What is the process of Renting a Place (before arriving to Singapore)

[ming4play]

Hi,

May I find out how is it possible to secure a place before arriving to Singapore as many agents/ listed properties for rent requires me physically to be there and visit the place before they allow me to secure the advertised apartment.

Hence my question would be is that the standard practice?
Meaning to say once I arrive in Singapore, I would need to fork out a few bucks to stay in hotel whilst search for available rooms?

[bro75]

It is normal for people to stay in hotels, company apartments, friends, relatives or Serviced Apartments first before looking for a more long term residence in Singapore. It is required for landlords to verify your residence status in Singapore so you will need to show them a valid pass before they are able to rent out the place to you for a period of not less than 6 months.

[ming4play]

It is normal for people to stay in hotels, company apartments, friends, relatives or Serviced Apartments first before looking for a more long term residence in Singapore. It is required for landlords to verify your residence status in Singapore so you will need to show them a valid pass before they are able to rent out the place to you for a period of not less than 6 months.

Thanks for confirming. Just wanted to find out is this the norm or otherwise.
Cheers !