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It sounds like you attempted to DIY your purchase without the support of a professional buyer agent, while the seller agent on the other end also did not do proper checks on your case.

I'm a Harvard graduated real estate agent with a degree in economics, and I have a decade of experience working on Singapore public policy. Feel free to reach out to me via my contact below and I can advise you how you may resolve this.

Kay Cloud
The Harvard Educated Agent
Propnex Realty Pte Ltd
cloud@propnex.com
Tel: (+6.5.) 8.5.6.7.4.5.8.5
Whatsapp -> https://wa.me/6585674585 Read More

Hi, appreciate your sharing over PropertyGuru, I am sorry once option issued unlikely to refund but you can check with seller agent on the issue or matter to see how he/she is able to help
Looking forward to assist you at WhatsApp +65 9696 4398  or email me at stewartlim96964398@gmail.com

Cheers
Stewart
PropNex Senior Associate Division Director Read More

In Singapore context (HDB resale):

✔1) The $1,000 you paid is the **Option Fee (OTP)**. Once the seller grants you the Option to Purchase, this fee is usually **non-refundable** if you decide not to proceed — unless the seller agrees to return it.

✔2) If your **HFE letter does not allow you to buy a 5-room flat**, technically you are not eligible to complete the purchase. However, this does not automatically force the seller to refund the option fee.

✔3) You can **politely explain the situation** to the seller or agent and request a refund. Some sellers may agree as goodwill, but legally, they are generally entitled to keep the $1,000 once the OTP is granted.

✔4) If the seller refuses, the $1,000 is typically forfeited. HDB does not intervene in private OTP disputes unless there was misrepresentation or procedural breach.

✔5) Going forward, always confirm your HFE eligibility and flat type approval before issuing any option fee.

“The wise man does at once what the fool does finally.” — Niccolò Machiavelli
WhatsApp me at >> ✔✔9856 9255 or through this link.:https://wa.me/6598569255.

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Good day to you.

Buyers are required to pay the Option Fee to secure their exclusive right to Exercise the Option. This fee is valid during the 21-day period in which they obtain their valuation report and mortgage loan. It’s important to note that the seller is under no obligation to refund this amount if the buyer is unable to secure the valuation or mortgage loan due to any unforeseen circumstances. Nonetheless, you can always take a chance.

The key takeaway here is that navigating the HDB purchase process without proper guidance can be quite challenging. Let me assist you based on your unique needs so you can achieve your dream of homeownership with peace of mind.

Navigating a property transaction can feel overwhelming, especially when it intersects with major life events.
With over 15 years of experience as a property consultant, my role goes beyond market knowledge — it is to provide clarity, structure, and peace of mind through complex decisions.

I regularly assist clients with sensitive and non-standard situations, including:
• Divorce & Asset Settlement — guiding parties toward fair, practical outcomes for shared properties
• Intestate & Estate Planning — helping families navigate inherited property and future planning with confidence
• Complex Property Matters — including cases involving Lasting Power of Attorney, bankruptcy, or special circumstances

If you’re seeking clarity rather than pressure, I’m happy to have a conversation to understand your situation and outline possible next steps.

Mike Lim
CEA Reg No: R026708F | ERA
WhatsApp: https://wa.me/message/VCDD3MUYRD3JP1
Email: m52i@yahoo.com

If you’d like short, educational breakdowns on common property questions, you may also find these helpful:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SGHomeCompass
Instagram: https://instagram.com/SGHomeCompass Read More

The seller has a right not to refund. Read More

hi,

Owner can forfeit the 1K option fee.
Hope this helps,

This platform does not allow me to contact you directly so kindly contact me at https://wa.me/6597261112 I would be glad to assist you further.

Thank you and best regards,

Jenny Tran
Propnex Realty Pte Ltd
(HP) +65 97261112 
(Email) jenny.tran@propnex.com
BSc (Real Estate) (Hons)-NUS

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