Some of you may recall my Facebook Live video during my preview trip here in October, where I showed an apartment that was located in the East, that I loved. Well, due to the delays in getting here and how fabulous the unit was, I wasn't surprised that it wasn't available now that I am officially ready to call Singapore home for the next two years. But in true Charmayne fashion, of course I harassed my relocation housing agent and she uncovered that the unit next to it IS available AND furnished, but the asking price was much higher than I was willing to spend. Not to mention after further thought, the East is more expensive and closer to the airport, but it also isn't located near an MRT line and would be difficult navigating the SMRT (bus) system when it rains and when the weather is generally crummy. Needless to say, I returned to Singapore to start my housing search at square one. Well, make that square two.
Luckily, I was reconnected with my same relocation agent, Summer, who is simply fantastic! Based on my October trip, she has an idea of my budget and the things I like. I would like to think I'm not being super particular, however I do have some important requirements. For example, I have to be within walking distance from MRT, since I will not be getting a car here. Also, being fully furnished is an added bonus and saves me a lot in expenses. Lastly, being able to have enough space to quilt and have a guest if the time arises would be added bonuses.
All of that brings me to today, where I signed my LOI (Letter of Intent for lease) with my relocation agent and essentially signed my life away to my next year here in Singapore!! I was extremely fortunate on Monday to see an apartment/condo that not only met all of my requirements but more. But, based on Summers input, I kept looking at similar units (9 more to be exact) in the same complex to compare finishes and views since this complex just recently became available. I can remember looking at it when I browsed Singapore housing while I was in my holding pattern but never imagined that's where I would be living!
And, some of you may have noticed I said one year of my life. Yes, I'm still on the hook for two and I probably will extend my apartment to two years but the up front costs for things are pretty staggering here. Think more like New York housing market. Basically, two separate deposits are required. Today, along with my LOI I transferred one month's rent and then when things are all resolved with that then I sign my Tenancy Agreement (TA) which then needs two months' rent. The first is essentially first month's rent and the second is a security deposit that gets returned by the landlord interest free (minus the cost of any damage) at the end of the lease. Also, there's a stamp duty fee paid and a commission to my relocation agent, Summer. Did I mention she is simply amazing?! I am so thankful and blessed SIRVA which is the relocation company that is partnering with Apple to make this entire move happen assigned me to her. She has been patient, pleasant and added to my list of angels watching out for me here in Singapore. I lucked out in my negotiations, and my landlord is including wifi, so that saves me paying a router fee and the security deposit with the wifi company. So, pretty soon I'll be able to give those of you that asked my mailing address so you can send me a care package. Please include a box of Albers grits, Sour Patch Kids and mint Oreos. No. I'm not kidding.
And without further ado here are pics of my new space!
Check out my loft area and kitchen. And in the bedroom a nice built in desk! I think a great fit for my sewing machine!
View from my balcony at night. Such a huge win to not have neighbors on the back side. Views of kitchen again, washer/dryer combo and I have a bath tub! Send me all the bath soaks!
Until next time!
Love & Light!
Charmayne