There are several options for living in Malaysia-bungalows or freestanding homes, condominiums (apartments with extra facilities) and apartments (usually with limited facilities). Living spaces can be leased with or without furniture although even the latter will usually have standard facilities like ceiling fans, air conditioners, stove, hot water system and fridge.
Recently built condominiums in good areas include most of the following - pool, gym, lifts, 24-hour security service, adequate parking, convenience store and landscape gardens.
If you have school aged children, location to one of the international schools will be important and it is a good idea to determine this before looking for accommodation or your children could have a long commute each day due to the traffic conditions.
Real estate agents are plenty in Malaysia. Though it's not a must to use them, it helps ease the burden from hunting to shuffling papers to making payments. However, when using an agent, be as specific as possible of the living conditions you require; for example, with built-in cabinets and wardrobes in the kitchen and bedrooms, or a porch or garage that is large enough for 2 cars. You might also want to specify the finishing of the home to suit your taste if you don't intend to bring your own furniture.
Housing in Malaysia as with any other country, differs in price according to location and its furnishing. Different to note:
Fully-furnished: Walk in with your suitcase and you are pretty much set. May need only shop for minor items like bed sheets and curtains unless negotiated otherwise with the landlord.
Semi-furnished: You probably need not buy or bring much of the bulky items like beds, lounge set, wardrobe as it would be included. But check first.
Non-furnished: As it means - practically empty. On occasion, some may have the kitchen cabinets, but that's all.
Rental procedures include the following:
1. Pay one month's rent as Earnest Deposit (sign Letter of Offer)
2. Within 7 days pay:
a. Two-months' rent as Security Deposit
b. RM1,000 Utility Deposit (this could vary from property to property)
c. Stamp Duty and Disbursement
3. Stamping of Tenancy Agreement
4. Get copy of Tenancy Agreement - one each to landlord and Tenant
By international standards, Malaysian housing is cheap. Leases are generally drawn up for yearly renewal. Occasionally, the agent may work out for you a half-year lease. But if you intend to be in town for sometime purchase a property, it could be a good investment to buy and sell when you leave.
Without going into the vagaries of the property market, people have made good returns from medium to long term investments. Seek professional advice before taking the plunge. Click www.edbidproperties.com