When purchasing property in Singapore, the strength and reputation of the developer are crucial factors to consider. These elements not only impact the quality of the property but also suggest a greater potential for asset preservation and appreciation. This article introduces Singapore's top ten renowned residential developers and their representative projects, offering diverse references for your property-buying journey.1. CapitaLandSince its establishment in 2000, Singapore-based CapitaLand has developed into one of the largest real estate developers in Asia.CapitaLand has developed a wide range of residential, commercial, and retail properties across Asia. In Singapore, the company is particularly known for its major shopping mall projects, such as ION Orchard. It also played a key role in the development of Jewel Changi Airport, which is celebrated as one of the best airports in the world.While many of CapitaLand’s residential projects are located in China, the company also boasts several iconic residential developments in Singapore. For instance, The Interlace features a striking staggered design and has received international architectural awards.▲Notable Projects: CanningHill Piers, The Interlace, Orchard Residences, d’Leedon, Cairnhill Nine, One Pearl Bank.The Interlace2. City Developments LimitedCity Developments Limited (CDL) is the second-largest real estate developer in Singapore. With over 60 years of experience in property development, investment, and management, CDL is a diversified international company. It owns a wide arrey of residential, commercial, hotel, and retail properties in Singapore, China, the United States, the United Kingdom, and other regions, with a business network spanning 163 locations across 29 countries. Notably, it is the only developer in Singapore's history to have won the BCA Awards Quality Champion (Platinum) for two consecutive years.▲Notable Projects: Boulevard 88, South Beach Residences, Canninghill Piers, Irwell Hill Residences, The Oceanfront @ Sentosa, The Tapestry, The Sail, St. Regis Residences, Cliveden At Grange.Boulevard 883. Far East OrganizationEstablished in Singapore in 1962, Far East Organization is one of the oldest real estate developers in the country. Since its inception, the company has developed over 780 real estate projects and boasts numerous projects and subsidiaries worldwide. Its business portfolio also encompasses retail, tourism, healthcare, and entertainment. In Singapore, the Far East Organization's residential projects include a variety of condominiums and detached houses.▲Notable Projects: Scotts Tower, Alba, Miro, Cyan, Skyline at Orchard, Orchard Scotts, The Reserve, One Holland Village. Scotts Tower4. Hong Leong Investment HoldingsEstablished in 1968, Hong Leong Investment Holdings serves as the private real estate investment and property holding arm of the group. The company has developed nearly 100 residential properties and manages around 10 commercial projects. As one of Singapore's leading condominium developers, many of its recent residential offerings feature luxury collections, primarily focusing on spacious flat units with expansive floor areas.▲Notable Projects: Nassim Park Residences, 15 Holland Hill, MeyerHouse, St. Regis Residences.Nassim Park Residences5. GuocolandSince its establishment in the 1970s, Guocoland, headquartered in Singapore, has expanded its operations to China, Vietnam, and Malaysia, developing dozens of residential, commercial, and mixed-use projects. The company is renowned for its first integrated development project, Tanjong Pagar Centre, which features the US$73.8 million penthouse located in the Wallich Residence. Guocoland has also received numerous awards for its projects, including multiple EdgeProp Awards for Wallich Residence and a FIABCI World Prix D’Excellence award for Leedon Residence.▲Notable Projects: Wallich Residence, The Avenir, Martin Modern, Goodwood Residence, Leedon Residence, Meyer Mansion.Wallich Residence6. Keppel LandKeppel Land is a multinational company primarily focused on markets in Singapore, China, and Vietnam, with expanding operations in Indonesia and India. The company develops a diverse range of property types, including high-end residential, commercial real estate, integrated townships, and industrial properties. One of its notable developments, Reflections at Keppel Bay, was designed by renowned architects and features an architectural style reminiscent of sails, harmonizing beautifully with the surrounding coastal landscape.▲Notable Projects: Reflections at Keppel Bay, Corals at Keppel Bay, Nassim 19.Reflections at Keppel Bay7. UOL GroupThe UOL Group has consistently prioritized product excellence, a commitment evident in many of its recent development projects, establishing it as one of Singapore's leading condominium developers. The company has developed a wide array of residential units, office buildings, shopping centers, and hotels. Additionally, UOL Group owns the Pan Pacific Hotels Group, which operates the Pan Pacific and Parkroyal brands across three different continents.▲Notable Projects: Watten House, Nassim Park Residences, Waterbank at Dakota, Avenue South Residence, Meyer Blue, among others.Watten House8. Bukit Sembawang Estates LimitedEstablished in 1911, Bukit Sembawang Estates Limited began its foray into real estate in the 1950s, making it one of Singapore's long-established real estate developers. The company holds land reserves in several prime locations across Singapore and is renowned for developing a variety of high-end residential projects, including condominiums, villas, and townhouses.▲Notable Projects: Paterson Suites, The Atelier, 8 St Thomas, Luxus Hills, Skyline Residences, Vermont on Cairnhill, Mimosa Park, among others.Luxus Hills9. Allgreen PropertiesIn Singapore, Allgreen Properties' residential developments encompass condominiums, townhouses, and semi-detached houses, offering both freehold and 99-year leasehold properties. The company acquires land from private sellers and actively participates in government land tenders to selectively and continuously build its land reserves. To date, Allgreen has developed and delivered 53 residential projects, totaling approximately 11,000 units.▲Notable Projects: Juniper Hill, Royalgreen, Fourth Avenue Residences, Claremont, Baywater, Queens.Juniper Hill10. Hoi Hup Realty Pte LtdEstablished in 1983, Hoi Hup Realty Pte Ltd has constructed over 7,300 residential units in Singapore. The company boasts a diverse portfolio of residential and mixed-use commercial properties and has received more than 25 awards and honors, including multiple recognitions as one of the "BCI Asia Top 10 Developers."▲Notable Projects: The Continuum, Terra Hill, Sophia Hill, Parc Central Residences, among others.The Continuum

