Hotel? Try again.

By naren | Explore, Housing, Long Term Rentals, Serviced Apartments

Hotel? Try again.

Move over hotels, serviced apartments are the way to go when selecting accommodation options for your employees coming from overseas.

When it comes to picking the right lodging for them, factors like price, location and suitability must be considered. Here’s why serviced apartments check those boxes.

Keep a healthy state of mind

Imagine your colleague doing her work in a room. She eats in her room, sleeps and watches TV in this 325 square feet shoe box. Now imagine her having the same routine for 3 months in the same room.

When you take someone away from home and put them within 4 walls to work, you restrict the mind from being able to draw clear distinctions between daily activities. In serviced apartments, you can work and play as it should be.

Serviced apartments not only offer the space for comfortable daily living, but residential style units often come with windows that you can actually open. Fresh air and warm sunlight are essential for good living. But serviced apartments are healthy for the mind too.

Bedrooms for rest, kitchens for cooking and living rooms for living. Your boss/employee will appreciate the care taken to provide them with a space where they can be comfortable. You aren’t just looking for a space they can work from. They need a space to live in.

Have a get-together

Speaking of needs, the living areas in serviced apartments provide the tenant with the ability to host. A fully equipped kitchen to prepare meals and an area to welcome guests. It’s much easier to greet people with a living space rather than just a room.

Business meetings cum client lunches, you can have them at ‘home’. Keep a healthy social life active and throw small gatherings over at ‘your place’. Being in another country doesn’t mean one has to always rely on others for social outings. Bask in the independence that space provides.

It’s cheaper

A growing reason to have you looking at a serviced apartment rather than a hotel is the point that it is arguably cheaper for long-term stays.

Keeping to a budget can always make or break a decision. Serviced apartments offer more value for money with regards to the space they provide. If you think about it, with hotels, you are paying a fixed rate for the number of guests. Whereas with apartments you’re also paying for the space and facilities provided.

Sometimes sticking to a budget means skimping and doing away with luxury. With serviced apartments, you won’t have to.

Keep your friends close.

Add structure to your life

The flexibility offered by serviced apartments allows for more than one employee. During longer stays, some individuals might be less than willing to share a room with a colleague. Serviced apartments offer the option of separate bedrooms.

The accommodating space you find in serviced apartments also allows for little things that make one feel less away from home. Things like washing machines; allowing you to do your own laundry and kitchens; to prepare your own meals.

It’s easy to forget current human needs when making such decisions but your main aim here is to limit the feeling of displacement as much as possible.

Temporary Home

With serviced apartments, one is essentially getting a space that feels like a home. Working and living from an unfamiliar environment is never easy. So it makes things easier to cope with when you can operate from somewhere you feel comfortable in.

The main aim is always to always care for your employee’s wellbeing by making sure he/she has the right tools and environment to produce efficiently with a healthy state of mind.

So do yourself and everyone else a favour; leave hotels to the tourist and pick that serviced apartment if you mean business.

metroresidences - apartment rental - singapore hong kong tokyo

Definitive Guide on Renting an Apartment in Hong Kong

By Ann Chan | Housing

Definitive Guide on renting an apartment in Hong Kong

Puzzling out how to rent a decent place in Hong Kong? Worried that you will be scammed by the online agents or landlords? Here’s a quick yet definitive guide on renting an apartment in Hong Kong and you may take note on the following 2 points:

1. Condition

There are many buildings in HK are of over 50 years. Some of them are aged and worn that are lacking of renovation. If you want to ensure your living quality, it is recommended that the apartment you pick should be newly renovated. You may consult the agent or owner before you actually make the decision. Moreover, a fully furnished flat will be perfect for an expat or a busy family. You don’t have to worry about the price, the decoration, etc. More time can be saved for chilling. Remember to take note on the general structure of the building: they might be walk-up buildings that are not equipped with elevators! One suggestion is that you better do room viewing before you actually move in… Sometimes photos can’t really tell the truth. Check the furniture and electronic appliances carefully, if they are broken down, the landlord might charge you extra!

Image 1: http://www.teoalida.com/world/hongkong/

2. Size

Studio, 1 Bedroom, 2 Bedrooms…… With such variety of sizes, it highly depends on your budget to decide which one to rent. One essential point to note is that the sizes of every kind of apartment are all much smaller than those in your home country; while the rent is super high that with HKD 10000, you may only get a 100 sq.ft studio. Stay alert for the size that the agents tell you- it might be Gross Floor Area that includes Saleable Area plus common area of the public or just Saleable Area.

