Once you decided which house you want to move in, you probably need some information about the house. These are some lists you can ask your realtor or the building manager.
1. How much are rent, security deposit, and maintenance fee?
Since South Korea’s banking system doesn’t allow personal check, you have to pay your rent in local currency (won). Most of the time your first-month bill will include payment for your first month’s rent, a security deposit (one month rent), and a maintenance fee if it requires.
2. What is the maintenance fee?
Korean apartments are similar to co-op in the US. Each unit has a different landlord and their union hire people to maintain the building. The maintenance bill includes common area utilities, internet, cable, landscaping, cleaning, elevator maintenance, and etc. The cost of maintenance is different from each apartment. However, high-rise buildings charge more fees than 4 story villa.
The average maintenance fee in Osan AB area is 120,000won-150,000won.
3. How much do I need to pay utilities and where to pay?
Of course, utilities will be vary depending on your habit of using. However, South Korea’s electricity will be a bit higher than the State. The average electricity bill during summertime is about 150,000won and gas bill during wintertime is about the same.
You will get bills inside your mailbox every month. You pay to your realtor or local convenience store at your convenience.
4. How long will it be my contract period?
If you just got in Osan AB and move out to off base housing, your housing contract will be one year. Let your realtor know how long you will stay in South Korea before you go out for the house hunting. Extending your contract is the same as well. Inform your realtor 30 days before your original contract’s termination. They will prepare the paperwork and you can re-submit to the housing office.
5. What’s the policy on late fees?
There is no late fee. However, your realtor might contact the housing department if you delay your rent for more than a month. Therefore, please pay your rent on time. If you can’t make the rent on time, using GI Bill service might be a good idea. GI bill will transfer money from your account and sent it to your realtor on time.
6. What’s the pet policy?
Most of the houses around Osan AB are pet friendly. There is no pet deposit, but you are responsible for damages caused by your pet when you move out. South Korea have a strict rule about pet, so make sure always put the leash on your pet when you need to go outside. If your dog is a large size, you might need to put on a muzzle while you are walking your dog.
7. What is the maintenance request process?
When you need an assist from the maintenance office, you have to contact your realtor first. Then, your realtor will make a schedule with the maintenance office or technicians for you.
8. What’s the parking situation?
Most buildings offer more than one parking spot. The parking is not reserved so you can park your car anywhere you want. Apartment buildings also offer parking for your scooter and bicycle. Some buildings offer electric car charging stations as well, so ask your realtor for information.
9. What is the public transportation situation?
Public transportation in South Korea is one of the tops in the world. The nearest subway station from Osan AB is only 8min walking distance. Also, local buses and taxi services are available in front of Osan AB walking gate. You can also use the base taxi which has access to the base. Drivers can speak English, so it is easy to use.
TO BE CONTINUE…
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