Singapore is a country with well-established systems in all industries, and the real estate industry is no exception. Therefore, when you are buying or renting a property in Singapore, you may not be familiar with the complex and stringent policies and procedures. At such times, it is essential to choose a good property agent to assist you. So, what do you need to know about property agents in Singapore? And how can you choose a reliable one? This article will provide you with relevant information.The Entry Qualification for Property Agents in Singapore: CEA CertificationIn Singapore, not just anyone can become a property agent. There are strict requirements for industry entry. Since 2010, the Council for Estate Agencies (CEA) in Singapore has stipulated that only those who pass the Real Estate Salesperson (RES) examination can enter the property agency industry. This exam is very rigorous, with a passing rate of less than 20%, ensuring that practitioners possess professional knowledge and skills in real estate, law, finance, and other aspects. After passing the exam, candidates will receive the Singapore Real Estate Salesperson Qualification Certificate. However, this is just the beginning. Practitioners also need to register as members with the CEA and comply with its continuing education requirements. They are required to complete certain training courses every year to update their knowledge, understand the latest real estate market trends, changes in laws and regulations, and so on, to ensure that they can provide professional and timely services to clients. It is illegal for anyone to engage in real estate brokerage work without valid registration.Therefore, the first step in finding your property agent is to confirm his or her CEA license. All registered property agents have a unique CEA registration number. You can check whether someone is a certified agent on the CEA's official website (https://www.cea.gov.sg/) by entering the CEA registration number, name, or mobile phone number.The Public Register lists the following information:• Agent's business name• Agent's photo• Council for Estate Agencies (CEA) registration number• Registration date• Disciplinary actions received• Awards• The real estate agency to which the agent belongs• The license number of the real estate agency• The agent's historical rental and sales transaction recordsNote: Given the frequent occurrence of scam cases where scammers impersonate to be CEA agents, when dealing with agents, you must first verify whether the agent's personal information can be found on the CEA's official website and whether it matches the person himself or herself (especially the phone number he or she uses). Confirm the authenticity of the agent's identity to avoid being defrauded by impostors and suffering losses.Working Experience and Duration in the IndustryPassing the exam and obtaining the license is just the first step. Some licensed agents may not have completed a transaction. You should consider this carefully, as the ability to pass exams is not equivalent to practical skills.Generally speaking, agents who can survive in the fierce competition and maintain good performance have strong abilities in all aspects. They can help you quickly and accurately match properties and provide appropriate suggestions, saving you time and energy in looking for and viewing properties. Once you have your eye on a property, the agent will assist both parties in price negotiations to ensure that the transaction price is fair and reasonable. They can also voluntarily liaise with banks and lawyers to handle complicated procedures such as contract signing, loan applications (if necessary), and property handover. With professional knowledge and extensive experience, a good property agent can provide clients with a lot of valuable services, helping clients save money, time, effort and worry.Agent FeeIf you are buying a property, the agent fee for the property transaction is usually paid by the seller, who pays the agreed-upon agent fee to the seller's agent (except for HDB flats, where both the buyer and the seller usually pay their own agent fees in HDB transactions). If the buyer has his or her own buyer's agent to assist with the purchase, then the buyer's agent and the seller's agent will negotiate the commission sharing ratio. For example, the standard commission for second-hand property transactions is typically 2% + GST. If the buyer's agent and the seller's agent negotiate to share the commission at the common ratio of 50%:50%, then, after the transaction is completed, each of the buyer's and seller's agents will receive 1% + GST of the agent fee (paid by the seller). If the buyer has no agent, then the seller's agent will receive the entire 2% + GST.If you are renting a property, property agents in Singapore are typically categorized as landlord's agents and tenant's agents. For example, if you are looking at properties online and contact the agents listed there, these agents are considered landlord's agents. If a lease is reached, the agent fee is paid by the landlord, so the tenant does not need to pay anything. However, if you don't want to search for properties one by one, you can hire an agent to help you find a property. You just need to list your requirements and budget. In this case, the agent assisting you is your tenant's agent. Whether the tenant is responsible for paying the agent fee of the tenant's agent depends on the rent. Generally, if the rent is within S$6,000, the tenant is responsible for paying the commission to their own agent. For a two-year lease, the fee is typically one month's rent + GST, and for a lease of one year or less, it is 0.5 month's rent + GST. If the rent exceeds S$6,000 and the landlord's agent agrees to share the commission, then the tenant does not need to pay the commission to their own agent again. The S$6,000 is a commonly accepted amount in the market, but it is not absolute. During periods of high demand, even for properties with a rent of S$15,000, the landlord's agent may not agree to share the commission. Similarly, some very friendly landlord's agents may be willing to share the commission even when the rent is S$5,000. It depends on the actual situation encountered.For clients who are not familiar with the market, whether they are buying or renting a property, if they attempt to handle the entire process on their own, it can be both time-consuming and labor-intensive, and it is also easy to make mistakes. For example, they may overlook major flaws in the property, fail to conduct basic background checks on the seller in advance, or not understand the market rent or property price levels, which may result in offering prices that are either too high or too low, ultimately saving a little but losing a lot, making it not cost-effective. Sometimes, there may even be a situation where a direct buyer and a buyer represented by an agent submit offers simultaneously at the same price, and the homeowner and the homeowner's agent tend to choose the buyer with an agent. This is because direct buyers usually lack experience in the transaction process, which may lead to a smooth transaction or even a failed one. In contrast, buyers with agents are less likely to make the mistakes that beginners make, and they can help ensure a smooth transaction. Therefore, whether you are a tenant or a buyer, it is recommended that you try to find an agent who represents your interests and helps you control every aspect of the transaction throughout the process, to avoid suffering losses due to a lack of professionalism during the renting or buying process. It is more reliable and reassuring to entrust professional matters to experts.We recommend that you use Housebell. It has a vast number of genuine property listings, and all the listings are sourced from CEA-certified agents, ensuring safety and reliability while avoiding scams and unlicensed agents. If you have any questions, you can contact the online customer service for professional assistance.

