How to rent a condo in Bangkok: a step-by-step guide
Renting a condo in Bangkok is easy if you go step by step. This is how we do it with our clients.
1. Decide on the term
The term matters most: it drives the price, the deposit and how many units are available at all.
- 12 months — the widest choice and the best price.
- 6 months — noticeably fewer options, often 10–20% more per month.
- 1–3 months — only some owners agree, and the price is higher. See our article on short-term rentals.
2. Budget and area
Decide where you'll travel every day: work, school, co-working. Bangkok is big and traffic is real — living near a BTS or MRT station usually matters more than "the very centre". See our guide to the areas.
3. What to ask before a viewing
- Is the unit free on your dates?
- The price for your exact term, not "from".
- Deposit and advance payment.
- How electricity and water are charged: government rate or the owner's rate.
- Pets allowed? Washing machine inside the unit?
4. The viewing
Check the air conditioners, water pressure, furniture and appliances, street noise and the view. Look at the pool and gym — they often differ a lot from the photos.
5. Booking and contract
Owners usually ask for a booking fee (often part of the deposit), then the lease is signed. Read it before paying: term, rent, deposit, who pays for repairs, early-termination terms.
6. Deposit and move-in
For a 12-month lease the standard is a 2-month deposit plus 1 month in advance. At move-in, photograph every room and every defect and send it to the owner — this protects your deposit when you leave.
7. TM30
The owner must notify Immigration within 24 hours that a foreigner lives in the unit (form TM30). Ask for the confirmation — you'll need it for visa extensions.
How we help
We shortlist units for your term and budget, check with the owner in advance that the unit is free and what it costs for your term, arrange viewings, review the contract and help with move-in. Message us on Telegram and we'll send a selection.