So I found a place. How do I get myself an appointment? How do I get my name on the lease? What Chinese phrases and communication techniques do I need ?
Just keep in mind often times the listings on 591 aren’t actually available, and when you contact the broker, they will say something like “we just rented the place out, but we’ve got some other nearby similar places if you are interested”. At that point I’d just say thank you and look for another place and not go along with that crap.
2 Likes
Have you tried calling them?
1 Like
Call and ask something like 你好，黃小姐在嗎？(黃小姐 being the sample name of the landlord or the representative).
Tell them that you saw their apartment and ask if it’s still available… Something like:
我在591上看到你有房子要租出去，還有嗎？
Of course you’ll also want to include the address of the apartment so they know which one you’re talking about.
If it’s available, ask them if they’re available at a specific time to show you the apartment, like 這禮拜五早上方便看房嗎？and they’ll probably ask what time or ask if you could do a different day instead.
I think these should cover the phone call well enough.
3 Likes
Get your gf or a local friend to call.
Don’t mention about any thing about a wai guo ren. Then go visit the place and make sure its up to par.
If they agree to it, pretend you are living there together to begin with.
9 Likes
Yep. Housing discrimination is rampant here. This is a job for a native speaking friend.
6 Likes
I also have a friend i get to call for things like this. Seems the common reactions to a foreigner are: too scary, too much trouble, or an easy mark
3 Likes
I usually just copy and paste my frequently repeated advice. If TL:DL just
- Never go alone. Always have witnesses.
- Do not rush. Compare. Shop. Check during the day. At night. Big changes.
- get a local/old foreign hand to help.
- once rented, take pictures of everything. test everything the day you move in.
- Be aware of legalities, for example only two months rent as deposit, make sure you are renting from the true owner, be wary of scams.
2 Likes
If its a new building (anywhere up to 3-4 years old) go during the day to check on construction sounds.
1 Like
I find that crappier properties tends to have landlords that are more easygoing… more luxury living seems to have landlords who are afraid of damage.
As someone who recently found a great flat on 591, here’s my guide.
Filters are your friend on 591. Narrow down what you want. 591 is best for independent suites/apartments as if you sublet I’m not sure what kind of room mates you could end up with. Narrow down area, price and amenities. Save and bookmark the link. Now get used to opening that at least 3 times a day and scroll through the queue. Sort by new. I personally feel like posts that have been up for a long time probably have obvious problems that are apparent in person, so I avoid them.
Call if possible (need Chinese for this unfortunately) and set a time to see the place ASAP. Like tomorrow morning ASAP. Calling is more effective because agents are busy and also some are lazy. They make a lot less on renting places than selling them, so many of them unfortunately do not give a single shit. If no Chinese ability, have a friend craft a boilerplate LINE message to send agents.
Bring cash for a placeholder deposit, and use it if you love the place. They will take it off 591, but if you change your mind you will lose it. It’s better to have the option to reserve it because honestly many good apartments will be gone the same day before you can come back with cash. Cash is the only thing that will actually reserve it, agents will tell you up front that they cannot keep it if someone else offers cash before you.
Some agents/landlords don’t like foreigners, it’s best to go with your gut and decline if you get a bad vibe from them. Test everything (AC/water heater/toilet/faucets). Ask for edge cases and how landlord typically responds. Stay away from ‘whatever’ vibe/dismissive agents and landlords. Avoid damp/musty smells. If it’s on the roof, make sure it’s built with solid construction.
Competition for the good places (i.e. amenities+ natural light / location) is extreme. I was booking with agents for their earliest times and still having it sell out from the 1-2 appointments ahead of mine. Also dealt with rudeness, flakiness, last second cancellations, catfished pics, etc etc. It was immensely frustrating, but also immensely satisfying once I found my gem in the rough.
I wish you luck in your journey!
4 Likes
Thanks that’s the difficult part