When you are buying a HDB flat in Singapore, whether it's a BTO flat or a resale one, you can choose either an HDB loan or a bank loan for your housing financing. However, for private condominiums, only bank loans are available. This article will discuss the differences between these two types of loans as well as related issues.Loan EligibilityDown PaymentHDB Housing LoanDown Payment: At least 25% of the purchase price, which can be paid in full using your CPF Ordinary Account (OA), with cash, or a combination of both.Maximum loan amount: Up to 75% of the purchase price for new flats. For resale flats, it is 75% of the resale price or HDB valuation (whichever is lower).Bank housing loanDown Payment: 25% of the purchase price, with 5% payable in cash and the remaining 20% payable in cash or your CPF OA savings.Maximum loan amount: Up to 75% of bank valuation or purchase price (whichever is lower).Interest RatesHDB Housing LoanCurrently fixed at 2.6% per annum（pegged at 0.1% above the OA interest rates）Bank housing loanBank housing loans offer fixed interest rates for a pre-determined time period, usually one to three years, before reverting to floating rates. The floating interest rates are pegged to a benchmark such as the Singapore Overnight Rate Average (SORA) and are affected by market fluctuations.The following table shows the mortgage interest rates of some common banks for reference only.*Updated on December 24, 2024Loan TenureThe maximum loan tenure for HDB housing loans is 25 years, while that for bank housing loan is 30 years.Lock-in PeriodHDB Housing LoanThere is no lock-in period for an HDB housing loan. So, if you want to pay off your loan early, there will be no penalty. This also means that you can choose to refinance your loan with a bank anytime.Bank housing loanOn the other hand, most banks have a lock-in period, usually one to three years. If you want to repay your loan early or refinance your housing loan with another bank during the lock-in period, you will face a penalty that is usually about 1.5% of the remaining loan amount (depending on the terms of your bank loan).RefinancingHDB Housing LoanYou can choose to refinance to a bank housing loan at any time, subject to the bank's approval. Note that once you refinance your HDB housing loan with a bank, you will no longer be able to switch back to an HDB housing loan.Bank housing loanRefinancing your bank housing loan into an HDB housing loan is not possible. These are your options:● Repricing with the same bank: you can reprice your existing bank housing loan with the same bank to get a lower interest rate.● Refinancing with a different bank: you can refinance your bank housing loan with another bank to potentially obtain lower interest rates and/or more favorable terms. Choosing between HDB Loans and Bank Loans?Comparing the two, an HDB housing loan offers stability and a lower interest rate, while a bank housing loan offers flexibility and the potential for lower interest rates in the future. When making a choice, you must carefully consider your financial situation, risk tolerance, and long-term plans. The best choice depends on your personal situation and financial priorities.When doing financial planning for home purchases, it's important to remember that you will have to strike a balance between your current financial needs and long-term goals.  Although your CPF (OA) can be used for buying a house, it is mainly for your retirement. If there's no urgent need to use the funds in the OA, consider paying for the house partially in cash and leaving at least $20,000 in the OA as a safeguard. In this way, you can continue to earn a risk-free interest of up to 3.5% per annum (including extra interest) to build up your retirement fund.

