Essential Checklist for Buying a Small Apartment

Investing in small apartments can be a great choice, especially since it allows you to enter the real estate market with a lower capital requirement and the potential for steady rental income. However, to ensure a successful investment, there are several important factors to consider. In this article, we will explore the essential elements to keep in mind when purchasing a small apartment and provide a user-friendly checklist at the end.

1. Look for Areas with Job Opportunities

When selecting a location for your investment, the relationship between jobs and housing is crucial. Areas near industrial complexes often see a steady influx of residents, leading to high housing demand. These regions are likely to host major corporations, resulting in stable job opportunities. It’s essential to check if large companies are situated in the area, as this can significantly impact rental demand.

2. Consider Large Complexes

When investing in small apartments for rental purposes, opting for larger complexes is advisable. In metropolitan areas, apartments with over 500 units and those with more than 1,000 units in regional areas provide a more stable investment. Larger complexes tend to have a lower risk of vacancies, which is crucial for generating consistent rental income. Additionally, having multiple real estate agencies nearby can make property management much easier.

3. Calculate Investment Costs Wisely

The primary reason for investing in small apartments is to acquire properties that can generate steady rental income without excessive financial strain. Owning multiple small apartments can lead to consistent rental returns. However, it’s essential to have a strategy regarding whether to rent out the apartments on a Jeonse (key money deposit) or a monthly rent basis. Jeonse requires a lower initial investment but does not provide cash flow, while monthly rentals typically need a higher investment but generate immediate cash flow.

4. Check the Jeonse Rate

Examining the Jeonse rate, which is the ratio of the Jeonse price to the purchase price, is crucial. A high Jeonse rate indicates strong demand for that specific apartment. Websites like the Gyeonggi Province Real Estate Portal or Joinsland can help you find this information. However, be cautious; in smaller complexes, a high Jeonse rate could simply mean a low sale price, so it’s essential to assess the situation carefully.

5. Consider Future Risks

Risks associated with small apartment investments include the possibility of an oversupply of new apartments in the area or a decrease in the population. Therefore, staying informed about new developments and trends in the area is vital. Websites like Real Estate 114 can provide you with valuable insights on recent developments.

6. Investigate Transportation Options

Finally, the value of your apartment investment will largely depend on its transportation options. Areas with convenient access to subway lines or highways tend to have higher demand. If a location has future transportation improvements planned, it could be a worthwhile investment opportunity. Always check the development stage of these projects to ensure you’re making a timely investment.


Now, let’s summarize the key points in a checklist format! Here’s a table to help you remember what to consider when investing in small apartments.

ChecklistPoints to Verify
1. Choose Areas with Job DensityCheck proximity to industrial complexes
2. Consider Large ComplexesConfirm if it’s a complex with over 500 units
3. Verify Investment FeasibilityConsider initial costs and rental type (Jeonse/monthly)
4. Check Jeonse RateVerify the ratio of Jeonse price to purchase price
5. Analyze Future RisksStay updated on new developments and population trends
6. Research Transportation OptionsCheck access to subways and highways and future plans

Using this checklist, you can confidently approach your investment in small apartments! With the right information and strategy, you can seize opportunities for stable rental income.

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