Accommodation in Malaysia

With a range of options to suit any taste and budget, Malaysia has plenty of comfortable and affordable accommodation for expats to choose from. In fact, many expats in Malaysia report that they are able to afford much more spacious housing than back home.

Types of accommodation in Malaysia

Many types of accommodation are present in Malaysia: large standalone houses, semi-detached and terraced houses, apartments and condominiums. Generally, condominiums are most popular with expats, as they are secure and often boast highly sought-after amenities such as gyms and swimming pools.

Housing prices are reasonable throughout Malaysia, especially when included in a lucrative employment package or when financed by a large expat salary. Property in central Kuala Lumpur is generally more expensive than in any other area in Malaysia.

Fully furnished, semi-furnished or unfurnished accommodation is available, though expats should be aware that 'unfurnished' is sometimes used more literally in Malaysia than in other countries. The term can refer to places that are completely empty, without kitchen units, stoves or even curtain rails.

Finding accommodation in Malaysia

The process of finding property in Malaysia is straightforward. Expats can engage the services of a real-estate agent to help them find a suitable place to stay, or they can conduct internet searches and check local newspapers and other publications for rental listings. Estate agents can be especially useful for expats as they have experience in the local property market and knowledge about the various areas.

Renting accommodation in Malaysia

Leases

Rental agreements are usually signed on a two-year basis, with an option to renew. For this reason, if unable to commit with 100 percent certainty to the full two years, expats should be sure to have a termination clause written into their rental contract. This will allow the early breaking of the lease under certain conditions. For expats, diplomatic clauses are particularly useful as they

Deposits

To secure the property while finalising the contract, expats may be ask to pay an 'earnest deposit' of a month's worth of rent. This essentially puts a hold on the property while contract details and negotiations are worked out. The earnest deposit is typically used as a rent payment once the contract is finalised.

In addition, the tenant will have to pay one to two months' rent as a refundable security deposit. This is returned to the tenant at the end of the lease period if the home is in good condition.

Estate agent fees are normally paid by the landlord.

Utilities

The tenant will usually be responsible for their own water, electricity, sewerage, phone and internet bills, and might also be required to pay a deposit on these utilities before moving in.