To ensure a smooth rental process, foreigners should understand relevant matters and prepare some crucial documents before moving to Singapore. This Housebell article will provide you with relevant information to make your renting journey easier and more seamless.Financial PlanningBefore you start looking for a place to rent, first determine your budget. The type of housing (HDB flat or condominium) and the location are two factors that significantly affect the price. Generally speaking, under similar other conditions, condominiums are more expensive than HDB flats; properties in popular, bustling areas with convenient amenities are more expensive . Besides, the rent is also affected by factors such as the age of the building, interior design, and size of the property, so it requires a case - by - case analysis.The following is the approximate level of rent in Singapore, for reference only.A single room*monthly rent in Singapore dollars●Master Bedroom: A master bedroom with an attached private bathroom.●Common Bedroom: A second bedroom where you may share a bathroom with other roommates.A whole house*monthly rent in Singapore dollarsBesides the rent, the following costs also need to be considered.★Deposit A 2-month deposit is charged for a standard 2-year lease★Rental stamp duty For a 2-year lease, it's 0.4% of the total rent during the entire lease period. It must be paid within 14 days from the date the lease is signed, otherwise, a penalty will be imposed.★Utilities and Internet FeesIf you rent the whole house, you need to set up your own utilities and Internet accounts and pay for them by yourself; if you rent a room, these fees are generally included in the rent, and the landlord pays for them within the stated limit.★Air Conditioner Cleaning FeeThe air conditioner needs to be cleaned every three months. Each air conditioner costs about S$25 - S$30. Generally, you need to find a qualified air - conditioning company to sign an annual contract within one month after moving in and show it to the landlord for record - keeping. Keep the receipts for each air - conditioner cleaning. Sometimes, when the air - conditioner breaks down, the landlord may ask for recent maintenance receipts. When checking out, some landlords will also check all the receipts during the entire lease period.★Agent FeeIf you ask a tenant's agent to help you find a place to rent, the agent fee is generally one month's rent + GST (9% Goods and Services Tax) for a two - year lease, and 0.5 month's rent + GST (9% Goods and Services Tax) for a lease of one year or less.Lifestyle RequirementsWhen renting a place in Singapore, landlords will have certain requirements or restrictions on tenants' living habits. For example, whether pets are allowed in the house. Also, if you rent a single room, there may be restrictions on the use of common areas; cooking may not be allowed, or only light cooking / heavy cooking may be permitted; there may be restrictions on the frequency of using the washing machine, and so on. These specific requirements will be stated in the lease, so you should read and confirm them carefully before signing the tenancy agreement.Documents Needed for RentingFor foreigners renting in Singapore, the following documents are usually required:Valid Visa★Employment Pass★Student Pass★Work Permit★S Pass★Dependant’s  Pass★Long-Term Visit PassNote that in some cases, you may not have a physical visa when you are ready to pay the deposit. However, if you already hold a valid In - Principle Approval (IPA) issued by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) or the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), you can pay the deposit with the landlord's consent. Just make sure that you have obtained your visa card when you move in. But be cautious, if you sign a lease while holding just an IPA and for any reason you don't get the visa card, the deposit will be forfeited by the landlord.In addition, all tenants are obliged to cooperate with the landlord, the landlord's agent, and their own agent to verify their visa cards. This rule is formulated by the government and requires a four - party (tenant, landlord, both agents) joint verification, and this rule is also stated in the standard contract.PassportDuring the stay, if the tenant and other occupants' passports or visas are updated, the tenant is obliged to promptly notify the landlord of the relevant updated information.For more information about renting in Singapore, you can refer to the Housebell's articles:Singapore Rental Guide: Easily Find Your Ideal HomeTenants must see：Singapore Tenancy Agreement and Key TermsIt is recommended to use Housebell to find houses，which is reliable, convenient, and hassle-free. If you have any questions, you can contact the online customer service, and they will provide you with professional assistance.

When purchasing a property in Singapore, most people will consider taking out a mortgage. The interest rate is a very important factor, as it directly affects the monthly repayment amount and also significantly impacts the overall property purchase cost and financial planning. This article provides an overview of the latest mortgage interest rates in Singapore and related considerations.The Latest Mortgage Interest Rates in SingaporeIn early 2023, the mortgage interest rate in Singapore was as high as 4.25%. Since 2024, the fixed mortgage interest rate has declined, dropping from a maximum of 4.25% to a minimum of 2.45%. As of December 2024, the fixed mortgage interest rates offered by banks in Singapore range from 2.45% to 2.8%, which are at a relatively low level worldwide.The benchmark for floating rates, the three-month compounded Singapore Overnight Rate Average (SORA), has also been on a downward trend, falling from 3.7012% on January 2nd to 3.1232% on December 23rd. Currently, the average mortgage interest rate in Singapore is between 2.5% - 2.8%. The following table shows the condo mortgage interest rates of some common banks for reference . (Updated on December 24, 2024) *Note: Rates are subject to change; please consult the respective banks for the most current information.Fixed Rate and Floating RateThere are two modes for mortgage interest rates: fixed rate and floating rate.Fixed RateDuring the entire loan period, the loan interest rate remains unchanged. In case the market interest rate rises later, you can still maintain a lower interest rate and save on interest payments. However, if the market interest rate drops later, you will need to pay more interest than others. The main advantage of the fixed rate is its stability;  you don't need to constantly monitor interest rates changes. It is suitable for homebuyers with relatively fixed incomes or those who don't want to worry about rate fluctuations. Generally, the fixed rate will be slightly higher than the floating rate available on the market in the same period. However, during a period where interest rates are expected to