Image 2: https://www.hongkongfp.com/2015/07/27/the-unlivable-dwellings-in-hong-kong-and-the-minimum-living-space/

Image 3: https://www.nytimes.com/2014/11/19/realestate/hong-kongs-tiny-apartments.html

Other than the aforementioned points, there are some common Q&As below:

What documents do I need to prepare before renting an apartment?

Normally, you will have to bring along your passport, HKID card (If you have) and letter of acceptance from your employer in Hong Kong (Monthly salary stated clearly) to prove that you are legal to stay in Hong Kong and able to pay for the upcoming rents.

What will I be required to do in order to secure my booking?

If you are booking via a local property agency, the agents will ask you to sign a tenancy agreement. In Hong Kong, it’s normally 2 years. However, both the landlord and tenant have the right to terminate after 1 year with a 2-3 months’ notice. You will also need to pay for the agency fee and stamp duty (0.5% of annual rental) respectively. Moreover, many landlords will require you to pay for the one-month holding deposit, as well as a security deposit which varies from 1-month rent to 3-month rent. It will be refunded if there is no breach of contract terms, e.g. loss of sofa, unreasonable tearing-off of wall papers. Therefore, you will need to be aware of the agreement terms before you sign it- Ask for clarifications and probably translations from the agent or landlord.

Can I rent an apartment for less than a year?

Technically yes as there is no minimum term for tenancy in Hong Kong. However, in reality, 90% of landlords prefer to rent their apartments to tenants for at least 2 years. Therefore, if you want to rent for a short period of time in Hong Kong, it is advised that you should consider renting a serviced apartment instead. There are various serviced apartments located at diverse corners of Hong Kong and the terms are relatively more flexible.

How much is the commission when renting an apartment?

The standard of Hong Kong’s commission is half month’s commission from the tenant and half month’s commission from the landlord. You will need to pay for the commission once the Tenancy Agreement is signed and agreed.

How much in total do I need to pay to rent an apartment?

In most cases, you will need to pay a total of 2-month rent as security deposit, 1 month rent in advance, half month’s estate agents commission, and stamp duty payable to the HKSAR government.

If there is a break down in one piece of equipment, do I need to pay for the repair?

A Tenancy Agreement should include a clause that states that any chattels included in the premises shall be maintained and be in a proper state of repair at the responsibility of the landlord. If there are any repair and maintenance issues, the landlord and the tenant must follow the tenancy agreement to determine the responsible party.

Therefore, when you are signing for the agreement, you will need to be aware of the terms written and further clarify with the landlord if you have any uncertainty on the interpretations of the specific terms.

Can Hong Kong apartments accommodate pets?

Depending on the Deed of Mutual Covenant of an apartment building in Hong Kong, pets may or may not be allowed in the building. However, it also depends on the landlord whether s/he will accept pets inside the apartment. Prior consent is needed from the landlord if you would like to bring a pet into the apartment and it should be clearly written on the tenant agreement as well, to prevent confusion.

Can I sublet the apartment or get a flat mate?

There is a standard clause in a Tenancy Agreement that states that a Tenant shall not assign, transfer, sublet or part with the possession of the Premises or any part thereof to any other person during the Term of Tenancy and the Tenancy shall be personal to the Tenant named in the agreement. If the apartment is sublet or rent to others without the landlord’s consent, it is regarded as a breach of the contract.

Is the Tenancy Agreement in Hong Kong legally binding?

Yes, it is legally binding and if it is signed under a mutually agreeable situation, it is accepted as evidence in court (including the Lands Tribunal) and it is enforceable against the related parties.

You may refer to this for more details regarding the tenant agreement.

Then, where can I find the right apartment?

Want to have a conveniently located, fully furnished, newly renovated and spacious apartment under a reasonable price? You may go for MetroResidences, which provides you with minimum property standards, that they ensure every apartment rented is a bargain for the guests.

Learn more via: https://metroresidences.com/hk-en/

Top 3 Residential Apartments That Have Caught Our Eye in 2018

By wesley | Hong Kong, Hong Kong Living, Housing, living in Hong Kong, Long Term Rentals, Serviced Apartments

The serviced apartment arena in Hong Kong is growing exponentially, there are so many choices for those who are looking to rent a serviced apartment, and the quality of what is on offer is increasing all the time. With so many to choose from, it’s no wonder that you are reading this article as we have taken the time to highlight our top residential apartments which have really stood out and caught our eye for 2018.

