Next July is a long time from now – I doubt you will find anyone wanting to commit to that. Finding an apartment or a room here is not difficult, you could find a place within a day or two without much trouble, if needed. I would just do that when you arrive in Chengdu next summer. Stay in a hostel until you find what you’re looking for. We have an article about finding apartments in Chengdu here: 5 Steps to Renting an Apartment in China
yeah I read that article some time ago! It was useful.
and you’re right haha I’ve figured that out by now, met a lady today and she was like “?? u looking for an apartment? OK 👌” “wait what next year July?? Thats a year from now why dont you look when you’re here then here’s my number”
thanks for the confirmation 🙂