From a bustling trading port in its early days to one of Asia’s biggest business hubs today, Singapore is a highly popular destination for business travellers and international students, with many around the world moving to Singapore for a better quality of life and to experience living in a different country. If you’re one of them, there are a few important things you need to do before bringing your life here, one of which is finding an accommodation that suits your lifestyle. In this guide, we share with you everything you need to know about renting and living in Singapore, as well as why co-living can be an ideal option for you.
1. Who Can Benefit from Co-Living?
Co-living is a modern housing concept with an emphasis on sharing spaces and building communities. It is a form of accommodation that has gained significant popularity in Singapore in recent years due to its unique features and benefits, as well as the increasing number of highly attractive co-living spaces across the island.
Co-living makes for an ideal housing option for various groups of people. Let’s explore.
A. Local Singaporeans
Whether you’re a single or a couple, co-living presents an appealing solution for locals seeking affordable, comfortable, and flexible housing options. With the rising cost of living and limited space in urban areas, co-living offers an opportunity to enjoy living without the burden of high rental fees and strict tenant rules and regulations. Besides having your own private space, you can choose to interact with fellow co-living residents in communal living spaces to connect with a diverse group of residents.
B. Expatriates
Expatriates moving to Singapore often face the challenge of finding suitable accommodation in a new country. Co-living addresses this concern by offering fully furnished living spaces with shared amenities and services. If you’re an expat, you can benefit from the convenience and flexibility that co-living provides, settling in quickly to allow yourself to focus on your professional commitments. Additionally, co-living communities often organise social events and activities, creating opportunities for you to meet new people and build a supportive network.
C. International Students
Singapore is renowned for its world-class universities and attracts a significant number of international students each year. For these students, co-living provides a secure and supportive environment, particularly for those who are new to the country. Co-living spaces designed with students in mind often include conducive study areas and high-speed internet that can aid students in studying more efficiently. Living with fellow students from diverse backgrounds also fosters cultural exchange and a collaborative learning environment.
D. Digital Nomads and Freelancers
The rise of remote work has given birth to a new generation of digital nomads and freelancers. Co-living spaces cater to their needs by providing flexible accommodation options that combine comfortable living spaces with functional work areas. The high-speed internet, co-working spaces/lounge, and networking opportunities offered are also tailored to the needs of this growing demographic. By living in a co-living environment, digital nomads and freelancers like you can find work-life balance and overcome the isolation that often comes with remote work.
E. Seniors
While co-living is often associated with young professionals and students, it also holds significant benefits for seniors who require social interaction to maintain optimal well-being. Co-living communities provide a supportive environment, social engagement opportunities, and various amenities to cater to their unique needs. Sharing spaces with individuals from all walks of life also promotes companionship, reduces loneliness, and ensures access to necessary support services.
2. Moving to Singapore?
2.1. Looking for Accommodation in Singapore
If the above-mentioned qualities of Singapore have convinced you to move here, then it’s time to start searching for your new home. From public housing to private apartments, there are numerous options available, each with its own pros and cons. Find out more.
A. HDB Flats
Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats are public housing units managed by Singapore’s government, and provided to locals to ensure that everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic status, can have access to quality homes. In order to purchase an HDB flat, one has to be a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident, or a foreigner married to one. However, eligible foreigners can rent an entire unit or a common room from the homeowner.
B. Condominiums
Condominiums are private residential properties characterised by their extensive facilities such as swimming pools, gyms, and functions rooms, luxurious features, as well as the social status they give to their residents
C. Landed Properties
If you’re a multi-generational family looking for a house for rent in Singapore, landed properties can be an option. They are standalone houses, such as terrace houses and bungalows, that provide residents with more space, privacy, as well as a sense of exclusivity as these properties are often associated with wealth.
D. Co-Living Serviced Apartments
Co-living spaces have gained popularity in recent years, particularly among students and expatriates, and even among the local community. These shared living spaces provide many benefits similar to other accommodation types in Singapore. In fact, it may be an even better option.
Co-living serviced apartments in Singapore offer a blend of hotel-like services and amenities and the comfort of a fully furnished home. They are suitable for both short-term accommodation and long-term stays, and may even come with services such as housekeeping.
In contrast, conventional rental routes typically require residents to furnish the rental property. Most of the time, residents are also required to whitewash the house upon the end of lease term, incurring additional costs. Throughout the tenancy period, residents are responsible for the maintenance and minor repairs within the property. This includes routine upkeep, such as cleaning, replacing light bulbs, and fixing minor plumbing issues.
Renting a new place and having to go through the rental procedure yourself is a time-consuming and stressful process. From searching through listings to dealing with paperwork, the process can quickly become a hassle for many.
Co-living with Coliwoo offers a better alternative, providing a more seamless experience to help you get settled in quickly and easily. Read on to find out more.
2.2. Neighbourhoods to Consider Living in
Decided on the type of accommodation you’d like to live in? Now, it’s time for you to choose the neighbourhood in which you’d like to stay. Here are some districts to consider.
