5 Common Misconceptions About Renting an Apartment in China

China evolves so fast that much of what you read online can become outdated almost overnight—especially in modern cities like Shenzhen. Once a small fishing village, Shenzhen now stands at the forefront of tech innovation, attracting expats worldwide with its dynamic job market and close ties to Hong Kong. Despite its rapid modernization, many misconceptions persist about renting apartments here. Below, we clear up five of the most common misunderstandings.

1. “You Must Speak Fluent Chinese to Rent a Place”

Reality: While knowing some Mandarin (or Cantonese) can help, it’s not a deal‐breaker.

• Language Barriers: Most individual landlords do speak only Chinese, especially if they’re older. But Shenzhen is a melting pot where newcomers quickly find a warm welcome—regardless of language.
• Easy Rent SZ Advantage: Since 2013, we’ve grown into one of the largest relocation providers in Shenzhen, thanks to our bilingual team and in‐depth market knowledge. We bridge communication gaps, organize property tours, and clarify lease details in English. We even help with everyday essentials like finding groceries, so not speaking fluent Chinese won’t stop you from settling in comfortably.

2. “Short‐Term Leases Are Impossible in China”

Reality: Standard leases typically run 12 months, but there are options—just know the trade‐offs.

• 12‐Month Norm: Most Shenzhen landlords prefer a one‐year commitment, and it’s the simplest path to better apartments in desirable districts.
• Serviced Apartments: Short‐term rentals do exist, but they tend to be pricier. If you’re set on fewer than 12 months, be ready for higher monthly rates or smaller spaces.
• Negotiable, But Limited: In fast‐paced Shenzhen, landlords can be flexible if they see a reliable tenant—but very short leases are still rare. Having an agent who understands both your needs and local norms can help you find creative solutions, if needed.

3. “Rent Is Super Cheap (or Shockingly High) Everywhere”

Reality: Shenzhen prices vary widely by location and apartment quality.

• The Range: In 2015, a comfortable, modern one‐bedroom in central areas (Luohu, Futian) might start around 4,000 RMB/month, while two‐bedrooms can go from 5,000–8,000 RMB/month and up. Premium sea‐view units in Nanshan or luxurious high‐rises easily exceed that.
• Western‐Style Apartments: If you want brand‐new décor, Western kitchens, or a certain view, expect to pay more. In outlying districts like Longgang, larger but less central units cost less.
• What We Do: By matching your budget and lifestyle preferences to the right districts, Easy Rent SZ helps you avoid paying extra for features you don’t need—or missing out on crucial amenities just to save a few RMB.

4. “All Chinese Apartments Are Old‐Fashioned (Squat Toilets, Closed Kitchens, Etc.)”

Reality: Modern Chinese cities often blend traditional layouts with newer, Western‐friendly designs.

• Closed Kitchens: Many local landlords favor enclosed kitchens to contain cooking fumes—a cultural norm in China. However, open‐kitchen layouts do exist, especially in newer or renovated apartments owned by younger landlords.
• Toilets & Furnishings: Most Shenzhen apartments these days have Western‐style toilets and come fully furnished. In the rare case you encounter a squat toilet or outdated furniture, landlords can often replace it—especially if you have professional help negotiating.
• Finding Middle Ground: Not every preference can be perfectly fulfilled, but Easy Rent SZ uses years of relocation experience to identify the best match for your wish list. We also clarify which upgrades or changes can be made before you sign a lease.

5. “You Can Seamlessly Handle the Entire Rental Process on Your Own”

Reality: While you can rent an apartment alone, hidden pitfalls—from scams to bureaucratic hoops—often await.

• Verifying Ownership: A legitimate landlord must show a government‐issued property certificate or an authorized proxy document. Skipping this step can lead to legal headaches.
• Fast‐Moving Market: Listings in Shenzhen go fast. Without local connections, you risk chasing outdated ads—or missing your ideal apartment.
• Paperwork & Ongoing Support: From bilingual contracts to fapiao (tax receipt) issuance for corporate payments, it’s easy to get lost in the details. Plus, after you move in, you’ll still need help registering at the local police station.
• Professional Services Matter: At Easy Rent SZ, we simplify every stage—vetting properties, negotiating on your behalf, and handling all logistics. That way, you avoid guesswork and costly surprises.

China’s rapid changes—and Shenzhen’s explosive growth—fuel plenty of confusion for newcomers. While online info can provide a starting point, always double‐check if it’s up to date. In a city as fast‐paced as Shenzhen, the best way to avoid headaches is working with professionals who know local quirks, verify listings, and negotiate on your behalf.

Ready to bypass the myths and enjoy a seamless renting experience? Contact Easy Rent SZ for expert guidance and a smoother transition to life in Shenzhen.

www.easyrentsz.com

info@easyrentsz.com