Category: Housing

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10 Reasons Why Your Electric Bill Is Too High

electric sign

Welcome to living in Singapore, where the heat and humidity never seem to take a break, it’s common to depend heavily on aircon, fans, and appliances. But when your monthly electricity bill arrives, and it’s way higher than expected, the frustration is real.

Whether you stay in an HDB flat, a condominium, or a landed property, your lifestyle habits and home setup can significantly affect your energy consumption. Today, we’ll explore the 10 most common reasons your electric bill might be sky-high (and what you can do to bring it down).

1. Overusing the Aircon

In this humidity, aircon is a lifesaver and the most significant contributor to electricity bills. Many households leave the aircon running for hours, even overnight, quickly racking up the kilowatt-hours.

What to do:

  • Set your aircon temperature to around 24°C to 25°C for optimal cooling without overworking the system.
  • Use a fan alongside your aircon to circulate cool air.
  • Consider switching to an inverter aircon, which is more energy-efficient in the long run.
  • Regular aircon servicing keeps the system running efficiently, reducing energy waste.

2. Old or Inefficient Appliances

Older appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, or dryers consume more electricity than newer, energy-efficient models. Even small appliances like kettles and rice cookers can add up over time if outdated.

What to do:

  • Look for appliances with 4-tick or 5-tick energy labels under Singapore’s Mandatory Energy Labelling Scheme (MELS).
  • Replace old appliances with energy-efficient models if your budget allows.
  • Avoid leaving appliances in standby mode, it still consumes power.

3. Switch to LED Lighting

Still using traditional incandescent or CFL bulbs? These older types of lighting use significantly more electricity than modern LED bulbs.

What to do:

  • Replace all your home’s lighting with LED bulbs, which can use up to 80% less energy and last longer.
  • Opt for energy-efficient smart lighting that can be controlled remotely to avoid leaving lights on unnecessarily.

4. Phantom Energy Consumption

Many Singaporeans don’t realise that devices left plugged in still draw power, even when unused. This is phantom energy, which can quietly inflate your electricity bill.

What to Do:

  • Switch off appliances like TVs, chargers, gaming consoles, and microwaves at the power socket when unused.
  • Use power strips to make turning off multiple devices at once easier.
woman taking an outdoor shower

5. Inefficient Water Heater Usage

Electric water heaters, especially storage-type models common in condos and landed properties, consume a surprising amount of electricity if left running continuously.

What to do:

  • Switch off the water heater after use.
  • Consider installing instant water heaters, which heat water only when needed.
  • Regularly descale your water heater to improve efficiency.

6. Poor Home Insulation

While insulation isn’t as common a concern in Singapore as in colder countries, poor window seals or gaps under doors can cause cool air from your aircon to escape, forcing your system to work harder.

What to do:

  • Install window films or blinds to reduce heat from direct sunlight.
  • Seal gaps around doors and windows with weatherstripping.
  • Use door stoppers or draft blockers to keep cool air in.

7. Excessive Use of Clothes Dryers

Using a clothes dryer may be convenient, especially during the rainy season, but it also consumes much electricity.

What to do:

  • Air-dry clothes using indoor drying racks or in your HDB service yard whenever possible.
  • Use the dryer only for essentials or when necessary.
  • Clean the lint filter regularly to ensure your dryer operates efficiently.

8. Leaving Appliances Running Unnecessarily

Simple habits, like leaving the fan, lights, or TV running when no one is home, quickly add to your electricity bill.

What to do:

  • Make it a habit to switch off lights, fans, and appliances when leaving the room.
  • Consider motion sensor lights for areas like the hallway or bathroom to avoid wasting energy.
  • Use smart plugs or timers for appliances you tend to forget about.
gas refill done by aircon technician
gas refill done by aircon technician

9. Outdated or Poorly Maintained Aircon

Even with mindful usage, an old or poorly maintained aircon unit works harder to cool your home, consuming more electricity.

What to do:

  • Schedule professional aircon servicing at least every six months.
  • Consider a chemical wash or overhaul for older units to restore performance.
  • Upgrade to a newer, energy-efficient aircon system if your current one is over 8 to 10 years old.

