How to identify HK expats? Two certain give-aways. Actually, three, really. First, they are probably wasted. Otherwise they can be found complaining about their household help or rents.
Unfortunately, I can't really help you with domestic help issues or your drinking problem. However, I do think I can shed some light on the rent situation. First, you must accept this fact. HK landlords, beyond being unreasonable/ sharkish/ greedy/criminal/ (insert whatever slanderous adjective here), are largely DEBT-FREE.
Latest data reveals, of HK private homes, over 60% are mortgage-free. I tried to find the comparable US statistic but can only find it based on 2007 census data. Little outdated but that data reveals homes with mortgage equaled 73.6% of total U.S. household real estate while the value of houses without mortgages was 26.4%.
This should begin to explain the bizarre behavior of many-a-HK landlords. Particularly for anyone burnt by a stubborn HK landlord who just absolutely refuses to negotiate rental
terms. Also explains why mere mortals (like myself) hoping for distressed sellers are left with our prayers going unanswered. Outright owners have the benefit of patience and are rarely pressed to sell.
terms. Also explains why mere mortals (like myself) hoping for distressed sellers are left with our prayers going unanswered. Outright owners have the benefit of patience and are rarely pressed to sell.
Sorry guys. Not my most helpful post. Wish I could have offered some savvy negotiating tips but there are few. So it's probably better to stick with your persuasive female charm. Your chances of running into a financially desperate landlord looks pretty unlikely.
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