A realtor’s mission to navigate systemic hurdles and secure homes for the marginalized
Shaun Yeo’s journey into Singapore’s real estate world took an unconventional path. Formerly a private tutor, Shaun, 28, transitioned to real estate after years of moving between students’ homes. Now, instead of teaching, he’s breaking ground in a highly competitive field by focusing on a unique niche: helping the LGBTQ+ community secure housing in a country where structural policies often hinder them.
Shaun’s LinkedIn bio succinctly encapsulates his mission: “Specialise in LGBTQ+ housing in Singapore—helping queer individuals optimise and strategically structure their property portfolio within structural constraints.” This niche positions him as an advocate for equal housing opportunities, a bold endeavor in a system closely tied to traditional marriage norms.
In Singapore, public housing is intertwined with definitions of family and marriage. LGBTQ+ individuals often face restrictive policies, limiting them to options like resale flats or small 2-room units in non-mature estates, accessible only after the age of 35. For larger or more centrally located properties, these individuals are effectively excluded. Shaun’s work revolves around navigating these barriers and creating feasible paths to homeownership.
“With the right planning, homeownership in Singapore is possible—even for those who feel excluded,” Shaun emphasizes during an interview at a Chinatown café.
Despite the challenges, Shaun remains optimistic. His personal connection to the cause fuels his passion—currently living with his parents in public housing, he shares the dreams of many LGBTQ+ Singaporeans longing for their own homes. His educational background in International Relations from the University of London may not directly relate to his current work, but it reflects his broad understanding of systemic challenges.
Shaun acknowledges the demanding nature of real estate, marked by self-financed marketing and transportation costs, but his motivation stems from a desire to challenge inequities. “When I looked at the housing policies, I felt a sense of sadness and exasperation. I want to help people see that even within these constraints, they can achieve homeownership,” he says.
For Shaun, real estate is more than a career—it’s a platform for advocacy, and his efforts continue to shine a spotlight on the need for inclusive housing policies in Singapore.
