Buying a Mega Development Condo? Here are 5 Overlooked Issues You Should Know
TLDR In the world of mega-developments, living in a large condo with over 700 units can bring challenges like ongoing...
Read More
TLDR
When bidding farewell to your rented property, ensure the safe return of your security deposit by:
- Regular Aircon Servicing: Schedule quarterly maintenance to prevent unexpected expenses.
- Joint Inspections: Conduct walkthroughs with your landlord at the start and end of your tenancy to document any damages.
- Source Your Own Services: Arrange for repairs and cleaning independently to avoid unnecessary deductions from your deposit.
These techniques can help you avoid disputes and secure the full return of your security deposit.
Picture this: You’re a tenant, and your lease is up. After months of relentless hunting, you’ve finally found a new home sweet home.
You’ve had countless sleepless nights, pondering the pros and cons of each property. You’ve meticulously packed every item your family has amassed over the years, and you’ve hired a team of movers, cleaners, and handyfolk to ensure a smooth transition.
You’ve gone above and beyond to restore the rental to pristine condition. But then, like a vulture swooping in to claim its prey, the agent or landlord shows up, scrutinizing every nook and cranny.
They demand a hefty cut of your deposit, leaving you feeling violated and utterly hopeless. Or worse yet, they greedily snatch the entire sum, leaving you reeling with shock and despair.
WOW!
Handovers always make me feel uneasy. I’ve had friends who have fallen victim to it, and unfortunately, I have too. It seems like horror stories of owners making outrageous demands and holding deposits hostage are becoming more common. And with ambiguous phrases like “fair wear and tear” and “reasonable use,” it’s a challenge to prevent the owner from sticking you with an unfair bill (seriously, I’m not buying you a brand new aircon). Nobody wants to deal with the headache of hiring a lawyer and dragging the case to Small Claims Tribunals. So, how do we avoid this dreaded scenario?
Discover the 3 techniques to guarantee the safe return of your security deposit with these three savvy suggestions:
1. Schedule Regular Aircon Servicing And Keep Those Receipts!
As a tenant, it’s crucial to note that a majority of landlords emphasize the need to regularly service all air conditioning units in your apartment every three months – that’s four times annually. Nevertheless, failing to schedule these maintenance appointments beforehand can lead to forgetfulness, which may seem harmless at first but could later become a costly mistake. So, be wary – procrastination could ultimately come back to haunt you!
Should any malfunction occur with your air-conditioning system and you fail to provide substantial evidence of regular maintenance as per the contractual agreement, the landlord reserves the right to hold you accountable for any damages and demand remuneration for significant repairs post your tenancy.
Make it a habit to hold onto the receipts every time you have your air-conditioning units serviced. And trust me, it’s crucial to keep them safe as you never know when you’ll need to showcase them to your landlord upon moving out. I learned this lesson the hard way when I had to frantically reach out to every technician who serviced our aircons and beg for electronic copies. A complete nightmare and a colossal waste of time!
2. Carry Out Joint Inspections With Your Landlord And/Or Their Agent
You’ll want to keep this in mind for not just one, but two distinctive moments: the day you first step foot in your new abode and the day you bid it adieu. It’s a common practice to make note of any blemishes, troubles, or imperfections at the beginning of your tenancy. However, it’s imperative that you schedule a final walkthrough with your landlord or their representative after your lease expires. This will prevent them from roaming around the empty space solo, post-departure.
To ensure a smooth and stress-free move-in and move-out process, it is highly recommended to snap some shots of your new abode and have the landlord pen down any pre-existing damages on paper. By doing so, you can avoid any future disputes and have a solid reference to fall back on. It’s crucial to get this done in person to eliminate any miscommunication and establish a mutual understanding of your responsibilities. Trust us, resolving issues over the phone can be a never-ending labyrinth.
3. Source Your Own Repairmen/Cleaning Services
When your lease draws to a close and repairs or maintenance are required, beware! If you opt to leave the responsibility in your landlord’s hands, any expenses for repairs or cleaning will be deducted from your security deposit. Brace yourself, as this gives your landlord free rein to summon an extravagant cleaner or repairman at your expense!
Why not take matters into your own hands and tackle those repairs yourself? You can handpick the contractors of your choice, after a little extra legwork and research. It’s time well spent, as you’ll be certain to snag a fair price. Before the keys are officially handed over, arrange for the landlord or their agent to swing by and identify any lingering issues. This ensures that your full deposit will be promptly returned to you.