10. Not Monitoring Your Energy Usage

Many households pay their utility bills without understanding their consumption patterns, missing opportunities to cut down on waste.

What to do:

  • Sign up for SP Group’s mobile app, which provides a detailed breakdown of your electricity usage.
  • Track your usage month to month and adjust your habits accordingly.
  • Consider switching to Open Electricity Market (OEM) retailers that offer better rates to suit your household needs.

Final Thoughts

Electricity bills in Singapore are often higher than expected. However, the good news is that you can significantly reduce your energy consumption with a few simple lifestyle changes and mindful appliance use.

From upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, maintaining your aircon properly, switching off devices at the socket, to adopting smart home habits — these small steps can make a big difference over time.

A lower electricity bill saves you money and reduces your household’s carbon footprint, making your home more eco-friendly.

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A Complete Guide To Set Up a Smart Home in Singapore

smart home device paired with a phone

As technology continues to evolve, more homeowners in Singapore are choosing to incorporate smart devices into their homes. A smart home is no longer a futuristic concept; it is a reality for many. Smart homes allow homeowners to remotely control devices such as lights, security cameras, thermostats, and even kitchen appliances using smartphones or voice commands. With the rise of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, creating a smart home has become easier and more affordable. But how does one set up a smart home in Singapore, and what steps should one take to ensure a smooth installation and integration?

This guide will cover everything you need to know about smart homes: how to set one up, and which devices are essential for a smart home in Singapore.

What is a Smart Home?

A smart home is a residence equipped with IoT devices that can be controlled and monitored remotely via the internet. These devices are interconnected, allowing homeowners to automate tasks like adjusting the lighting, adjusting the temperature, managing security systems, and more, all through an app or voice assistant.

Smart homes provide convenience, energy efficiency, and enhanced security, making them popular for modern homeowners. With Singapore’s growing demand for technology and smart living solutions, integrating smart home technology has become easier.

smart assistant on a table

Benefits of a Smart Home

Before diving into the installation process, it’s important to understand the benefits of having a smart home. Here are the top advantages of upgrading your home with smart devices:

1. Convenience

One of the key advantages of smart homes is the convenience they offer. You can control various devices, such as lights, fans, air conditioning, and security systems, all from your smartphone or voice assistant. For example, you can turn off the lights, lock your doors, or adjust the thermostat without moving from your couch.

2. Energy Efficiency

Smart homes can help you reduce energy consumption and electricity bills. Smart thermostats, for instance, allow you to set schedules to optimize the temperature in your home. Smart lighting systems can automatically turn off when not in use, saving electricity and reducing your carbon footprint.

3. Enhanced Security

Smart security systems offer greater peace of mind by allowing homeowners to monitor their property remotely. You can install security cameras, smart door locks, and motion detectors to alert your phone if any unusual activity is detected. You can even view live video footage of your home when you’re not around, giving you control over your home’s security at all times.

4. Automation

Smart home devices can be programmed to perform tasks independently, such as setting up routines or schedules. For example, your lights can automatically dim in the evening, or your coffee machine can start brewing as soon as you wake up. Automation saves time and enhances your overall quality of life.

controlling a smart light via mobile phone

How to Set Up a Smart Home in Singapore

Setting up a smart home in Singapore is easier than ever, thanks to the wide range of affordable and reliable smart devices. Here are the key steps you need to take to set up your own smart home:

1. Choose the Right Smart Devices

Before you begin, choosing the smart devices that best suit your needs is important. Some common smart home devices include:

  • Smart Speakers: These devices, such as Amazon Echo or Google Nest, act as the hub for your smart home. They allow you to control other devices with voice commands.
  • Smart Lighting: Devices like smart bulbs and smart switches allow you to control the lighting in your home remotely. Some systems also allow you to change the brightness or color of the lights.
  • Smart Thermostats: These devices allow you to control the temperature of your home remotely and can learn your preferences over time, helping you save energy.
  • Smart Security Systems: These include cameras, doorbell cameras, motion sensors, and smart locks that help you monitor and secure your home remotely.
  • Smart Appliances: From refrigerators to washing machines, more and more home appliances are becoming “smart” and can be controlled via an app.

