Home away from home.
Moving out temporarily is often necessary when renovating an existing home, particularly one involving hacking, flooring replacement, or a complete overhaul. However, finding short-term accommodation in Singapore can get a little tricky.
Under URA regulations, private residential property cannot be rented out for less than 3 consecutive months, while HDB flats are subject to a minimum rental period of 6 months. Even so, these are not that easy to find because most property owners prefer longer-term tenants.
Fortunately, your choices aren’t limited to expensive hotels. Recent years have seen the rise of co-living operators, serviced residences, and licensed flexible-stay accommodation providers that offer short-term stays.
To help streamline your search, we’ve rounded up some of these providers in Singapore that come fully furnished (i.e. move-in ready), with no need to bring your own furniture or bulky appliances.
(This is not a sponsored post. Prices listed are based on listings as at time of writing.)
Source: Figment
In a world that always seems to be chasing the next shiny new thing, Figment sets itself apart by revitalising heritage shophouse properties in charming neighbourhoods like Tiong Bahru, Joo Chiat, and Emerald Hill.
Its mid-century modern interiors are thoughtfully designed to reflect the character of each building, as though taking you back in time so your temporary accommodation feels like a mini staycation while your renovation is underway.
Rentals start from 3 months, with utilities, WiFi, and even housekeeping included.
Best for: Those who want a unique experience
Price range: From $1,800/month
Source: Coliwoo
Short for co-living, co-working oasis, Coliwoo is one of SG’s largest co-living operators with over 3,500 rooms across 28 properties islandwide — each sporting a simple but chic, modern aesthetic.
Because of its scale, there is a wide range of room types you can choose from depending on your budget and needs. In fact, those with shorter renovations (e.g. less than 3 months) can choose from serviced apartments for as little as 6 nights.
Best for: Those seeking flexibility and relatively affordable options
Price range: From $100/night (co-living hotels and serviced apartments); monthly rates for co-living residences are available upon enquiry
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Source: lyf
Managed by hospitality group Ascott, lyf operates on a serviced-residence model with hotel-like amenities like 24-hour receptions, coworking lounges, and social gyms.
While lyf can be found in prime locations like City Hall, Farrer Park and one-north, do note that smaller units do not come with an in-unit kitchenette (although there are social kitchens available within the building), and laundry can only be done via self-service launderettes.
The minimum length of stay varies with property and unit.
Best for: Those who want hotel conveniences for less, central locations, and don’t require a kitchen
Price range: From $126/night
Source: Habyt
Founded in Berlin in 2017, Habyt has since established a global footprint across the US, Europe, and Asia to become the world’s largest flexible housing company.
Whether it’s a common bedroom or an entire apartment, finding temporary accommodation with Habyt is akin to scrolling the likes of Propertyguru — except that the landlord is a corporation, happy to lease a fully furnished property even if it’s just for 3 months. Shorter stays of 6 nights or more are also available at its serviced apartments like Habyt Kada or Habyt Cantonment.
Do note that not all listings have kitchens and laundry facilities within the unit, and some involve sharing the bathroom with other tenants.
Best for: Those looking to choose from a large number of options
Price range: From $107/night (hotels) or $2,059/month (rooms and apartments for rent)
Source: Weave Living
With a presence in Asia’s gateway cities like Seoul, Tokyo, and Singapore, Weave Living brands itself as a tech-enabled renting platform for premium properties, where everything can be managed via its app.
If your renovation isn’t going to take too long, consider a stay at their serviced apartments (Suites) in Novena, Dhoby Ghaut, and Kampong Glam from as little as 3 days (do note, though, that no pets are allowed in these properties). Alternatively, pick from one of their luxury homes (Residences) along the East Coast for stays of 3 months and up.
Best for: Those looking for upscale temporary residence
Price range: From $211/night (Suites) or $3,200/month (Residences)
Source: Cove
Boasting a wide selection of listings across the entire island, Cove comes with housekeeping services, yet is more affordable than traditional serviced residences — from as low as $1,100 per month (min. 3 months’ stay). Select properties come with options for short hotel stays from just 1 day.
To streamline your customer experience, everything is booked and managed digitally. Additionally, Cove frequently organises community events from group pilates to paddleball sessions for its tenants, so that you can have fun and make new friends during your temporary stay!
Best for: Those who want an affordable, fully managed experience
Price range: $85/night (hotels) or $1,100/month (serviced residence)
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