Moving to Hong Kong: The Ultimate First Month Housing Checklist for Expats
Relocating to Hong Kong is thrilling but can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to securing a home and settling in quickly. To help you hit the ground running, this detailed first-month housing checklist covers everything—from finding temporary accommodation and navigating the rental process to setting up utilities and understanding your rights as a tenant.
Whether you’re here for work, study, or family, use this guide to stay organized, avoid common pitfalls, and create a comfortable home in Hong Kong’s dynamic cityscape.
1. Book Temporary Accommodation Before Arrival
Unless your long-term apartment is ready before you arrive, arrange temporary housing to avoid last-minute stress. Options include serviced apartments, short-term rentals, or hotels. These provide flexibility while you search for your permanent home.
Why temporary housing? Gives you a stable base to explore neighborhoods, attend viewings, and handle paperwork in person.
Where to look? Areas like Central, Wan Chai, Tsim Sha Tsui, or Kowloon offer convenient locations.
Tip: Use trusted expat-friendly platforms like HKStay.com, which offers vetted serviced apartments ideal for newcomers.
2. Research Neighborhoods & Rental Listings Early
Start your apartment hunt online well before you arrive. Use property portals and join expat forums and Facebook groups for local insights and recommendations.
Consider your lifestyle: Proximity to work or school, transport links, amenities, and community vibe.
Popular expat districts: Mid-Levels, Sheung Wan, Kennedy Town, Sai Kung, Discovery Bay, and Tung Chung.
Budget: Rentals in central areas tend to be pricier; outlying districts may offer more space at lower cost.
3. Engage a Licensed Agent or Use a Trusted Platform
Hong Kong’s rental market is agent-driven. Using a licensed real estate agent or verified platform helps avoid scams and simplifies paperwork.
Agency fees: Typically half a month’s rent, payable by tenant (HKStay.com does not charge fees)
What agents do: Arrange viewings, negotiate with landlords, assist with contracts.
Warning: Always verify the agent’s license and never pay large deposits upfront without a signed agreement.
4. Prepare Your Documentation
Landlords require documents to verify your identity, employment, and financial standing. Having these ready accelerates lease approvals.
Typically required:
Valid passport and Hong Kong visa or work permit
Employment letter or student acceptance letter
Recent bank statements or salary slips
References from previous landlords (if available)
5. Understand the Lease & Negotiate Terms
Leases are usually for one or two years but shorter terms may be negotiated.
Key terms to check: Rent amount, deposit (usually two months), lease duration, maintenance responsibilities, and break clauses.
Deposit: Paid upfront and held as security; refundable if no damages occur.
Language: Request a bilingual contract if you’re unsure about legal terms.
Negotiate: It’s common to negotiate rent or lease length—especially in a renter’s market.
6. Set Up Utilities & Essential Services
Most apartments don’t include utilities, so you’ll need to set these up promptly:
Electricity and Water: Contact CLP Power Hong Kong or Hong Kong Electric depending on location. Account setup takes a few days.
Internet: Providers like HKBN, PCCW, or HGC offer fast broadband with various packages and installation options.
Gas: If applicable, coordinate connection and safety inspections.
Mobile Phone: Purchase a local SIM card or monthly plan with companies such as SmarTone or China Mobile.
7. Furnish Your Apartment
Hong Kong apartments often come unfurnished or with minimal furniture. Options include:
Buying: IKEA, Pricerite, and local furniture shops.
Renting: Furniture rental companies cater to expats and short-term residents.
Second-hand: Online marketplaces like Carousell or Facebook Marketplace offer affordable options.
8. Open a Local Bank Account
A Hong Kong bank account simplifies rent payments, bill settlements, and everyday expenses.
Banks: HSBC, Standard Chartered, Hang Seng are popular choices.
Documents: Passport, proof of address (rental contract or hotel booking), and employment letter usually required.
Tip: Some banks offer online account opening for expats, but most require in-person visits.
9. Register Your Address and Understand Tenant Rights
Address registration: Required for some visa types; check with Immigration Department.
Tenant rights: Know your responsibilities and protections, including deposit refund procedures and maintenance duties.
Legal help: Consider consulting tenancy advisory services or legal experts if unsure.
10. Explore Your Neighborhood & Build Your Support Network
Once settled, familiarize yourself with local amenities—supermarkets, clinics, pharmacies, transport hubs—and connect with other expats via community groups or social clubs. A strong local network helps ease cultural transition and daily life.
Bonus: Use Expat-Friendly Rental Services Like HKStay.com
Navigating Hong Kong’s rental market can be daunting. Services like HKStay.com specialize in expat housing, offering verified listings, transparent pricing, and bilingual support throughout your rental journey. From temporary serviced apartments to long-term rentals, HKStay simplifies the process and ensures peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Moving to Hong Kong is a rewarding experience made smoother with the right preparation. This housing checklist empowers you to navigate your first month with confidence—from securing temporary accommodation to signing leases, setting up utilities, and integrating into your new community. With careful planning and trusted support, you’ll be ready to enjoy everything this vibrant city has to offer.
