A boutique farm stay business located in Changi Village is seeking a new owner to take over its lease, potentially bringing an end to a unique countryside experience within Singapore. House of Melissa Boutique Farmstay, founded in November 2024 by Clarence Chua and his wife Candice Li, is offering the opportunity for someone to operate the property, which is situated on Netheravon Road within the premises of the Civil Service Club.

Chua, who co-founded the farm stay with his wife, said the prospective lessee might be someone looking to leave the corporate world and embrace a more laid-back lifestyle. The lease has about two years remaining, and the couple is aiming to find a new tenant by December 1. They have scheduled viewings through the end of November. The asking price has not been disclosed.

The 12,000 square-foot property, also known as House of Melissa Evelin, is designed around a fictional British naturalist created by the owners. It offers guests sea views alongside a variety of farm-like features, including free-roaming chickens and hornbills, an apiary with more than ten hives, and a garden growing jackfruit, coconut, tapioca, and coffee plants. The stay can accommodate up to nine guests in three bedrooms.

Visitors at House of Melissa can participate in activities such as beekeeping demonstrations, honey harvesting, and egg gathering. Other recreational options include kayaking and fishing. The property also hosts weddings, corporate events, and educational visits from school groups. Rental rates range from approximately S$300 to S$600 nightly for the entire house.

Despite remaining profitable, the farm stay has experienced a slight decline in revenue this year. Chua attributed the downturn partially to broader economic challenges, including reduced demand since the outbreak of the conflict involving Iran, which has affected businesses across Singapore. Additionally, rising rental costs pose a financial challenge, with monthly rent increasing by several hundred dollars annually.

Chua and Li have also been involved in other nature-themed ventures. In 2020, they opened The Sundowner Nature Experience Centre, initially located on a rooftop in Siglap, which was later relocated to a larger space at the Old Bukit Timah Fire Station at the end of 2025. Chua also operates a bee rescue business that removes and relocates bees.

With their focus shifting toward these other projects, the couple indicated they no longer require the space occupied by the farm stay. Chua emphasized that the farm stay remains viable and could see higher occupancy with additional marketing. Currently, the property achieves about 66% occupancy, or roughly 20 nights booked per month.

“A boutique farm by the sea is a concept that works,” Chua said, highlighting the serene environment where visitors can escape from urban life. He expressed hope that the farm stay could continue operating under new management, allowing more people to experience its tranquil setting away from the city’s bustle. If a new lessee is not secured, the business may close by the end of the year.