UOB vs DBS Mortgage 2026: Rates, Fees & Which is Better?
In the competitive Singapore mortgage market of 2026, DBS edges out UOB for most borrowers with lower starting fixed rates (1.75% vs UOB's typical 1.78%) and superior refinancing rebates up to S$2,800 for loans over S$1.5M. However, UOB shines for larger loans above S$2M with potentially lower effective rates like 1M SORA + 0.25% (1.36%). Homejourney makes choosing easy—compare real-time rates from DBS, UOB, OCBC and more at our bank rates page.[1][3]
This cluster article dives deep into UOB vs DBS mortgage comparison, focusing on rates, fees, and key differences for HDB, resale, and new launches. It supports our pillar guide on local bank mortgage comparison by providing tactical advice for first-time buyers and refinancers. At Homejourney, we prioritize your safety with verified data and Singpass-enabled applications for faster, secure approvals.
Bank Overviews: DBS and UOB in Singapore's Mortgage Market
DBS, Singapore's largest bank, holds a dominant position with nearly 80% market share alongside UOB and OCBC. It offers fixed and floating loans like DBS Home Loan (3Y Fixed at 1.78%) and FHR6 (board rate +0.60%), ideal for HDB and private properties.[1][7]
UOB, another local giant, competes aggressively with products like 2Y Fixed rates around 1.78% and floating SORA-based options. UOB stands out for high-value loans, often matching or beating DBS on spreads for amounts over S$1M. Both banks shifted to SORA benchmarks per MAS regulations since 2021, replacing SIBOR for more transparent variable rates.[3]
Key takeaway: DBS suits conservative borrowers preferring stability; UOB appeals to investors seeking flexibility on big loans. Use Homejourney's mortgage calculator to test eligibility under TDSR rules.
Current Rates: UOB vs DBS Side-by-Side (Feb 2026)
Rates fluctuate with SORA (currently influencing floating loans at ~1.11% base). Here's a direct comparison based on latest data for S$500K-S$1M loans:[1][3]
| Loan Type | DBS Year 1 | UOB Year 1 | Margin |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2Y Fixed (Resale HDB) | 1.75% | 1.78% | DBS lower |
| 3Y Fixed (Private) | 1.78% | 1.80% | DBS lower |
| Floating (1M SORA) | SORA +0.60% (~1.71%) | SORA +0.25% (~1.36%) | UOB better |
The chart below shows recent interest rate trends in Singapore:
As seen, SORA has stabilized post-2025 peaks, favoring floating rates now. DBS offers better fixed promo rates; UOB wins on floating for low-risk refinancers. Always verify on Homejourney bank rates for live updates.[1][3]
Fees and Charges: Hidden Costs Compared
Both banks charge similar fees, but details matter:
- Processing Fee: DBS S$200-S$500; UOB S$300-S$500 (waivable for large loans).
- Lock-in Penalty: 1.5% on prepaid amount within 2-3 years (DBS FC24 waiver option; UOB similar).
- Refinance Rebate: DBS up to S$2,800 (>S$1.5M); UOB S$2,000-S$2,500—covers lawyer fees, valuation (~S$1,500 total).[1]
- Legal Fees: ~S$2,000-S$3,000 for both, often rebated.
UOB's edge: Higher rebates for mega-loans. DBS: More flexible conversions (FC anytime to floating). Factor these into your total cost—Homejourney's calculator shows net savings instantly.
Pros, Cons & Who Should Choose Which
DBS Pros: Lowest fixed rates, generous rebates, HDB-friendly (POSB integration), best for BUC condos with progressive drawdown.[1][3]
DBS Cons: Higher spreads on floating (~+0.60% vs UOB).
UOB Pros: Competitive floating (1M SORA +0.25%), ideal for S$2M+ private properties or investors.
UOB Cons: Slightly higher fixed rates, fewer HDB promos.
- Choose DBS if: First-time HDB buyer or refinancer under S$1.5M.
- Choose UOB if: High-net-worth with floating tolerance or large condos in areas like Orchard/ Marina Bay.
Compare with OCBC via DBS vs OCBC Home Loan 2026: Which Bank Offers Better Rates? . Homejourney lets banks compete—submit one Singpass app for offers from all.[1]
Application Process & Timeline
- Documents: NRIC, income slips (last 3 months), CPF statements, property Option to Purchase. Both accept Singpass via Homejourney.
- Timeline: DBS 3-7 days approval; UOB 5-10 days. Valuation 1 week extra for resale HDB.
- Criteria: TDSR <60%, LTV 75% (bank) vs 80% HDB. Min income S$3K/month.
Pro tip: Apply via Homejourney—one form reaches DBS, UOB, HSBC simultaneously. Track real-time SORA to time your app post-rate dips.
Customer Experience & Refinancing Insights
DBS excels in digibank app for repayments and FC options; UOB praised for relationship managers on big loans. Refinancing success: 80% market share for Big 3 means seamless switches.[7]
Insider tip: For Tengah or Punggol HDB upgraders, DBS POSB loans waive sale penalties. Homejourney verifies all data for your confident decision.
FAQ: UOB vs DBS Mortgage Questions
Which is better, UOB or DBS for HDB resale?
DBS, with 1.70% 3Y fixed vs UOB's higher equivalent. Check Homejourney for promos.[3]
UOB DBS comparison for refinancing?
DBS offers higher rebates (S$2,800 max). Ideal if switching from HDB's 2.6% rate.[1][2]
Local bank mortgage comparison: Fixed or floating?
Floating now (SORA +0.25%) beats fixed amid stable trends—UOB leads here.[3]
Can I apply to both UOB and DBS?
Yes, via Homejourney's multi-bank system—one Singpass app gets competing offers.
UOB vs DBS fees for new launch BUC?
Similar, but DBS flexible drawdown suits progressive payments.[1]
Disclaimer: Rates as of Feb 2026; subject to change. Homejourney provides info only—not financial advice. Consult professionals. Find properties in budget at Homejourney search.
Ready for the best deal? Compare UOB vs DBS and more on Homejourney today—safe, transparent, user-first. Link back to our local bank mortgage comparison pillar for full insights.
