4 things you need to know about Penang home rentals
Are you visiting Penang for the first time? Do you plan to look for a residential property to rent? Then, you are at the right place!
Penang is a captivating island with its old world charm, beaches, and tropical weather. It contributes to the best cuisines in the world, with propitious and warm locals. Penang state is in the North West of Malaysia and is segregated into two parts – Penang Island, the island part and Seberang Serai, the mainland part. The Northern part of the island has developed over many years. It’s highly populous and has a diverse cultural lifestyle. The southern part presents a more local lifestyle but has started attracting more and more foreign renters.
As a first-time resident in Penang, here are 4 things you need to know about homes for rent in Penang:
- Two main areas to focus – The first and foremost is to know the rental market on the island. The rentals on the island are on the higher end due to various aspects like scarcity of land, tourist spot fame, beautiful beaches, elite shopping malls, and delicious food. Localities from George Town to Batu Ferringhi are affluent areas placed at the seafront. Most of the expats seek these areas for the living cause of the proximity from the main market and the balanced nightlife. While Batu Ferringhi is completely a tourist hot spot with prime beaches, nature parks, and big hotels, it has to rely on Tanjun Tokong for supermarkets (Cold Storage) and hypermarkets (Tesco). It’s a good 20-25 minutes drive by car or Rapid Penang. All the areas on the stretch, like Tanjung Bungah and Tanjung Tokong have international schools to cater to the expat population.
The mainland offers a more local feel and lifestyle. The rentals are far more affordable in comparison to the island rentals. However, of late, these areas are also gaining popularity amongst foreigners, as developers are coming up with new condominium projects at affordable prices.
- Duration of Rentals – Home rentals are usually for a minimum period of 12 months. A standard property generally consists of 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. So, if you’re staying for a shorter duration and are looking for a smaller flat or a studio apartment, your choices will be extremely limited. Short term rental market is focused and caters to holiday spots like Batu Ferringhi, which has no wet market or supermarkets. However, for home renting for a longer duration, you have a wide choice, from villas to land houses and apartment buildings to condominiums.
- Daily Commute –You should consider the time it takes to travel to and fro from your workplace. If your workplace and home are far apart, the daily commute can be quite tedious. For example, if your office is in George Town (place of several international banks) or Bayan Lepas (home to FIZ and many multinational companies), the commute-time could be anywhere between 45 minutes to 1 and ½ hours.
- Accommodating pets –In all high-rise apartments and condominium, does not allow pet dogs or cats. It’ll be prudent on your part to rent a landed property to accommodate your pet. So, if you are moving in with your pet, you should find out if pets are allowed in the particular property.