Singapore is a common base for family offices, and the first practical question is space. An office for a small team has very different requirements from a larger one that hosts meetings, stores documents and supports several entities. Start with headcount, then add room for growth you can realistically expect over the next three years.
Cost is more than the monthly rent. Factor in service charges, fit-out, furniture, utilities, and any costs to reinstate the space when the lease ends. A cheaper unit with a long, inflexible lease can cost more over time than a slightly dearer unit with a shorter commitment or a break clause.
Lease terms matter as much as location. Check the length of the lease, whether there are renewal options, how rent reviews work, and who is responsible for repairs. Ask whether subletting is permitted if your structure changes, and confirm the building's operating hours if your team works late.
Governance also shapes the choice. Some families want a separate, controlled space for confidential meetings and document storage. Others prefer flexible shared offices that keep fixed costs low. Neither is wrong, but the decision should follow how the family office actually makes decisions.
Work with a lawyer and an agent who understand commercial leases before you commit. A good agent will explain the trade-offs clearly and will not push you into a term that does not fit how you operate.