Fengshui for Phoenix Floors, South-facing Units, Penthouses

The rental market in Hong Kong is highly competitive, with Phoenix floors, south-facing apartments, and Penthouse becoming popular choices among renters. Each type of floor and building has its own advantages and challenges. This article will explore the characteristics of these three types of units and provide practical tips to help you make the best rental decision.

What is a Phoenix Floor?

A Phoenix floor typically refers to a residential unit located one floor below the top floor of a building. The top floor often faces issues like extreme heat and water leakage, making the Phoenix floor an attractive alternative. In Chinese culture, the phoenix symbolizes good fortune and beauty, hence this floor is considered the "golden floor."

Advantages of the Phoenix Floor

• Prime Location and View: Phoenix floors usually offer similar views and ventilation as top floors, providing expansive views and good airflow.
• Avoiding Penthouse Issues: Common Penthouse problems like direct sunlight, high indoor temperatures, and roof leaks are typically avoided on the Phoenix floor.
• Noise and Insect Reduction: Being on a higher floor helps avoid noise disturbances and insect problems common on lower floors.
• Larger Usable Space: Higher floors generally have larger usable areas compared to lower floors due to structural differences.

Challenges of the Phoenix Floor

• High Rent: Due to its desirable conditions, the rent for Phoenix floors is usually higher, which might be a challenge for some renters.
• Impact of Mobile Phone Towers: In many public housing estates, there might be mobile phone towers near the top floors, posing potential health risks for long-term residents.
• Obstructed Views: If there are other buildings nearby, the view from a Phoenix floor might be obstructed.
• Less Advantageous in Skyscrapers: In skyscrapers with more than 50 floors, the advantages of a Phoenix floor are less noticeable as many upper floors offer similar benefits.

Fengshui Benefits of South-facing Apartments

• Ideal Living Environment: In the Northern Hemisphere, south-facing apartments receive more sunlight in winter and avoid direct sunlight in summer, creating a warm winter and cool summer environment.
• Ample Natural Light: South-facing apartments receive more natural light, which not only brightens the interior but also reduces mold and dampness, creating a healthier living environment.
• Good Air Circulation: These apartments usually have good ventilation, effectively expelling indoor moisture and stale air, keeping the air fresh.
• Great Views: South-facing apartments often have unobstructed views, enhancing the living experience.
• Feng Shui Implications: In Feng Shui, the south represents fire, symbolizing positivity, enthusiasm, and vitality. South-facing homes are believed to bring prosperity and good luck, benefiting residents' careers and family fortunes.
• Wind Protection: In some areas, cold winds come from the north in winter, and south-facing homes can effectively block these winds, keeping the interior warm.
• Rarity of South-facing Units: "North-facing and south-facing" units are considered ideal home wealth positions in Feng Shui. South-facing units are rarer than Phoenix floors, as not every building or community has south-facing units.

Challenges of South-facing Apartments

• Obstructions: If there are buildings in front of a south-facing unit, the ideal living environment might be compromised, and ventilation and lighting could be affected.
• Humidity Issues: South-facing units near natural environments need to be cautious of humidity. Hong Kong's climate, especially during the rainy season, can cause walls, floors, and furniture to become damp and moldy. To mitigate this, renters should consider using dehumidifiers and ventilating regularly to keep the interior dry.

Pros and Cons of Penthouse

Benefits of Penthouse

• Exceptional Views: Penthouse usually offers expansive views, making them a dream location for many.
• Noise and Insect Reduction: These units are free from lower-floor noise and insect issues.
• High Privacy: Penthouse living offers greater privacy with fewer disturbances.
• Good Ventilation: Top floors typically have better ventilation, ensuring higher air quality.

Challenges of Penthouse

• Potential Leakage Issues: The roof has many water pipes, making top floors prone to leaks. It's essential to inspect for water damage before renting.
• Higher Temperatures in Summer: Top floors can get very hot in summer, leading to higher air conditioning costs.
• Noise from Machinery Rooms: Top floors might be affected by noise from elevator machinery rooms and water pumps, especially in older buildings.
• Feng Shui Challenges: Being the highest point, top floors might face Feng Shui issues, requiring careful layout planning.
• Proximity to Mobile Phone Towers: Many public housing estates have mobile phone towers on the roof. While these towers meet safety standards, it's advisable for sensitive individuals to avoid potential radiation exposure.

Practical Tips for Renting in Hong Kong

1. Define Your Rental Needs

Before starting your search, clearly define your needs, including budget, lifestyle, and family size. When choosing Phoenix floors, south-facing units, or penthouses, ensure you understand their drawbacks to avoid high-cost disappointments.

2. Visit the Property

A site visit is crucial. It allows you to assess the property's condition, including interior facilities, surroundings, and actual views. Don't rely solely on photos and descriptions.

3. Inspect Facilities

During the visit, carefully check the property's facilities, such as waterproofing, air conditioning, water heaters, windows, and furniture. Pay special attention to the waterproofing condition of top floors and Phoenix floors to avoid leakage issues.

4. Confirm Rent and Hidden Costs

Apart from the rent, be aware of other potential costs like management fees, utilities, and home broadband, as well as the rent-free period. Understanding these beforehand helps avoid budget overruns.

5. Explore Surroundings

The surrounding environment directly affects living comfort. While south-facing units have good Feng Shui, obstructing buildings or excessive humidity can negate their advantages.

6. Check the Rental Contract

Before signing the lease, carefully read each clause, especially those regarding rent, lease term, deposit, and maintenance. Ensure all agreed terms are clearly stated to protect your rights.

7. Communicate with the Landlord

Establish good communication with the landlord to understand their background and the property's history. Clearly express your needs and expectations to ensure mutual agreement.

8. Use Rental Platforms

Professional rental platforms like LetsGetHome offer diverse property options and professional services, providing a convenient and secure way to find your ideal home.

9. Feng Shui Considerations

If Feng Shui is important to you, choosing south-facing units or those with good Feng Shui can enhance personal or family fortune. Consulting a professional Feng Shui master during viewings can provide valuable insights.

10. Maintenance and Repairs

After moving in, maintain cleanliness and ensure the proper functioning of facilities. Address home repair needs promptly with the landlord to prevent small issues from becoming major problems.

LetsGetHome: Commission-free Rental Platform in Hong Kong

Choosing the right rental home requires careful consideration and comparison. By understanding your needs, visiting properties, inspecting facilities, and leveraging professional rental platforms, you can find your ideal home. LetsGetHome offers an innovative pay-as-you-go service, providing a fair, transparent, and stress-free rental experience. Register with LetsGetHome today!