I dislike the MTR in rush hour too, so I avoid it. That's easily done, the bus system here is fabulous. If you want to get around quickly there are many mini-buses which allow seating only (so no crowding) and many appartment blocks have resident only coaches and minibuses that take you into Central etc.
If you don't like crowds though, you'd best not live on HK Island. Also, hard to get a place for less than two years, so if you are planning to upgrade in size after 6 months that may be a problem.