Island Crest Hong Kong

The Island Crest development is located in the Sai Ying Pun district of Hong Kong. Offering an impressive list of facilities, it is no wonder that we are featuring this on the top of our list of serviced apartments in Hong Kong which have caught our attention this year. From a children’s playroom to a multi-purpose conference suite this place has got it all. Featuring a Sky garden, Jacuzzi, Sauna, BBQ Area, and swimming pool facilities for adults and children, it is the perfect place to get that home from home environment if you are looking for a residential apartment to rent in Hong Kong.

The overall Island Crest Hong Kong development has 488 units across two very modern 36-story tower blocks. Offering high-end premium fittings and fixtures, the interiors are just as impressive as their facilities. With a huge transport network within arms-reach, choosing Island Crest Hong Kong for your next residential apartment is a great selection.

J-Residence Hong Kong

The J-Residence development is situated close to the heart of Wanchai. The location is definitely one of the key drivers for this being number 2 on our list. It is in close proximity to the MTR with an abundance of restaurants, shops, and things to see close by and Pacific Palace is just a short stroll away. In terms of the facilities offered at the J-Residence Hong Kong serviced apartments, you can consider these to be above-premium standards. There is a conference center, along with a function room, pools room and a sensational sundeck with seating. The Rooftop garden offers astounding views across the city by day or night. In terms of well-being facilities, as you would expect from any premium serviced apartments in Hong Kong, J-Residence offers a fully equipped gymnasium and an indoor swimming pool as well.

The J-Residence Hong Kong developments have 381 units over 30 storeys, each of which is decorated and furnished to an ultra-chic standard, with all amenities and inclusions expected. All of the J-Residence serviced apartments have balconies and open-plan kitchen spaces. Popular with both young professionals and families alike, J-Residence Hong Kong has to be seen to be believed.

The Lily

Located in the very heart of Repulse Bay, The Lily Hong Kong is one of the most iconic developments of the century. Just a few minutes away from the city, and surrounded in some of the most beautifully stunning natural sights the area has to offer, it is one of the most sought-after locations for serviced apartments in Hong Kong. The Lily is an award-winning serviced apartment that looks out across the ocean, onto the beach with a backdrop undulating hills behind. The club at The Lily offers residents premium amenities and state of the art services that ensure the ultimate comfort and enjoyment of guests. With an indoor pool, jacuzzi, and a fully equipped gymnasium. There is also a separate pool with a lifeguard present at all times and outdoor play area for the children.

Choosing to stay in a serviced apartment in Hong Kong is surely the best way to get luxurious living at a price you can afford. With serviced apartments available in every district across the city, wherever you are looking to rent a serviced apartment in Hong Kong, we can guarantee you will be spoilt for choice.

MetroResidences.com offers an array of corporate serviced apartments for business travelers in Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore. We make corporate serviced apartment stays more affordable, more enjoyable, and take the stress out of finding the right place at the right place.

BEST 3 AGENTS FOR YOUR NEXT HOUSE FOR RENT IN HONG KONG

By wesley | Hong Kong, Hong Kong Living, Housing, living in Hong Kong, Long Term Rentals, Use these 3 property agencies when renting a house in Hong Kong

All of us know the hassle in the crazy process of renting a house or getting a house for rent in Hong Kong. Brush off the fears of losing your investments for nothing and hush away the stress that comes with the thought of bustle with these 3 property agents working for your better future.

1. Treasure Land Property Consultants

Wan ChaiRoom 1505-06, Harcourt House, 39 Gloucester Road‎ [+852 2866 3363]

Treasure land is the Hong Kong’s leading property agent. If you’re planning to look for a house for rent in Hong Kong or invest your savings the better way, treasure land provides you the service never compromised on quality and efficiency. The agency takes you on board in a flash with their updated digital outlook that makes them the fastest growing agency coming head to head with the pace of the society. Hands-on information, quick and trustworthy services and a pool of well-trained enthusiasts from the universities make it the best option for your needs. The agency offers a wide pool of residential and commercial sites separately making your work easier and paving the way to more ideas about how you can effectively utilize your investment.

