20K Budget for 1br Central/ Soho/ Wan Chai/ Mid Levels. Advice?

[fm79]

Hi Guys,

I have just moved to HK, and am currently in a serviced appt in Wan Chai for a couple of months before signing a lease for the long haul.

I have a budget of 20K, so would like some advice on appts that offer the best value for budget i.e. Size, clubhouse, gym, location etc.

I like the idea of York Place and J Residence in Wan Chai, but think it may just a shade over my price range (unless anyone knows any different?)

Any first hand knowledge would be appreciated! I am 30, single and socialable (Although haven't had a chance to meet any people yet) , so would like where I live to reflect that lifestyle...

Thanks! FM

[PDLM]

My only observation would be that most apartment clubhouse gyms are far, far inferior to the real thing and you might be better off going for a cheaper apartment in a development without fancy facilities and spending the difference on a proper gym membership.

Given that then generally the older the building the more space per dollar, doubly so if you are prepared to walk up a few flights of stairs in a building that doesn't have a lift. There are nicely refurbished apartments in all sorts of buildings, so it's really just a matter of getting a good agent who understands your requirements and can find something suitable for you.

[fth]

I second the comments above. I lived in a place in Singapore which had all the mod-cons. I used the gym twice, and the pool was always full of screaming kids on the weekends. I now live in a flat with a doorman and nothing else and have far more space as a result. If you aim for an older building in the area, 600-800 sq foot is more than doable if you are happy to be without the mod cons in mid levels. Otherwise you will be looking at something very small.

[virago]

I suggest you find a place for around $16-$17k in an older building, join Pure Fitness for around $1200 a month (or there abouts) and get a cleaner in twice a week ($75/hour).

I joined YMCA (as I'm on the dark side) for around $600/mth. Which has a pool also included in this price.

[fth]

Seasons is cheaper and has a pool compared to Pure

[papaya]

I suggest Zenith in Wanchai. Very central, nice facilities, quite new and modern (for HK), many expats live there. and for 20K you´ll get the bigger size app.
good value for money!

[igby]

Just arrived in Hong Kong 10 days ago and I am for the next three months in York Place. It's a type " C flat ", very small, balcony, new and very nice. Pool is about 20m long and 1.05m deep, gym includes 5 or six exercise machines, some dumbbells and a water dispenser. I will definetly look for something new, not enough value for the money.