Hong Kong Housing

Whether you want to live in a penthouse with commanding views over Victoria Harbour or prefer the peace of an outlying island like Discovery Bay or Lamma, there are plenty of options for expats relocating to Hong Kong. Those relocating on their own may consider livelier neighbourhoods like Mid-Levels and Wanchai, while families may prefer quieter communities like Sai Kung or Lantau Island.

Living in such a compact city means you can get the option to walk to work or your child’s school, and even if you prefer to locate yourself out of the hustle-bustle, the city’s world-class transport system means you’re never too far away from anything. Mostly housed in tower blocks, Hong Kong’s private housing complexes usually offer an impressive array of facilities including swimming pools, bowling alleys, gyms, and saunas, while serviced apartments offer housekeeping and concierge services.

Want to buy? Most banks offer mortgages. If you’re a permanent resident buying your first and only Hong Kong property, you can borrow up to 90 percent of the purchase price; you’ll have to pay up to 4.25 percent of the price as stamp duty, while non-residents pay 30 percent. Moreover, it's worth noting that there is currently a stamp duty suspension for residential property acquisitions. You would only be obligated to pay the relevant amount if, for some reason, you are unable to obtain Hong Kong Permanent Resident status.