Steps of Renting Private Housing

1. Search of Private Housing

1. What type of property I prefer most? A single-blocked residential or a large private apartment?
2. Is it a single or flat to be shared with others?
3. How much can I afford for renting a flat?
4. How long will the rental period be?
5. Apart from the utility charges such as water, electricity and gas fee, what other expenses that I should be responsible for?
6. What kind(s) of furniture / electrical appliances is/are provided in the flat?
7. How is the infrastructure / transportation network around?
8. How long does it take me traveling from the building to the University campus? How much does it cost?
9. Has the flat been mortgaged? Whether the bank has agreed the flat being rented out?

Study More

2. Looking For Property Agencies

3. House Visit and Checking

1. Visit with family or friends for more opinions;
2. Visits should be held in day-time to have clear picture about the flat;
3. Before visiting the rental property, a tenant has to sign a document called "Estate Agency Agreement for Leasing of Residential Properties in Hong Kong" which is about the responsibility between tenant and agent;
4. During the visit, pay attention to the internal structure of the flat and the whole building. Here are some useful hints when checking the internal structure:

Here are several advices when coming to house visit:

• Check if there is any tiles peeling off from external wall of the building;
• Check if there is any security guard stationing at the main entrance and any fire-precautionary facilities installed;
• Check whether the common area of the building is clean and tidy;
• Check the layout of the flat;
• Examine the condition of the provided furniture and / or electrical appliances;
• Check if there is any seepage problem at kitchen and bathroom;
• Examine the ventilation of the flat.

4. Notes on Signing Tenancy Agreement