A. Lavender
Tucked away in Singapore’s Kallang district, Lavender is a neighbourhood filled with nostalgic charm and beautiful heritage architecture. It offers residents a tranquil but interesting environment to live in. This part of the city, albeit quiet, is located relatively close to the city centre, and is home to a wide variety of delicious food places.
B. Orchard and River Valley
Singapore’s Orchard Road and River Valley district boasts an endless row of shopping malls filled with stores carrying everything from budget-friendly souvenirs to high-end, luxury goods. As Singapore’s shopping paradise, it is conveniently situated in the heart of the city, and offers great accessibility to the rest of the country. There are endless food and entertainment options in the area, and is a great neighbourhood to live in if you value an exciting and convenient lifestyle.
C. Geylang
Located in the eastern fringe of Singapore’s central region, Geylang is a neighbourhood that serves as a significant piece of Singapore’s history. It has an excellent food scene perfect for the foodies, and a lively cultural scene for those who wish to learn more about Singapore’s history and culture.
D. Balestier
Balestier is steeped in history and boasts a unique cultural tapestry. The neighbourhood showcases a mix of traditional shophouses, colonial-era buildings, and modern developments to create a distinct architectural charm. Despite its proximity to Singapore’s central region, it is a quaint and quiet neighbourhood that many will love.
E. Keppel
Situated in the centre of Singapore’s Central Business District (CBD), Keppel is somewhere business travellers will love for its convenience and close proximity to one of our most bustling business districts. It is also a place filled with a vibrant nightlife, numerous food and beverage establishments, and entertainment options.
2.3. Rental Procedure in Singapore
The traditional rental process in Singapore is highly complex, with several steps to go through and legal formalities to pay attention to. This includes making an offer to the landlord or agent, submitting a Letter of Intent outlining the terms and conditions of your tenancy and more.
With Coliwoo, however, the multiple steps involved becomes streamlined and hassle-free. Property viewings and the signing of lease agreements can be done online, and check-ins can be completed via the mobile application. Keen to learn more? Read on.
3. Co-Living in Singapore
Enter the realm of co-living in Singapore, where you get to enjoy a host of benefits without going through lengthy and complicated rental procedures. Here’s how co-living is your ideal way of living in Singapore.
3.1. What is Coliving?
Co-living is a modern housing concept that emphasises community, convenience, and shared experiences. People live together in an apartment, in their own private rooms, but also share communal spaces like kitchens, lounge, and gym. The units available can take many forms, such as single studio apartment rental for individuals or larger rooms with queen-sized beds that can accommodate couples. Families can also choose to rent more than one unit to accommodate everyone.
Such living arrangements are appealing to individuals who value social interaction, collaboration, and the opportunity to meet new people. However, it can also be an attractive option for the introverted looking for a private room for rent but do not want to live alone entirely.
3.2. Coliving vs Other Types of Accommodation in Singapore
A. Co-Living is More Affordable
With the skyrocketing property prices and the high cost of living in Singapore, co-living has become a preferred choice for many, particularly young professionals, expatriates, and students.
One of the primary reasons is that co-living is more affordable and cost-effective than other accommodation types in Singapore. The concept of a shared space and communal living allows for the efficient use of space, reducing the overall cost of rent. For example, high-speed WiFi is made available to all tenants, greatly lessening the financial burden on each individual as they do not have to go through the trouble of setting up their own broadband.
All of Coliwoo’s co-living spaces are also fully-furnished, which eliminates the need for tenants to invest in furniture and appliances. This reduces any upfront costs and makes co-living an attractive option for those seeking affordable and hassle-free living arrangements.
B. Co-Living Offers More Unique Experiences
Beyond providing an affordable place to live, co-living offers residents a plethora of unique experiences that other forms of accommodation may not be able to provide. Unlike traditional housing types, co-living spaces are designed to foster community building, social interaction, and cultural exchange.
Firstly, the shared common areas in co-living spaces facilitate social interaction and create opportunities for residents to connect, build friendships, and form a support network within their living environment. This is possible due to the multiple events and activities that many co-living providers host, which can range from workshops to adventures and night-outs outside. These shared experiences help residents bond, create lasting memories, and develop a sense of belonging.
Co-living is also a living arrangement that attracts a diverse group of residents from different backgrounds, professions, and cultures, allowing you to meet people from all walks of life. This encourages interaction for a rich exchange of ideas, perspectives, and traditions, fostering mutual understanding and cultural appreciation.
Additionally, living in a co-living space offers residents invaluable chances to broaden horizons, network with others, and may even help you pick up a new skill or two as you learn from other people within the community.
C. Co-Living is Much More Convenient
Co-living can offer more convenience as compared to other housing types because of their fully furnished spaces, all-inclusive bills, and wide range of amenities.
If you’re looking for a space you can move into as soon as possible without the hassle of sourcing for furnishing, co-living spaces are for you. Thanks to their fully-furnished apartments, and all-inclusive bills, you get to start your life in Singapore proper, skipping through all the complex procedures, such as the setting up and managing of various utilities and services.
The on-site facilities, such as gyms, lounges, laundry areas, and more, also allow you to get everything done within one space.
