Hi All-

This is my first time posting but I have been reading this site for months. My husband, baby and I just arrived in Shanghai last week and are in full apartment search mode. We are staying in a temporary apartment near Xintiandi and love the neighborhood, so we have decided to focus our search around here. We have an agent that was recommended by my husbands company that has shown us apartments in JinLinTiandi, Lakeville (all three phases). Most of the apartments are around 40,000rmb.

What I am wondering is if there are some other complexes that we don't know about that are in the Xintiandi area that might be easier on the budget? We are not here on a typical expat package and do not get a housing allowance.

Our basic requirements are...
Walking distance to Xintiandi.
At least 3 bedroom, 2 baths
Balcony
Gym in the building or one nearby. Pool would be nice also.
It would be great if it were a building with other westerners, particularly ones with children.
We aren't planning to get a car, so it would also be nice to be near shopping, restaurants, groceries, etc.

One of my friends recommended New Westgate Garden so we are going to make an appointment to see that building. Are there any places you guys might also suggest we check out?

Thanks!

The Central Park apts are off Huai Hai Rd, behind Times Square shopping mall, E of Huai Hai Park
maps.google show it is 550 m from the front door of the complex to XinTianDi taxi pick off point.
It fit your other requirements.

220 m 3 bdr will be much less than your 40,000 rmb budget, even the 295 4 bdr apts should be.
They also have 600 m penthouse apt, with its private swimming slot , in additional to the complex swimming pool.

johnny_tropicana wrote:Pricey area. You can go just a little west into the French concession and save a lot.
And I personally like the area around SinAn mansions, and there are still many expats
in the area if you need that.
Seek out Adrienne on this forum, she does real estate and can set you up well.

Well thanks very much johnny_tropicana for recommending our services. Happy to help out.

Yes, you are spot on about the XTD area being expensive. The reality is that the vast majority of development approved to build there were really focusing on the medium to high end market and the properties reflect this. Many ownerst there are multi-millionaires and more than happy to keep the places empty til they get what they want in rental. They are without doubt the toughest landlords in town to deal with.

Yes, as the OP suggested there is Lao Xi Men which is a typical modern development that is generally owned by middle class so the rentals are far lower than the immediate XTD area. There are two developments in XTD that aren't too crazy priced and that is, as PNWer recommended Central Park and another is Lakeville Regency Phase 1. This development is a little long in the tooth but if it has been well kept and nicely fitted out and furnished you can get some decent places there.

There is a newer development near Lao Xi Men that is also worth a look. It is called Mansion Art Deco. Last but not least, as johnny_tropicanna said, go a little west and try Sinan Mansions.

Hope this helps. If you want some help with finding an apartment just call me on 13122 810 421 or mail me at manager@shanghaiprops.com

Adrienne

Shanghai Properties - Expat Agents Speak YOUR Language
http://www.shanghaiprops.com