Singapore Expats

Hi,

I'm relocating to singapore from london in mid July for one year. I've been offered 2 weeks temporary accommodation with work and hoping to set up viewings the week before I go so that I can view things as soon as I get there. I'm looking for a 1-2 bed condo, fully furnished, near MRT/LRT, with a budget of approx $2,500 (but less than that the better).

My question is around estate agents. I've been reading alot of the posts on here but haven't seen anything about estate agents.

Is it best to just stick with one estate agent to help with the viewings? Is there anything I need to be aware of the entire process eg. from viewings, making the offer, moving in, as well as anything that I need to be careful of about the estate agents themselves?

Appreciate any thoughts you have!

Thanks

You could start with our hosts.

Thanks. I had a look at the properties that are listed for rent, but alot of them dont have prices listed. I'll contact them directly.

Do you have any thoughts on it it is best to just stick with one estate agent to help with the viewings? Is there anything I need to be aware of the entire process eg. from viewings, making the offer, moving in, as well as anything that I need to be careful of about the estate agents themselves?

Thanks in advance for your help!

Have a search of this forum. Will give you sufficient horror stories to work with.

Hi there,

My advice is to stick to 1 (trusty) real estate agent. Reason is because, if you get multiple agents, chances are you might end up looking at the same unit for a few times and the situation can get quite awkward.

I have to warn you though that the prices indicated on website is not true to the actual rental price. Agents will put up an "attractive offer" to attract potential tenants and later on will learn that the asking price is not as what you have expected it to be.

It will be a challenge to get a condo unit (1-2 bedrooms, near to train station) with your budget.. However, i am not saying that it is impossible Which area are you looking at?

You need to be aware of the deposits and the commission.

Hope that helps! Cheers

Personally, I'd engage as many agents as you need. It's their job to place you and who cares if they find out they have some competition. Don't put all your eggs in one basket especially as you are new to Singapore and won't have any rapport or trust with just one agent. Over time, yes stick to one if you like them, but when you first arrive use the resources available. Just be straight with them from the start and tell them you are engaging a few agents to help broaden your options. If they don't want to work with you because of that, don't worry. Plenty of agents will want your business.