2. Set Up a Central Hub or Controller

For a seamless smart home experience, you’ll need a central hub or controller that can connect all your devices. This could be a smart speaker like Amazon Echo or Google Home, or a more advanced smart home hub, like Samsung SmartThings. These hubs allow you to control all your connected devices from one place.

Once you’ve chosen your central hub, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to connect it to your Wi-Fi network. You must install the corresponding app on your smartphone and link it to the hub.

3. Install the Devices and Connect Them to the Hub

Once you’ve selected your smart devices, it’s time to install them and connect them to your central hub. Depending on the type of device, installation might involve plugging it into an electrical outlet, connecting it to your Wi-Fi, or mounting it in a specific location.

For example, smart bulbs can be installed just like regular bulbs, and you’ll need to connect them to the app. Similarly, a smart thermostat requires installation on the wall, after which it’s connected to the Wi-Fi and hub.

smart doorbell with smart camera etched on a wall

4. Automate Your Home

One of the key benefits of a smart home is automation. Once all your devices are connected, you can set routines and schedules. For example, you can program your thermostat to adjust the temperature based on the time of day, or set up your lights to turn on and off when you’re away.

You can also set up scenes that trigger multiple devices at once. For example, a “Good Morning” scene could turn on your lights, start brewing your coffee, and set your thermostat to your preferred temperature.

5. Manage Your Smart Home with Voice Assistants

In Singapore, many homeowners enjoy the convenience of voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant to control their smart devices. These voice assistants allow you to issue commands such as “Hey Google, turn on the living room lights” or “Alexa, set the temperature to 22°C.”

Integrating voice control into your smart home setup can make managing your home’s devices even more convenient. It’s also especially useful when your hands are full and you can’t manually adjust settings.

Which Smart Home Devices Are Best for Singapore?

Singapore has a humid, tropical climate, making air conditioning a crucial part of everyday life. Here are a few smart home devices that are well-suited to Singapore’s unique climate and living environment:

  • Smart Aircon: Singaporeans often use air conditioners throughout the year. Investing in a smart aircon that can be controlled remotely via an app or voice assistant allows you to set schedules, monitor energy usage, and even turn on the aircon before you arrive home.
  • Smart Lighting: As Singapore’s days can be hot and bright, smart lighting can help adjust the ambiance of your home. With smart bulbs, you can change the lighting to suit your mood or time of day.
  • Smart Humidifiers: Given the humidity in Singapore, a smart humidifier can help maintain the proper moisture levels in your home, promoting better comfort and air quality.
  • Smart Locks: For added security, smart locks allow you to lock and unlock doors remotely, providing peace of mind while at work or on vacation.

Final Thoughts

Setting up a smart home in Singapore is a great way to enhance your home’s comfort, security, and energy efficiency. With the right devices and proper installation, you can create an interconnected environment where your lights, aircon, security systems, and more work seamlessly together. This is also a more efficient way to manage your home’s energy use or should you want the convenience of controlling your home with your voice.

By selecting the right devices, setting up a central hub, and automating your home, you can transform your living space into a modern, smart home that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations. Investing in a smart home will make your daily life easier and add value to your property in the long run.

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Common Problems Faced by First-Time Homeowners in SG

hdb flats in singapore

Buying a home for the first time is an exciting and momentous occasion. It’s a significant milestone that often marks the beginning of a new chapter in life. However, along with the joy of owning a home comes many challenges that first-time homeowners usually find themselves unprepared for. These challenges can vary, from minor repairs to legal and financial obstacles. Understanding these common problems can help you navigate your homeownership journey smoothly.

From unexpected repairs to financial planning, here’s what you need to know.

1. Managing Renovation Costs and Expectations

Renovating a new home is one of the most exciting parts of homeownership, but it can quickly become overwhelming for first-time buyers. Renovation costs can add up quickly, and getting carried away with high-end materials and ambitious designs is easy. Many first-time homeowners underestimate the costs of renovations, leading to budget overruns.

