VIP sales at new condo launches have long been part of Singapore's private property market, giving selected buyers early access to units before public bookings begin. But the practice is now under scrutiny after reports that property agents bought up to 20% of units at some developments before launch day, raising concerns about fairness and transparency.

Are ordinary homebuyers being placed at a disadvantage? Why do developers conduct VIP sales in the first place? And could the rules soon change?

On The Big Story, Hongbin Jeong speaks with Nicholas Mak, Chief Research Officer at MOGUL.sg, to unpack how VIP condo sales work, who really gets first dibs, and what the controversy means for prospective homebuyers.