UOB vs DBS Mortgage Comparison Which is Better Rates and Fees Explained
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 1.80%+) and generous refinancing rebates up to S$2,800. However, UOB shines for larger loans above S$1.5M with competitive floating SORA options. This Homejourney cluster article breaks down rates, fees, and key differences to help you decide, linking back to our pillar guide on local bank mortgage comparison.
Why Compare UOB and DBS Mortgages?
DBS and UOB, two of Singapore's Big 3 local banks, hold nearly 80% of the mortgage market alongside OCBC[1]. First-time HDB buyers, condo investors, and refinancers turn to them for reliability under MAS regulations like the Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR). Homejourney verifies real-time rates from these banks, ensuring you get transparent data in a trusted environment. Compare UOB vs DBS mortgage options instantly on our bank rates page to see personalized eligibility.
As SORA remains the key benchmark since MAS's 2021 shift from SIBOR[3], understanding rate types is crucial. Fixed rates offer stability for HDB upgraders, while floating suits risk-tolerant investors. This comparison focuses on 2026 data for resale HDB, private properties, and refinancing.
Current Mortgage Rates: UOB vs DBS (Feb 2026)
Rates fluctuate with 3M SORA around 2.9-3.1%, but promos deliver effective lows[1][3]. DBS leads in fixed packages for resale HDB and condos, while UOB competes on floating for BUCs.
| Loan Type | DBS (Year 1-2) | UOB (Year 1-2) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resale HDB Fixed (2Y) | 1.75%[1][3] | 1.80%*[3] | HDB Buyers (DBS) |
| Private Property Fixed (2Y) | 1.75%[1] | 1.78%*[1] | Condos (DBS) |
| Floating (1M SORA +) | +0.60% (FHR6)[3] | +0.50%*[1] | BUC/Investors (UOB) |
| Refinance Fixed (3Y) | 1.70-1.78%[1] | 1.75%*[3] | Large Loans (UOB) |
*UOB rates estimated from market averages; actuals vary by loan size (>S$1M gets lowest)[1]. Use Homejourney's mortgage calculator for your scenario, factoring LTV up to 75% for banks vs HDB's 80% and 2.6% fixed[2].
The chart below shows recent interest rate trends in Singapore:
SORA has stabilized post-2025 peaks, favoring fixed locks now[4]. DBS's rates beat market averages by 0.1-0.2% for S$500k+ loans[1].
Fees and Charges: Hidden Costs Compared
Both banks charge similar processing fees (S$200-500) and legal fees (S$1,500-2,000), but lock-in penalties differ. DBS imposes 1.5% on early repayment within 2-3 years; UOB matches at 1.33% for fixed packages[1]. Refinancing rebates make DBS more attractive: S$2,000 for S$500k+, up to S$2,800 for S$1.5M+[1]. UOB offers S$2,300 max, better for valuation fees coverage on larger loans.
- DBS Pros: Higher rebates cover all costs for S$1M+ refinances; free conversion options (FC12/24)[1].
- UOB Pros: Lower solicitor fees waiver for HDB; flexible repricing[1].
Insider tip: For Punggol HDB resale (avg S$600k), DBS's rebate offsets agent fees entirely. Always check TDSR impact—Homejourney's tools simulate this safely.
Pros and Cons: UOB vs DBS Mortgage
| Aspect | DBS | UOB |
|---|---|---|
| Rates | Lower fixed (1.75%); best for HDB[3] | Better floating for condos[1] |
| Rebates | S$2,800 max; generous[1] | S$2,300; solid for big loans |
| Customer Service | Top-rated app; 24/7 chat[1] | Strong branch network in heartlands |
| Best For | First-timers, refinancers | Investors, large loans |
DBS suits conservative buyers preferring stability; UOB for those repricing frequently. Neither beats HDB's 2.6% for low-risk profiles[2], but banks offer flexibility.
Application Process and Timeline
Submit via Homejourney for multi-bank offers: Use Singpass for auto-fill, one form reaches DBS/UOB/OCBCLocal vs Foreign Bank Mortgage: Application Process & Timeline . Documents: NRIC, income slips (3 months), property option to purchase. Approval in 3-7 days; DBS faster at 3-5 for salaried[1].
- Check eligibility on Homejourney calculator.
- Apply simultaneously—banks compete for you.
- Lock best offer; track via app.
Refinancing? Time 2-3 months before lock-in ends. Homejourney prioritizes your safety with verified partners.
Homejourney Makes UOB vs DBS Comparison Easy
Why juggle bank sites? On Homejourney, compare UOB DBS comparison with OCBC, HSBC instantly, including real-time SORA. Submit one app via Singpass—get offers from all majors. Our mortgage brokers guide you fee-free, ensuring trust and transparency. Pair with property search for budget-matched homes.
For deeper dives, see our pillar on local bank mortgage comparison and related clusters like UOB vs DBS Mortgage 2026: Which is Better? Homejourney Guide .
FAQ: UOB vs DBS Mortgage Singapore
Q: Which has lower rates in 2026, UOB or DBS?
A: DBS for fixed HDB/condo (1.75% vs 1.80%); UOB for floating large loans. Check Homejourney bank-rates for latest[1][3].
Q: What are the refinancing fees for UOB vs DBS?
A: Both ~1.5% lock-in penalty; DBS rebates up to S$2,800 cover more[1].
Q: Can I apply to both UOB and DBS at once?
A: Yes, via Homejourney's multi-bank system—fastest approvals with Singpass.
Q: Is DBS or UOB better for first-time HDB buyers?
A: DBS for lower rates and rebates; calculate on our tool.
Q: How does SORA affect UOB DBS comparison?
A: Both peg to SORA; DBS FHR6 at +0.60%, UOB competitive at +0.50%*[3].
Disclaimer: Rates as of Feb 2026; subject to change. Homejourney provides info, not advice—consult professionals. All data from verified sources[1][2][3].
Ready to choose? Visit Homejourney bank rates now—compare UOB vs DBS, calculate, apply securely. Build confidence in your property journey with us.