What You Should Know:

  • Setting a realistic budget: Before starting any renovations, take the time to research prices for materials, labor, and other expenses. Have a contingency fund in place for unforeseen costs.
  • Managing expectations: While it’s tempting to create your dream home, it’s essential to prioritize your renovation goals. Focus on essential tasks, like structural repairs or upgrading plumbing, before moving on to cosmetic changes.
  • Seek professional advice: Consult with renovation contractors or interior designers who can provide professional insights into what’s achievable within your budget.

How to Solve It:

  • Be sure to get multiple quotes from different contractors.
  • Stick to your renovation plan and avoid impulsive decisions that may push you over budget.
  • Consider DIY options for minor repairs and changes to save on costs.

Navigating the legal aspects of homeownership can be tricky, especially for first-time buyers who may not be familiar with the processes involved. There are multiple documents to handle, such as the Option to Purchase (OTP) and the Sale and Purchase Agreement, and it is important to ensure that everything complies with HDB or URA regulations. First-time buyers might overlook certain legal obligations, potentially leading to complications.

What You Should Know:

  • Title Deeds: Ensure the property has a clear title and no outstanding legal disputes.
  • Stamp duty: You’ll need to pay stamp duty on the purchase price or the market value (whichever is higher), so be sure to factor this into your budget.
  • Mortgage eligibility: If you’re applying for a loan, ensure you’re eligible for HDB or bank loans and have all the necessary documents ready.

How to Solve It:

  • Work with a real estate agent or lawyer who can help you navigate the legal complexities of property ownership.
  • Double-check all documentation and ensure compliance with local property laws.
  • Don’t rush through the signing of important documents—take the time to understand every clause.
image of a plumber

3. Unforeseen Maintenance and Repairs

One of the most common problems first-time homeowners face is the unexpected need for maintenance and repairs. After moving in, you may encounter issues that weren’t immediately visible during the inspection process, such as plumbing leaks, faulty electrical wiring, or issues with the air conditioning system.

What You Should Know:

  • Wear and tear: Homes, especially older properties, can experience wear and tear that was not initially apparent during viewing.
  • Increased costs: Unexpected repairs can cause financial strain if you’re unprepared.
  • Plumbing and electrical systems: These systems often need maintenance, especially if the property is older or was built using outdated materials.

How to Solve It:

  • Hire a professional inspector before buying a home to spot hidden problems that may require repairs.
  • Set aside a portion of your budget for emergency repairs.
  • Regularly maintain and inspect your home’s systems to catch problems early before they turn into costly repairs.

4. Managing the Financial Burden of Homeownership

Owning a home comes with more than just the upfront cost. The ongoing expenses—mortgage payments, property taxes, utility bills, maintenance, and insurance—can strain your finances. Many first-time homeowners are surprised by the cumulative costs of running a home, which can sometimes lead to financial stress.

What You Should Know:

  • Mortgage payments: Be sure you can comfortably afford your monthly mortgage payments, including the interest rate and any fluctuations in monthly costs.
  • Utility bills: Water, electricity, and internet costs can add up quickly, especially in a new home. Make sure to budget accordingly.
  • Maintenance and upgrades: Over time, you’ll need to invest in keeping your home in good condition, whether repairing appliances or updating features.

How to Solve It:

  • Create a budget that accounts for all aspects of homeownership, including emergency repairs, ongoing maintenance, and routine bills.
  • Build an emergency fund to cover unexpected costs.
  • Review your monthly expenses diligently and ensure that your income can comfortably support homeownership costs.

5. Adjusting to Homeownership Responsibilities

Owning a home comes with a significant increase in responsibility compared to renting. From routine cleaning to managing maintenance tasks, the list of things you need to take care of can seem endless. First-time homeowners may feel overwhelmed with these new responsibilities, leading to procrastination or neglecting critical tasks.

What You Should Know:

  • Home upkeep: Routine maintenance tasks like cleaning gutters, servicing appliances, and checking plumbing are essential to prevent problems.
  • Time management: Homeownership requires regular attention, which can interfere with work and personal life.
  • Long-term commitments: You must plan for long-term home improvements or repairs to keep your home in good condition.

