Renting

Yes. You will need to seek HDB approval to rent out your HDB flat. As for private property. URA do not require you to submit for approval. But if you are staying in a condominium. The management may require you to update the tenancy with them.

Most properties can be rented out, but demand depends on location, proximity to MRTs, amenities, schools, and the unit layout. Smaller units and well-maintained homes near transport nodes tend to attract tenants faster. Similarly, properties that are poorly maintained or not in ideal condition tend to attract a specific profile of tenants.

Rental prices are based on recent comparable rentals in your area, unit condition, furnishing level, and lease terms. Online figures are only a guide—actual achievable rent depends on current market demand.

• This depends on the type of property, location and the type of tenants you are targeting. Some expats prefer fully furnished units, while local tenants may opt for partial or unfurnished units. Furnishing choices can affect rental yield and tenant quality. Although a fully furnish unit may not increase rental rates very significant.

• Resale properties allow immediate move-in, clearer price benchmarks, and sometimes larger unit sizes.
  The better choice depends on your budget, timeline, and purpose of purchase.

This can range from a few days to several weeks. Proper pricing, good presentation, and flexible lease terms generally help reduce vacancy periods.

Major renovations are usually not required. Ensuring the unit is clean, functional, and safe is more important. Minor repairs, fresh paint, and servicing air-conditioning units can improve tenant appeal.

Common costs include agent commission, minor repairs, air-conditioning servicing, property tax, maintenance fees, and occasional replacement of wear-and-tear items. It will be good practice to set aside half a month of rental for every year of lease to refresh the property. This will keep the property appealing to prospective new tenants.

The standard practice is one month’s security deposit per year of lease. For example, a two-year lease usually requires a two-month security deposit.

Tenant selection involves reviewing employment status, pass validity, rental history, and family size. A proper screening process helps reduce rental risks and potential disputes. The communication with the potential tenants during the onset will give you an indicator of what to expect during the tenancy period.

Landlords must comply with URA and HDB regulations, such as minimum rental periods and occupancy limits. It’s important to ensure the tenancy agreement reflects current regulations.

Major repairs are usually the landlord’s responsibility, while tenants are typically responsible for day-to-day upkeep and minor maintenance up to an agreed amount stated in the tenancy agreement.

Yes. Rental income is taxable and must be declared to IRAS. You can deduct allowable expenses such as agent fees, maintenance, and repairs before tax is computed.

Early termination is subject to the terms in the tenancy agreement. Most agreements include a diplomatic clause, which applies mainly to expatriate tenants after a minimum stay period.

At the end of the lease, a joint inspection is conducted. Any damages beyond fair wear and tear may be deducted from the security deposit, and the unit is returned to the landlord.

Renting properties: 1 month’s commission + GST for a 2-year lease, or 0.5 month’s commission + GST for a 1-year lease.

No. Under CEA guidelines, an agent’s formal duties end once the tenant is secured and has moved in. Matters arising during the tenancy—such as rent collection, maintenance, and day-to-day issues—are not part of the agent’s contractual responsibilities. That said, many agents continue to assist landlords and tenants as a goodwill service to support their clients.