Jianshuo,

Jianshuo,

Sorry for the delayed response to this post. I have been super busy at work. My perspective on this is as a short-term renter not fluent in written Chinese. Some questions that short-term renters or visitors might have:


1. Location - where is it? is the location safe? is it convenient to Metro or other transit? where is it relative to key landmarks?
2. Airport transit - how do I get there from the airport? how do I find the right location if I don't speak Chinese? what do I do if the taxi driver gets lost?
3. Checking in - how do I check in? especially if I am coming in late from the airport? What number do I call if I have a problem?
4. Payment - do I have to pay in advance? how do I know I can trust you (or the landlord)? What is the cancellation policy? What if I don't like it, can I leave early?
5. What nearby amenities are available? What apartment amenities are there?
- food? Western food? restaurants with English (or other foreign language) menus?
- laundry services?
- business services? printer? copier?
- is there wifi internet? what if I have technical problems getting on the internet?
- is there access to Western TV channels?
- is there maid service? how often? how clean is the apartment?
- is there nearby groceries and food shopping?
6. can you provide aiyi service for kids? or a cook?

Also, people may want to know the following things before booking a short-term stay:
1. How big is the apartment? Can I see a floor plan?
2. Can I see photos of each room?
3. Is it quiet? What floor is it on and where is it in the complex? (not near a big road?)
4. Is it non-smoking?
5. Is there good heating or cooling (A/C)?

Ideally people can get access to user reviews and other unbiased information prior to making a decision.

I'll try to think about other questions that come up.
Posted by elliottng at 2008-03-11 15:06:52
Commented on
Advice Needed on Rental for Foreigners