How to Solve It:

  • Set up a home maintenance schedule that breaks tasks into manageable intervals, such as weekly, monthly, and annual chores.
  • Delegate tasks or hire professionals when necessary, especially for more technical jobs like plumbing or electrical work.
  • Remember that it’s okay to ask for help or outsource tasks you don’t have the time or skills to complete.
neighbours at each other's path

6. Managing Neighborhood Issues

Moving into a new neighborhood can be an exciting experience but can also come with challenges. Noise, traffic, and local community dynamics can affect your quality of life. Many first-time homeowners face challenges adjusting to their new environment, especially if they’re used to a quieter or more suburban lifestyle.

What You Should Know:

  • Noise issues: In HDB flats, noise from neighbors can sometimes be disruptive, particularly in multi-story buildings.
  • Community rules: Familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations of your neighborhood, whether it’s related to waste disposal, noise levels, or parking.

How to Solve It:

  • Engage with neighbors and get to know the local community.
  • Voice concerns politely if noise or other disturbances become an issue.
  • Understand the local bylaws and regulations to comply with the community rules.

7. Deciding on Home Improvements and Upgrades

As a first-time homeowner, you may want to renovate or upgrade your home. However, without proper planning, these improvements can become costly and time-consuming. Additionally, some upgrades may not be necessary for the immediate future and could add unnecessary pressure to your finances.

What You Should Know:

  • Prioritize improvements that enhance your home’s value and livability. This includes updating the kitchen, installing energy-efficient windows, or addressing plumbing issues.
  • Know your limits: Don’t take on projects that are beyond your skill set unless you plan to hire professionals.

How to Solve It:

  • Plan your renovations carefully and set a clear budget.
  • Consult with professionals, such as contractors or interior designers, before starting large-scale projects.
  • Consider DIY options for smaller projects to save on costs.

8. Learning About Home Insurance

Home insurance is essential to homeownership, yet many first-time homeowners don’t fully understand its importance. Insurance protects your home and belongings from unexpected events, Whether fire damage, theft, or natural disasters. However, choosing the right home insurance policy can be confusing.

What You Should Know:

  • Coverage options: Understand what your policy covers, including damages caused by natural disasters, accidents, or theft.
  • Policy limits: Be sure your coverage limits match the value of your home and possessions.

How to Solve It:

  • Review different home insurance policies to find the one that fits your needs and budget.
  • Speak with an insurance advisor to make sure your home is adequately covered.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a first-time homeowner in Singapore is an exciting yet challenging experience. From understanding home maintenance to managing finances, numerous tasks and responsibilities come with owning property. By familiarizing yourself with common problems and taking a proactive approach to maintenance, you can make your homeownership journey smoother. Remember that it’s okay to ask for help or seek professional advice when needed, and be patient as you navigate this new chapter of your life.

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Should we invest on a Condominium or an HDB?

Property Agent

When it comes to buying a property, Singapore is one of the most expensive countries in the world. Nevertheless, everyone desires to be the owner of a property. In this regard, there is another concern of the residents of Singapore. People here are always in the dilemma between buying an HDB (Public Housing Apartments) and a Condominium.

Various factors controls our decision whether to choose an HDB or a Condo. These factors include our eligibility, our lifestyle, legal matters etc.

The following are some of the reasons to choose a Condominium over an HDB.

  • Better facilities – A condo is well planned for its resident’s comfort. It comes not only with comfortable latest design interiors but pool, gym, barbeque, play stations for children, badminton courts, community halls etc. All these facilities help us to decide on taking a condo. The convenience of having all these facilities at our doorstep is a big advantage for sure.
Singapore's property market
Singapore’s property market – most likely to slow down in 2019.
  • Condominiums are open to all types of buyers including the foreigners –There are no restrictions on foreign ownership when it comes to buying a condominium.
  • No restrictions on ownership of other properties – When we own a condominium, we can still go ahead and purchase other properties at the same time.
  • Condominiums give us privacy – Singapore is a high-density city. If you are a person who prefers privacy then living in a condo is all what you would want. Privacy that comes along with a condo is something you do not get in an HDB.
  • If we go for a condominium, then we can opt for a progressive payment scheme as well.
  • Condominiums are more pet-friendly- In HDBs, usually certain breeds of dogs and cats are restricted from ownership. However, this is not the case in a condo.

