The Singapore Accredited Estate Agencies (SAEA) hopes to plug some gaps it has identified in the property sector before the new rules to regulate real estate agents is implemented later this year.
It will be collaborating with the Singapore Institute of Surveyors and Valuers (SISV) to help property agencies boost their productivity through the use of technology.
In line with the government’s plan to enhance accountability and professionalism in the property sector, part of the initiative will focus on launching more courses for Continuing Professional Development.
SAEA and SISV also hope to train real estate agents in mediation methods.
“What we felt was lacking was the mechanism to help agents resolve dispute between themselves or agencies resolving disputes between themselves before it goes to an open court or litigation,” said Tay Kah Poh, chairman of the SAEA.
“It’s not that we’re venturing into this new. We’ve always had this idea. It’s just that we realise now that the current regime because of its focus on consumers is somewhat lacking.”
This partnership will also make it easier for the members of SAEA to join the SISV ranks.
At present, only 750 members of SISV are in the property industry – a far cry from SAEA’s 9000 accredited agents.