Real Estate in Central, Hong Kong
Last updated on May 03, 2023
Summary: Expats and retirees talk about real estate in Central, Hong Kong? How do you find a home in Central? Should you buy or rent? What is the cost of housing?
How do I find a place to live in Central?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"Finding a place to live in Central involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget. The cost of living in Hong Kong is high, and the rental prices in Central, being a prime location, are particularly steep. Next, decide on the type of accommodation you want. You can choose from serviced apartments, regular apartments, or shared flats. Serviced apartments are fully furnished and include services like cleaning and maintenance. Regular apartments are usually unfurnished and you'll be responsible for your own utilities and maintenance. Shared flats are a more affordable option where you share the apartment and the rent with others. Once you've decided on your budget and the type of accommodation, start your search. You can use online property portals like Squarefoot, 28Hse, and Spacious. These websites allow you to filter your search based on location, price, size, and type of property. Another option is to hire a real estate agent. They can help you find properties that match your criteria, arrange viewings, and negotiate the lease terms with the landlord. However, keep in mind that you'll have to pay a commission, usually equivalent to half a month's rent. When you find a property you like, inspect it thoroughly. Check for any signs of damage or issues that might need repair. Also, consider the property's proximity to public transportation, shops, restaurants, and other amenities. Once you're satisfied with the property, you'll need to negotiate the lease terms with the landlord. This includes the rent, the length of the lease, the deposit, and any other conditions. Make sure to read the lease agreement carefully before signing it. Finally, once the lease is signed, you'll need to pay the first month's rent and the deposit. The deposit is usually equivalent to two months' rent. After that, you can move into your new home in Central, Hong Kong," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Central.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Central?
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Central?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Central?
- Will I be able to find a job in Central?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Central appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Central?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Central accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Central like?
- How are healthcare services in Central?
- What are medical services in Central like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Central?
- What are emergency services like in Central?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Central?
- How are local medical facilities in Central?
- As a foreigner living in Central, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?