You are coming over or new to Singapore and somewhat bewildered by the language with its lahs, mehs and mahs... 

Probably the last thing you need while trying to adjust to your new surroundings is the considerable hassle of finding a new home. A more concentrated approach is being taken in relation to housing expatriates today. After all, settling into a new place involves more than just acquiring suitable accommodation.

Actually, as far as Asia is concerned, Singapore is a rather good place for English or Mandarin speaking expatriates to seek accommodation. For one thing, no huge language problems loom to complicate negotiations or make contracts forbidding documents.

Before approaching any property agents, you should have an idea of your needs and preferences. Your first step should be to draw up a list of personal options. Do you require short-term or permanent accommodation? What’s your budget? Where is the location you preferred? What's best for you and your family? You will need to look into a few factors (see guide below) before taking further action.

Expatriates Renting Guide

A) Budget - How much am I allocating for my housing in Singapore? Will it be a personal lease or my company paying? How much should the maximum amount be? Give yourself a flexible range like $2,000 - $2,400, so you will not stuck in a situation and not able to find a place with a firm budget, in an area or apartment that you like.

Budgeting yourself will also evaluate which are the areas and apartments suitable for you. If you have a budget of $3,000 a month for rental, you can get an apartment of about 1,300 sq ft to 2,000sq ft. (Also much depending on the district). If you have $8,000 a month budget, you can rent a luxurious apartment with facilities such as swimming pool, tennis courts and gym. (Examples are Pebble Bay, Camelot and Four Seasons Park). And even a landed home with a private swimming pool. If you have a budget of $15,000 - $30,000, you can rent a first class bungalow with many rooms, a lush garden, and even a private swimming pool - situated at a prime district like Holland Road, Bukit Timah or even Orchard area.

B) Location - Location is very important and it will determine the convenience for you and your family. Take into consideration the place where you work, where your spouse works, and where your kids will study. Then situate yourself in the middle of these places, so you will not have to travel so far to work or the children will not have to travel too far to school.

C) Facilities - Different people have different needs and wants, therefore, you will need to evaluate your needs and wants like what kind of facilities you would require. A lap pool with a Jacuzzi, a tennis court or basketball court? A gym? After concluding what you require, it will be easier to find what you need.

D) Amenities - Consider the accessibility to amenities, like do you require any public transportations nearby? Or do you need supermarkets nearby. These are also critical to your daily life, as they will pose convenience.

I specialise on individual and third party relocation services. If you are constantly relocating -- whether for yourself or for your company -- let me assist you with a smooth transition. I am trained to benefit you by obtaining the best price for your property needs in the quickest possible time, and I do it while meeting both you and your family's needs.