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Real Estate in Daegu, Korea | Expat Exchange
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Real Estate in Daegu, Korea

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Feb 15, 2024

Summary: People living in Daegu, Korea offer advice about real estate. How do you find a home in Daegu? Should you buy or rent? What is the cost of housing?

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How do I find a place to live in Daegu?

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

"Finding a place to live in Daegu involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you want. This could range from a one-room apartment to a larger family-sized apartment. Next, you should research different neighborhoods in Daegu to find one that suits your lifestyle and needs. Some popular areas for expats include Suseong-gu and Jung-gu. Consider factors such as proximity to work or school, access to public transportation, and the presence 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 apartments in Daugau, such as Craigslist, Zillow, and local Korean websites like Zigbang and Naver. Another option is to hire a real estate agent, known as a "budongsan" in Korea. They can help you navigate the local property market, arrange viewings, and negotiate contracts. Keep in mind that you'll need to pay a commission for their services. 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, known as "jeonse", which can be up to 50-80% of the property's value. However, you can also opt for a "wolse" system, where you pay a smaller deposit and monthly rent. Before signing the lease, make sure to inspect the property thoroughly and check for any issues. It's also a good idea to ask about the building's maintenance fees, as these can add a significant amount to your monthly expenses. Finally, once you've signed the lease and paid the deposit, you can move into your new home in Daegu. Remember to register your new address at the local government office within two weeks of moving in," said one expat in Daegu.

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

"A typical expat home or apartment in Daegu, is usually a modern, high-rise apartment building located in the city center. These apartments are often fully furnished, featuring a combination of Western and Korean styles. The living room is usually spacious with a flat-screen TV, a comfortable sofa, and a dining area. The kitchen is typically equipped with modern appliances such as a refrigerator, a stove, and a microwave. Bedrooms in these apartments are usually cozy with a comfortable bed, a wardrobe, and sometimes a study desk. The bathrooms are typically 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. In terms of amenities, many apartment buildings in Daegu offer facilities such as a gym, a swimming pool, and a parking lot. Some may also have a convenience store and a laundry room on the ground floor. The buildings are usually secured with a 24-hour security system and require a key card for access. The location of these apartments is often convenient, close to public transportation, shopping centers, restaurants, and parks. Despite being in the city center, the neighborhoods are usually quiet and safe. In terms of cost, the rent for these apartments can vary depending on the size, location, and amenities. However, most expats find the cost of living in Daegu to be affordable compared to other major cities in Korea," explained one person living in Daegu, Korea.

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What is the average cost of housing in Daegu?

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

"The average cost of housing in Daegu can vary greatly depending on the location and size of the property. For instance, purchasing an apartment in the city center can be quite expensive, with prices often reaching several hundred million Korean won. On the other hand, renting an apartment can be more affordable, with monthly rents typically ranging from a few hundred thousand to a couple million won. However, these prices can fluctuate based on factors such as proximity to public transportation and local amenities," said one person in Daegu.

Should I buy or rent a home in Daegu?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Daegu, 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 Daegu, largely depends on your personal circumstances, financial situation, and long-term plans. If you plan to stay in Daegu 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. Financially, you'll need to consider whether you can afford the upfront costs of buying a home, such as the down payment and closing costs. You'll also need to think about ongoing costs like mortgage payments, insurance, and maintenance. Renting typically involves lower upfront costs, but you won't build equity over time. In terms of lifestyle, owning a home can offer more stability and the freedom to customize your living space. However, it also comes with more responsibilities. Renting can offer more flexibility and less responsibility, but you may have to deal with restrictions from landlords. In conclusion, whether you should buy or rent a home in Daegu, Korea, depends on your financial situation, long-term plans, and personal preferences. It's important to weigh the pros and cons of each option and consider seeking advice from a financial advisor or real estate professional," said one expat who made the move to Daegu.

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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