Foreigners are restricted to owning one residential property in China, which must be for self-occupation only .
Sales hit a five-year high in early 2026, driven by first-time buyers and relaxed purchase restrictions.
Secondary home prices in Shanghai rose approximately 0.4% month-on-month in March 2026, marking a period of stabilization after a prolonged slump.
Expats are generally prohibited from renting out their residential property or using it for commercial purposes. Market Trends (Early 2026)
Verify if the property has a valid permit to be sold to foreigners.
Once approved, the title is registered at the local Real Estate Bureau. Note that land is held on a 70-year leasehold system , not absolute ownership. Buying a home in Shanghai: Things you need to know
You must provide proof of continuous individual income tax or social security contributions for at least one consecutive year (reduced from three years in February 2026).
As of April 2026, Shanghai's real estate market is the strongest performer among China's "Tier-1" cities.
Foreigners are restricted to owning one residential property in China, which must be for self-occupation only .
Sales hit a five-year high in early 2026, driven by first-time buyers and relaxed purchase restrictions.
Secondary home prices in Shanghai rose approximately 0.4% month-on-month in March 2026, marking a period of stabilization after a prolonged slump.
Expats are generally prohibited from renting out their residential property or using it for commercial purposes. Market Trends (Early 2026)
Verify if the property has a valid permit to be sold to foreigners.
Once approved, the title is registered at the local Real Estate Bureau. Note that land is held on a 70-year leasehold system , not absolute ownership. Buying a home in Shanghai: Things you need to know
You must provide proof of continuous individual income tax or social security contributions for at least one consecutive year (reduced from three years in February 2026).
As of April 2026, Shanghai's real estate market is the strongest performer among China's "Tier-1" cities.