2.5 Conveyance inter vivos
Conveyance inter vivos is a transfer of an interest in land between living persons.
Conveyance inter vivos is a transfer of an interest in land between living persons. Inter vivos means during the lifetime of the transferor and transferee.
What you will learn
- Meaning
- Transfer instrument
- Title and registration
- Consideration
- Transaction checks
Core concepts at a glance
| Concept | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Inter vivos means during the lifetime of the transferor and transferee. |
| Transfer instrument | A transfer must use the relevant legal documentation and formalities. |
| Title and registration | Registration and existing encumbrances must be considered. |
| Consideration | A transfer may be for value or without consideration, with different consequences. |
| Transaction checks | Identify the parties, interest transferred, restrictions and any required consents. |
1. Meaning
Inter vivos means during the lifetime of the transferor and transferee.
2. Transfer instrument
A transfer must use the relevant legal documentation and formalities.
3. Title and registration
Registration and existing encumbrances must be considered.
4. Consideration
A transfer may be for value or without consideration, with different consequences.
5. Transaction checks
Identify the parties, interest transferred, restrictions and any required consents.
Visual guide: Conveyancing pathway
A topic-specific diagram to help you connect the concepts, rather than memorise isolated keywords.
How to read this diagram
- Agreement: Contract and conditions.
- Due diligence: Title and legal checks.
- Completion: Payment and documents.
- Registration: Record the relevant interest.
Apply it to a Singapore property scenario
A parent transfers a property interest to an adult child while alive.
How to approach it: This is an inter vivos transaction; investigate the instrument, title and applicable duties.
All inter vivos transfers are sales.
Remember: A lifetime transfer may also be by gift.
Quick revision
- Meaning: Inter vivos means during the lifetime of the transferor and transferee.
- Transfer instrument: A transfer must use the relevant legal documentation and formalities.
- Title and registration: Registration and existing encumbrances must be considered.
- Consideration: A transfer may be for value or without consideration, with different consequences.
- Transaction checks: Identify the parties, interest transferred, restrictions and any required consents.
Practice MCQs
Choose one answer per question, check your score and review the explanations.
Official resources
For current Singapore legislation and agency guidance, refer to Singapore Statutes Online, CEA. Check the requirements applicable to your examination sitting.