Korean Job Discussion Forums

[kchax]

I'm thinking of buying an apartment (wul-seh),
are there any terms and conditions I should specifically look out for?
I am fluent enough in Korean (Korean-American), but not sure on specific terms or terminology on contracts and such..

any experience shared or advice would be much appreciated! thanks!

[Scouse Mouse]

You should start by knowing that Wolsae is renting

With Wolsae you pay a smallish deposit, and a monthly rent.

Chonsae allows you to pay a % of the apartment value (50-60%) and live there rent free. You get your deposit back when you move.

To buy, you want to look for Mae Mae (매매).

[JJJ]

Personally, since I have sensitive ears, I would see if you could get someone to walk around the apartment above you and talk, turn on the TV or ring the phone in the apartment beside you.

I've been to a couple of owned apartments and the owners kinda regret the purchase because they can hear the kids running around every morning at 6am and hear the TV and arguements beside them. Thin walls. They hardly ever get a good night's rest. Good luck.

[IlIlNine]

Just make sure you don't have any NOISY NEIGHBORS

[bassexpander]

There are a few good threads I've responded to on this. You're welcome to do a search, but this site is SO DARNED SLOW that's it's becoming virtually useless to even POST anymore. Gawd, this sucks! I'm getting so freakin' sick of this slow board! It's a wonder why Dave just doesn't drop this board entirely.

End of rant.

Wolsye is renting, and Wolsye can be between 1 million and tens of millions of won. Jeonsae is putting a big wad of deposit down and not having to pay rent (owner just plays with your money).

You should look for (and avoid) an apartment if you can hear too much noise above or from the sides. Check for signs of mold and water damage. If there is mold, or mold damage to the paint, then AVOID the place. Check closets for this, too. Look at the seals around the windows. Do they leak? My half-billion won apartment is just over 5 years old, and the windows leak like no tomorrow. Horrible construction!

Run the water and make sure it heats up enough, and is pressurized enough for a good shower. That's a big deal -- not a joke.

Is there any construction in the area, or does it look like an empty lot/destroyed building next door might be rebuilt on? RUN AWAY from the place if there is. You'll be stuck in a noisy hell for a year or more.

Check for roach/ant killing devices. If they have them, then bugs may be a problem.

Does the bathroom have a fan that airs out sufficiently?

Is there parking? Do you get a free parking space, or have to pay?

How much are the monthly management fees? (These can vary greatly).


Guys, I think this topic deserves a podcast. Anyone interested in meeting up and discussing this with me on my website? Let me know by PM!

[itaewonguy]

what Scouse Mouse said...

[3MB]

Op,

youve been PWNED.

[kchax]

Thank you for the replies!