Places to live and commuting in HK

We are moving to HK after living for a long time in China. The kids are going to school in Kowloon, the big potato is going to be working in Central. As it stands the only places I’ve seen online within budget and similar to what we have now are in Sai Kung, but I’m worried about everyone’s commute and building a social life for me and the family to be honest.

People who have lived there have recommended living in Mid Levels for the first year to build a social life, but we have animals and furniture and it feels like that’s not going to fit in an apartment there.

Anyone have any tips on commuting, finding friends, gyms and houses etc?