Realtor sells durians from Pasir Ris landed home, says he eats the fruit 3 times a day

Singapore, Singapore Jul 12, 2026 ALN: In a world filled with home-based businesses offering everything from matcha to baked goods, one entrepreneur is making waves by selling durians. Alex Chua, a 35-year-old property agent, operates Bao Jiak Durian from a semi-detached house in Riverina View, Pasir Ris, where he serves the king of fruits directly to customers. This unique business model not only caters to durian lovers but also reflects the growing trend of home-based entrepreneurship, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Originally launched as a brick-and-mortar store in Ang Mo Kio, Bao Jiak Durian faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic forced many businesses to adapt or close their doors, and Alex's venture was no exception. "When Covid-19 came, we had to shutter it because the existing landlord's business failed during the pandemic, so they closed down and we had to close down too," Alex explained in a recent interview. This situation is emblematic of the broader struggles faced by small businesses during the pandemic, highlighting the fragility of retail operations reliant on foot traffic and in-person sales.

After closing the physical store, Alex sought permission from local authorities to operate his business from home. Surprisingly, he has not received complaints about the distinctive smell of durian, which is often a concern for those living nearby. "I think you do smell it, but it's not overpowering or overwhelming," he remarked. This lack of complaints may indicate a growing acceptance of home-based food businesses within communities, as more people turn to local sources for their culinary needs.

A Safe Space for Durian Lovers

So, why durian? Alex's passion for the fruit drives his business. He admits to eating durian every day, across all three meals. The durian, often referred to as the "king of fruits," is known for its strong odor and unique taste, which divides opinions among fruit lovers and haters alike. Reflecting on his experiences as a customer, he noted that purchasing durian often felt rushed, with sellers eager to close deals. "I couldn't find a place that I could comfortably buy durian and have a chat about what I'm getting," he shared. This realization led him to create a specialized space for fellow durian enthusiasts, where customers can engage in discussions about the different types of durian, their origins, and the best ways to enjoy them.

"I realized there are people that really want to know more in-depth information about their durian," Alex said. This focus on customer education and engagement distinguishes Bao Jiak Durian from traditional durian sellers, where transactions tend to be transactional and impersonal. By fostering a community of durian lovers, Alex is not only promoting his business but also enhancing the overall customer experience.

Business Challenges

Running a home-based durian business comes with its own set of challenges. One significant hurdle is managing customer expectations, as the quality of durians cannot be judged solely by their appearance. "I can be very honest with you, there is only so much that I am able to gauge based on looks. Eating is still the best way," Alex explained. This insight underscores a common issue in the fruit market, where visual appeal can often be misleading. He estimates that the exterior of a durian only reveals about 60 to 70 percent of its quality, with the rest becoming apparent only upon tasting. This sometimes leads to customer dissatisfaction, requiring him to reassure them that he will strive for better quality next time.

Another challenge lies in coordinating logistics. Bao Jiak Durian sources its durians daily from a Malaysian supplier, and the process of consolidating, picking up, and delivering the fruits requires careful planning. "Imagine if you're the one receiving the durian. They would always feel like once they buy them, they want it straight away. So I have to let them know that it takes time," he noted, explaining that delivery typically takes about two hours. This logistical aspect is crucial for maintaining the freshness and quality of the durians, which is paramount for customer satisfaction.

Good Pickings

Despite the challenges, the hard work pays off. Alex reports that Bao Jiak Durian can generate between $50,000 to $100,000 in revenue each season. Operating from home helps keep costs manageable, with monthly expenses under $5,000. This financial success illustrates the viability of niche markets in the food industry, particularly for products that have a dedicated fanbase like durians. Interestingly, his earnings from selling durians match those from his real estate career. Selling durians even led him to his current role in property. "While I was selling durian, I got to know my current boss, who is from property, so I pivoted over," he explained. This crossover between the two industries highlights the interconnected nature of local businesses and personal networks, where opportunities can arise from unexpected places.

Looking ahead, Alex hopes to return to a storefront in the future. He believes it would provide a more convenient setting for customers, who have all become friends through their shared love of durian. "I would definitely want to have a shop, because it is more convenient for people to sit down by the tents and all that. It's a more proper setting compared to home-based," he said. The desire for a physical space reflects a common aspiration among home-based entrepreneurs to expand their operations and create a more immersive experience for their customers.

However, he acknowledges the difficulties of finding a suitable location, citing high overhead costs as a significant barrier. "It's very hard to get a nice place with nice overhead, because honestly, the overheads are killing a lot of businesses," he concluded. This sentiment resonates with many small business owners who face the dual challenges of securing affordable real estate while managing operational costs. The struggle for affordable commercial space is a significant issue in many urban areas, where demand often outstrips supply, leading to inflated prices that can stifle new ventures.

In conclusion, Alex Chua's journey with Bao Jiak Durian exemplifies the resilience and creativity of entrepreneurs in a challenging economic landscape. By turning a passion for durians into a successful home-based business, he has not only found a way to sustain himself during difficult times but has also cultivated a community of like-minded individuals who share his love for this unique fruit. As he looks to the future, the potential for growth and expansion remains, albeit with the ongoing challenges of the business environment. His story serves as an inspiration for others considering similar ventures, illustrating that with determination and a focus on customer engagement, it is possible to carve out a niche in even the most competitive markets.

Address: 19 Riverina View, Singapore 518371
Opening hours: 2pm to 8pm daily