buyer expectations between 2023 and 2025. To help you navigate this, here are five common mistakes sellers make—and how to avoid them by staying informed and strategic.

1. Setting an Unrealistic Price (Ignoring Market Trends)

Landed homes often hold deep sentimental value—especially for long-time owners. But emotional pricing can be a critical misstep.

After a strong surge in 2021–2022, landed property price in Singapore saw a sharp cooldown. In 2023, prices rose about 8%, but slowed significantly in 2024 with just over 1% growth. In 2025, growth remains muted—under 1% per quarter. Transaction volumes have also dropped, with Q1 2025 seeing over a 30% dip compared to the previous quarter, reflecting cautious, price-sensitive buyers.

How to avoid it:

• Research recent landed transactions in your estate
• Get a professional valuation, especially if upgrades or renovations have been made
• Price competitively and stay flexible
• Understand that serious offers often come within the first few weeks

Correct pricing prevents your landed property for sale from stagnating, which can eventually lead to lowball offers.

2. Overlooking Taxes and Policies (SSD, ABSD, CPF Refunds)

As of July 2025, Seller’s Stamp Duty (SSD) has been raised for residential properties bought on or after 4 July:

• Within 1 year: 16%
• Within 2 years: 12%
• Within 3 years: 8%
• Within 4 years: 4%
• After 4 years: 0%

SSD impacts your net profit significantly if you sell too soon.

Additional policies to watch:

• Private owners moving to HDB resale flats must dispose of their private property within 6 months
• Buying before selling could trigger Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD)
• CPF used during purchase must be refunded (with interest) on sale

How to avoid it:

• Confirm your original purchase date and check SSD liability
• Plan around ABSD if you’re upgrading or investing in another property
• Work with a lawyer or agent to calculate net sale proceeds after taxes and CPF refunds

Don’t let hidden taxes chip away at your returns—always factor them in early.

3. Neglecting Property Condition and Presentation

Many assume land value outweighs structure in landed property in Singapore. But even buyers planning to rebuild are influenced by what they see.

Peeling paint, broken fixtures, clutter, and poor landscaping can discourage buyers or lead to lower offers. First impressions matter.

How to avoid it:

• Fix visible issues (e.g., roof leaks, faulty gates, plumbing)
• Declutter and deep clean the home
• Trim and landscape the garden; repaint where necessary
• Use natural lighting during viewings
• Provide clear zoning info to highlight redevelopment or GFA potential

Even without major renovation, basic upkeep and good presentation can improve your chances of closing at a better price.

4. Inadequate Marketing or Choosing the Wrong Strategy

Even the most beautiful, well-priced landed property for sale won’t move if it isn’t marketed correctly. Common pitfalls:

• Not listing on major real estate portals
• Posting poor-quality photos or thin descriptions
• Failing to emphasize redevelopment potential or location perks

In 2025, serious buyers are highly selective and search heavily online. Working with an agent who doesn’t understand landed property in Singapore may cost you quality exposure.

How to avoid it:

• Hire an experienced landed property agent
• Use professional photography and clear floor plans
• Highlight key attributes like land size, corner plot status, URA zoning, and orientation
• Consider drone footage or video tours for larger plots
• Target the right buyers—those actively seeking landed property in Singapore

Your marketing should speak to what serious buyers care about, not just what looks good on a listing.

5. Failing to Plan the Timeline and Next Steps

Selling a landed property in Singapore often connects to broader life plans—upgrading, relocating, or restructuring family assets. Poor planning here leads to financial or logistical stress.

Common mistakes:

• Rushing into a new purchase and overpaying
• Paying ABSD due to poor sequencing
• Holding two mortgages
• Having nowhere to stay post-sale

How to avoid it:

• Decide early: sell first or buy first?
• Assess your financial capacity for bridging or interim arrangements
• Build in buffer time for renovation or moving
• Negotiate for flexible completion or lease-back if needed

A well-managed timeline can save you money, stress, and even protect your family’s comfort during the transition.

Key Takeaways for Selling Your Landed Property in Singapore

Selling landed property in Singapore today isn’t as straightforward as it used to be. With policy tightening, price fluctuations, and a more cautious buyer pool, sellers must approach the process strategically.

Understand current landed property price trends, what buyers want, and how your property fits into the bigger picture. Whether it’s an aging bungalow, a semi-D with redevelopment potential, or a terrace home in a mature estate—every landed asset has a unique story.

Ready to make a confident sale?
Want to make a confident sale? Engage a top property selling agent who knows the nuances of buying a landed property in Singapore, can advise on zoning potential, valuation, and marketing—and most importantly, bring the right buyers to your door.