rise, choosing a fixed rate may be a better option than a floating rate. Floating RateIt fluctuates according to the changes in a sepcific benchmark interest rate (SORA rate). Floating rate = SORA + Spread (adjustment spread). The primary advantage of a floating rate is that it is relatively flexible. If the benchmark interest rate drops, the monthly repayment amount will also decrease accordingly. However, during the period when the interest rate rises, the monthly repayment amount under the floating rate will be significantly higher than under a fixed rate. Therefore, when interest rates are expected to fall, people usually prefer to choose the floating rate.Note: For new condominiums that are still under construction (Pre-selling properties), banks only offer floating rate schemes and do not provide fixed rate schemes. After the condominium is completed, there is usually an opportunity to change the scheme for free.How to Choose the Interest Rate Mode and the Lending BankFixed Rate or Floating Rate?Consider the stability of personal income. If the income is stable and you are sensitive to interest rate fluctuations and hope to avoid the risk of rising interest rates, the fixed rate is a more suitable choice; if your income has a certain degree of flexibility and you can bear the risk of interest rate fluctuations, and expect to benefit when interest rates fall, the floating rate is more attractive.Secondly, it is also necessary to predict the trend of market interest rates trends. Although it is extremely challenging to accurately predict the direction of interest rates, reasonable judgments can be made to a certain extent by paying attention to factors such as the macroeconomic situation and the orientation of monetary policy.In addition, homebuyers should also align their own property purchase budgets, loan tenure, and long-term financial plans. Weigh the pros and cons of different interest rate models to make decisions that best suit their circumstances.Factors to Consider When Choosing Bank Packages★Interest Rate LevelCompare the interest rate packages of different banks and consider banks with lower interest rates to save on interest.★Loan TermIf the loan term is long, the fixed rate can lock in costs and avoid the risk of repayment pressure caused by large fluctuations in future interest rates. If the loan term is short, the floating rate can be chosen according based on interest rate trend. Meanwhile, pay attention to the banks interest rate policies and terms for different loan periods.★Loan Packages and ServicesSome banks may offer additional benefits and services, such as free financial consulting, repayment reminders, and flexibility for early repayment when selling the property, etc.★Eligibilities and RequirementsDifferent banks may have different requirements for customers' income levels, credit records, occupations, etc. You need to ensure that you meet the bank’s loan condition. Some banks may offer more favorable interest rates or higher loan amounts to people in specific occupations or high-income groups.★Bank Reputation and StabilityChoose banks with good reputations and stable financial conditions to ensure the smooth progress of the loan process and the quality of follow-up services. You can refer to the bank's ratings, market reputation, and business history in Singapore, etc.★Refinancing PolicyUnderstand the refinancing policies of banks, including the maturity date of the package lock-in period, the notice period, whether handling fees and early repayment penalties are charged, as well as the refinancing process and conditions. If there is a possibility of refinancing in the future, choose banks with relatively lenient policies and lower costs.★Bank Branches and ConvenienceConsider whether the bank branches are convenient for daily repayment, consultation, and handling of related transactions. As well as evaluate whether the online banking and mobile banking services of the bank are user-friendly.For more questions related to bank housing loans, such as loan eligibility, processing procedures, and interest rates, etc., you can check the articles on Housebell:Singapore House Purchase: A Guide to Bank Loans

Nanyang Technological University (NTU) is located in the western part of Singapore. Reowned for its high-quality educational resources and beautiful campus environment, it attracts a large number of international students. For those of you who are about to study or work at NTU, choosing a suitable place to live is of utmost importance. This article will provide you with a guide to renting accommodation near NTU to help you quickly find your desired residence.Locations for Renting near NTUNanyang Technological University (NTU) is situated in the western part of Singapore, bordered by hills to the west; herefore, when renting a house,  it is advisable to look eastward. Most students will choose the areas along the Green Line of the subway, between Pioneer Station and Jurong East Station. Since NTU is in a relatively remote location, commuting is the first factor to consider. The public transportation methods to NTU are as follows:• From Pioneer MRT Station, you can take Bus 179 or the Green Line shuttle bus directly to the interior of the campus.• From Boon Lay MRT Station, you can take Bus 179 or Bus 199 directly to the interior of the campus. Here is the terminal station of these two buses, offering greater convenience. However, the route of Bus 199 is more circuitous and takes longer. Alternatively, you can also take the MRT from Boon Lay MRT Station to Pioneer MRT Station and then take the Green Line shuttle bus. Even if you walk, it only takes 12 minutes between the two subway stations, which is very close.• For locations farther away, it is recommended to take the MRT to either of the two aforementioned stations and then transfer to the bus or shuttle bus.The following is an introduction to the rental and living situations near the Green Line subway stations.PioneerTransportation: Direct access by Green Line shuttle bus/Bus 179Dining and Shopping: Pioneer Mall, food courtsHousing: Mainly HDBBoon LayTransportation: Direct access by Bus 179/Bus 199, take the MRT to Pioneer and transfer to the shuttle bus or another busDining and Shopping: Jurong Point shopping mall is located right outside the MRT station, offering a one-stop solution for clothing, food, housing, and transportation.Housing: Mainly HDB. There is a popular condo, The Centris, adjacent to Jurong Point. Coliwoo here is also a popular choice among students. Lakeside - Chinese GardenTransportation: Take the MRT to Pioneer and transfer to the shuttle bus or another busDining and Shopping: This area primarily features shophouses and hawker centers in HDB zones, offering affordable and down-to-earth dining and shopping options.Housing: There are numerous condos, typically newer in age, offering good environment and scenic views.Jurong EastTransportation: Take the subway to Pioneer and transfer to the shuttle bus or another bus. Jurong East is also an interchange station for the Green Line and Red Line MRT.Dining and Shopping: Jurong East serves as the largest commercial district in the western part of Singapore. Shopping centers such as IMM, JEM, and Westgate offer comprehensive amenities for dining, shopping, and entertainment.Housing: There are very few condos, and the rental prices is relatively high.Summary:• The area from Pioneer to Boon Lay is the closest to the school and has direct access by bus/shuttle bus without the need for transfer. The houses are mainly HDB, and condos are even more popular. The surrounding amenities are relatively convenient.