The following are some of the reasons to choose an HDB (Public Housing Apartments) over a Condominium.  

  • It’s safe – Though HDBs are public housings, but it is quite safe for the residents even at late night. People do not encounter any problems.
  • Prices of HDBs are made affordable for the public – Keeping commoners in mind, prices of HDBs have been made quite affordable and decent which helps us to decide to buy HDBs.
  • HDBs have good resale value – When we think of re sale, HDBs have good re-sale value.
  • HDB conservancy fees are lesser than even condo maintenance fees. 

However whether it is a Condominium or an HDB, we always need a property agent to help us find the perfect house. In this context it is also worthy of mention that sometimes it gets a bit difficult and tiring to get a good agent.

No need to stress out anymore!

With StringsSG finding your dream home is lot more easier and time saving! 
Property Agent
Property Agents to help us find our dream home!
You get the best Property Agents here who will find your home as per your criteria. 

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Landlord vs. Tenant Responsibilities and Maintenance

Property agents - solution to issues between landlords and tenants

In case of house renting, both the parties the Landlord and the Tenant are always in question that who is responsible for what work. That is why, a well done rental agreement with the help of a property agent is very important so that there can be proper understanding of each one’s contractual obligation to maintain the property.

Landlord and Tenant facing issues regarding maintenance of the property.
Landlord and Tenant arguing over contractual obligations

The following are some of the Tenant’s Maintenance Responsibilities – 

  • Tenants in general are expected to keep the property clean and avoid any damages to the property deliberately.
  • As per contract, the Tenants might need to replace batteries of smoke detectors and fire alarms in order to make sure they are working properly.
  • Disposing the trash is a very important daily work of the Tenants.
  • When it comes to Pest control, it is tenant’s responsibility to properly maintain the sanitation of the house so that there are no insecticides or infestation. If the tenant does not keep a clean home, the landlord may deduct some amount from the tenant’s security deposit as per the lease.
  • Waste management is a very important matter for good hygiene. It definitely falls under tenant’s responsibility to properly dispose of any garbage which otherwise could contribute to pest infestations and diseases.
  • When it comes to plumbing or air conditioning, it is Tenant’s responsibility to use these fixtures properly. He should keep the pipes clear and replace the air filters too. He should report any issues to the landlord quickly to prevent further damages without any delay so that the landlord can take care of the issue accordingly.
  • At the time of the signing of contract, if Landscaping maintenance is already mentioned as a clause, then the tenant has to take care of it accordingly as otherwise, he can be fined for violating the contract.
  • Tenant should return the property in the same condition as it was at the time of the lease term. If there are any damages then the tenant needs to fix it before the handover or the landlord has the right to deduct the expenses from the tenant’s security deposit.
Rental Agreement
Rental agreement between the Landlord and the Tenant – for proper understanding of each one’s contractual obligation to maintain the property.

The following are some of the Landlord’s Maintenance Responsibilities – 

  • When it comes to plumbing or air conditioning, it is the landlord’s responsibility to keep these systems in working condition and fixing any kind of problems with regards to these.
  • It is owner’s responsibility to do the pest control if there is an infestation.
  • The common areas like the elevators and other common-use areas also fall under landlord’s responsibility to keep them properly safe and clean.
  • It is the landlord’s responsibility to keep the premises of the house in a reasonable state and in compliance with the safety laws.
  • All the mentioned appliances, in the contract should be kept in working order by the landlord.
  • The landlord is responsible for most of the repairs of the home like the interior and exterior of the house, doors and windows, stairs, roof, electrical wiring, chimneys, pipes and drains, gas appliances etc

Intervention of the Property Agents – 

Throughout the period of the tenancy, either parties of the contract, i.e. the landlord and tenant might face some issues that are difficult to resolve alone all by themselves. In such cases, both the parties look for a third party to mediate and resolve the problem. Here comes in the role of one of the property agents who handled the rental transaction. In many cases the respective agent steps into the matter and tries to bring a solution to the problem.