As you prepare to bid adieu to your old place, it’s wise to call in the pros for one last sweep. Yes, it may cost a bit more, but it pays off big time in terms of hassle-free moving. Of course, we’re not oblivious to the fact that even if you’ve dotted every i and crossed every t, some landlords can be downright devious, making your life a living hell. If you find yourself in such a predicament, don’t hesitate to take legal action and reclaim what’s rightfully yours.
Should You Buy, Sell or Wait?
If you’re reading this, you must be trying to figure out the best course of action right now: is it the right time to buy or sell?
It’s difficult to give an exact answer since everyone’s situation is unique and what works for one person may not necessarily work for you.
I can bring you a wealth of on-the-ground experience and a data-driven approach to provide clarity and direction. From beginners to experienced investors, our top-down, objective approach will help you on your real estate journey.
I can help you by:
- Offering Strategic Real Estate Advice – I can help create a comprehensive plan to guide you through your property journey.
- Connecting Your Home with the Perfect Buyers – Through stunning visuals, an effective communication strategy, and an in-depth knowledge of the market, we’ll ensure your home is presented in the best possible way to fulfill your goals.
You May Also Like …
Top 5 Tips : How to Choose the Best Property Agent in Singapore – Insider Tips and Strategies!
Choosing the right property agent in Singapore can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available. A...
Read More
When Should You Consider a Shorter/Longer Home Tenure?
TLDR Understanding the benefits of long-term home loans is crucial for financially conservative individuals in Singapore. Opting for a longer...
Read More
Top 5 Reasons : Why Does Singapore Have Such Extensive Restrictions On Foreigners Purchasing Residential Property?
Singapore, a thriving city-state in Southeast Asia, is known for its stable political climate, strong economy, and strategic location. As...
Read More
Navigating Singapore’s Real Estate Market: The Truth Behind 5 Common Misconceptions
The real estate market in Singapore is known for its stability and attractiveness to investors both locally and internationally. However,...
Read More
Top 5 : Places to See Singapore’s Skyline at Night
Singapore, a bustling metropolis known for its stunning skyline, offers an array of vantage points to witness the city's architectural...
Read More
Here Are 6 Interesting Facts About The Minimum Occupation Period (MOP) That Not Many People Know About In Singapore
TLDR When it comes to understanding the Minimum Occupation Period (MOP) set by the Housing Development Board (HDB) in Singapore,...
Read More
5 Must-Know Questions Before Investing in Real Estate
TLDR When considering whether to buy a new development or a resale property, it can be challenging. In the blog...
Read More
5 Key Insights to Take Away from the Latest 2022 Cooling Measures
TLDR Affordability of HDB Market: Government is focused on ensuring affordable public housing and may increase supply if needed. Long-term...
Read More
CPF Accrued Interest On Housing: Learn What It Is and How to Calculate It
TLDR Understanding the CPF accrued interest on housing loans is crucial for Singaporean homeowners. When using CPF funds to finance...
Read More
5 Qualities to Look for in an Agent to Ensure a Smooth Transaction
5 Qualities to Look for in an Agent to Ensure a Smooth Transaction Here are 5 qualities to look for...
Read More
Discover the 3 Top Factors Impacting HDB Resale Valuation in Singapore: What Every Buyer Must Know!
TLDR The blog post discusses the increased demand for HDB resale flats and the impact on prices. It emphasizes the...
Read More
How to Avoid Forfeiting Your Security Deposit: A Guide to Your Rental Property
TLDR When bidding farewell to your rented property, ensure the safe return of your security deposit by: Regular Aircon Servicing:...
Read More
Top 5 : Best Architectural Marvels in Singapore
Singapore, a vibrant city-state known for its diverse culture and stunning skyline, is also home to some of the most...
Read More
Top 5 Best Scenic Drives in Singapore
Singapore, a bustling city-state known for its modern architecture and vibrant culture, also offers some of the most picturesque driving...
Read More
Top 5 Tips : How Does One Choose Good Property In Singapore?
Singapore, a thriving city-state known for its impressive skyline and robust economy, has always been an attractive destination for property...
Read More
Why Can’t Everyone Have Homes In Good Locations?
TLDR In a nutshell, the Singapore property market is undergoing significant changes, with the introduction of a new housing classification...
Read More
Beyond Marina Bay Sands: Uncovering Singapore’s 5 Little-Known Secrets
Beyond Marina Bay Sands: Uncovering Singapore's 5 Little-Known Secrets Singapore is a small country with a rich history and culture....
Read More
Top 5 : Best Hidden Beaches in Singapore
Singapore, a bustling city-state known for its modern architecture and vibrant culture, is also home to some of the most...
Read More
Top 5 Best Alternative Music Venues in Singapore
Singapore, a vibrant and bustling city-state, is known for its diverse culture and thriving arts scene. The city's love for...
Read More
