Housing

[House Boy]

Would it be better to start searching for an appartment once I get there or before I arrive?

[Paul N]

At very least make a list of things you want in an apartment, such as location to work/play, amenities, floor plan, floor in building...

There are several websites that list property for rent.  Do a search on Singapore Rental Housing and all variants.  Then make contact with an agent before you get here, so they know what you are looking for.

[House Boy]

How do agents work???Do they get paid by the hour or a portion of the rent?

[pool boy]

hey, house boy, good luck on your house search. mine (and my friend's) took a while but it really paid off and we're now living in this fantastic oasis in the city -- a private condo called the summit. it's in the east coast (upper east coast road to be exact), which is THE place to live in singapore.

real estate brokers are paid an equivalent of a month's rent as their commission, one half by the tenant and the other half by the landlord.

 

[Mark D]

I think I'm right in saying that the tenant only pays commission if the monthly rent is below $2500. Above that and all the commission is paid by the landlord

[Just landed]

Some agents will charge half a months rent for commission, others a whole months rent if, as Mark D said, the rent is below 2500.Also note stamp duty (about 10%)and other deposits involved e.g. for utilities, gas etc.  Deposits for rent are also sometimes negotiable- usually 1 month deposit for 1 year, 2 months for 2 years etc. Agents will take you around in car to view condos or apartments so you will save time and see lots in short period of time. Good luck!

[House boy]

So what happens if I don't use an agent...would it take more time to find good housing?
And since everyone talks about the east coast...how far is it really from town?

[Ann]

U cld try the classifieds online at http://classified.asia1.com/

Good Luck

[This message has been edited by BoardManager (edited 02-02-2001).]

[CYLH]

HouseBoy, you don't necessarily have to use an agent. I didn't and found a BARGAIN. I am totally happy with my apartment. If your budget is below $2,500, you are better off checking out the classifieds in the Straits Times which are also available online at classified.asia1.com.

The East Coast is great if you have a car. Otherwise, if you are starting out for the first time in Singapore, you are better off in the town area (i.e. District 9 or 10). River Valley is a convenient location if you work at Raffles Place or at Marina/Suntec City.