• In the area from Lakeside to Chinese Garden, there are more condo options with good scenery, but the supporting facilities are slightly lacking.• Jurong East is the farthest, with high prices and the fewest options, but it is the most prosperous, with complete supporting facilities and more convenient access to the city center.When choosing a rental property, the closer it is to the subway line, the more convenient the commute. However, be careful that the room is not directly facing the railway line to avoid vibrations and noise when the MRT passes.Types of Rental Housing in SingaporeResidential properties in Singapore are mainly divided into two types: HDB flats and private condos.HDB FlatsHDB flats are public housing built by the Singapore government as affordable options. They are usually located near hawker centers and public transport, making life convenient. However, the environment and facilities may not be as good as those in condominiums. HDB flats do not have gated communities, and each block is assigned a unique number to help locate specific flats. The government imposes strict regulations on renting out HDB flats.Rent：Common room: $800-$1200, Master bedroom: $1300-$2000Lease Term:Minimum 6 monthsPrivate CondosPrivate condominiums are similar to commercial housing estates in China. They have gated environments with comprehensive facilities such as swimming pools, gyms, clubhouses, and 24-hour security. They offer a higher standard of living and a more comfortable and secure residential environment.Rent：Common room: $1000-$1800, Master bedroom: $1500-$2500Lease Term:Minimum 3 monthsThere is also a commercial student apartment (co-living), which is a popular choice among many students.Student ApartmentsThere are single rooms, double rooms, and multi-person rooms. The rooms are furnished with beds, desks, wardrobes, etc., allowing for a move-in with just personal belongings. There are also shared kitchens, laundry rooms, study rooms, gyms, and other supporting facilities in the apartment, which are shared by the whole community. Generally, such apartments have central management services, and the rent includes utilities, WiFi, regular cleaning services, etc.Rent: Ranges from $500 to $1500.Lease Term: Minimum of 1 month.Rental Process and TipsRental ProcessSearch for properties → View properties → Sign tenancy agreement → Pay deposit and rent → Pay stamp duty → Move in → Move outWhen renting, always be vigilant and choose reputable platforms or certified agents to avoid rental scams.Related Articles:Rental Scams in Singapore and How to Avoid themIf you choose HDB flats, you must meet the eligibility criteria and comply with relevant regulations.Related Articles:Renting HDB flats：Eligibility Conditions and GuidelinesRenting HDB flats：Tenancy MattersRenting HDB flats：RegulationsIt is important to familiarize yourself with the tenancy agreement, obligations during the lease period, and move-out requirements to avoid disputes.Related Articles:Singapore Rental Guide: Easily Find Your Ideal HomeTenants must see：Singapore Tenancy Agreement and Key TermsIt is recommended to use Housebell to find houses，which is reliable, convenient, and hassle-free. If you have any questions, you can contact the online customer service, and they will provide you with professional assistance.

The National University of Singapore (NUS), as one of the top-notch institutions of higher learning in Asia, draws a large number of international students to pursue their studies. However, finding a suitable place to live can be a daunting task for those newly arrived international students. This article will present a comprehensive guide to renting accommodation near NUS to assist you in finding your desired residence.Locations for Renting near NUSThe NUS campus is vast, and its various faculties are scattered across different directions. Therefore, students from different faculties can consider renting in nearby areas. The distribution map of NUS faculties is as follows:Zooming out, you can observe the distribution of the areas around NUS. ▲Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music, College of Design and Engineering, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, NUS Computing, Business School, YIH, RMI, and ISS are all situated on the west and south sides of the campus, close to Clementi and the West Coast.▲The Faculty of Science and the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine are on the east side of the campus and are relatively near One North, Dover, and Queenstown.▲The School of Continuing and Lifelong Education is located in Utown, on the north side of the campus. Clementi and Dover are convenient accommodation options.▲NUS Law faculty and the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy are not on the main campus but are located at the Bukit Timah Campus. Houses around this area can be taken into account. There are also shuttle bus services between the main campus and the Bukit Timah Campus, with a journey time of about half an hour.Zooming out even further, you’ll find more diverse options.▲Closest to the School (Orange)Clementi, West Coast, One North, and Dover are the nearest to the school. The closest ones are within a ten-minute walking distance to the school, but such accommodation is scarce and rather old. Those a bit further away require a commuting time of about twenty minutes. Since these places are the most convenient, the accommodation tends to be in high demand. There are more options in Clementi and West Coast, so you can look in this area. The accommodation in One North and Dover is relatively limited.▲Better Environment (Green)Jurong East, Pandan River, ULU Pandan, Holland, and Queenstown are a bit further away, but they offer a better environment and more condos. The commuting time is over half an hour, which is still acceptable. Many students choose to live near Pandan River, Buona Vista, and Queenstown. Additionally, Jurong East is the largest shopping district closest to the school, home to shopping centers like IMM, JEM, and Westgate are located.