There have been fraudsters who pretended to be the landlord and who “disappeared” after receiving the tenant’s deposit. To avoid falling into this trap, first-time tenants should conduct a property search before signing a lease to confirm that the unit’s lessor is the “genuine landlord” and whether the ownership of the flat is complete.
Property Tips
[Trading of a haunted house] Is a haunted house worth buying? Is there a way to determine if a property is haunted?
Many people are averse and are very likely to resist any suggestion to purchase a “haunted house.” But because prices of “haunted houses” are generally discounted, properties in good locations have become the pick of some first-time homebuyers.
[Inheritance property rights] Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about inheritance property
In the event of death, the deceased is likely to leave some estate, which may include money, stocks, or property. When the inheritance includes a piece of property, this will involve numerous procedures. The following are common questions regarding inheritance of property.
[Comprehensive guide for Home Ownership (HOS) Flats Mortgages] Mortgage tenor and focus of New HOS programme against HOS White Forms holder
Although new HOS flats and those eligible for purchase by buyers with White Forms are both subsidized housing provided by the Housing Authority (HA), the first programme involves first-hand properties, while the latter involves used HOS flats before premiums for them are paid to the government.
[Buying property through shares transfer in a company] What you need to know about actual operation and hidden risks
There are numerous big-ticket property transactions in the market with values that exceed HK$10 million. These properties are often held by companies. What is it really like to purchase a property through shares transfer in a company?
[Must-read for first-time renter or tenant] Six smart things when renting a flat
While the threshold to rent a flat is low, the tenant still has to do diligent and meticulous homework. “Six Smart Tips” that a Tenant Must Know!
How much stamp duty do I have to pay?
Currently, the Ad valorem stamp duty rate for residential property transactions is flat at 15 per cent.
Does credit rating affect mortgages?
A personal credit rating is a reference indicator that most banks use when processing and approving loan and mortgage applications.
What should you do if you receive lower valuation from banks?
Banks usually evaluate the market value of a property based on different factors, including the property’s location, views from the flat, on which floor it is located, and transaction records in the building when appraising the property.
What is a bank’s stress test?
To avoid excessive lending that could lead to a housing bubble, the government has introduced a stress test.
How is the mortgage ratio calculated?
Applying for a mortgage loan is mainly divided into two categories: The first type is based on income, and the second type involves worth–based lending.
What documents are required to apply for a mortgage loan?
A) Applicants with fixed income(1) HKID cards of borrower and guarantor (if applicable)(2) Sale and Purchase Agreement (applicable to new mortgages)
How to apply for a mortgage loan?
After signing the provisional sale and purchase agreement, the buyer can formally start applying for a mortgage loan. Owners can directly find a bank or find a professional mortgage referral company, such as Mreferral Mortgage Brokerage Services.
What are the hidden expenses when buying a property?
The purchase of a property generally involves three main legal documents: sale and purchase agreement, deed of assignment and mortgage deed. The solicitor’s fee, will be subject to the transaction value and the age of the property, and it usually amounts to several thousand Hong Kong dollars or more.
What needs to be done to prevent a potential mortgage trap when buying a village house?
Village houses are roughly divided into two categories – standard “small house” and village house on “old schedule lot”. The most common are standard small houses, which are three-storey high and have a floor area of about 700 square feet each.