Scripts, timing, and data that help you ask for a fairer deal—without awkward vibes.
Rent prices in Singapore can feel like a rollercoaster. But just because your lease is up for renewal doesn’t mean you have to accept an increase without a word. The key? Negotiating smartly, politely, and with a little strategy.
Here’s how to ask for a better deal—without burning bridges with your landlord.
🕰 1. Time It Right
Start the conversation at least 30–45 days before your lease ends.
- Too early? Your landlord might not have considered your renewal yet.
- Too late? You may lose leverage—or risk a last-minute rush.
Pro tip: Avoid peak rental seasons (like June–August) if you’re hoping for flexibility.
📊 2. Do Your Homework
Research similar units in your neighbourhood. Use websites like PropertyGuru, 99.co, or SRX to check:
- Average rental price
- Unit size and amenities
- Recent listings or rental trends
Bring this data into the conversation so it’s about market value, not just your opinion.
💡 3. Lead with Value, Not Complaints
Instead of saying:
❌ “The place is old and overpriced.”
Try:
✅ “I’ve taken good care of the unit, paid rent on time, and I’d love to stay longer. Based on current rates, would you consider a rent adjustment?”
Why it works: It positions you as a valuable tenant they’ll want to keep.
🧾 4. Offer Something in Return
Consider trading flexibility for savings:
- Offer a longer lease in exchange for a lower rate
- Propose renewing earlier to give your landlord peace of mind
- Volunteer to handle minor maintenance issues
Landlords appreciate reliability—it’s not always about squeezing every dollar.
✉️ 5. Use a Script If Needed
Not sure how to say it? Here’s a friendly template:
Hi [Landlord's Name],
I’ve really enjoyed living here and would love to renew the lease. I’ve looked into the current market in our area, and similar units are renting for [insert amount]. Based on this and my good record as a tenant, would you be open to adjusting the rent to [$X]? I’m also happy to discuss options like a longer lease term if that helps. Let me know what you think—thanks for considering!
💼 Rent is negotiable—but relationships matter more.
Keep it respectful, show your value, and back it up with data. Even if the answer is no, you’ll come across as a savvy (and reasonable) tenant.
👉 Looking for more tenant tips and scripts for real-life situations?
Follow CoHomes for rental advice made for life in Singapore.
