What apartment rental red flags should I watch for in Guangzhou?

CarriageWindow

I am moving to Guangzhou for at least a year and have started looking at apartments through agents on WeChat. A few places look good in photos, but the agents are pushing hard for quick deposits before I have even seen the property in person.

For people who have rented in China recently, what are the biggest red flags during viewings and contract signing? I already know to check the commute and building age, but I am more worried about hidden management fees, fake listings, and landlords who become impossible after move-in.

SouthGateKen

If the agent refuses to show the exact apartment until after you pay a deposit, walk away. Fake listings are still common, and the nice photos are often just bait to start a conversation.

PermitPaperMaya

Ask who pays for management fees, internet, and any seasonal air-conditioning charges before you sign. Those small items can add up fast and are easy to leave vague in a rushed bilingual contract.

KeycardOlivia

Take photos of every dent, stain, appliance serial number, and meter reading on day one. It sounds excessive, but it makes deposit fights much easier later.

RailTicketMason

Make sure the landlord can provide the property ownership documents and is willing to register your address for the police accommodation requirement if needed. That part becomes important faster than most new renters expect.