Singapore's black and white houses are typically colonial bungalows that were built between the late 19th century up until the pre-war era. The name came from the dark, almost-black timber beams and white-washed walls that were used in their construction. Many such homes are now managed as SLA properties for rent. To celebrate that heritage today, many other shophouses re-create that B&W look and feel.

Here are some Black and white enclaves worth knowing (many managed as SLA houses): Dempsey Road. Rochester Park. Portsdown Road. Gillman Barracks. Adam Park. Sembawang Park. Seletar Aerospace Park. And many more! Part of the fun is exploring these tropical neighborhoods replete with colonial properties.

In additional to colonial Black and White bungalows, shophouses—a heritage source of delightful nostalgia—are a prevalent building typology in Singapore's architectural vernacular. They are normally narrow terraced houses built in the Southern Chinese style, with a sheltered 'five foot way' at the front of the house.

Buying a house involves a large financial commitment that many people end up working their entire lives to pay off. Renting a home with Figment as the direct owner requires a much smaller financial outlay, especially for the short-term as you will not have to cough up the cash on a huge downpayment, and you will not be in mortgage debt for the rest of your life!

Have a look at our rental guides for coliving spaces as well as studio apartments for more information!

According to the Council for Estate Agencies, to rent property in Singapore, you need to be a Singapore citizen or permanent resident. Non-citizens may rent if they hold an employment or work permit like an S-pass, a student pass, dependent pass or long term social visit pass. That said, even with foreigners holding legal residence, the problem is that most Singapore landlords may not be too pleased with a month-to-month lease agreement and would typically require at least a 1 or 2 year contract. Figment provides a much-needed. flexible alternative for B&W rentals with flexible lease terms and a 1-month notice period.