Searching for a property to rent in Bangkok, Thailand, can be a bit challenging due to the vast array of options and the unique real estate market in the city. Here are some steps to help you in your search:
Determine Your Budget
Decide on your budget for renting a property in Bangkok. The prices for most Condos, Apartments and Houses are quoted online just for the rent of the property per month based on a minimum lease term of one year with the utility (Electricity, Water, Internet) costs being charged in addition to the rental price.
Location Preferences
Bangkok is a sprawling city with various neighborhoods. Determine where you’d like to live, considering factors like proximity to your place of work or to school for the kids, public transportation, and lifestyle preferences. Popular areas for expats include Sukhumvit Road, Silom, Sathorn, and Ari.
Visit the Area
If you’re already in Bangkok or plan to visit soon, explore the neighborhoods you’re interested in. Travel to where you will need to be (Work, School) at the time you will need to be traveling on a daily basis. If you need to get to your destination by public transport, make sure that it is feasable!
Decide on the type of property that you need
Choose the type of property that best suits your requirements, considering popular options such as Condos, Apartments, Houses, or Townhouses. While you might initially lean towards an Apartment or Condo, it’s worth exploring Houses or Townhouses within a secure compound, especially if they offer the necessary amenities for you or your family and align with your budget.
In some cases, renting a ‘Serviced Apartment’ for the first month could be a practical step, allowing you a temporary residence as you settle in and continue your search for more permanent accommodation. This interim arrangement provides flexibility and time to explore the local real estate market before committing to a long-term rental.
Decide how many bedrooms you will need?
Decide how big an apartment you need. How many bedrooms do you require for you and your family and potential guests. You may also decide that you need an apartment of a certain size in addition to the number of bedrooms. i.e. 2 bedrooms of at least 150sqm. You may think that you need 4 bedrooms when 3 bedrooms plus a study room is also workable! Prices tend to increase depending on the number of bedrooms in the unit! If you have your own furniture arriving consider how much space you will need (how many sq.m / sq.ft)?
Special requirements?
Consider whether you have specific preferences, such as a pet-friendly apartment or house, a children’s play area, a swimming pool and/or fitness room, parking space, balcony/terrace, a kitchen with an oven, a bathtub, or a walk-in shower. It’s important to be flexible, as you may not find every feature within your budget or in your preferred location. Be prepared to compromise on one or two aspects to ensure a more realistic and feasible property search.
Real Estate Agents
Consider working with a Real Estate Agent who specializes in properties in Bangkok. They can help you find suitable options based on your criteria and provide valuable insights about the market. Some agents also have their own website with their own listings as they may specialize in certain areas in Bangkok or in certain types of property!
Online Listings
Initiate your property search by exploring online property listings, which include various ‘property portals’ featuring both rentals from individual agents and private listings. These portals serve as platforms where both Real Estate Agents and individuals showcase their properties. Given the nature of these portals (they are operated by website designers not Real Estate Agents), a single property might be listed by multiple agents, leading to variations in quoted rental prices and inaccurate availability status.
To mitigate confusion and streamline your search, it is often advisable to engage a real estate agent. An agent can provide valuable insights, offer guidance, and present you with up-to-date information on currently available properties. These professionals assist in navigating the complexities of the market. When using property portals, take advantage of filters to refine your search based on location, budget, property type, and other preferences. Additionally, these portals typically display the name of the agent associated with each property, allowing you to identify and connect with the relevant professionals more efficiently.
Social Media and Groups
Join Facebook groups or other online communities for expats and residents in Bangkok. These groups often have property listings, and you can also ask for recommendations and insights from the community.
Networking
Talk to locals, expats, and colleagues who live in Bangkok. They may know of available properties or have recommendations for landlords or real estate agents.
View Properties
Schedule viewings of properties that match your criteria. When visiting, pay attention to the condition of the property, the neighborhood and any nearby construction or vacant land which could block the view or be noisy, and any terms and conditions set by the landlord.
Negotiate Terms
Be prepared to negotiate the terms of the lease, including the rent amount, lease duration, and any included utilities or services.
Be Prepared
Once you find a property you’re interested in, be prepared to act quickly. The rental market in Bangkok can move fast, so having all your documents and finances in order can be crucial.
Deposit and Rent
Typically, you’ll be required to pay a security deposit (usually one or two months’ rent) and the first month’s rent upfront.
Lease Agreement
Carefully review the lease agreement before signing. It’s a good idea to have a Real Estate Agent or local attorney look at the rental contract. For rentals of privately owned property the Real Estate agent may supply the ‘Agreement’ anyway or will advise on any potential problems with a lease provided by the landlord.
Utilities and Services
Understand which utilities and services are included in the rent (e.g., water, electricity, internet) and which ones you’ll be responsible for? Typically the utility costs are not included in the rent unless you are renting a ‘Serviced Apartment’.