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Finding Your Dream Home in Jakarta With the Help of an Expat Specialist

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Home sweet home is hard to find in Jakarta. House hunting expats know all about the complicated processes, beginning with finding a preferred area to sticking to a strict budget. Thankfully, Therese Harper, an expat housing specialist based here in Jakarta, is here to help. She has some advice for the house hunters among us.

Know Your Traffic

Commonly known as macet, Jakarta is reputed to have some of the worst traffic in the world. With Jakartans spending hours a day in cars while commuting, traffic is an important point to consider when finding a home. But Harper warns: don’t believe the hype. An agent or seller may suggest the area in which the property is located is particularly good for low traffic – but it will not be true. Nowhere in Jakarta is untouched by the city’s traffic so it’s best to instead focus on being close to the facilities you need.

Know Your Areas

Harper notes that South Jakarta, particularly Kemang, Cipete, Cilandak and Pondok Indah, are favoured locales of expats moving to the city. For some families it may be important to maintain a sense of community among other expats and for others it may be essential to be close to schools or offices. It is these priorities which should be kept at the forefront for home-seekers.

Know Your Budget

Whether you’re looking for a cute studio apartment or a six-bedroom, Jakarta has what you are looking for. But it is vital, Harper says, to know your budget and make it clear to the agent. While apartments can begin at just a few hundred dollars a month, large homes can run well into the thousands. Some agents may be interested in upselling homeseekers so it’s important to know what you can afford and remain firm in that.

Know Your Needs

Before even meeting with an agent, it’s important to plan out exactly what you need. House-hunting is rarely enjoyable anywhere in the world, but with Jakarta’s traffic it can be a downright nightmare. Before jumping in a car and spending days and days visiting homes around the city, know exactly what you need to make the most of your time and find your home sweet home as soon as possible.

For further advice, or help specialized to you and your family’s needs please get in touch with Harper at therese@theharpergroup.com.au.

 

Featured Image via Maxpixel

 

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