Hi all,

saw this thread while surfing the forum, would like to introduce myself.

I'm a registered real estate agent in Singapore, under one of the largest local agencies here. I do both rental and sales of HDB and private properties.

I understand that some of you may be heading to Singapore to work, or may already be in Singapore, and are looking for accommodation.

I can assist you in your property searching process, from arranging viewings to the admin/legal matters. In my opinion, it is easier to work with an agent as he/she can handle the routine stuff for you, and also look after your interests. (But then, this is a biased comment since I'm an agent too hahaha)

As what some of you have mentioned, there is a commission involved, which is negotiable. Generally, it is 0.5 months rent for every 12 months lease. However, this amount is of course, negotiable.

Feel free to drop me a PM for a non=obligatory discussion, or simply to ask me if the property you are looking at is ideal for your needs. I only collect commission if you decide to engage my services in finding a property.

Many thanks!

Well, to be honest, the LOI is just to protect both the landlord and the tenant's interest. The LOI is prepared by the tenant's agent, which the tenant will sign and give it to the landlord (or his agent) together with a deposit.

When the tenant does this, it is saying that he is interested in renting, and has gave his proposal to the landlord. The landlord can reject the LOI given by not signing on it. However, once the landlord agrees, and the tenant decides to withdraw, the deposit is forfeited.

Once the LOI has been agreed by both landlord and tenant, then the Tenancy Agreement is signed. Some agents or landlords may decide to skip the LOI and enter into TA directly though.

Of course, the tenant does not have to give a LOI until he is sure he wants to rent the unit. Cause as mentioned, once landlord signs the LOI, tenant cannot back out unless prepared to lose deposit

Yup

your 1 month cheque with the LOI will usually go into part of the security deposit or the 1 month advanced rent. Since your lease is 2 years, your sec deposit will be 2 months rent.

Then upon signing the TA, pay whatever is remaining, which is 2 months in total.

Actually by right supposed to pay this amount when sign TA, maybe your landlord nice, allow you to pay up later, or your moving in date is very close to the date of signing TA.

The 2 months security deposit will be returned to you at the end of the lease if everything is in good order.

Actually even when you give LOI, landlord does not have to accept. He can still reject by not signing on it. Then either you amend your LOI or find other units. But by giving a LOI, you are showing that you are willing to commit, and hence landlord can compare your offer with others more seriously.

This post has been edited by bizfirx: Jun 10 2014, 10:35 PM