Moving to a new apartment can be exciting, although finding a good location that fits your budget can be quite overwhelming. Finding a house for rent anywhere is not an easy task, especially when it comes to a city like Hong Kong. Housing in Hong Kong ranges from compact spaces to high-end luxury accommodation with all kinds of amenities.
People these days prefer to live in shopping malls, schools, MTR lines, entertainment, etc. they are within an accessible distance. In addition, these accommodations are budgeted spaces. If you’re new to the city and looking for a decent Hong Kong apartment, keep in mind that property sizes are measured in square feet.
Assess your wants and needs
Accommodation in Hong Kong is competitive. The average rent for a 1 BHK apartment can range from HKD 12,000 to HKD 25,000 (i.e. $ 1,500 to $ 2,500) or more. A luxury resort where the standard of living is slightly high, as are the rental prices.
Your wants and needs may vary at times and you may need some time to think:
- Pets – Not all apartments in Hong Kong allow pets. So check in advance if you have a pet. Also, many parks have no-pet policies, so what if your apartment allows it but you can’t take your furry friend for a run?
- Pool / Gym / Sauna – The clubhouse may look great and attractive on a property, but not on a lease. This will add up to the cost of the rental. Do you really need those amenities?
- Transfer time – Choosing a decent neighborhood also means less travel time. You have more time to relax at home or hang out with friends than to travel an hour by train.
How to find a decent apartment in Hong Kong?
When looking for a space to rent between a serviced apartment (furnished / semi-furnished that comes with basic amenities like a gym) it can get expensive. Standard apartments that are generally unfurnished are affordable, requiring a one-month deposit.
Online / Social networks
You can find a decent deal on Hong Kong apartment rentals through any social media platform as well as real estate websites. This way you can close the search quickly. The best part is that you can view the pictures of the property, highlighting it with the amenities and proximity markings, saving you the time and hassle of personally visiting the place. In addition, you can compare accommodation rentals in the same town. Thus, you can shortlist the rental property quickly and hassle-free.
Real estate agents
Another option is to hire a real estate agent. Local Hong Kong real estate agents are professionals when it comes to finding a rental property that is right for you. For a foreigner who has come to the city for the first time, real estate professionals may be the best option, as they dominate the real estate market in the city. Your agent will have all the details and will be transparent with your rental process.
Typically, the term of the rental agreement will involve a 12-month lease. Where after 12 months, the individual parties will be free to terminate the lease with a notice period if the clause is in writing. The rental procedure may differ if you go through a real estate agent, but the documentation (i.e. copy / HKID passport, valid work permit, employment letter-endorsement letter) required is pretty much the same.