Hi,

Does anyone have a world-class property or real estate perosn to recommend for a 1st visit to Shanghai? We're currently deciding whether to accept an offer from my employer to move to Shanghai for 3 years as an expat. We're American, have four kids in various grades and we're really not sure where to turn. It seems as though a really good first impression could be important and that this would be best with a very qualified and knowledgeable person who can lead us around schools and apartments/neighborhoods.

We are within 3 weeks of making a decision and we (my wife and myself) are making a trip to Shanghai during the week of July 25th. We have three days on the ground with which to make an informed decision on whether to go forward.

Does anyone have any suggestions.

Thanks in advance to all.

Matt

look at those online magazine
thats shanghai
shanghai city guide
metro
and look at the us ambassy website you will get some very interesting information
i am sure other people ca give you more information
good luck

The agents that advertise on this site specifically deal with expats in your position - corporate move with family. You will need the help of a good agent to make the most of your time. You might send emails to three to four of them and see what kind of response you get and then choose one to spend your time with here. Another place to look is in the real estate classisfieds on this site for some ideas on neighborhoods and prices.

Be prepared for it being different here and you and your family should equip yourselves with a sense of adventure. You should have no problem at all getting a very nice place. Look for something close to work ( at least on the same side of the river)

Hello,this is Ben,from bai he real estate.we are offering services for the Shanghai living foreigners who want to rent or buy a shanghai house. i am sure i can find the apt that you like.
All the information we offered is true and reliable. It covers different types of houses,include shanghai apartment,mansion,villa,service apartment,office building,old house and
new lane,etc.
please feel free to call me at 13341700101 or 021-64336057 if you are in any need of finding an apt.thanks

dear matt:
i'm from grand property agency. if you would like to be my client, of course i think it's great. otherwise, it's also ok. you can just take me as your first friend in shanghai, despite of any bussiness relationship. and i'd like to give you some information helpful if you need.
now, may i know the detail of your requirements, just like location, room size, your budget, and so on?
BTW, if you choose to be my client, all service will be free because the developers will pay us the commission from their ad budget.
you can contact me via my e-mail box: xikuang85@yahoo.com.cn, or just reply the post.

Alan

Matt,
Shanghai is a nice city. you won't feel inconvenient here.

Be sure to look at the schools first! If you get a school you probably want to live in the same area. Might be a good idea to look up schools online and then have an agent take you to those areas in which the schools are located. I have been here 6months and love it. I have no children here. Check requirements and availability of the schools. Probably you wouldnt want to live an hour away from the schools. Just a thought!