[vinachas]

We are in the early stages of considering a move to HK in 2007 with four year and 6 month old sons. We have lived in Asia for 7 years and have some familiarity of HK but have never lived there.

No investment bankers in the family, so limited budget. Interested in getting a rough idea of costs, avialability etc. of places big enough to live in with sufficient space for energetic kids, schools and/or other useful info or recommendations particularly in relation to Lantau (DB, Mui Wo or elsewhere) or any other areas of HK where prices are not too crazy and there is access to outdoors, beach etc. while being within reasonable commuting distance from Central.

Thanks in advance

[Shoni]

I've just secured an apartment in Lantau DB and it is not too expensive. There are plenty of affordable places in DB (I'm not an investment banker and on a reasonable salary). I would recommend DB as there are plenty of facilities for children and plenty of playgrounds outside most of the apartment blocks. There are no cars so the roads are a bit safer and there are a few schools and playgroups around, ballet football, rugby, gymboree......

Commute to Central really good.

[vinachas]

Thanks Shoni
What sort of size is your new place?

[HKNewBi]

We have moved to South Lantau - mainly as I have a young daughter who is 7.

It is great for kids, there are a lot her age and they have a lot of fun after school, regularly going to the beach, playground etc. And rental in South Lantua is probably as cheap as it comes in Hong Kong.

[vinachas]

hi HK newby

No idea what to expect here - can you ive me a rough indication of what something with 3 bedroomsand some eun around space/garden would cost?

[Shoni]

If you are looking for three beds try Mui Wo as the places there are cheaper than DB but there aren't as many facilities.

You'll be looking at about HK$8,000 for 3 beds and a roof terrace.

I'm paying HK$10,000 for a one bed in DB but I am GF with a garden / terrace and balcony.

[HKNewBi]

Just to give you an idea, my neighbours have a 3 storey house, 4 bedrooms (including a huge master bedroom occupying a whole floor with sea views), large open plan kitchen / dining area and lounge with front and back gardens and they pay $14,000 a month, just gone up from $12k.