House Hunting Day 5

Well, I didn't expect to sign any lease yet, so I'm not surprised that the search will continue.  However, on the last day in Shanghai we came to a conclusion after viewing SEVEN properties with Elsa:  it all depends on the location.  (Wait, isn't that Rule #1 in real estate anyway?)

What we determined was that if we live nearest Chris's office in the Gubei/Hongqiao area, then we want a villa so we can take advantage of the gardens and patios and sprawling developments.  If we live downtown and choose a serviced apartment, the only one we're interested in is Shama Huashan.  If we decided to go all-out urban and live in the former French concession, then an old house is the only way to go.

Elsa and Tom will continue scouting that perfect property, now that they have clear ideas of what our tastes and preferences are.  Chris and I will review the possibilities, and if one catches our attention we might ask a friend in Shanghai to go check it out in person with her most scrutinizing eye.  Eventually before we sign anything Chris will want to try out the commute to and from his office, just to make sure it's indeed bearable.

Our friends also pointed out that because so many people relocate at the beginning of the summer it will be worth the wait to see what else comes available.  Hopefully our patience will pay off and we'll end up in the home of our dreams!  My only concern is heading to IKEA once we've moved in, and of course finding that perfect spot for our favorite painting, and not to mention finding a cheap local florist... and organizing our closets... and buying a grill... and... ...