Furthermore, co-living spaces are strategically located in many popular and well-connected areas of Singapore, ensuring easy access to public transportation, shopping centres, food and beverage establishments, and other amenities. This reduces commuting time and allows you to experience the country easily.
D. Co-Living Offers More Flexibility
A key advantage of co-living is its flexibility in terms of lease duration. Unlike conventional rental options with long-term rental agreements that typically span a year or more, co-living spaces often offer shorter lease options that can be adjusted according to your changing circumstances and needs. The range of room options also allows residents to choose a setup that aligns more with their budget, preferences, and lifestyle habits.
3.3. Choosing the Right Co-Living Space
Love the benefits that you can enjoy with co-living? Then it’s time to start searching for a co-living space to live in. But with the rising popularity of co-living spaces and the wide range to choose from, finding the perfect one that suits your needs can be challenging. To ensure that you get a comfortable and enjoyable experience, it is important to consider these factors when narrowing down your options.
A. Location
The location of the co-living space matters a lot, especially if you need to commute to work or school daily. Consider proximity to your workplace or school, transportation hubs, and essential amenities such as grocery stores and healthcare facilities.
B. Price
Evaluate the rental costs and ensure that they align with your budget. Balance the cost with the quality of the co-living space and the amenities provided to find the right value for your money.
C. Amenities
Look for co-living spaces providing amenities that match your lifestyle and preferences, such as co-working spaces for digital nomads, gyms for those who love working out, and outdoor spaces for the nature lovers. Consider the availability of the amenities you’ll need to ensure a comfortable and pleasant living environment.
D. Safety
If you’re living alone, safety should always be your top priority when choosing a place to live in. Find out more about the security measures implemented within the building and evaluate the level of security of the co-living space when making your decision.
E. Reliability
Look for online reviews, testimonials, and news about the co-living space provider to determine their credibility and reputation. It is important to only rent from a trustable co-living space provider if you want a pleasant living experience.
F. Privacy
Although co-living places emphases on communal living, it doesn’t mean you’ll have to sacrifice all your privacy. It is important to strike a balance between shared spaces and personal privacy. So, look for co-living spaces that provide private bedrooms and amenities, such as en-suite bathrooms and kitchenettes, as well as ample sound insulation and security to ensure that you get the personal space you need.
3.4. Why Coliwoo?
If you’re on the lookout for a reliable co-living space in Singapore, look no further! Coliwoo offers a variety of well-equipped serviced apartments for rent. Here’s how Coliwoo is your perfect home away from home.
A. Unique Buildings
Say goodbye to boring apartment buildings and plain-looking facades because Coliwoo’s range of rooms for rent are situated inside properties featuring vibrant murals painted by renowned local artists. Besides that, there are even units located within conserved shophouses that were a big part of Singapore’s history.
Coliwoo’s co-living spaces are housed within properties owned by Coliwoo. This allows them to assume complete control over the management and maintenance of its units, which ensures a more seamless and efficient living experience for residents.
B. Located Islandwide
Apart from visually appealing buildings, Coliwoo’s co-living spaces can also be found in many locations across Singapore. From quiet districts such as Coliwoo Serangoon to a bustling shopping paradise like Coliwoo Orchard and River Valley, regardless of which neighbourhood you wish to live in, there is a spot for you.
C. Amazing Communal Spaces
On top of being in close proximity to different amenities, Coliwoo’s co-living spaces also feature many communal facilities you can enjoy. For example, Coliwoo Orchard offers an adult and children’s swimming pool, jacuzzi, lounge area, gym, carpark, and BBQ pits, while Coliwoo 1A Lutheran offers a social kitchen, private backyard, study, and even a multi-purpose court.
D. Vibrant Community Events
Want to socialise with your housemates and experience different cultures? Coliwoo hosts a variety of community events that allow you to gather and bond with other residents you live with. From outings at various attractions and entertainment spots in Singapore, to bonding activities held within the co-living space, there are plenty of programmes you can attend.
E. Member Benefits
Lastly, as a member of the Coliwoo community, you get to enjoy exclusive perks and privileges at different establishments in Singapore. They include brands such as Foodpanda, Work+Store, Four Star, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much privacy can I enjoy while living in Coliwoo’s co-living spaces?
Every resident will get his own private bedroom, typically fitted with an en-suite bathroom, washer-cum-dryer, and a kitchenette. This lets you get everything done within your own private space.
Properties without a kitchenette will have a social kitchen.
2. Is there a minimum number of days I have to stay?
For short-term apartment rentals in Coliwoo’s serviced apartments (Coliwoo Orchard, Keppel, and River Valley 298), the minimum duration of stay is 6 nights.
Coliwoo Hotels offer stays from 1 night, while other properties start from 3 months.
3. Are the rooms fully furnished?
Yes. All of Coliwoo’s rooms are fully furnished with all the necessary appliances and furniture.
Co-living is an excellent living arrangement and is a great way for you to make friends while you live alone in a foreign country. It also offers a slew of benefits many other forms of accommodation don’t.
If you’re looking for a house for rent in Singapore, Coliwoo is a co-living establishment with many types of rooms islandwide for you to choose from. Find your perfect home here today.
