2026 HDB & Condo Rent Benchmarks for Lease Renewals | Homejourney
Market Rent Benchmarks for HDB and Condo Renewals 2026 show stable to modest growth, with private condo rents expected to rise marginally by low single digits and HDB rents remaining firm in central areas despite increased supply.[1][2]
Homejourney prioritizes your safety in every rental decision, verifying data to help tenants and landlords renew tenancy confidently. This cluster article dives into 2026 benchmarks, linking back to our pillar on Singapore Rental Rights Guide for full coverage.
Understanding 2026 Rental Market Trends
Singapore's rental market stabilized in late 2025, with private residential rents up 1.9% for the full year after a 4Q softening.[1] HDB rental approvals rose 7.5% to 39,408 in 2025, signaling steady demand, though 4Q dipped slightly to 9,557 approvals due to seasonality.[1]
Experts forecast capped growth in 2026 from higher supply: 13,500 HDB flats hitting MOP, up from 7,000 in 2025.[2] Condo rents may see marginal single-digit increases amid stable completions.[7] Use Homejourney's rental search to compare real-time listings before renewals.
HDB Rent Benchmarks for 2026 Renewals
HDB rents stay stable overall, with premiums for mature estates like Geylang (5.1% yield), Kallang/Whampoa (4.9%), Hougang (4.8%), and Bedok (4.6%).[3] Central locations near MRTs command 5-10% higher rents due to amenities.
For a typical 4-room HDB at $520,000 average price, expect monthly rents of $3,000-$4,000 in non-central areas, rising to $4,500+ in prime spots.[3] With no HDB rental index, track approvals and compare via Projects Directory ">Homejourney projects directory.
- Insider Tip: In Bedok, 3-room units near MRT Exit A rose 0.5% MoM in late 2025, ideal for budget renters.[2]
- Check HDB subletting rules: Minimum 3-year ownership, whole-flat only for non-citizens.
Rent increases should align with town-level trends; excessive hikes risk vacancy in a competitive market.[1]
Condo Rent Benchmarks by Region for 2026
Condo rental yields vary: CCR (2.5-3.5%), RCR/OCR (3-4%).[4] Mass market condos ($1,200-$1,600 psf) yield 3.2-4.2%, premium ($1,600-$2,200 psf) 2.8-3.8%.[3]
| Region | Psf Price | Yield | Sample Monthly Rent (2-3 Bed) |
|---|---|---|---|
| CCR | $2,800+ | 2.5-3.5% | $6,000-$8,000 |
| RCR | $2,400-$2,800 | 3-4% | $5,000-$7,000 |
| OCR | $1,800-$2,300 | 3-4% | $4,000-$6,000 |
January 2026 saw condo index up 0.6% MoM to 144.8.[5] For renewals, benchmark against similar units on Homejourney.
Lease Renewal Process and Rent Increase Rules
Start discussions 2-3 months before expiry. No rent control in Singapore; increases must be market-justified via comparable rentals.[1][2] Fair ranges: 3-7% for HDB, 2-5% for condos, per 2026 outlook.
- Research: Use URA index and HDB approvals for evidence.[1]
- Negotiate: Propose terms in writing; include rent increase legally tied to benchmarks.
- Document: New lease needs stamp duty (0.4% annual rent for 1+ years); renewals often amend existing.
- Dispute: Use Community Mediation Centre or Small Claims Tribunal (up to $20,000).
Homejourney verifies listings for transparent renewals. See our Lease Renewal & Rent Increase Guide for Singapore Landlords | Homejourney ">Lease Renewal Guide for details.
Negotiating Renewals: Actionable Steps
Tenants: Gather 3-5 comparable rents from Homejourney search. Highlight maintenance issues for leverage. If unfair, explore alternatives—moving costs average 1-2 months' rent.
Landlords: Justify increases with data; offer incentives like free aircon servicing via Aircon Services ">Homejourney aircon services. Price to minimize vacancy: One empty month erases gains.[1]
Common terms: Diplomatic clause for expats, no subletting without consent. Always declare rental income to IRAS.
New Lease vs Renewal: Key Differences
Renewals save on agent fees and stamp duty but lock old terms. New leases allow updates like higher security deposits (max 2 months).[2] HDB requires re-approval for sublets.
Weigh staying: Proximity to work/MRT saves $200-500/month commute. Use Homejourney bank rates for investor cash flow analysis.[3]
Deciding to Stay or Move in 2026
Factor supply surge: More MOP flats may pressure rents down slightly.[2] Quality of life trumps 5% hikes—central HDB near amenities holds value.
Hidden move costs: $2,000-$5,000. Time market: Renew now if rates firm; wait if softening.[1] Connect with trusted agents on Homejourney agents.
FAQ: Market Rent Benchmarks for HDB and Condo Renewals 2026
What are fair rent increases for 2026?
Expect 2-5% for condos, 3-7% for HDB in line with stable trends and supply growth.[1][2]
How do I increase rent legally during renewal?
Provide market comparables; negotiate mutually. No cap, but excessive risks tribunal.[1]
What's the HDB renewal timeline?
Discuss 60-90 days early; HDB approval needed for sublets, typically 1-3 weeks.
Are 2026 condo rents rising?
Marginal growth projected, highest in OCR (3-4% yield).[4][5]
Where to check benchmarks?
Official URA/HDB data via Homejourney for verified insights.
Disclaimer: This is general guidance, not legal advice. Consult professionals for your situation. Homejourney builds trust through verified info and user feedback.
Ready for secure renewals? Search rentals on Homejourney or return to our Rental Rights Pillar.
