Relocation & Employer Support
Practical support for your move, home search, and Shanghai setup.
Choose the point in your move where you need help. We will keep the next step clear.
Start with a workable Shanghai plan
- Compare districts around work, schools and daily routine.
- Plan a first shortlist before arriving.
- Decide whether a serviced stay makes sense first.
How it works
- Share timing and priorities.
- Receive a practical starting direction.
- Move into a housing shortlist when ready.
Housing support that stays practical
- Curated long-term apartments and serviced stays.
- Area advice, viewings and shortlist comparison.
- Lease discussion and move-in coordination.
How it works
- Tell us the brief.
- Compare live options.
- Arrange viewings and decide with context.
Make the first weeks easier
- Move-in and local setup coordination.
- Practical guidance on banking and SIM-card setup.
- Utilities and the details that follow a new lease.
How it works
- Tell us your arrival timing.
- Prioritise the essentials.
- Coordinate the next local steps.
Support around a Shanghai team move
- Initial coordination for China EOR, work visa, payroll and HR compliance needs.
- Local relocation and housing support for incoming hires.
- Introductions to vetted specialist providers where regulated expertise is required.
How it works
- Share the team brief and timing.
- Clarify the local support needed.
- Coordinate the appropriate specialist introduction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about finding your Shanghai home with us.
What areas of Shanghai do you cover?
We cover all major expat-friendly districts across Shanghai. In Puxi: Jing'an, Huangpu, Xuhui (including the Former French Concession), Changning (Gubei, Hongqiao), Putuo, and Minhang. In Pudong: Lujiazui, Jinqiao, Century Park, Huamu, and Zhangjiang. We specialize in premium compounds popular with international professionals and families.
Do I need to pay for your property search service?
Our service is free for tenants. Like most Shanghai rental agencies, we are compensated by the landlord upon successful lease signing. This means you get full access to our 20 years of market expertise, curated property listings, viewing arrangements, contract negotiation, and move-in assistance — at no cost to you.
How long does it take to find an apartment in Shanghai?
Most expats find their ideal apartment within 1-2 weeks of active searching. The timeline depends on your requirements, budget, and market conditions. Premium properties in popular areas move quickly. We recommend starting your search 2-4 weeks before your desired move-in date. For clients with very specific requirements, we can monitor the market in advance.
What documents do I need to rent an apartment?
You will need: (1) a valid passport with residence visa or work permit, (2) employment verification (contract or letter from employer), (3) security deposit (typically 1-2 months' rent), and (4) first rent payment (monthly or quarterly, depending on the agreement). If your company is paying directly, a letter of guarantee may be required. We guide you through every document requirement based on your specific situation.
Do you provide bilingual lease contracts?
Yes. We ensure every lease contract is bilingual (Chinese and English) and review all clauses carefully before you sign. We verify landlord ownership documents, negotiate favorable terms on your behalf, and ensure the contract clearly covers: rent amount and payment schedule, deposit conditions, maintenance responsibilities, early termination terms, and renewal options. The Chinese version is legally binding, so we make sure the English translation is accurate and complete.
What happens after I move in?
Our support does not end at lease signing. We assist with police registration (required within 24 hours of moving in), utility setup (electricity, gas, water, internet), and any move-in issues that arise. If you encounter maintenance problems, we help coordinate with the landlord. Our goal is a long-term relationship — many of our clients return to us when moving to a new apartment or when friends and colleagues relocate to Shanghai.