Pinoy in Singapore

Since we’ve moved to Singapore, this is our second time we’re going on a house hunt.  But it just might as well be the first because we were very lucky on our first one.  We never really got to see any other unit because during that time units were going like hot cakes. Two years ago the property boom was just about to get very hot and our timing was just right.  We got our unit very cheap (lah) – that is, compared to prices now.

One thing I’m wondering about is Singapore is supposed to be in recession but rental prices don’t seem to reflect the fact.  The prices seem to be the same as they were when it was at the peak.  I also wonder – if the commission of the agent is based on the rent they close on, then how is it going to benefit the tenant?  It just means the higher the rent they close on the better for them.  I’m starting to develop some kind of apprehension against property agents because it is not very clear to me if they are really helping me or just digging me a deep hole.

Our house was like a warehouse when we first moved in, so at first I felt we were really overpaying for it.  But after months of heavy cleaning and redecorating, it turned into a gem.  Something our landlord probably also realized that’s why he’s asking for double the rent.

What frustrates me these days, is whenever we check out homes, they all kinda look worn down and yet they are, in my opinion, overpriced.  No value for money.