▲Further Away (Purple)Even more distant options include Chinese Garden and Bukit Timah. The former has relatively inexpensive houses but is rather far, with a commuting time to NUS of 40-50 minutes. The latter is a wealthy area with relatively expensive houses but an excellent living environment. They can also be considered as alternatives.In general, Singapore is not overly large, and there are shuttle buses on the NUS campus. Thus, it is quite convenient to live in the areas near the school. It is not necessary to live adjacent to one's faculty. Places within a 30-minute commuting distance to the school are relatively convenient and acceptable.Types of Rental Accommodation in SingaporeThere are mainly two types of residential properties: HDB flats and condos.HDB FlatsThese are subsidized housing constructed by the Singapore government and are relatively affordable. There are food courts and public transportation nearby, making life convenient. However, the environment and facilities may not be as good as those of condos. HDB flats do not have enclosed communities, and each building has a separate number (which can be used to identify a specific flat when looking for an address). But the government has a series of strict regulations on the rental of HDB flats.Rent: Common rooms range from $800 to $1200, and master rooms range from $1300 to $2000.Lease Term: Minimum of 6 months.Note: During the school opening season, the rent near NUS will increase significantly.CondosSimilar to commercial housing complexes in China, they have an enclosed community environment with complete internal supporting facilities such as swimming pools, gyms, clubs, and 24-hour security. The overall quality is higher, and one can enjoy a more comfortable and safe living environment.Rent: Common rooms range from $1000 to $1800, and master rooms range from $1500 to $2500.Lease Term: Minimum of 3 months.There is also a commercial student apartment (co-living), which is a popular choice among many students.Student ApartmentsThere are single rooms, double rooms, and multi-person rooms. The rooms are furnished with beds, desks, wardrobes, etc., allowing for a move-in with just personal belongings. There are also shared kitchens, laundry rooms, study rooms, gyms, and other supporting facilities in the apartment, which are shared by the whole community. Generally, such apartments have central management services, and the rent includes utilities, WiFi, regular cleaning services, etc.Rent: Ranges from $500 to $1500.Lease Term: Minimum of 1 month.Rental Process and PrecautionsRental ProcessSearch for accommodation and view properties - Sign the lease - Pay the deposit and rent - Pay the rental stamp duty - Move in - Check out.When renting, you must be extremely vigilant. Try to choose formal platforms and certified agents to avoid rental scam.Related Articles:Rental Scams in Singapore and How to Avoid themIf you choose to rent an HDB flat, you need to meet the eligibility requirements and comply with relevant regulations.Related Articles:Renting HDB flats：Eligibility Conditions and GuidelinesRenting HDB flats：Tenancy MattersRenting HDB flats：RegulationsRegarding the tenancy agreement, matters to note during the tenancy period, check-out requirements, etc., you need to understand them in advance to avoid disputes.Related Articles:Singapore Rental Guide: Easily Find Your Ideal HomeTenants must see：Singapore Tenancy Agreement and Key TermsIt is recommended to use Housebell to find houses，which is reliable, convenient, and hassle-free. If you have any questions, you can contact the online customer service, and they will provide you with professional assistance.

If you are planning to buy a house in Singapore, it is highly likely that you will need to apply for a mortgage loan from a bank. This article will provide you with the essential information related to this process.Loan EligibilityAs long as you are eligible to buy a house in Singapore, you can apply for a housing loan from a bank, even if you are a foreigner. Whether you are an office worker or a self-employed person, you are eligible to apply. Even investors who don't live in Singapore can also apply for a loan. However, please note that you must have proof of work income to be able to secure a loan.Loan ProcessThe first step to securing a loan is to apply to the bank for an IPA (In-Principle Approval) from the bank. The bank will comprehensively assess the purchaser's income, employment status, age, assets, credit history and other aspects, to determine the loan amount as well as provide various applicable loan schemes applicable to you. This means that the bank agrees in principle on what kind of loan services to provide to the homebuyer. However, the IPA is not a legally binding document. The IPA approval process may take 7 to 30 days, depending on whether the materials you submitted are timely, complete and accurate. Generally speaking, the validity period of the IPA is from 2 weeks to 1 month. It is recommended to apply for a relatively higher IPA amount at this stage, because after approval, you can request to reduce the amount. On the contrary, once you have paid the deposit, it may not be possible to successfully increase the amount later.Then, if you decide to take a loan from the bank, the bank will issue you a Letter of Offer (abbreviated as LO), which will list all important information, such as the loan amount, interest rate and loan lock-in period. The loan agreement becomes legally binding only when both the homebuyer and the bank sign it. After that, you can exercise the Option to Purchase (Exercise OTP) and complete the property purchase transaction.The process of applying for a mortgage loan in Singapore is as follows:1. Compare the loan schemes of multiple banks and select 1 or 2 banks as alternatives.2. Apply for an IPA.3. The bank issues the IPA.4. Select the desired property and submit a loan application to the bank.5. The bank conducts an appraisal of the property.6. The bank approves the loan application.7. The bank notifies the lawyer to prepare relevant contracts.8. Sign the housing loan agreement.9. The lawyer registers the loan agreement.10. Pay other related fees to the bank.11. The bank disburses the loan.12. Start making monthly payments.Regular Documents Required for Applying for a Mortgage Loan from the Bank: A copy of the identity document (NRIC). The latest salary slips (for the past 3 months). The latest personal income tax statements (NOA) (for the past 2 years). The latest statement of the Ordinary Account of the Central Provident Fund (CPF). The latest statement checking whether you own a HDB flat.Loan AmountThe loan amount you can obtain is affected by multiple factors, mainly including:Total Debt Servicing Ratio，TDSRThis indicator applies to the purchase of all types of residential properties.The Total Debt Servicing Ratio stipulates that only 55% of the borrower's total monthly income can be used to repay debts. These debts to be repaid include all your loans, including (but not limited to) your mortgage loan, car loan, credit card debt, and other personal loans. This means that if you have these other loans mentioned