In August 2022, the research team of Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, titled "One New City Replacing an Old City - Development of Rental Communities in Shanghai," braved the scorching heat to visit China Resources Land in Shanghai and Xuhui Linghang Community on Puxing Road for a field investigation. They explored local tenants and surrounding residents, distributed multiple questionnaires, and explained the relevant concepts of rental communities to some participants and local residents. They also collected contact information from some participants for future communication and feedback.
During this offline research activity, the project team examined the surrounding environmental facilities, location, etc., while also delving into the internal community environment for scenery and investigation. They comprehensively visited nearby schools, parks, shopping malls, internal housing in the community, fitness venues, pet stores, supermarkets, and restaurants, deeply understanding the diversity and comprehensiveness of rental communities. At the same time, through interviews and dialogues with surrounding residents and tenants, they gained insights into the current public views and suggestions regarding rental communities, laying a solid foundation for further in-depth investigation in the future.
Through field exploration and investigation, the research team was also amazed by the infrastructure construction surrounding the community. Not only can one find basic living facilities such as kindergartens, large supermarkets, and commercial squares, but education and leisure options are also all available. In addition, the construction of the surrounding environment is also outstanding, with large areas of green vegetation complemented by sidewalks, lawns, and square construction, making people feel a bit of comfort in the summer. After witnessing the real environment, in addition to amazement, the research team felt even more confident and hopeful about the future development potential of the rental community.
During the offline field research process, the research team also engaged in friendly communication with community staff and surrounding residents. Through conversations with resident tenants and internal staff, the research team gained a deeper understanding of the current state of rental communities in Shanghai and citizens' views on these rental communities. By distributing questionnaires, the research team members also obtained highly valuable firsthand data, which has a significant impact on the research team's further investigations.
"Knowledge gained from books is ultimately superficial; to truly understand this matter, one must take action." Looking at this field research, the team's on-site visit provided a direct insight into the development of rental communities in Shanghai and the construction of the five new cities in Shanghai's suburban and exurban areas. They also gained an understanding of the actual situation regarding the rental community model and the immediate thoughts of the tenants in these communities. Practice is the sole criterion for testing truth. Unity of knowledge and action is key. We believe that in the near future, with continuous social progress and strong government support, rental communities will become an important component of society.
Contributed by: Huang Cenyang (Student) Xiong Jufeng
Photos provided by: Huang Cenyang
