Living In Pahang
House and Accommodation
It is advisable to engage the service of real estate agencies for rental, purchase and/or sale of properties in Malaysia.
Purchasing a Property
Foreigners may purchase residential properties in Malaysia, subject to the minimum rates established for foreigners by the different states. They may start from RM500,000.00 per unit. Land is a state matter and it is important to check state laws before making any commitment.
It is advisable to buy properties which are already issued with certificates of fitness however if you intend to purchase from developers, ensure that it is a reputable company. Also ensure that your lawyer conducts a thorough check with the land office that you have ownership rights to the property that you are purchasing. Profit made on the sale of property is 5% (Real Property Gains Tax).
Property Rentals
It is easier to find accommodation through using a reputable agency that will match your requirements and budgets. Property types can either be landed such as single or double storey houses or service apartments or condominiums.
After deciding on a property, tenants are required to sign a Tenancy Agreement and pay deposit which includes at least two months rental as a security deposit that is refundable at the end of the tenancy agreement. Tenants will also be required to pay a deposit for utilities. Stamp duty is usually paid by the tenant while the agent’s fees are paid by the landlord or owner.
| Rent Costs (per month) | ||
| RM | US$ | |
| Houses | ||
| Bungalow | 4,000 – 5,000 | 1,112 – 1,390 |
| Double Semi-detached | 1,500 – 3,500 | 417 – 973 |
| Terrace | 1,000 – 1,500 | 278 – 417 |
| Apartments/ Condominiums | ||
| 1-bedroom | 1,200 – 1,500 | 334 – 417 |
| 2-bedroom | 1,800 – 2,300 | 500 – 639 |
| 3-bedroom | 2,500 – 3,800 | 695 – 1,057 |
Source: Jones Lang Wotton – Research & Consultant Kuala Lumpur
Furniture
There are apartments, condominiums and houses which can be rented as fully equipped or semi-furnished. However, the purchase of new furniture is actually quite inexpensive. As an option, leasing of furniture is available at some stores selling new furniture.
Utilities
Utilities (water, electricity, sewerage and garbage) for houses in Malaysia are comprehensive and effective as well as being reasonably priced when compared to most countries. They are usually charged separately from the rent. On the other hand, service or maintenance charges for apartments and condominiums are usually paid by the landlord and therefore included in the rent.
Safety and Security
Malaysia is a relatively safe country, although robberies, break-ins and snatch thefts do occur as in other countries and it is advisable to take precautionary measures. Most up-market residential areas, including apartments, condominiums and gated communities have in-house security and visitors are monitored. Such properties in prestigious suburbs have special private security firms hired by the residential committees to patrol the area day and night.