In Hong Kong cars for sale are to be found in many locations the average expat wouldn’t expect. You won’t find acres of open air lots with used cars scattered about, as open space like this is at a premium in Hong Kong. Where you will find used car dealers is in the basements of building car parks or occupying part, or all of a level of a multi-story car park. These car lots may be a single used car dealership, or many smaller dealers sharing the space.

All makes of cars are available, with some models possibly differing from your home country. The most common vehicles on Hong Kong roads would be BMW, Mercedes and Toyota. Most of these vehicles can be found, as used cars, for reasonable prices, although not many dealers offer any kind of warranty.

One thing many expats find confronting when dealing with local used car salesmen, is that many of them who are not used to dealing with us will require you to negotiate and decide on a price for the car before you test drive it. This is standard practice for many used car dealers here as to them it shows that you are serious about buying the car. Of course it should be understood that you are free to change your mind or renegotiate should the used car’s test drive not be up to expectation.

If you’re thinking of buying a used car in Hong Kong you must have somewhere to park it. May sound obvious but many apartments will not have a parking space included, or even available. There is a healthy market for car parking spaces as many people who are not using theirs often lease or sell it.

Hong Kong business culture is a rare balance of Western capitalist thinking and the East’s belief system. The British influence that has left the Hong Kong more than a decade ago remains evident today in the way business is conducted in the country. Chinese people are particularly conscious of punctuality. Superstitious Chinese practices like putting bagua mirrors to deflect evil spirits are important among business establishments. The eastern concept of energy flow like the Feng Shui are definitely taken seriously because businesses spend a lot of money consulting experts just to ensure that construction projects are positively oriented towards that which attracts most luck. Do not be surprised also if floor numbers in buildings lack the number 4 because in the Chinese language, it is similar to the word “die” which has negative connotation for them. As a busy business center, Hong Kong cuisine is also a mixture of eastern and western characteristics.

It is important to learn the Hong Kong business culture before doing any business in the country because it will definitely affect your relations with them. Know that Chinese culture is the dominant business and social influence in the environment. The pace of life in the country is hectic and its residents are highly entrepreneurial with strong commercial instincts. Chinese are also hardworking and very competitive. They are also very conscious of their face or image that is why they highly value their education which according to them will ensure one’s social and economic mobility. Families are hierarchical and members are committed to upholding the family’s honor through loyalty, respect and obligations. Introductions and connections are not essential in Hong Kong although they help in establishing credibility for business. Hiring a local representative to initially develop the business is advisable.

It is good to learn how to do the proper Chinese way of greeting so as to show respect for the culture and establish a good impression on them. Bowing is their way of greeting and when a handshake is made be gentle because they are not used to close and intimate interactions with foreigners or strangers for that matter. Because they recognize seniority, be conscious of greeting the most senior member first.

Hong Kong Business Culture may also be described as results or role-oriented rather than that of the Western values of personal and social growth. Avoid confrontation and aggression. Remember to use language diplomatically. Refrain from directly refusing anyone by saying “I will try” or “I will see.” Be modest in all you behavior and also keep you calm.

Gift giving is also a part of doing business in Hong Kong. It helps establish or maintain relationships. Avoid giving clocks, books, green hats and anything unwrapped or wrapped in blue. Gift money in a red envelope is known as hong boa. Accept gifts with both hands and remember that gifts are to be reciprocated. A meal could also be a form of gift for the Chinese.

Be punctual and courteous in meetings. Do not set appointments on Chinese New Year because they look forward to this time for vacation.