Ayesha de Kretser/Shanghai Daily news

The best place to live in Shanghai should also be the most expensive - shouldn't it? Apparently not if this week's pick is anything to go by.

The private front courtyard area is big enough to install a barbecue and outdoor setting.

The kitchen has room for a small dining table.

Located on Kangping Road, directly opposite the Shanghai mayoral residences, this house is in what must be the most peaceful street in Shanghai. Kangping Road is a leafy, tree-lined street where trucks are banned and all other traffic is tightly controlled so it is quiet and also completely safe for anyone worried about personal and home security.
The art-deco style lane house was built in the 1940s and was recently refurbished. It is currently being painted. It has a private front courtyard area big enough to install a barbecue and outdoor setting with room to spare.
One enters the house through a large living area with the kitchen at the rear. The kitchen isn't great but it's big enough and has room for a small dining table. There's a small area off the kitchen for a washing machine and a basin.
Upstairs on the second level are two small bedrooms and a good-sized bathroom with a claw-foot bathtub. The bedrooms are sunny and light and being at the back of the house are very private. There is another huge living space with a fair-sized balcony on this level. Then it's upstairs again to the master bedroom and another bathroom.
The apartment comes unfurnished but an allowance can be negotiated for an increased monthly rental fee. Every room has excellent natural light and there are air-conditioners throughout the house. It really is a great residence and for the rental of US$2,000 per month has to have a catch.
And the catch is this: Due to the sensitive location of the property, the owner would prefer not to rent it to a foreigner working for an overseas company but is looking for a Hong Kong, Taiwanese or Chinese mainland tenant.
However, the estate agent says that foreigners working for Chinese companies would be considered.
For more information please contact PA Property Consultants at 6445-0289 or visit their Website at http://www.shanghaileasing.com.