Regardless of the current economic slowdown, the Shanghai banking regulator reinforced the second home requirement rule, reiterating that buyers must put at least a 40% down payment for purchasing a second home. This shows government’s disciplined approach in stimulating the real estate market. In general, the government makes lands available for sale primarily through auctions. The companies that purchase the lands will be responsible for building properties and selling the properties to the public. The residents will hold seventy year long property ownership.

Under the current policies, foreigners are entitled to one property if they have worked and lived in Shanghai for at least a year. Besides the residency requirement, they must purchase property only for their own use and can not lease it to others. Shanghai property transaction centers can make up own rules on trading on the basis of these policies, according to Shanghai Municipal Housing, Land and Resource Administration Bureau, and rules and implementation time could vary by district. Restrictions that were imposed on foreign investors from investing in the first tier cities like Shanghai have not been released, but real estate opportunities in the second and third tier cities or Shanghai nearby cities such as Hangzhou, Suzhou, Wuxi, are either open, or not as restricted. One thing to note is that overseas institutions and individuals that have set up a company in China may purchase property for purposes other than their own use. Regardless of economic and market conditions, Shanghai, with its unique historical background, rich cultures and vibrant growth, continues to attract people from all over the country and all over the world.

In Shanghai also, one can see a huge surge in demand for purchase properties, especially in the residential property. Investing in property in the city is a favorable decision, as the property rates are expected to touch the roof in the coming few years, evident by urbanization, rising household income, low homeownership rate, etc.. So, from both, the investment as well as the residential use perspective, you can look at investing in the realty section in Shanghai.

If you also have decided on investing in the real estate sector in the city, then it is a good idea to seek professional assistance from a renowned real estate agent. This will ensure that the property you select in Shanghai will be backed by the right guidance from professionals in the real estate sector. However, before we proceed, it is important to get a clear understanding about the different types of property options available for purchase or renting in the city. Let us take a look on some of them:

New Villas in Shanghai – In Shanghai, you will come across a lot of luxurious villas as residential options. These are mainly located in the posh areas of Changning district, Minhang district and Pudong district. These villas can be found in different architectural styles, inspired from different countries across the world. They have their own clubhouses, post offices, swimming pools, golf courses, and a variety of other services in the vicinity.

Apartments in Shanghai – One can even go for apartment rentals or purchases in the city. There are a number of apartments conveniently located near commercial areas of the city. They are also equipped with most of the outdoor and recreation facilities in close vicinity, but are comparatively cheaper than independent villas. Serviced apartments in Shanghai – Serviced apartments are meant for those who plan to stay in the city for a short time span. These are usually run by large hotel groups and are equipped with all luxury facilities such as 24 hour butlers, modern furniture, club hotel facilities and many more.