Conveyancing in Singapore: A Complete Guide for Property Buyers and Sellers

Buying your first HDB flat? Investing in a condominium? Or selling landed property? These are all some of the most important and high-stakes transactions you’ll ever make in your life. If you want everything to go as smoothly and trouble-free as possible, you need to know all the ins and outs of the conveyancing process in Singapore.
If you don’t know what that is, this guide, vetted by I.R.B Law LLP’s experienced conveyancing lawyers, will walk you through everything you need to know about the process.

What is Conveyancing?

When the title of a property is transferred from one person to another, this process is legally called conveyancing. Needless to say, it’s a very important part of property law in Singapore. The process involves the preparation of many legal documents, as well as property searches, and careful review to ensure all legal requirements are met during property transactions.
In Singapore, you can expect to go through the conveyancing process when you deal with:

• Sale and purchase of HDB flats
• Buying or selling of private property (condominiums and landed properties)
• Property refinancing
• Mortgage arrangements
• Lease agreements

Need expert guidance for your property transaction? Contact I.R.B Law LLP’s conveyancing lawyers today for a consultation.

Types of Property Ownership in Singapore

First things first, you need to understand how property ownership works in Singapore.

Freehold Property

When you have freehold ownership over a property, this means you own it indefinitely. The title of the property can be passed down to your heirs for all time – this is the most secure form of ownership around.

Leasehold Property

In contrast, a leasehold property has a time limit, typically ranging from 99 to 999 years. Most HDB flats come with 99-year leases, while some private properties may have longer lease periods.

The Singapore Conveyancing Process: Step-by-Step

• Background Research and Due Diligence

  Before proceeding with any property purchase, the conveyancing lawyer has to do thorough research on a number of things:

  • Conduct title searches to verify property ownership
  • Check for encumbrances, caveats, or mortgages
  • Verify the seller’s good root of title
  • Review property tenure and remaining lease period
  • Confirm eligibility requirements

• Option to Purchase (OTP)

  The Option to Purchase, or OTP, is a legal document that grants its holder the exclusive right to buy a property at a fixed price within a specified timeframe (typically 14 to 21 days).
  Written in the OTP is usually:

  • The option fee (usually 1% of purchase price for private property, 5% for new launches)
  • Exercise period and conditions
  • Property inspection rights
  • Other legal terms and conditions

• Exercising the Option and Making Payment

  If you, as the holder of an OTP, decide to proceed with the purchase, you can exercise your rights in the OTP by:

  • Paying the deposit (typically 4% for completed properties)
  • Signing another document called the Sale and Purchase Agreement
  • Arranging for conveyancing money to be held in appropriate accounts

  When you hire a conveyancing lawyer, they will handle all payment arrangements and ensure funds are securely managed throughout the transaction.

• Stamp Duty and Legal Requirements

  Stamp duty must be paid within 14 days of signing the Sale and Purchase (S&P) Agreement or OTP. The exact amount will vary, depending on:

  • Property value and the type of property
  • Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD), which can be taxed based on:
    • Your residency status
    • Number of properties that you own

• Completion and Transfer of Title

  This is the final step of the conveyancing process. It can be considered finished (and the rights to the property successfully transferred), when:

  • The final payment is made (typically 95% of the purchase price)
  • The property keys are handed over
  • Transfer documents are executed
  • A new Certificate of Title is issued

HDB Conveyancing: Special Considerations

Due to the extra regulations and paperwork involved in the HDB conveyancing process, you’ll need to consider a few important factors when selecting legal representation.

First, you’ll need to look for HDB conveyancing lawyers who have experience handling HDB transactions. These lawyers specialize in ensuring that the conveyancing process complies with HDB’s specific requirements and regulations.

It’s important to note that HDB’s legal department CANNOT act for you in certain situations, including:

• When there’s a bank mortgage involved in the transaction
• In cases involving special circumstances such as divorce proceedings, death of a party, or special arrangements

In these scenarios, you can talk to I.R.B Law LLP’s experienced conveyancing lawyers, who will focus on ensuring that the legal transfer of the property is completed properly and in compliance with all relevant HDB regulations.

