Selling Guide
Is Profit From Selling Property Taxable in Singapore?
Singapore has no general capital gains tax, and IRAS says gains from selling a property in Singapore are generally not taxable. The exception is if IRAS considers you to be trading in properties, in which case the gains are income. Separately, Seller's Stamp Duty can apply if you sell too soon.
The general rule
IRAS says gains derived from the sale of property in Singapore are generally not taxable because they are capital gains. You do not need to declare gains that are not taxable in your income tax return. IRAS treats profits and losses from buying and selling shares and other financial instruments, including digital tokens, in the same way as personal investments, and says insurance payouts are capital receipts.
When gains can be taxed: trading in properties
Gains may be taxable if you buy and sell property with a profit-seeking motive or are deemed to be trading in properties. IRAS lists these criteria among those it uses:
- Frequency of buying and selling properties
- Reasons for buying and selling
- Financial means to hold the property for the long term
- Holding period
IRAS's page does not set a number of transactions or years that triggers tax; these are factors it weighs together. Someone who buys and sells many properties in quick succession with borrowed money is more exposed than a family that sells the home it lived in. If you think your pattern of dealing may be a trade, consider advice from a tax professional before filing.
If gains are taxable
You must declare taxable gains from the sale of property under "Other Income" in your income tax return. The tax is at your resident income tax rates, which run up to 24% for high incomes; see rental income tax for the rate bands.
Do not confuse it with other property duties
| Item | What it is |
|---|---|
| Income tax on property trading | Tax on profit if you are deemed to be trading |
| Seller's Stamp Duty (SSD) | A duty on the sale price or market value if you sell within the holding period, regardless of profit. See the SSD guide |
| Property tax | Annual tax on owning, based on Annual Value. See property tax |
| Rental income tax | Tax on net rent while you hold. See rental income tax |
An SSD bill can arise even on a loss, because it is charged on the price rather than the gain. Use the sale proceeds calculator to see your net after loan, CPF refund and duties.
FAQ
Is there capital gains tax on property in Singapore?
No general capital gains tax. IRAS says gains from selling property in Singapore are generally not taxable as they are capital gains, unless you are trading in properties.
How does IRAS decide if I am trading in properties?
It considers factors such as the frequency of transactions, your reasons for buying and selling, your financial means to hold long term, and the holding period.
Do I declare a property sale on my tax return?
Only if the gain is taxable. IRAS says you do not need to declare gains that are not taxable.
Is SSD a tax on my profit?
No. SSD is charged on the sale price or market value, whichever is higher, if you sell within the holding period.
What if I only sell one property every few years?
That would not look like trading, but IRAS decides on the facts. If in doubt, ask IRAS or a tax adviser.
Related guides
- Property Tax Singapore: Owner-Occupier vs Non-Owner
- How to Object to Your Property's Annual Value
- Rental Income Tax Singapore: Deductions & the 15% Rule
Figures current as of October 2026, from IRAS pages. Whether you are trading is a question of fact decided by IRAS, so this guide cannot say that any particular sale is or is not taxable. It is general information only and is not tax advice; consult IRAS or a qualified tax adviser about your own situation.
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