above, the amount of your mortgage loan will be affected.Monthly income includes both fixed income and non-fixed income, such as bonuses, allowances, commissions, rental income, etc. Self-employed individuals have non-fixed income. Due to its instability, generally only 70% of the actual income is counted as monthly income when applying for a loan.Mortgage Servicing Ratio，MSRThis indicator only applies to the purchase of HDB flats and Executive Condominiums (EC).The Mortgage Servicing Ratio (MSR) refers to the proportion of your total monthly income used to repay the mortgage loan. Currently, the upper limit of the MSR is 30%. For example, if your monthly income is $5,000 , you can use at most $1,500 to repay the mortgage loan.The Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR) and the Mortgage Servicing Ratio (MSR) aim to encourage homebuyers to choose affordable houses and prevent excessive leverage, thus avoiding the risk of loan defaults.Loan To Value，LTVLTV refers to the ratio of the loan amount to the property value (or the purchase price, whichever is lower), that is, the percentage of the loan that can be obtained. For the purchase of the first property, the maximum LTV is 75%. Of the remaining 25%, 5% for the deposit must be paid in cash, and the other 20% can be paid in a combination of cash and the deposits in your Central Provident Fund Ordinary Account (CPF-OA).The calculation formula is: Property value = Down payment (5% in cash + 20% in cash and/or CPF OA) + Mortgage loan (up to 75% LTV).Note that in some cases of purchasing second-hand houses, the actual purchase price may be higher than the property appraisal value. For example, if you plan to buy a second-hand house, the seller quotes 1 million SGD, and the bank's appraisal value is $980,000. Then the difference of $20,000 is called Cash Over Valuation (abbreviated as COV). When applying for a loan, the lower of the two values is taken as the basis. So the maximum loan amount you can get is $980,000 × 75% = $735,000. Then the remaining $265,000 of the down payment must be paid in cash or with the Central Provident Fund. If you use the Central Provident Fund, you can use at most $980,000 × 20% = $196,000, then at least $69,000 needs to be paid in cash.Note: The situation of COV will not occur when purchasing new houses.What to Do If the Loan Amount Is Insufficient?Suppose you want to buy a house worth 1 million SGD , and the bank only gives you a loan amount of $500,000 after assessing your situation, which does not reach the maximum LTV of 75%. At this point, you can choose to: 1. Increase the proportion of the down payment and pay $500,000 as the down payment.2. Reduce the house purchase budget and consider properties with a lower total price.3. Increase the mortgage loan amount through fund verification. At this time, the difference between the current loan amount and the maximum loan amount is $250,000. The bank will calculate an amount based on this $250,000 difference and require you to deposit this amount in the bank (usually, this amount is higher than $250,000). Depending on the borrower's creditworthiness, the bank may propose that all the funds can be deposited in the bank for only 1 day, or part of the funds can be deposited for 1 day and another part can be deposited for n years. This is what people often refer to as "show fund", which can help you increase your loan amount in an indirectly way.4. In short, you should formulate a reasonable house purchase budget and loan repayment plan according to your actual situation to avoid cash flow problems and resulting losses.Mortgage Interest RatesCurrently, the fixed mortgage interest rates in Singapore range from 2.5% to 2.8%, which are relatively low worldwide. There are two models of mortgage interest rate models:Fixed RateDuring the entire loan period, the loan interest rate remains unchanged. In case the market interest rate rises later, you can still maintain a lower interest rate and save on interest payments. However, if the market interest rate drops later, you may end up paying more interest than others. The advantage of a fixed rate is that it is relatively stable, and you don't need to constantly pay attention to changes in interest rates. It is suitable for homebuyers with stable incomes or those who prefer not to worry about rate fluctuations. Generally, the fixed rate will be slightly higher than the floating rate on the market in the same period.Floating RateIt changes according to the fluctuations in a certain benchmark interest rate (SORA rate). Floating rate = SORA + Spread (adjustment spread). The advantage of a floating rate is its flexibility. If the benchmark interest rate drops, the monthly repayment amount will also decrease accordingly. However, during the period when the interest rate rises, the monthly repayment amount under the floating rate will be much higher compared to the fixed rate.Note: For new condominiums that have not yet been completed (Pre-sale properties), banks only provide floating rate schemes and do not provide fixed rate schemes. After the condominium is completed, there is usually an opportunity to change the scheme for free.Monthly Repayment MethodUnlike in China, Singapore only has the "fixed principal and interest" monthly repayment model. This means that under the same interest rate, during the entire repayment period, the total monthly repayment amount (principal + interest) remains fixed. The proportion of the principal and interest repaid each month will change over time. Initially, a larger portion of the repayment is applied to interest, with less applied to the principal. As the loan balance decreases, the portion of the principal repaid gradually increases and the portion of the interest gradually decreases. However, the total monthly repayment amount remains unchanged. If you want to repay part of the loan in advance, you will be repaying the principal, and then the repayment for the next month will be recalculated.Lock-in PeriodThe Lock-in Period refers to the validity period of the loan scheme. During the lock-in period, if you need to repay part or all of the mortgage loan in advance, or conduct refinancing through the signed bank/other banks or even sell the property, you may need to pay handling fees. If there is a possibility of early repayment, you can negotiate with the bank when applying for the mortgage loan. Some bank loan schemes may offer to waive this handling fee.If you have signed a loan scheme with a lock-in period, after the lock-in period expires, the bank will automatically change it to a higher floating rate. Therefore, it is recommended to start looking for more favorable loan schemes in the market 3 to 4 months before the lock-in period expires.Common Banks in Singapore1. Local Banks in Singapore:• UOB 大华银行• OCBC 华侨银行• DBS 星展银行• Hong Leong Finance 新加坡丰隆金融公司2. Overseas Banks：• Standard Chartered 渣打银行• Citibank 花旗银行• HSBC 汇丰银行• Maybank 马来亚银行• CIMB 联昌国际银行• RHB 马来西亚兴业银行