2. Engel & Volkers Hong Kong

Shop A, Ground Floor, 95 Caine Road, Mid Levels, Central, Hong Kong [+852 2561 3616]

Engel & Volkers are the listed real estate agency serving with the qualified and well-trained staff to the people looking out mostly for luxurious hatch-in place, a royal house for rent in Hong Kong.

The agents work on the agenda of providing best customer service and their service-oriented attitude has made them acquire business internationally. Having 700 worldwide caters, you can be a part or have a part of the agency sitting anywhere anytime according to your needs. The staff is trained globally creating a sense of security and trust among every step that steps in.

The local experts have the access to global distribution. The experts will fully understand your needs and act accordingly. Their constant feedback is additional perk creating the sense of trust and attachment between the client and agent. E&V is proven for the best outcome in the worth of your money whether you’re the buyer or the seller leaving you delighted with your decision. Among the huge list of properties for sale, some important ones include: Repulse Bay, Clear Water Bay, Causeway Bay such as Happy Valley, Wan Chai, Aberdeen, The Peak, in around the Western District Area such as Pok Fu Lam, Mid-Levels, Sai Ying Pun in Central and Kennedy Town in Sheung Wan.

3. Home Net

Rm 56, 2/F Eton Tower 8 Hysan Avenue, Causeway Bay [+852 2910 7832]

Very simple and easy going home net have the what you call the best at being user-friendly. Simple in format and huge multilingual staff experts assist in making the most out of your efforts. Home net sets you free of the burdens by generously making it simple and easy and within your budget, whether you’re a buyer or an investor. The agency lets you spend a nice chunk of your time and effort without wasting any, and the rest is on them. Life made just that easy!

Want to read more interesting blogs? Stay tuned!

10 Best Serviced Apartments in Hong Kong

By Cong Cao | Housing, Serviced Apartments

10 Best Serviced Apartments in Hong Kong

Do you want to make the most of your budget? Well, then the best serviced apartments in Hong Kong can be your go-to option.

Here’s the list of the top 10 serviced apartments, to let you live joyfully!

1. THE STAUNTON SUITES

The Staunton Suites are the elegant serviced apartments located in 22 Staunton Street, Central, Hong Kong. Your stay at these suites places you at the heart of Soho just 10 minutes away from the Central Station. If you’re on out and about alone, the place can bless you with the warmth and comfort with its urban vibes with chilly terraces like a cherry on the top!

2. THE PUTMAN

Being at The Putman keeps you in the heart of Hong Kong. The place, conscious about its sleek design and décor is good to the eyes and heart catching. With all the basic amenities, The Putman is the best serviced apartment as this suite offers a meeting room and business support services making your life easier.

3. THE JOHNSTON SUITES

These are another center focused serviced apartments with reach to all the happening places in the city just a couple minutes away. These suites are specially designed with the corporate professional mind set. The services include all the basic amenities with gym and business centered services.

4. EATON RESIDENCIES

One of the top serviced apartments in Hong Kong is just 5 minutes away from Causeway Bay the most happening and crazy shopping and entertainment hub surrounded by all the other needful areas of the resident. The residencies are finely constructed and good to pockets!

5. LANSON PLACE HONG KONG

Lanson is the luxurious serviced apartment located on Leighton Road about 5 minutes away from Causeway Bay MTR Subway station. The décor and the rooms have that homely warmth and comfort. The stay here gets more convenient with their complimentary shuttle service. The amenities include a fully equipped kitchenette and all the comfort you could ask for.

6. BOUTIQUE SERVICED APARTMENT – SUITEDREAM

24 KMs from the Chek Lap Kok Airport, this place is fit for the shop till you drop kinds! Featured facilities include fully equipped kitchenette and lounge with TV and satellite channels. The residents can enjoy easiest access to their favorite brands like Rolex, Cartier, Gucci, Tiffany & Co. etc.

7. HONG KONG PARK VIEW

Another best serviced apartment about a 15 minute drive away from the Central/Wanchai. The ultra-modern apartments can win the heart of any art lover. The place offers a wide range of options for the residents to stay and have a wonderful experience with or without family. Featured amenities include private shuttle and laundry services. But this is just not enough, the area also offers a 6 days trial for complete satisfaction.

8. SOMERSET VICTORIA PARK HONG KONG

A perfect mix of comfort and convenience this serviced apartment is located in the metropolis just 5 minutes away from the Causeway Bay – the best commercial district. Equipped with modern kitchen and equipment, Wireless internet and furnished rooms is a blessing for the business and leisure traveler.