However, it is true that it is not a mandatory responsibility of the Agent to resolve such issues but some agents does step in to help and solve landlord-tenant problems simply out of goodwill. Again in some cases, the parties formally engage their agent to manage their property.

Property Agents are professionals with adequate knowledge in their field and hence can easily resolve difficult issues. Hence it is always better to bring in our Agents so that the solution can be surfaced at ease.

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Property agents - solution to issues between landlords and tenants
A good property agent can work up a sound lease agreement!
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Why do we need a Property Agent to buy or rent or sale a house

Property agents validates documentations on the client's behalf.

The entire process of house hunting, renting or selling can be quite tedious and confusing. Dealing with decisions related to real estate is never easy. When making a decision on a real estate sale, purchase or rent advice from an expert is very useful. Here comes the role of an experienced and trustworthy property agent. He is the best person to look up to in such situations.

There are broadly the following types of Property Agents –

  • Landlord’s Property Agent or the Seller’s Agent

This agent is appointed by the landlord. The interest of the landlord is their interest too. This agent advises the landlord on how to promote their property. If the owner wants to rent it out, then the agent works out the best rental price for them. On the other hand, if the landlord is looking at selling a property, then the property agent arranges for possible buyers, arranges for viewing and works out a deal in favor of the landlord.

  • Tenant’s Agent or the Buyer’s Agent

The Tenant’s property agent is appointed by the tenant or the buyer. He works on behalf of the tenant and helps him to search his home. He arranges for viewings, helps his client to negotiate and closes a deal for the Tenant. In short, the Agent protects the interests of the tenant

Property agents are the best person to rely on while we plan to buy rent or sale a house.
A property agent works on behalf of the client and helps the later to close a deal at their benefit as much a as possible.

Some of the many reasons of why we need a property agent are as follows –

  • Our Agent works on our behalf – Understand our criteria, research and identify the available properties accordingly, schedule viewings, advises the tenants or the buyer on rental rates or purchase price respectively, negotiates with the landlord and/or landlord’s agent and thus finally helps his client to close a deal at their benefit as much a as possible.
  • Validates documentations – The paper works and documentations when it comes to property dealings are very important and needs to be thoroughly validated. Our property agent is the life savor in this regard. He assists us with all the necessary paper works, deals with different types of payments at different levels of the process like Stamp Duty etc.
Property agents validates documentations on the client's behalf.
Property agent helping their clients through the complicated procedure of documentation.
  • In case we want an above-market rate then, an exclusive agreement does help – If the seller or the owner of the property wants to get a price that is more than the current market rate, then, it needs an exclusive type of pitching and selling. This requires much higher level of selling skills. He needs to do higher level of research, take more pictures of the house and post more frequent listings. It is to be noted that, mostly the non-exclusive agents do not spend the same time and required amount of effort for this. Hence going for an exclusive agreement in such cases is by far the better option in the long run.
  • A property agent’s negotiation skills works at our benefit – Whether he is an agent of the buyer or the seller, in each case his negotiation power adds to the party’s advantage. Often there is a drop in property price which means it is possible to negotiate for a fair price for the property. However we being unaware of the current market trends might end up paying more. The role of a property agent here is that, with his specialized skills and knowledge, he can help us to get the best possible value of the house.
  • Our property agent helps us a lot during home inspection – The house might have defects but invisible to the untrained eyes i.e. our lame eyes might fail to catch it when we go for viewing of the house. The property agent here can play an important role. He has the experienced eye to inspect and calculate the cost of rectification. Later, if the buyer wants to go ahead with the house, then, the agent can help the former to negotiate for a price of the house that would reflect the cost of the rectification.
Property agents helps us to negotiate for a price that reflects the cost of the rectification of the property if there are any.
Property agent during property viewing with his clients or home inspection.

Hence from the above discussion, it is quite evident that a reputable and professional property agent can help to save our time and money. Thus it is always safer to hire a property agent or real estate agent who knows the market well, has good list of properties to offer and understands our requirements and all criteria well. He is the best person to rely on for the purpose.