How is Buyer's Stamp Duty calculated?
Buyer's Stamp Duty (BSD) is calculated on the higher of the purchase price or market value, using progressive tiers. For residential property, the rates are 1% on the first $180,000, 2% on the next $180,000, 3% on the next $640,000, 4% on the next $500,000, 5% on the next $1.5 million, and 6% above $3 million. Rates apply from 15 February 2023.
The full rules
Buyer's Stamp Duty (BSD) — Residential Property
BSD is charged on the higher of the purchase price or market value. It is progressive: each portion of the amount is taxed at its own rate.
| Portion of price/value | Rate |
| First $180,000 | 1% |
| Next $180,000 (up to $360,000) | 2% |
| Next $640,000 (up to $1,000,000) | 3% |
| Next $500,000 (up to $1,500,000) | 4% |
| Next $1,500,000 (up to $3,000,000) | 5% |
| Amount above $3,000,000 | 6% |
These rates took effect on 15 February 2023.
Note: BSD applies to all buyers. Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) may apply separately depending on residency and property count, but is not covered in the data provided here.
Worked example
Worked Example — $1,800,000 residential property
Assuming the purchase price equals or exceeds market value:
| Portion | Amount | Rate | BSD |
| First $180,000 | $180,000 | 1% | $1,800 |
| Next $180,000 | $180,000 | 2% | $3,600 |
| Next $640,000 | $640,000 | 3% | $19,200 |
| Next $500,000 | $500,000 | 4% | $20,000 |
| Remaining | $300,000 | 5% | $15,000 |
| Total | $1,800,000 | $59,600 |
BSD payable: $59,600.
What this means for you
First-time buyer of an $850,000 flat
BSD applies across the first three tiers: 1% on the first $180,000, 2% on the next $180,000, and 3% on the remaining $490,000 — total $24,600.
Buyer of a $2,500,000 condominium
The amount reaches into the 5% tier. BSD is calculated tier by tier through to 5% on the portion above $1,500,000.
Buyer of a $3,500,000 landed home
The portion above $3,000,000 is taxed at the top rate of 6%, with lower tiers applied to the amounts below.
Related questions
Is BSD based on the price I pay or the property's value?
It is calculated on the higher of the purchase price or the market value of the property.
Are the BSD rates flat or progressive?
Progressive. Each portion of the price is taxed at its own rate, from 1% on the first $180,000 up to 6% above $3 million.
When did the current BSD rates take effect?
The rates shown took effect on 15 February 2023.
What is the highest BSD rate for residential property?
6%, applied to any portion of the price or value above $3,000,000.
Does BSD include ABSD?
No. BSD is separate. Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty may apply depending on your circumstances, but it is not covered in the data provided here.
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Sources: IRAS — Buyer's Stamp Duty · Last verified 2026-09-05