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Real Estate in Shah Alam, Malaysia | Expat Exchange
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Real Estate in Shah Alam, Malaysia

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Oct 08, 2024

Summary: The most desirable neighborhoods in Shah Alam, Malaysia are Subang Jaya, Kota Kemuning, and Setia Alam. On average, a nice 2 bedroom home in Shah Alam costs around $200,000 USD, while a nice 3 bedroom home costs around $250,000 USD. These properties typically include modern amenities such as air conditioning, a kitchen, and a balcony. Foreigners are allowed to purchase property in Shah Alam, but there are certain restrictions. For example, foreigners are not allowed to purchase property in certain areas, such as agricultural land. When searching for a home to buy in Shah Alam, an expat should consider their budget, desired location, and amenities. It is also important to research the local real estate market and consult with a real estate agent to ensure that the property is in good condition and that the purchase process is handled properly.

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How do I find a place to live in Shah Alam?

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

"Shah Alam is a great place to live in Malaysia, with plenty of options for housing. One of the best ways to find a place to live in Shah Alam is to use online rental websites such as iProperty, Mudah, and EdgeProp. These websites allow you to search for rental properties in Shah Alam by location, price, and amenities. Additionally, you can also search for rental properties on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. You can also contact local real estate agents who specialize in the Shah Alam area to help you find a place to live. Finally, you can also look for rental properties in the local newspapers and classifieds," explained one person living in Shah Alam, Malaysia.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Shah Alam?

"Expat homes and apartments in Shah Alam typically feature modern amenities and are well-maintained. Many expat homes and apartments are located in gated communities, providing a sense of security and privacy. Expat homes and apartments in Shah Alam often feature spacious living areas, modern kitchens, and comfortable bedrooms. Many expat homes and apartments also have access to amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, and playgrounds. Expat homes and apartments in Shah Alam are typically well-connected to the city's public transportation system, making it easy to get around," said one person in Shah Alam.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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What is the average cost of housing in Shah Alam?

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

"The cost of housing in Shah Alam varies depending on the type of property and its location. Generally, the average cost of housing in Shah Alam is relatively affordable compared to other cities in Malaysia," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Shah Alam.

Should I buy or rent a home in Shah Alam?

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

"When deciding whether to buy or rent a home in Shah Alam, it is important to consider your budget, lifestyle, and long-term plans. Buying a home in Shah Alam can be a great investment, as the city is growing rapidly and property values are increasing. However, it is important to consider the costs associated with buying a home, such as the down payment, closing costs, and ongoing maintenance. Renting a home in Shah Alam can be a more affordable option, and it can provide more flexibility if you are not sure how long you will be living in the city. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Shah Alam should be based on your individual needs and preferences," said one expat in Shah Alam.

What do I need to know when buying property in Shah Alam?

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

"When buying property in Shah Alam, it is important to research the area and the local market to ensure you are making a sound investment. It is also important to understand the legal requirements for purchasing property in Malaysia, such as the need for a lawyer to handle the transaction. Additionally, it is important to be aware of any restrictions or regulations that may apply to the property, such as zoning laws or building codes. Finally, it is important to be aware of any taxes or fees that may be associated with the purchase of the property," said one expat in Shah Alam.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Shah Alam?

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

"Yes, foreigners are allowed to own property in Shah Alam. However, there are certain restrictions and requirements that must be met. Foreigners can purchase residential properties, commercial properties, and industrial properties, but they must meet the minimum purchase price set by the state government. In Selangor, where Shah Alam is located, the minimum purchase price for foreigners is RM2 million for landed properties and RM1 million for strata properties. Additionally, foreigners are not allowed to purchase low and medium-cost residential units, properties reserved for Bumiputera (indigenous Malaysians), or properties on Malay Reserved Land. It is also important for foreigners to obtain approval from the State Authority before purchasing a property," explained one expat in Shah Alam.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Shah Alam 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 a rental property in Shah Alam, tenants can typically expect to find a refrigerator, stove, oven, washing machine, and air conditioning unit. Additionally, some rental properties may also include a microwave, dishwasher, and water heater," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Shah Alam.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Shah Alam:

We asked foreigners in Shah Alam 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 searching for homes in Shah Alam, often begin by browsing online property websites and portals to get an idea of the available options. They may also join expat forums and social media groups to seek advice and recommendations from fellow expats who have experience living in the area. Another approach is to engage the services of a local real estate agent who is familiar with the Shah Alam property market and can help navigate the process of finding a suitable home. Expats may also visit local neighborhoods to explore the area and identify potential properties for rent or sale. Additionally, expats can network with colleagues, friends, and acquaintances who may have connections to the local property market or know of available homes. Word of mouth can be a valuable resource in finding a suitable home in Shah Alam. Lastly, expats may consider attending property fairs and expos to gather more information about the housing market and connect with real estate professionals who can assist in their search," explained one person living in Shah Alam, Malaysia.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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