Market Rent Comparables: Benchmark Fair Rent Increases in SG | Homejourney
Market Rent Comparables help landlords justify fair rent increases during lease renewal in Singapore by benchmarking against similar properties' current rents. In 2026, with the rental market stabilizing after 2025's modest +1.9% private rent growth, typical increases range from 0-5% for HDB and 2-4% for condos, depending on location and unit type.[1][2][3]
This cluster article on Market Rent Comparables: Benchmark Fair Rent Increases in SG provides actionable data for rent increase decisions during rental renewal. It links to our pillar guide on Singapore tenancy laws, offering tactical steps for landlords and tenants to negotiate renew tenancy agreements transparently. Homejourney prioritizes user safety by verifying market data to build trust in every transaction.
Why Market Rent Comparables Matter for Lease Renewal
Singapore has no rent control, so rent increase is market-driven under common law and tenancy agreements. Landlords must propose increase rent legally using comparables—rents of similar nearby units—to avoid Small Claims Tribunal (SCT) disputes over excessive hikes.[3] Tenants can counter with their own comparables for fair renew tenancy terms.
In 2026, HDB rents remain stable with central town premiums (e.g., Queenstown 5-room at SGD 4,500), while private rents cap at low single-digits due to rising supply.[1][3] Homejourney's verified data ensures users access reliable benchmarks, fostering a safe rental environment.
2026 HDB Rent Benchmarks: Key Comparables by Town and Type
HDB rents held firm in 2025, with 39,408 approvals (up 7.5%), but expect flat-to-slight-up growth in 2026 amid MOP completions.[2][4] Use these market rent comparables for fair rent increases:
- 3-room: SGD 2,400–3,200 (central towns +10%, e.g., Geylang/Whampoa).[1][4]
- 4-room: SGD 3,000–4,400 (Hougang/Bedok premiums at 4.6-4.8% yields).[1][4]
- 5-room/Executive: SGD 3,500–4,500+ (Queenstown tops at SGD 4,500).[1]
Insider tip: For HDB subletting, check HDB portal approvals first—central MRT-adjacent units (e.g., 5-min walk from Bedok MRT) command 5-10% premiums.[4] Track via Homejourney projects directory for town-level data.
HDB Fair Rent Increase Guidelines
Benchmark against 3-5 similar units within 1km. Acceptable hikes: 0-3% in peripheral towns (Sembawang), 3-5% in mature estates.[1][3] Exceeding 10% risks SCT challenges unless justified by upgrades (e.g., new aircon—see Homejourney aircon services).
Condo Rent Comparables: Regional Benchmarks for 2026
Private rents rose 1.9% in 2025 but softened Q4; expect 2-3% growth in 2026.[2][3] Yields: CCR 2.5-3.5%, OCR 3-4%.[4]
| Region | Typical Rent (2-3 Bed) | Fair Increase (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| CCR | SGD 6,000–8,000 | 2-4% |
| RCR | SGD 5,000–7,000 | 2-3.5% |
| OCR | SGD 3,000–5,500 | 1-3% |
Actionable step: Compare psf rents in Homejourney projects directory. E.g., OCR mass-market condos at $1,200-1,600 psf yield steady 3.2-4.2%.[4]
Step-by-Step: Using Comparables for Legal Rent Increases
Follow these steps to increase rent legally during lease renewal:
- Gather data: List 3-5 comparable units (same type, <1km radius) from official URA/HDB sources or Homejourney rental search.
- Calculate average: Exclude outliers; aim for median rent.
- Propose increase: Limit to market delta (e.g., 3% if comparables rose 3%). Provide evidence in renewal notice (60 days pre-expiry).
- Negotiate: Share comparables transparently. Use scripts from Tenancy Renewal Negotiation Scripts & Templates for SG Landlords | Homejourney ">Tenancy Renewal Negotiation Scripts.
- Stamp duty: For leases ≥1 year, pay 0.4% of annual rent (Stamp Duties Act).
Landlords report rental income to IRAS; tenants check HDB sublet rules. Homejourney verifies listings for safe renew tenancy.
Common Pitfalls and SCT Protections
Excessive hikes (>10-15%) often fail at SCT (up to SGD 20,000 disputes).[3] Reference SCT Cases on Excessive Rent Increases: SG Landlord Guide | Homejourney ">SCT Cases on Excessive Rent Increases. HDB vs private rules differ—see HDB vs Private Property Rent Adjustment Rules Explained | Homejourney ">HDB vs Private Rent Adjustment Rules.
Prevention tip: Document everything. For financing impacts, check Homejourney bank rates.
FAQ: Market Rent Comparables in Singapore
What is a fair rent increase for HDB lease renewal in 2026?
0-5%, based on local comparables. Central towns allow up to 5%; peripherals stay flat.[1][4]
How do I find market rent comparables for my condo?
Use Homejourney rental search and URA data for similar units by region/size.[2]
Can tenants challenge a rent increase legally?
Yes, via SCT if unsupported by comparables. Provide your own evidence for negotiation.[3]
What's the timeline for rental renewal discussions?
Start 1-2 months early. Give 60 days' notice for changes.[4]
Disclaimer: This is general guidance; consult professionals via Homejourney agents for advice. Homejourney verifies info for trust.
Master Market Rent Comparables: Benchmark Fair Rent Increases in SG with Homejourney. Search rentals at Homejourney rental search or connect with agents at Homejourney agents. Explore our pillar on Singapore Tenancy Rights for full coverage.
