2024-05-20 28Hse Editor
In recent years, many new properties have been sold off-plan, meaning that without an existing building to visit, prospective buyers have to rely solely on the sales brochure and show flats to gather information. Purchasing a property is not as simple as buying groceries; there are several important aspects to consider when visiting a show flat.
Not all new developments have show flats. If a developer provides a show flat, it must comply with the regulations stipulated in the Residential Properties (First-hand Sales) Ordinance. This includes ensuring the ceiling height of the show flat does not exceed that specified in the sales brochure, and that the area, finishing materials, and equipment are consistent with what is described in the prospectus.
Show flats generally fall into two categories. The first type is the unmodified show flat, which represents the standard of the actual units upon completion. The layout, materials used, and included furniture and appliances must match the descriptions in the sales brochure.
The second type is the modified show flat, which often involves significant alterations such as combining two rooms into one or replacing walls with glass. These flats may also include custom-made furniture that differs from what will be in the actual units.
Since floor plans in the sales brochure cannot show the presence of beams inside the units, it is advisable for prospective buyers to visit and see for themselves, using the unmodified flat as a standard. Before entering a show flat, visitors should bring a tape measure to check dimensions within the flat, helping them plan what furniture to buy and determine if the unit meets their living needs.
It is important to note that if the facilities in the show flat differ from those listed in the sales brochure, the developer must display a notice inside the show flat explaining these differences. Therefore, visitors should pay attention to all notices displayed within the show flat to avoid missing critical information.
On the other hand, if a buyer is interested in a property that is already built, the seller must arrange a visit to the intended unit before signing the Provisional Sale and Purchase Agreement. If a visit is not possible for valid reasons, the seller must provide a similar unit for viewing. If the seller cannot arrange this, they must obtain written consent from the prospective buyer.
Many people wonder if everyone is allowed to visit show flats. Generally, anyone can visit without needing to be accompanied by a real estate agent or developer staff. However, some luxury developers may set thresholds to filter out those who are just browsing without the intention to buy, such as requiring a registration form and showing an HK$1 million cashier's order form for high-end projects like the show flats at Kai Tak's Cullinan Harbour.
Those interested in visiting a show flat should pay close attention to the information about the new development. After the developer releases the sales brochure, they usually open the show flat to the public shortly thereafter, announcing the dates and times to align with their sales schedule.
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