Advice wanted on renting if new to Beijing

Dave hi,

I suggest that you come for a look-see visit. Taste is always subjective and someone else's idea of great might not be the same as yours.

Be careful with Estate Agencies since (assuming your budget is over about 5,000RMB) they are paid by the Landlord on a commission base. ie Higher the rent the higher their commission.

Getting a friend to help you and go with you and the Estate Agent is an excellent solution. Failing that use a Destination Service Provider, basically someone who is paid by you to be objective and to help you avoid the pitfalls - your China eyes and China ears to avoid your China tears.

{Disclaimer: I work for one such company that provides these services in 100 cities around the world}