Flat for rent in Singapore

Are you new to Singapore and planning to live and work there for sometime? You will definitely need a place to stay rather than a hotel room. I have to say, renting a flat in Singapore can be the most challenging task anyone may face in Singapore. 

Fast Facts:

1. -Selection for the potential tenant status is quite discriminatory. You will encounter advertisements or agents' note: "Sorry guys, no Indian and Malay tenants preferred by landlord!" Unfortunately in Singapore there is  No anti discrimination law.  A good read on this topic : here 
2. -It's always good to gain some basic knowledge about the tips and tricks on renting a flat/room in Singapore before arrival! Tenants has no rights and law favors landlords. The only thing we can hold on is a well written tenancy agreement (search TA samples at agencies site (like ERA, HUTTONS) to get an idea about the terms and conditions) which gives us some slight support..
3. -Singapore is a safe country, but rental scams are quite common, so look out for warning signs of fake landlord, fake agent etc 

Where to search flats or rooms in Singapore? Useful sites:

1. -http://www.propertyguru.com.sg/ 
2. -http://www.easyroommate.com.sg/

What are the popular types of properties for rent in Singapore?

HDB Blocks at Whampoa

Condos at Central Region of Singapore

1. -Public property: HDB flat ( whole unit or room)-price from S$1800/ month+utilities
2. -Private property like Condominium (comes with good facilities like gym, swimming pool)- price from S$2300 per month+utilities

Advantages of HDB flats: bigger (2-5 bedroom flats) near MRT, shops, schools, fitness corners, family friendly.
Advantages of Condominiums: luxury environment, pool and gym for the tenants.

Who is eligible to rent a flat in Singapore (non citizens)?

Those who are legally residing in Singapore and holding Employment Pass, Student Pass, Dependent Pass, Work permit or Long term social visit passes, with a validity period of at least 6 months.


How to avoid rental scams?

1. -Common sense and some knowledge about the real estate market in Singapore is the key. For example, if the offered price for a Condo is much less than around S$ 2100-2300, that might be suspicious. Foreign owner who claims he currently doesn't live in Singapore and wants to bypass his agent by negotiating and asking you to prove your financial abilities and transfer him/her some advance to a Western Union bank account, and than the monthly rent later when it becomes actual- that is a double warning!! 
2. -Engage a property agent or salesperson, but verify their identity here: http://www.cea.gov.sg/cea/app/newimplpublicregister/publicregister.jspa
3. -To avoid fake landlords: try to checked the owner relation/ownership to the flat.(HDB room rental- whether it is an approved unit or not..)
4. -Make sure the agent doesn't collect double commission from both tenant and landlord. 

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