How to rent an apartment

✅ Updated May 2026

Most foreigners find apartments through agents (中介) or apps such as Ziroom (自如) and Lianjia/Beike (链家/贝壳), or local listings. Agents typically charge a fee of about one month's rent, and you usually pay rent quarterly or half-yearly plus a deposit of one to three months. View in person, check the water pressure, heating/AC, and appliances, and confirm the landlord actually owns the place. After you move in, your landlord must help you register your address with the police.

1. 1

   Search via an agent (中介) or apps like Ziroom and Lianjia/Beike.

   中介 · zhōng jiè

2. 2

   View in person; check appliances, water pressure, heating/AC, and the area.

3. 3

   Verify the landlord's ownership and sign a written contract.

4. 4

   Pay the deposit and rent, then register your address at the police station.