All is quiet on (the day after) New Year's Day

Now this is a rare sight an real estate agency closed.

Today is the 2nd day in the year of the dragon and numerous businesses are closed. There are usually several wily estate agents suited and booted hanging around out side chatting on mobiles or smoking. Zhonglian agents will remain closed for several days. This agent deals in sales as well as lettings

If you want to rent a property in China traditionally it's 2 month's rent in advance for the deposit plus one month in advance. The agent's fee is (usually) divided 50/50 between the landlord and the tenant.

For example, to rent a 2 bed flat here is currently around 5000 - 6000 RMB per calendar month (£500-£600 / US$800 - $950). Five bed places 200 square metres or more go for anywhere between 25-30,000 RMB pcm.