9.THE JERVOIS

Located in the Central Hong Kong, The Jervois is a 3-minute walk from the Macau Ferry Terminal. The featured amenities include laundry, housekeeping, breakfast, fitness center and a multilingual happy go lucky staff.

10. Ovolo West Kowloon

Located in 256 Tung Chau Street, West Kowloon is a pocket savvy yet beautiful spot to stay on your leisure tours. The main shopping sites nearby include the latest Elements Mega-Mall. The place is fit for you and your family to have a memorable time and good value for money.

Want to read more interesting blogs, check out more blogs here.

metroresidences - apartment rental - singapore hong kong tokyo - serviced apartments in hong kong

Gorgeous Serviced Apartments in Hong Kong

By Cong Cao | Housing, Long Term Rentals, Serviced Apartments

Gorgeous Serviced Apartments in Hong Kong

There is no doubt that Hong Kong is a thriving destination that offers an abundance of choices if you are looking for a serviced apartment to rent. Whether you are a corporate client looking to rent a serviced apartment in Hong Kong or a family looking for a homely base in which to explore all that Hong Kong can offer; choosing a serviced apartment is a great way to give you a comfortable and cost-effective place you can call home while staying in this empirical city.

Shama Midlevels

Monthly Rate: HKD 36,800-55,000

Shama is a power-house of serviced apartments across almost every district in Hong Kong. This building, in particular, offers the highest quality of serviced apartments in the city with stunning contemporary interior design and unrivalled levels of comfort and convenience. This particular building is in the Mid-Levels district and comes with a one bedroom option with or without a terrace. With the assurance of a 24-hour concierge and security service, along with a maid and laundry service; you get everything you would expect with the added bonus of their exclusive lifestyle programme. This provides visitors with an essential tour and familiarisation process that helps you discover the city and everything it has on offer to enrich your stay in this amazing city. Amenities such as Wifi, an onsite business centre, outdoor garden with BBQ equipment, as well as an LCD TV and DVD entertainment system, this is truly one of the best-serviced apartment providers in the city of Hong Kong.

The Henry

Monthly Rate: HKD 20,000-44,000

With this serviced apartment in the popular Sheung Wan and Western District, you get a choice of a studio, one or two-bedroom space. The minimum stay is 30 days. There is a daily maid service along with the added bonus of 24-hour security. With features such as a business centre onsite, broadband WIFI, Laundry, HDTV and other comforts such as coffee machines, iPod docking stations and a Martini Set, you have everything you need to stay connected in Comfort.

The Elgin

Monthly Rate: HKD 20,000-30,000

The Elgin is situated in the Central and Admiralty area of Hong Kong. Their apartments offer an abundance of light and all the amenities you would expect from a serviced apartment. This is offered as a one-bedroom serviced apartment with a minimum stay of 30 days. It is a spacious fully-furnished apartment offering maid and linen services for the duration of your stay. WIFI comes as standard along with a phone and fax for great connectivity. This is a highly-private residence offering one serviced apartment per floor with secure lift access and around-the-clock security.

Stanford Residences Victoria Harbour

Monthly Rate: HKD 22,330-50,345

This popular serviced apartment is situated in the stunning location of Causeway Bay in Hong Kong. Offering studio apartments, one bedroom and premium studio options, there is a range of wonderfully furnished serviced apartments on offer. With the Stanford Residences, you get exemplary accompanying services such as a concierge, postal, restaurant booking, dry cleaning and front desk services for the duration of your stay. There is also a fitness centre onsite, communal lounge area and a handy BBQ facility too.

The Ventris

Monthly Rate: HKD 42,800-50,000

The Ventris is one of those places you never want to leave. Located in Happy Valley, it offers a stunning backdrop of a luscious green vista and is elegantly furnished throughout. With an uber-modern feel, this gorgeous serviced apartment offers a one bedroom option with or without the added bonus of a balcony. With a minimum stay requirement of 30 days, you will not want to leave once you visit. Offering 24-hour concierge and security services, with a maid and linens service, and high-speed internet throughout, it has everything you might need and more if you are looking to rent a serviced apartment in Hong Kong.

With so many choices for service apartments in Hong Kong, picking the right one becomes increasingly difficult. MetroResidences provides you corporate serviced apartments as an affordable price. With serviced apartments available in every district across the city, wherever you are looking to rent a serviced apartment in Hong Kong, we can guarantee you will be spoilt for choice.