Rentability: The Make-or-Break Factor in Property Investment

Why Rentability Matters More Than Ever

When buying a property, especially in Singapore, we often hear people say:

• “I want to buy a home I love.”

• “It’s just for own stay — I don’t need to think about rental.”

• “I’ll never sell this anyway.”

But here’s the thing: even if you buy for your own stay, rentability should still be a core consideration — especially if you value long-term flexibility, wealth growth, and legacy planning.

What Is Rentability?

Rentability is a property’s ability to attract tenants quickly, consistently, and at a desirable rental rate.

It answers questions like:

• Will someone want to live here if I move out?

• How fast can it be rented out?

• Can I command a healthy rental yield?

Whether you’re a landlord today — or could become one in the future — rentability is your investment parachute.

Factors That Drive Strong Rentability

If you’re serious about returns or exit flexibility, your property should meet most (if not all) of these:

1. Location Proximity

• Near MRT stations, CBDs, business hubs, schools, or universities.

• Walkability to amenities like food, supermarkets, and parks.

2. Functional Layouts

• Efficient, squarish layouts preferred over odd corners.

• Bedrooms with windows, usable kitchens, and open living space.

3. Right Size vs Right Price

• Smaller units (1-2 bedrooms) often have higher rental demand.

• But even larger units are rentable if price per square foot is attractive.

4. Age and Condition

• Newer or well-maintained projects generally attract tenants faster.

• A modern interior matters more than a freehold status in rental decisions.

5. Tenant Pool Fit

• Foreign professionals? Families? Students?

• Your unit should match a real demand in the area.

Own Stay vs Investment: Understanding the Tradeoff

It’s natural to buy a home that feels right. For own stay, we consider:

• Emotional satisfaction

• Family needs

• Interior finishes

• Views and ambiance

But these don’t always translate into good rental traits. For example:

• You may love quiet surroundings — but tenants may want urban buzz.

• You may prefer a bigger kitchen — but tenants want more bedroom space.

• You may choose a top-floor corner unit — but it could limit future market appeal.

The Ideal: A Hybrid Property

“The best investment properties are both enjoyable to live in and easy to rent out when needed.”

A hybrid property gives you:

• Comfort during your stay.

• Exit options in case of job relocation, financial change, or retirement.

• Rental income to support future upgrades or retirement goals.

But not all properties can be hybrids. Emotions cloud judgment, especially for first-time buyers or upgraders.

How to Handle the Emotion Factor

If you’re feeling torn, consider:

• Create a shortlist with rentability filters first (MRT, schools, layouts).

• Bring in an outside perspective — someone who will rent, not own.

• Run rental comparisons with nearby units of similar specs.

• Use W.A.T.E.R principles — think beyond your stay, into your retirement.

As real estate strategists, we often say:

“Don’t buy a home just for yourself — buy a home that someone else would love to rent.”

Final Thoughts: Think Like a Tenant, Even as an Owner

Rentability isn’t just about making money. It’s about future-proofing your property.

The world changes. Jobs shift. Needs evolve. Rentability ensures that, whatever happens, your property remains an asset — not a liability.

Planning a move or a first property purchase? Let us help you choose a home that serves both heart and future.

[Speak to David & Audrie — Schedule Your Property Strategy Session]