Renting an Apartment in Hong Kong: A Newcomer's Survival Guide (2026)
Hong Kong has some of the world's most expensive housing, and the rental market moves fast — good flats in popular areas can go within days. Here's how the system actually works so you don't overpay or get scammed.
Where to search: 28Hse and friends
- 28Hse (28hse.com) — the most-used local listing site, with an English interface. The go-to starting point.
- House730, Squarefoot, Spacious — other major portals; Spacious targets the mid-to-high end.
- Facebook groups — "Hong Kong Apartments for Rent" groups have direct-from-landlord listings, but verify everything in person.
- Agents — walk into any neighbourhood agency; they'll show you listings immediately. This is still how most deals happen.
The money: commission, deposit, stamp duty
- Agent commission: the norm is half a month's rent from each side (you and the landlord each pay the agent half a month). For luxury flats (typically above HK$60,000/month) it can be a full month. Always confirm the commission in writing before viewing.
- Deposit: usually 2 months' rent as security deposit, plus 1 month paid in advance — so budget 3 months' rent upfront.
- Stamp duty on leases: tenancy agreements must be stamped with the Inland Revenue Department. The duty is split between landlord and tenant by default. Indicative rates: for a 1-year lease it's a small fraction of the annual rent (the exact rate depends on the lease term — your agent usually handles the stamping and tells you the amount). Unstamped leases are still enforceable between the parties but can't be used as evidence in court, so insist on stamping.
The lease: what to check before signing
- Term: standard is 2 years — 1 year fixed + 1 year flexible (the "一年生約、一年死約" structure). During the fixed year neither side can terminate; in the flexible year either side can end it with notice (usually 1–2 months).
- Management fees and rates: ask whether the rent is inclusive. Government rates (差餉) are often paid by the landlord, management fees vary — clarify in writing.
- Check the flat in daylight: water pressure, air-con, window seals, phone signal, and noise. Hong Kong flats vary wildly even in the same building.
The 凶宅 (haunted flat) check
Hong Kong has a unique concept: flats where an unnatural death occurred (凶宅) rent and sell at steep discounts, and landlords must disclose it if asked directly. Before signing:
- Ask the agent point-blank: "Is this a 凶宅?" — agents are obliged to answer truthfully about what they know.
- Search the address on 凶宅 databases (e.g., 591's haunted-house search or local forums).
- If the rent seems too good for the area, there's usually a reason — this is the most common one.
Short stays: serviced apartments
If you're here for 1–6 months, serviced apartments ( serviced apartment operators like Shama, Ovolo, Dash) bundle rent, utilities, wifi, and weekly cleaning. They're pricier per month than a normal lease but require no 2-month deposit and no agent commission — often cheaper overall for short stays.
Frequently asked questions
Can I rent without an agent to save commission?
Yes — direct landlord listings exist on 28Hse (filter by "業主盤") and Facebook groups. But you lose the agent's paperwork help; make sure the tenancy agreement is properly stamped either way.
Do I need a Hong Kong ID to rent?
No. A passport and employment proof (or visa) are enough. Some landlords ask for proof of income — an employment contract usually works.
What's a "nano flat"?
Hong Kong's infamous micro-apartments (often under 200 sq ft / ~18 sq m). They're cheap by local standards but check the layout in person — photos lie.
Sources
- 28Hse — Hong Kong's main rental listing platform: https://www.28hse.com/en/
- Inland Revenue Department, "Stamp Duty on Tenancy Agreements": https://www.ird.gov.hk/eng/tax/dsd_ten.htm
- Spacious — mid-to-high-end listings: https://www.spacious.hk/en/