Singapore accomodation - trying to ask for a refund for nonrefundable booking

[twilsoncrow]

Hi there
I had booked accommodation at the Heritage Apartments at Clarke Quay for my upcoming trip to Singapore and now some friends have moved there and we would prefer to stay with them BUT the booking is non refundable. Any suggestions or advice on how to frame my email to them asking for a refund, I spoke with the person at the apartments today but no luck.

I have advertised the accommodation on gumtree hoping someone will need it. Would love to hear from others about how to obtain a refund.

Thanks in advance