Singapore Expats

Hi, I am to join in Jan 2011 and will have 2 weeks paid up stay to look for rentals, but my issue is that my family (wife + new born) will not join me until end of May of 2011.

So my query is - shud i look for a short term lease (mid jan to end may) and then during the period look for HDB's (as i have a pretty low budget of 2-2.3k). Guess this will help save some $'s for 4 mnths + i'll have some savings to move to pay deposit and get housing stuff.

The reason i ask this is - is it worthwhile to stay in a 1k/mnth condo (know a few) and then relocate OR just might as well make the BIG move now and take long term rental & take time to get used to my new rental pad + surroundings???

Also seeing the horror stories (agents + landlords), i'll need time to learn the Singapore way's, find a "decent" LL + pad and time to negotiate a good contract (take pics, get in all terms).

GUYS - Your inputs on (LL's fleecing/duping renters) are humongous - so i surely need time to get a good contract in place with LL, if i can.

thnx for all inputs...
Ron

There are no S$1k/month condos in Singapore - you can't even get a shack for that price!
I assume you refer to some badly written ads that say "condo" but mean one room in a shared condo. That is common and realistic for the price. (Sublet rooms start at around S$600/month.)
Most landlords require a two years contract. You might find one that is willing to give you a sublet room for a shorter duration (possibly at an additional cost) and in that case you should take it, as this gives you more time to find an appropriate place for your family. All "official" short-term options (like Serviced Apartments or studios) will cost more than your budget.

You will not be able to rent your own place for $1000. You might check out

http://www...com.sg/

to find a room. I'm not affiliated, just know some people who used it and were satisfied.

Beppi - That's what i meant by 1k/mnth was to share a room in a condo with others (4-6 rooms in a flat ). I have a friend who is doing that and has given me good reviews.

SE - thanks for the link, guess we have to register first and then get qualified to rent a room, but good to know others have used it and got help.

Any idea if places are available where bigger sized condos (with bigger rooms) allow smallish family (me + wife + kid) to stay. this is bcos i have condos do come with facilities like gym and swimming pool.

Do understand the cost could be more, but i have a budget of 2.3k/mnth so will that be a possibility.

cheers.