Last Updated on November 27, 2025

Tenant Profile Singapore: What to Include to Secure Viewings Fast

You’ve decided to conduct your property search the DIY (Do It Yourself) way and started contacting agents to secure viewing slots. If you did this without a proper tenant profile prepared, you probably noticed one of two things happening: agents asked for more information, or they simply did not respond.

It is rarely personal. Agents must screen every enquiry against the landlord’s criteria, and when your profile is incomplete, they may not be able to move forward. A clear, well-structured tenant profile makes it much easier for you to secure viewings and get your preferred unit.

If you plan to DIY your search, it helps to pair a strong profile with a practical guide on securing a lease in Singapore so you understand the process from enquiry to handing over keys.

Why Agents and Landlords Screen Tenants

Every landlord has a different comfort level and set of requirements. Some focus on budget and lease term; others worry more about pets, co-living, or work pass type. Common screening factors include:

• Pets (allowed, not allowed, or only certain types)
• Immigration or work pass type
• Move-in timeline and lease duration
• Number of occupants and relationship between them
• Preference for corporate lease versus personal lease
• Smoking habits
• Preference for families versus co-living groups

Some of these are flexible, but others are non-negotiable. A good tenant profile helps agents quickly see whether there is a realistic match before everyone spends time arranging viewings.

Three Common Tenant Profile Types

Most tenants in Singapore fall into one of three broad categories. The way you present your profile can vary slightly depending on which best describes you.

What to Include (and Not Include) in Your Tenant Profile

The goal of a tenant profile is to give enough information for the landlord to make a fair decision, without oversharing sensitive personal data.

Always exercise due diligence when sharing personally identifiable information. Copies of your work pass, ID, or passport should only be provided when you submit an offer and move into the Tenancy Agreement stage.

Why Certain Details Matter So Much

Budget

Your budget should realistically match current asking rents. Sometimes tenants shortlist homes slightly above their range hoping to negotiate down. That can work in a tenant’s market, but when demand is strong, a budget mismatch is one of the fastest reasons for rejection.

Pets

Pets are a major screening point. Many landlords do not allow them, and tenancy agreements frequently include a “no pets” clause. If you already have a pet or plan to get one, it is better to declare this early instead of risking a contract breach later on. Understanding how landlords view pets also ties in with tenant rights in Singapore and your responsibilities as an occupier.

Number of Occupants

Unless everyone is part of a single family unit, Singapore regulations cap occupancy at six unrelated persons per property. Groups of students or professionals planning co-living should keep this in mind. Even if you are willing to “squeeze in,” many landlords and MCSTs are not.

Lease Term

Short-term leases of less than a year are difficult to secure in regular private housing. Most landlords prefer 12–24 month commitments. If you need a shorter stay, you may have better luck with serviced apartments or dedicated co-living operators. The lease period you request will also influence specific tenancy agreement clauses such as renewal options and diplomatic clauses.

Move-in Date

Landlords try to minimise vacancy. A move-in date that is several months away may not be attractive, especially if they are servicing a mortgage. If your timeline is flexible, indicate a start window instead of a single fixed date.

Personal vs Corporate Lease

Some landlords feel more comfortable when the tenant’s employer signs the lease. If your company is open to this and has a strong track record, mentioning the possibility of a corporate lease can sometimes improve your chances.

When to Share Documents Safely

At the enquiry and viewing stage, there is no need to send scans of passports, NRICs, or work passes. These should only be requested when:

• You have decided to make an offer for a specific unit
• You are issuing a Letter of Intent (LOI)
• The landlord’s agent is preparing the Tenancy Agreement (TA)

This is also the point where you will want to review important clauses carefully and, if necessary, refer back to resources that explain what happens if you need to break lease or how professional rental management in Singapore can affect your tenancy experience.

Putting It All Together

In a competitive rental market, a clear and honest tenant profile is no longer optional; it is a basic requirement. Done well, it helps you:

• Secure viewing slots more quickly
• Stand out positively when multiple tenants are competing for the same unit
• Reduce back-and-forth with agents over missing details
• Build trust with landlords from the very first interaction

Ultimately, moving into a new place is about fit – between you, the property, the landlord, and the agents involved. A strong tenant profile gives everyone more confidence that the arrangement will work well for the entire lease period.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the purpose of a tenant profile?

A tenant profile gives agents and landlords a concise overview of who you are, how you plan to use the property, and whether you meet basic requirements. It increases your chances of securing viewings and receiving serious consideration for the unit.

Is it necessary to disclose my salary?

Exact salary details are usually not required at the enquiry stage. Landlords generally look at the overall strength of your profile and your pass type rather than a breakdown of your income.

Do landlords in Singapore accept pets?

Some do, but many do not. If you have a pet, always mention it from the start. This avoids wasted time viewing units where pets are clearly not allowed and helps you focus on homes that can genuinely work for your household.

Can I request a short-term lease under 12 months?

You can always ask, but standard private rentals in Singapore rarely go below a one-year term. For stays of a few months, serviced apartments and co-living setups are generally more suitable.

When do I provide my personal documents?

You should only share copies of your passport, IC, or work pass once you are ready to make an offer and move into the LOI and Tenancy Agreement phase. At that stage, providing documents is part of formalising the lease.

Need Help Preparing Your Tenant Profile or Shortlisting Units?

If you are new to Singapore, juggling a busy work schedule, or simply prefer a guided approach, I can help you prepare a strong tenant profile and shortlist suitable homes based on your needs and budget.

Contact me for personalised advice on your next rental move.