Regulation No 1 Understanding Buyer's Stamp Duty (BSD) and Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) When purchasing residential property in Singapore, buyers should understand two important taxes: Buyer's Stamp Duty (BSD) and Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD). These costs can significantly affect the overall investment budget. Buyer's Stamp Duty (BSD) BSD is payable on all residential property purchases. The amount is calculated based on the purchase price or market value of the property, whichever is higher, using progressive tax rates. BSD forms part of the acquisition cost and should always be included when budgeting for a property purchase. Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) ABSD applies only to certain buyers, depending on factors such as nationality and the number of residential properties already owned. The objective is to promote a stable and sustainable property market. For Singapore Citizens purchasing their first residential property, ABSD generally does not apply. However, higher rates may apply to subsequent purchases or to Permanent Residents and foreign buyers, subject to prevailing government policies. As stamp duty rules may change over time, buyers should always verify the latest rates before committing to a purchase. KH Ngai's Perspective Stamp duties are one of the largest upfront costs when buying property. Understanding these costs early allows buyers to budget more accurately and avoid unexpected financial surprises during the purchasing process.