West Cove, where will you be working? HK is extremely easy to get around and you need not go for the conventional (and probably won't if you want to save a few bucks). I work in Kwun Tong, with another office nea the Gold Coast (Kowloon West) and business in Central. So, I live smack in the middle near Boundary (Kowloon Tong - Prince Edward area) and pay under 16k for a spacious, 3 bdrom with balcony and green views. If you are strictly into expat life, the Island may suit you better.
Friends live at Tin Hau paying under 14k for a 2 bdrm with large living room, 2 bths and storage.
People I know paying under 10k are usually sharing and the total flat rate exceeds 30k. I have been shocked at what some people get for 30k - awful. And, I have been amazed at what some get for 14k - fabulous. THe thing is - leave TIME to look, and pace yourself in the looking. I settled for an old building with no services to gain larger space, high ceilings and lots of light in minimalist (in a trendy kind of way) finished place in an area that feels like a neighbourhood. People lecture me all the time that I'm paying too much. Could be I could get a place for less, but finding an equivalent mix of factors has not been possible so far.
Check out transport, imagine the travel time in the appalling heat of July, or in a monsoon, scout shopping and if your job's like mine, remember you'll have time for that on your way home at around 9pm. Check the NOISE in the neighbourhood, and pick a level that keeps your air con and windows out of the worst pollution on a windless day. Notice the sightlines from other apratments. I have friends who never see light in order to gain privacy. Thank my lucky starts for the position of my place!
Good luck and have fun - there ARE some real finds (like a three story chinese house I found for 10K - if you're willing to pay for the renos). Have fun!
J