Real Estate in Yongin, Korea
Last updated on Jun 05, 2023
Summary: People living in Yongin, Korea offer advice about real estate. How do you find a home in Yongin? Should you buy or rent? What is the cost of housing?
How do I find a place to live in Yongin?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"Finding a place to live in Yongin involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a small studio apartment to a larger family home. Next, you should research different neighborhoods in Yongin to find one that suits your lifestyle and needs. Consider factors such as proximity to work or school, access to public transportation, safety, and the availability of amenities such as shops, restaurants, and parks. Once you have a clear idea of what you're looking for, you can start your search. There are several online platforms where you can find listings for rental properties in Yongin, such as Zigbang, Naver Real Estate, and Craigslist Seoul. These websites allow you to filter results based on your preferences, and you can view photos and details of the properties. Another option is to hire a real estate agent, or "budongsan," who can help you navigate the local property market. They can provide valuable advice, arrange viewings, and assist with the negotiation and contract process. When you find a property you're interested in, arrange a viewing to inspect the condition of the property and the surrounding area. If you decide to proceed, you'll need to negotiate the terms of the lease, including the rent and the deposit amount. In Korea, it's common to pay a large deposit, or "jeonse," which is typically equivalent to 50-80% of the property's value. However, there's also the "wolse" system, where you pay a smaller deposit and monthly rent. Once you've agreed on the terms, you'll sign a lease agreement. Make sure to read it carefully and understand all the terms before signing. Finally, you'll need to set up utilities and internet, and then you can move into your new home in Yongin," said one person in Yongin.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Yongin?
"A typical expat home or apartment in Yongin, is usually modern and well-equipped with all the necessary amenities. These homes are often located in high-rise buildings, offering stunning views of the city. The apartments are usually compact, yet efficiently designed to maximize space. They often feature an open-plan living and dining area, a small but functional kitchen, and one or two bedrooms. The bathrooms are typically modern and clean, often equipped with high-tech features common in Korea, such as heated toilet seats. The apartments are usually furnished, featuring a mix of Western and Korean-style furniture. They often come with appliances like a refrigerator, washing machine, and sometimes even a television. The buildings these apartments are located in often have amenities like a gym, a convenience store, and 24-hour security. Many expat homes in Yongin are located in expat-friendly neighborhoods, close to international schools, supermarkets selling foreign goods, and English-speaking medical facilities. These neighborhoods are often well-connected to other parts of the city by public transportation. Despite being in a bustling city, many apartments are located in quiet residential areas, offering a peaceful living environment. In terms of style, the apartments often feature a minimalist design, with neutral color schemes and clean lines. Some apartments may also have floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing plenty of natural light and offering panoramic views of the city. Despite the modern design, some homes may also feature traditional Korean elements, such as heated floors known as "ondol". Overall, a typical expat home in Yongin offers a comfortable and convenient living environment, blending modern amenities with traditional Korean features," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Yongin.
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What is the average cost of housing in Yongin?
If you are thinking about moving to Yongin, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The average cost of housing in Yongin can vary greatly depending on the type and size of the property. For instance, the price of an apartment can range from moderately priced to very expensive. As of recent data, a typical three-bedroom apartment in the city center may cost around the mid to high hundreds of thousands in USD. However, the price can be significantly lower if the property is located outside the city center. It's important to note that these prices are subject to change and may vary based on various factors such as the exact location, the age and condition of the property, and the current state of the real estate market," remarked one member in Yongin.
Should I buy or rent a home in Yongin?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Yongin, 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 Yongin, largely depends on your personal circumstances, financial situation, and long-term plans. If you plan to stay in Yongin for a long period, buying a home could be a good investment. Owning a home allows you to build equity over time and offers stability and the freedom to make changes to your property as you see fit. On the other hand, renting a home in Yongin could be a better option if you're not planning to stay long-term or if you prefer flexibility. Renting doesn't require a large upfront investment and it's often cheaper in the short term. It also allows you to move easily if your circumstances change. It's also important to consider the real estate market conditions in Yongin. If property prices are high and predicted to fall, it might be better to rent for a while and wait for prices to drop before buying. Conversely, if prices are low and expected to rise, it could be a good time to buy. Lastly, consider your financial situation. Buying a home requires a significant financial commitment and ongoing costs for maintenance, taxes, and insurance. Make sure you have a stable income and enough savings to cover these costs before deciding to buy. In conclusion, both buying and renting a home in Yongin have their pros and cons. It's crucial to consider your personal circumstances, financial situation, and long-term plans before making a decision," said one expat who made the move to Yongin.
About the Author
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.