I'm looking for a flat (apartment) somewhere in the $5000 to $8000 dollar range. I would really like a 2 bedroom flat. I have found a couple of good ones through realty companies, but you have to pay them half of the first months rent. I'm trying to find something directly through the owners. Is that possible in Hong Kong or is a good idea just to go through the Realty companies? I work in Kowloon Tong, but I don't necessarily have to live real close by where I work, but I would prefer not to commute more than half-an-hour if I can avoid it.