my maid can pick up within 2 weeks but u need to take close supervision, otherwise shee will find some bad method that convinence to her.If u find with local experience,is very good. no need to teach but all have their own idea, difficult to change their mind & like to argue.
Yes, I think it really depends on whether you have time to "manage" or "supervise" her at the very beginning. If yes, I think a brand new one might be better. For those have working experience in Hong Kong, even for those whom have working for 4 years, they are really so clever to be lady, impolite and don't like to obey the order or the instructions. I strongly think that you need to have the previous employer's reference before you hire them. They are really good actors sometimes !!!!