Whether you start your property search by yourself or by engaging the services of a Property Agent, it is always important to qualify/ determine your requirements beforehand.

Bangkok is a huge city and each Area offers its own unique lifestyle proposition at different rental price tags.

Therefore to avoid disappointment and frustration, it is always important to determine/ consider the following:

1. Budget

Always determine the top and bottom-end of your monthly rental budget. Never overstretch yourself and ensure this is a budget you are comfortable paying for the next 12 Month. Also always remember that your monthly rental is a “gross” figure meaning that there will be additional costs you will need to consider, notably Utilities (Electricity and Water), Wifi and possibly Landline costs. These extra costs are usually usage-based and vary depending on you consumption, however bear in mind that these costs add-up (Fast)! Once you know your budget this will allow you to narrow down the Locations that represent good value for your Budget. Bringing us to our second consideration…

2. Location

As briefly mentioned, Bangkok is a huge city with a wide range of Areas catering to different lifestyles. Whether you like to go out and party, prefer quieter neighborhoods or simply want an easy commute to work different areas present different advantages. If you are working with a Property Agent make sure you discuss your lifestyle priorities and they can suggest Properties/Listings that fit your requirements. It is important to note that if you are looking to rent in Central Bangkok, public transport is well developed and it is usually easy to get around especially with the BTS Sky Train, MRT or by hopping into a Taxi (Depending on the Traffic). This means that if your ideal area is too expensive, you could always consider an area which is only 1-2 BTS stops away and still enjoy the lifestyle benefits of your first choice!

3. Property Features

If you do find a property within your budget and in the right location, do not rush to make an offer! You will essentially be living in the property for the next 12 Month, therefore always consider details such as:

• Is the layout right?
• Is it the right size?
• Is the orientation of the property ok?
• Are the furnishings offered suitable?
• Is the condition of the property good?

4. Facilities

If you are happy with the interior of the rental property you are viewing, your attention should immediately turn to the external areas of the Property. As a tenant, it is often the case that the “Infinity Pool” or “Rooftop Bar/Library” is enough to seal the deal. However for many of the Condos, Apartments and Houses offered in Central Bangkok a Swimming Pool can be considered a Standard Feature. Therefore always consider all the facilities on offer, such as:

• Swimming Pool
• Gym
• Sauna
• Garden
• Rooftop Facilities
• Shuttle Service

This will apply mostly to Condominiums, however if the building is located away from the BTS/MRT always check if a shuttle service is available; as during the rainy season downpours are frequent and the last thing you want, is to have to trudge through the heavy rain.

5. Condition of Communal Areas

Keep a close eye on the general condition of the common areas and facilities. Also, if at all possible have a peak at the Juristic Person (Management) Office. All too often Condominiums in Bangkok unfortunately suffer from inefficient/absent Building Management and poor upkeep of the communal areas is usually the first sign of problems. This is relevant to your tenancy because if you have any maintenance issues, the Landlord will tend to refer you to the Building Management to deal with the problem!