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Real Estate in Korea | Expat Exchange
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Real Estate in Korea

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Oct 05, 2023

Summary: An expat looking to buy a home in Korea should start by researching the different areas of the country and deciding which one best suits their needs. They should then contact a real estate agent who specializes in helping expats find homes in Korea. The agent can provide information on the different types of homes available, such as apartments, villas, and townhouses. The amenities that come with a home in Korea vary depending on the type of property and the area. Generally, homes in Korea come with basic amenities such as air conditioning, heating, and appliances. Some homes may also include additional features such as a balcony, garden, or parking space. Foreigners are allowed to own property in Korea, but there are some restrictions. For example, foreigners are not allowed to own land in Korea, and they must obtain permission from the government before purchasing a home. Additionally, foreigners are not allowed to own more than one property in Korea.

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How do I find a place to live in Korea?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Korea is to use online resources such as websites and apps. Popular websites such as Goshiwon, Joonggonara, and Naver Real Estate are great places to start your search. Additionally, there are many apps such as Jikji, Naver Real Estate, and Naver Map that can help you find a place to live in Korea. You can also use social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram to connect with people who may be able to help you find a place to live. Additionally, you can contact real estate agents who specialize in helping foreigners find a place to live in Korea," remarked one member in Korea.

"My husband relocated to Korea first and chose a location close to subways and shopping - an area called Itaewon. Unfortunately, if I had to do it again, I would not choose this neighborhood. The area is frequented by singles and there are many bars. Not necessarily the best neighborhood for raising children," explained one expat living in Seoul, Korea.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Korea?

"I live in a large house. This is typical for many expats that come to Korea with a large foreign company. But, many singles live here also. They live in apartment housing or on a military base," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Seoul.

"A typical expat home or apartment in Korea is usually modern and well-equipped with all the necessary amenities. Most expat homes or apartments come with a fully-equipped kitchen, a comfortable living room, and a spacious bedroom. Many expat homes or apartments also have a balcony or terrace, providing a great view of the city. Expat homes or apartments in Korea are typically well-maintained and offer a comfortable and convenient living experience," explained one person living in Korea.

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What is the average cost of housing in Korea?

If you are thinking about moving to Korea, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The housing cost is outrageous. My home is almost US 10,000 per month. Definitely outrageous," explained one expat living in Seoul, Korea.

"The cost of housing in Korea varies depending on the location and type of housing. Generally, housing in Korea is relatively affordable compared to other countries, with the average cost of rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Seoul ranging from around $500 to $1,500 per month. Outside of Seoul, the cost of rent is usually lower, with one-bedroom apartments typically costing between $300 and $800 per month," said one person in Korea.

"Of course it is best to give a swishy washy statement. We pay 1400,000kw per month for a nice place about 1500 sq. Ft. But the size is definitely an estimate," said one expat who made the move to Ilsan.

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Should I buy or rent a home in Korea?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Korea, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Korea can be a great investment, as the real estate market is growing steadily. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in the area, as well as the availability of financing options. Renting a home in Korea can be a more affordable option, as it allows you to live in the area without the long-term commitment of a mortgage. Additionally, renting can provide more flexibility if you are unsure of how long you will be living in the country. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Korea should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," said one expat in Korea.

What do I need to know when buying property in Korea?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Korea, they said:

"1. It is important to research the local market and understand the current trends in the area before making a purchase. 2. It is important to understand the legal requirements for purchasing property in Korea, including any taxes or fees that may be applicable. 3. It is important to understand the different types of property available in Korea, such as apartments, villas, and houses. 4. It is important to understand the different financing options available for purchasing property in Korea, such as mortgages and loans. 5. It is important to understand the different types of contracts that may be involved in the purchase of property in Korea, such as rental agreements and purchase contracts. 6. It is important to understand the different types of insurance that may be required when purchasing property in Korea, such as fire insurance and earthquake insurance. 7. It is important to understand the different types of maintenance and repairs that may be required when owning property in Korea, such as plumbing and electrical repairs. 8. It is important to understand the different types of services that may be available when owning property in Korea, such as property management and security services," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Korea.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Korea?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Korea, they said...

"Foreigners are allowed to own property in Korea, but there are certain restrictions. Foreigners are not allowed to own land, but they can own buildings and apartments. In order to purchase a property, foreigners must have a valid visa and must have lived in Korea for at least one year. Additionally, foreigners must have a Korean bank account and must provide proof of income. Foreigners are also subject to certain taxes and fees when purchasing a property," said one foreigner living in Korea.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Korea what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"In Korea, rental properties typically include a refrigerator, washing machine, air conditioner, and gas stove. Some properties may also include a microwave, water purifier, and/or a dishwasher. Additionally, some properties may include furniture such as a bed, sofa, and/or dining table," explained one person living in Korea.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Korea:

We asked foreigners in Korea what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included...

"Expats can search for homes in Korea by using online real estate websites, such as G-Housing, which offer a wide range of listings for apartments, houses, and other types of dwellings. Additionally, expats can contact real estate agents who specialize in helping foreigners find homes in Korea. Expats can also search for homes in Korea by attending open houses and visiting neighborhoods to get a better feel for the area. Finally, expats can join online expat communities to get advice and recommendations from other expats who have already gone through the process of finding a home in Korea," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Korea.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat 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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