Conveyancing Fees in Singapore

The exact fees differ from one law firm to another, but you can expect to spend anywhere from $1,500 to $2,500 for all-inclusive service. However, if your case is especially complex (or come with additional costs for services like stamp duties and registration fees), you might have to pay up to $5,000.

At I.R.B Law LLP, we provide transparent, competitive conveyancing fees with no hidden charges. Contact us for a detailed quote tailored to your case.

Commercial Property and Residential Conveyancing

Commercial Conveyancing

Commercial property transactions require specialized expertise in:

• Commercial leases
• Industrial property transfers
• Business premises acquisitions
• Investment property purchases

Residential Conveyancing

Residential property transactions include:

• Private condominiums
• HDB resale transactions
• Landed property sales
• Executive condominiums

Common Conveyancing Challenges and Solutions

Defective Titles

If title searches don’t turn up positively, your conveyancing lawyer will:

• Negotiate a resolution with the seller
• Advise on how to remedy the problem using legal means
• Recommend how to best move forward

Financing Issues

When mortgage complications arise:

• Liaise with banks and financial institutions
• Ensure the loan approval timing aligns with completion
• Handle CPF withdrawals and applications

Completion Delays

Your property lawyer will:

• Negotiate extension periods
• Calculate and arrange interest payments
• Protect your legal interests throughout delays

Why Choose Professional Conveyancing Services?

When buying or selling property, professional conveyancing lawyers protect you by reviewing contracts, identifying risks, ensuring legal compliance, and preventing fraud. They coordinate with banks, government agencies like SLA, IRAS, and CPF, other lawyers, and property agents to keep your transaction moving smoothly. You get peace of mind knowing all deadlines are met, documents are properly handled, and your interests are protected.

Don’t risk your property investment. Engage I.R.B Law LLP’s experienced conveyancing team for professional guidance.

Conveyancing vs Property Lawyer: Understanding the Difference

In Singapore, conveyancing lawyers are qualified property lawyers specializing in property transactions. Unlike other countries, Singapore requires all conveyancing work to be handled by qualified advocates and solicitors. Your conveyancing lawyer conducts property searches, prepares legal documents, manages conveyancing money, ensures legal compliance, and handles completion processes. I.R.B Law LLP’s lawyers have handled over 10,000 property transactions and understand the nuances that can make or break your deal.

Choosing the Right Conveyancing Lawyer

When selecting conveyancing lawyers in Singapore, there’s a lot that you need to take into consideration. But generally speaking, look for firms (or lawyers) with a lot of experience in conveyancing law and your specific property type. A strong track record of successful transactions is also a plus.

More importantly, however, choose someone who communicates with you clearly and keeps you updated throughout the process. The process can be stressful, and good communication is crucial for peace of mind.

Last but not least, ensure they offer transparent fees with no hidden charges and competitive pricing.

At I.R.B Law LLP, our clients receive same-day responses to queries, and our lawyers are available via WhatsApp for urgent matters. You can schedule a consultation with our award-winning team to discuss your conveyancing needs.

Property Conveyancing Specialists: I.R.B Law LLP

As an award-winning Singapore law firm, I.R.B Law LLP brings decades of conveyancing expertise to every transaction. Our property conveyancing team understands the complexities of Singapore’s property market and provides:

Frequently Asked Questions About Conveyancing

How long does conveyancing take in Singapore?
Typically 8-12 weeks for standard property transactions, depending on financing arrangements and complexity.

Do I need a lawyer for HDB transactions?
While HDB provides conveyancing services, many buyers and sellers prefer private conveyancing lawyers for personalized attention and expertise.

What are conveyancing costs in Singapore?
Conveyancing costs typically range from $1,500-$4,000+ depending on property type, transaction complexity, and lawyer fees.

Can foreigners buy property in Singapore?
Foreigners can purchase certain types of properties but face restrictions on landed residential property. Legal advice is essential for foreign buyers.

What is conveyancing money?
Conveyancing money refers to funds held during property transactions, including deposits, purchase prices, and related payments managed by lawyers or appointed entities.

Take the Next Step with I.R.B Law LLP

Property transactions in Singapore require expert legal guidance to ensure success and protect your interests. Whether you’re buying your first home, investing in property, or selling real estate, I.R.B Law LLP’s conveyancing lawyers are here to help.
Ready to start your property transaction? Contact I.R.B Law LLP today!