It’s now easier than ever for expats to purchase a home of their own in Beijing.

Starting July 1, expats can apply online to purchase property in the capital, and will no longer need to present a hard copy version of the “Residence Status Certificate”.  All of the other basic requirements will remain the same.

To qualify, foreign applicants must have lived in China for at least one year and have the proper certifications issued by the Beijing Municipal Public Security Bureau. Foreigners are not permitted to own any other houses in China, and the property must be for their own residence (in other words, they can’t use it as an investment property by renting it out). Finally, foreigners must use their real names when buying houses in China. Any foreigner hoping to buy property in Beijing for anything beyond personal use is advised to first set up a foreign company.

With concerns over China’s booming real estate market, however, any prospective buyers are urged to proceed with caution.

For more on the process of buying a home in China, check out this guide. Inquiries can be made to the Public Security Bureau by telephoning 8402-0101.