Searching house rent without agent

[Marlipal]

Dear All,

First, I would like to thank you for this forum, most of the questions I have found their answer by browsing these pages!

I will move to Singapore in few months, and I am surprised by the high fees required by the agents (this is probably because I currently live in Thailand, where renting an apartment is as easy as hiring a taxi...).

As the websites I found so far mostly shows offers from realtors, I would like to know how to find a HDB or a condo without using the services of an agent?

Thanks for your help!

[the lynx]

Welcome abroad.

Ok to answer your questions directly, there are two ways to do it:

1. Most of the property rental websites in Singapore have to-rent advertisement with 'no agent' clause in it. You may want to refine your search to that keyword on top of your desired locations in respective websites. These entries are posted by potential landlords themselves so there will not be agent involved.

2. Assuming that you will provided with serviced accommodation by your company on arrival, you can take that opportunity to walk around the estates of your choice and look out for personal advertisment by potential landlords looking for tenants. Usually on common notice board near MRT stations, bus stops and Community Centres.

[Marlipal]

Thanks Lynx for your help!

[BillyB]

Dear All,

First, I would like to thank you for this forum, most of the questions I have found their answer by browsing these pages!

I will move to Singapore in few months, and I am surprised by the high fees required by the agents (this is probably because I currently live in Thailand, where renting an apartment is as easy as hiring a taxi...).

As the websites I found so far mostly shows offers from realtors, I would like to know how to find a HDB or a condo without using the services of an agent?

Thanks for your help!

The following sites don't (usually) involve agents for apartment / room lets:

gumtree
craigslist
.

[JR8]

Do note though that we've had reports of scammers operating as landlords on Craig's List.

[BillyB]

Do note though that we've had reports of scammers operating as landlords on Craig's List.

Posing as lesbians or Russian escorts?!

[JR8]

Do note though that we've had reports of scammers operating as landlords on Craig's List.

Posing as lesbians or Russian escorts?!

FFS Bunter are you back on the vodka and batty pills again lol?

In simple terms:
- Flat to let in SG, here is what it is and where it is.
- You don't get to view it, but you're overseas anyway so no problem.
- Landlord is oversees, or is family member acting on behalf of aged/incapable relative in SG.
- Send deposit and advance rent via Western Union, and we FedEx the keys to you by return.

Two people have reported this set-up on Craig's List.

[sundaymorningstaple]

There have been a lot more than two reported. Apparently they are hitting not only Singapore but also resort type places as well. Buyer beware. Never wire money via western union, et. al.

[JR8]

There have been a lot more than two reported. Apparently they are hitting not only Singapore but also resort type places as well. Buyer beware. Never wire money via western union, et. al.

Ok, rephrase. I've seen two people report it on this forum this past year.

I am not in the slightest surprised it is more widespread.

[beppi]

Whoever thinks sending money by Western Union to Nigeria (or elsewhere) will get him a good deal, deserves whatever happens next (for his stupidity)!