The Straits Times reports that Singapore's Council for Estate Agencies (CEA) is discussing the practice of VIP sales and priority bookings at new condominium launches, amid concerns that property agents and selected buyers are securing units before public sales begin. This comes after The Business Times revealed that property agents purchased up to 20% of units at some launches, such as Emerald of Katong, prior to public sales. Between September 2024 and October 2025, agents bought 635 units, accounting for 4.2% of all new private homes launched during that period. While CEA stated that priority access is a developer's private decision and does not violate regulations, critics argue it raises issues of fairness and market professionalism. Some agencies confirmed engaging with CEA, while others claimed they were not involved.
Tendenz-Einschätzung (Mitte): The article presents a balanced view of the controversy surrounding VIP sales, quoting multiple stakeholders including CEA representatives, property agency executives, and a concerned reader. It avoids taking a clear ideological stance, focusing instead on the regulatory and ethical implications of早