They’re Not Unlucky — They Just Didn’t Find the Right People.
Recently, a news report about more than 60 Chinese students in Singapore losing their rental deposits went viral.
The property management company involved was accused of withholding both deposits and rent, with the total amount involved reaching up to S$75,000. One student was even evicted, and eight and a half months of rent were fully deducted.
For many international students, studying in Singapore is meant to be a fresh start in life. Yet for these students, something as “small” as renting a place turned into a draining and costly nightmare.
This collective dispute serves as a wake-up call for everyone renting in Singapore.
Think You’re Safe After Signing a Contract? Think Again.
According to Shin Min Daily News, many victims found the company (LEADER PROPERTY) through Xiaohongshu (RED). They signed official contracts and were even offered rental discounts (for example, lower rates for one-year leases).
It seemed like they had done their homework — but they still suffered huge losses.
Why?
Because they weren’t dealing with “black-market agents,” but rather “grey-area operators” disguised as legitimate property managers — companies that include legal disclaimers to dodge responsibility.
They have contracts — but with vague terms and plenty of exemptions.
They have offices — but they answer to landlords, not tenants.
They “notify you in advance to move out” — but offer no alternatives, and certainly no refunds.
And you, a student or newcomer unfamiliar with Singapore’s laws and customs, often have no power to fight back.
Renting Isn’t Just a Transaction — It’s Relationship Management.
At Haohaoguo Realty, we’ve served thousands of tenants across Singapore, and we know this better than anyone:
A truly fair rental contract doesn’t just protect the price and deposit — it ensures that someone will take responsibility when things go wrong.
Those tiny clauses like
“Tenant must cooperate with relocation”
or “If the landlord ends the lease early, rent will not be refunded” —
you might overlook them, but the other side will use them against you “according to the contract.”
That’s why we always emphasize:
- Only recommending listings with verified landlord backgrounds
- Signing contracts that protect both landlord and tenant rights
- Having bilingual (Chinese & English) consultants review every contract detail
- Providing assistance in dispute resolution or guidance for legal recourse
In Singapore, Don’t Rely on “Luck” When Renting — Rely on the Right People.
After reading this incident, would you still trust an “internet-famous” rental listing with your entire year’s rent?
Many people didn’t lose money because they were careless — but because they trusted luck too much and feared trouble.
“Found a cheap listing, so I rushed in.”
“Signed fast, moved in fast.”
“Had problems later, but didn’t know who to call.”
That’s the most common tragedy formula we’ve seen.
The truth is, Singapore’s rental system is clear and structured —
you just need someone on your side who understands the rules and, more importantly,
will stand up for you when something goes wrong.
We’re Not Just Property Managers — We’re Your Singapore Property Concierge.
Since its founding, the Haohaoguo Realty team has focused on serving new immigrants, expatriates, and international students renting long-term in Singapore.
Our services go far beyond property viewings and lease signings:
- Pre-screening landlords to ensure long-term stability
- Full bilingual explanation of contract terms and risk points
- Providing dispute-resolution advice and communication support
- Immediate assistance if landlords terminate leases early or breach contracts
We want you to live with peace of mind in Singapore —
not spend your time and energy fighting for your rights in group chats.
What’s More Important Than a Cheap Deal? A Way Out.
This deposit dispute among Chinese students may just be the beginning — more stories could follow.
But what we want you to know is this:
In Singapore, renting safely isn’t about luck — it’s about choosing the right partner.
If you’re a newcomer, student, or professional planning to rent or already facing rental issues,
feel free to reach out to us anytime.
We’ll provide genuine, trustworthy advice and support —
so you can focus on building your life here, not fighting for your deposit.
