A recent survey by ECA International shows that Tokyo has the highest rent, while, surprisingly Taipei City ranks the 13th on the list among Asian cities. Scholars explain that many residences in Taipei City are owned by investors and because the housing price is extremely expensive, most people choose to rent instead, causing the market to remain at a competitive range.

If you want to buy a house in Taipei, though prices in excess of 10 million NT dollars are making you worried about your ability to afford a house, one could choose to rent at a lower price.

ECA International announced the results of the 2010 housing report showing that Tokyo is Asia's most expensive rental city, with Taipei ranked 13th.

The rental return on investment rates was 7% in Tokyo, but in Taipei only 1%.

Scholars say that Taipei has high prices, but low-rent because of speculation and investment trading as most people buy a house as an investment.

Also, the population in Taipei is relatively fixed as housing supply exceeds demand, making rent relatively cheap.

Although renting in Taipei is currently more cost-effective than buying, the Tsuei Ma Ma Foundation has found that many housing units are used for speculative purposes and are not rented,

with older apartments being rented which have problems like leaks.

Scholars say that Taipei has lower rent than Tokyo though quality suffers, as management of the rental market is not complete or perfect.

The government should establish mechanisms to monitor this market and deal with rental disputes and create a good living environment.