Daily Archives: 7 Oct 2009

Most first-timers get flats

Posted on 7 Oct 2009 | Comments Off on Most first-timers get flats

The success rate for first-timers to select a flat on one try is 80 per cent

THE Housing Board has moved to clear some common misconceptions on applying for HDB flats.

It released new figures on Wednesday to show that the success rate for first-timers to select a flat on one try is 80 per cent. The success rate is higher – at 96 per cent – for those who have applied twice.

The board said these figures show that the majority of newly-weds are successful in getting a new home. It was responding to the perceived growing number of complaints by many home seekers that they could not get a flat despite numerous applications.

The numbers also show that the average rejection rate by first-timers who have been offered to pick a home under the HDB’s Build-To-Order (BTO) scheme has declined from about 67 per cent in 2007 to 52 this year, following refinements to the application process.

This was introduced in May last year to penalise frivolous home buyers who reject the chance to book a flat even though they are offered one.

Speaking to reporters at a visit to HDB’s sales counters, National Development Minister Mah Bow Tan reassured flat buyers that there will be adequate supply and affordable housing for Singaporeans under the BTO scheme.

He advised first time home buyers to plan in advance if they want to have a shorter waiting period for new flats.

Source : Straits Times – 7 Oct 2009

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Property agents should wear ID tags

Posted on 7 Oct 2009 | Comments Off on Property agents should wear ID tags

I REFER to Monday’s article, “Property agents to be regulated”.

I suggest that the authorities make it compulsory for agents who have Common Examination for Housing Agents (CEHA) qualifications or higher to be individually licensed, and to have their licence numbers printed on their name cards. This is to allow buyers and/or sellers to recognise them as licensed agents. They need not be attached to any company, and if any problems arise from a transaction, the sellers and buyers will be able to lodge complaints against the agents to the relevant authorities.

The public should be made aware that they should check for the agent’s licence number on his name card. This will also make the agents perform their jobs carefully.

Agents who have qualifications of CEHA and above should have the option to join a company if they wish, but they should not be allowed to have an individual licence. The agency must then be responsible for these agents. The company’s name and licence number must also be stated on the card. Any complains against these agents can then be directed to the relevant authorities and to the company.

New agents should be allowed to carry out HDB sales only after taking the Common Examination for Salespersons, otherwise they should work under the supervision of a senior agent who is qualified.

Agents must not be allowed to operate under two different companies, and to ensure this, agencies should check every agent’s details before recruiting him.

Mabel Mohan (Ms)

Source : Straits Times – 7 Oct 2009

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Posted in CEA

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