Real Estate in Daejeon, Korea
Last updated on Jun 05, 2024
Summary: People living in Daejeon, Korea offer advice about real estate. How do you find a home in Daejeon? Should you buy or rent? What is the cost of housing?
How do I find a place to live in Daejeon?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"Finding a place to live in Daejeon involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you prefer. This could range from a single room in a shared house (Goshiwon), a studio apartment (Officetel), or a larger apartment. Next, you should decide on the area you want to live in. Daejeon is divided into five districts, each with its own unique characteristics. Yuseong-gu, for example, is known for its universities and hot springs, while Seo-gu is the city's commercial and administrative center. Once you have a clear idea of your preferences, you can start searching for available properties. There are several online platforms that list rentals in Daejeon, such as Zigbang, Naver Real Estate, and Dabang. These websites are mostly in Korean, so you might need help from a Korean-speaking friend or use a translation tool. Another option is to visit real estate agencies (Budongsan) in the area you're interested in. These agencies have extensive knowledge of the local market and can help you find a place that fits your needs. Keep in mind that real estate agents in Korea usually charge a commission fee. When you find a place you like, you'll need to negotiate the terms of the lease. In Korea, it's common to pay a large deposit (Jeonse) and lower monthly rent, or a smaller deposit (Wolse) and higher rent. Make sure to clarify all the details, including the duration of the lease, maintenance fees, and what's included in the rent. Finally, before signing the contract, inspect the property carefully. Check the condition of the appliances, the heating system, and the overall cleanliness. If everything is satisfactory, you can proceed with signing the contract and moving in. Remember, finding a place to live in a foreign country can be challenging, so don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it," remarked one member in Daejeon.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Daejeon?
"A typical expat home or apartment in Daejeon, is usually a modern, high-rise apartment building located in a convenient area close to public transportation, shopping centers, and restaurants. These apartments often come fully furnished with modern amenities such as air conditioning, heating, and a fully equipped kitchen. The living room is usually spacious with a comfortable seating area and a flat-screen TV. The bedrooms are typically cozy with comfortable beds and ample closet space. The bathrooms are usually clean and modern, often equipped with a shower and a bathtub. Some apartments may also have a small balcony with a view of the city. The buildings often provide facilities such as a gym, a swimming pool, and a parking lot. The security is usually top-notch, with 24-hour security guards and CCTV cameras. Despite being in a bustling city, these apartments often offer a quiet and peaceful living environment," said one expat who made the move to Daejeon.
What is the average cost of housing in Daejeon?
If you are thinking about moving to Daejeon, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The average cost of housing in Daejeon can vary greatly depending on the type and location of the property. For instance, purchasing an apartment in the city center may cost significantly more than renting a smaller apartment or house in the outskirts. As of recent data, the average price for buying an apartment in the city center can be quite high, while renting a one-bedroom apartment in the same area is considerably less. However, these prices can fluctuate based on the real estate market and other economic factors," said one expat in Daejeon.
Should I buy or rent a home in Daejeon?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Daejeon, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"The decision to buy or rent a home in Daejeon, largely depends on your personal circumstances, financial situation, and long-term plans. If you plan to stay in Daejeon for a long period, buying a home could be a good investment. Owning a property allows you to build equity over time and could potentially provide a return on investment if property values increase. On the other hand, renting might be a better option if you're not sure about your long-term plans or if you prefer not to have the responsibilities of home ownership. Renting can offer more flexibility, as it's easier to move if your circumstances change. It also means you won't have to worry about maintenance costs or property taxes, which are typically covered by the landlord. Financially, you'll need to consider your current savings, income, and financial stability. Buying a home requires a significant upfront cost, including a down payment and closing costs. You'll also need to be able to afford the ongoing costs, such as mortgage payments, insurance, and maintenance. Renting can be less of a financial burden upfront, as it typically requires a security deposit and first and last month's rent. It's also worth considering the housing market in Daeon. If property values are rising, it might be a good time to buy. But if they're falling, it might be better to rent until the market stabilizes. In conclusion, the decision to buy or rent a home in Daejeon, Korea, should be based on your personal and financial circumstances. It's a significant decision that requires careful consideration, so it's worth seeking advice from a financial advisor or real estate professional," explained one expat living in Daejeon, Korea.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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