Property agents flouting rules: Competition, culture among key reasons for agents' misbehaviour

Industry regulator has measures in place to help consumers; complaints have decreased

With around 29,000 registered agents, the real estate industry can be competitive, with agents facing pressure to hit their targets. ST PHOTO: GIN TAY
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Three months ago, business owner Jeremy Tan, 31, had a property agent tell him to make a better offer for the three-bedroom condominium unit he was looking to purchase, as his initial offer would yield only a small commission and was "not worth the inconvenience".

"We've met some really good and sincere agents but there are some black sheep who have left a bad taste," said Mr Tan, who eventually decided not to buy the unit.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on October 29, 2019, with the headline Property agents flouting rules: Competition, culture among key reasons for agents' misbehaviour. Subscribe