In the city's serviced apartment sector, where location, interior design and services are highly prized, it is the quality of service that is drawing new tenants.
Operators are constantly improving their services to maintain a competitive edge.
With housekeeping and concierge services, and gym memberships and state-of-the-art in-room technology taken for granted at many high-end serviced apartments, it is the little extras that really make a difference.
Large apartment buildings, such as the Wharf Holdings-owned Gateway Apartments in Tsim Sha Tsui, have an advantage as they can partner with other companies to offer various services and activities. Gateway Apartments has partnered with Pacific Club, which is next door, to offer some of the most comprehensive facilities and services in the city. All tenants have free access to the private club.
'These facilities and services are part of the total package we offer. Everyone has nice apartments with good hardware; we try to differentiate ourselves by giving more,' says Rene Holenweger, assistant general manager of Gateway Apartments.
'These activities are value-added to tenants, and are particularly pertinent for expatriates who travel extensively for work.