Summer has arrived and with it the peak season for home searching in Hong Kong. It is at this time of the year where Hong Kong property agents tend to be at their busiest.
The impending commencement of a new school year usually corresponds with families being transferred to other countries, with people leaving and moving to Hong Kong. Bearing this in mind I thought it would be helpful to answer one of the most frequently asked questions I receive from impending newcomers to HK: What is the key to a stress-free home search?
The truth is that the right real estate agent can make all the difference. One trusted agent is usually sufficient (though he or she might not always be easy to find!).
Finding the Right Agent
The easiest way to find a good agent is to do your own research on various platforms and property agent websites or by simply asking your new employer or colleagues for personal referrals. Some sites may also include ratings or testimonials from previous clients to help aid your decision.
Single Agent vs. Multiple Agents
In this fast-paced city, most properties are listed simultaneously with multiple agencies because landlords try to maximize exposure and endeavor to reduce potential vacancy periods. Therefore, if you are using several agents at the same time, you will certainly be shown properties which you have already seen or which you have discarded for various reasons. To ease stress and ensure efficiency, it is often worth gaining confidence in a single agent and relying on him or her to work with other agents and present you with a comprehensive offering.
Outlining All Requirements at the Start
An experienced real estate agent will take note of your specifications and preferences before your initial viewing and will create a targeted viewing schedule based on the gathered facts. Some points to be taken into consideration are commute time to the office and school, the mix and infrastructure of the respective neighborhood, access to shopping malls, supermarkets, entertainment venues and public transport. You may also consider asking about facilities in the building, whether the compound is gated and if the four legged members or your family are welcome. Everything that is important to you and contributes to a comfortable transfer of your previous living standard to Hong Kong, is important for an agent to know.
Selecting Your Desired Lifestyle
An agent who diligently qualifies your requirements and listens to your dreams and wishes, will put efficient viewings together so that no time is wasted in showing you unsuitable properties. Hong Kong has so many different neighborhoods and lifestyles to offer: do you want to be in a more tranquil, green, children friendly environment, do you want to be close to the beaches, close to the airport or within easy access of transport to the airport because your job requires you to travel regularly or do you prefer the hustle and bustle of big city life with everything at your fingertips?
House hunting in Hong Kong can be quite overwhelming at the beginning and it is great if you can rely on the experience and local knowledge of a dedicated agent. After all, assisting you with a smooth start into your new life in Hong Kong is our mission!
