[Wee Kean]

Dear all, we have to leave our current apartment in August. When should we start looking for a new apartment (what type of time scale)? How easy is it to find an apartment and finalise the rental agreement without an agent?

Thanks

[larac]

Most of the places i saw were empty so you could move in almost straight away if youhad your deposit in order and your furniture ready to go. What does take time is finding the right place. Its tricky becasue I imagine you don't want to look too soon becasue you might find something but be disapointed if the timeing is too soon for you but on the other hand you don't want to be homeless. Probably also depends on where you are and your budget as to how many properties you will have to choose from - how long is a pice of string.

[tex]

wee kean,

you mentioned not using an agent. may i ask how you're going about your search without an agent? as for your question, we are in the same position and figure the sooner the better given that a) there is no penalty for us to move out before lease ends b) its more convenient for us to move sooner rather than later givenschool schedules/holidays, etc c) we're hoping to find a better deal than what we've got now. happy hunting.

[Wee Kean]

We went to a few property agents, gave them our details and they said come back in June/July... so we have to wait. At the same time, we are also looking at the property section in newspaper. I was told that this is directly dealing with the landlord and without an agent.

[rustgal17]

Hi, is there anyone who is interested to buy an Apartment instead of leasing one. There is always the problem of keeping a rented apartment when the landlord decides to increase the rental now and then. That is exactly what happened to me in 2003 so I decided to buy one after deciding that I will be in HK for quite a while. Now, I wish to sell it because I am moving back to me hometown. Also, is there any good lawyer which someone could recommend to handle the sales transaction of my Apartment. Hope to get some feedback soon.