Condo mistakes in THAILAND - 11 things you need to know BEFORE you rent

Summary

This video guide offers insights into finding the perfect condo in Bangkok. It covers the three main types of condos: luxury condos offering convenience and high amenities, mass-market condos with more affordable options but potential noise issues, and older condos with spacious units but wear and tear concerns. The video also discusses essential factors like condo furnishings, location preferences (near BTS, MRT, malls, and convenience stores), and common problems such as noise, pests, and unpleasant odors. Viewers are given practical tips for selecting the right condo and avoiding potential pitfalls in the Bangkok rental market.

Takeaways

• 😀 New luxury condos in Bangkok offer excellent amenities and convenient locations, ideal for newcomers. They are often near BTS or MRT stations, but can be more expensive per square meter.
• 😀 Slightly older mass-market condos, built between the late 2000s and mid-2010s, provide affordable living with functional amenities, but may have noise issues due to higher occupancy rates.
• 😀 Older condos, built in the 1990s or early 2000s, tend to have larger living spaces and lower prices per square meter. However, they may have dated amenities and could face issues like slower internet speeds and wear and tear.
• 😀 Older condos often feature better noise-proofing due to solid concrete construction, making them quieter compared to newer buildings with thinner walls.
• 😀 Condo furnishings in Thailand are typically provided, and making changes to furniture or decor often requires explicit permission from the landlord.
• 😀 It’s highly recommended to live near a BTS or MRT station to ease daily commuting, especially during Bangkok's long rainy season.
• 😀 Living near a shopping mall or shopping center provides additional convenience, offering easy access to stores, food courts, and shelter from the weather.
• 😀 A nearby convenience store, like 7-Eleven, should be within walking distance for everyday essentials. Convenience is a key aspect of condo living in Bangkok.
• 😀 When choosing a condo, carefully assess the walkability of the area to avoid annoying daily nuisances such as busy intersections or crowded streets.
• 😀 Noise is a major concern in Bangkok condos. To avoid noise problems, research the condo's location, check for nearby construction, and view the unit during busy times to assess noise levels.
• 😀 Water-related issues like mold, dampness, and sewage smells can be a problem in some condos, especially older ones. It's important to check for unpleasant smells and moisture when visiting a condo.

Q & A

What are the main advantages of choosing a brand new luxury condo in Bangkok?

Brand new luxury condos in Bangkok offer excellent amenities, ideal locations near BTS or MRT stations, and are generally free of wear and tear issues. They provide convenience, luxury living at reasonable prices, and an abundance of choices due to high availability.

What are the main downsides of renting a brand new luxury condo?

The main downside is the higher cost per square meter. While the price may be higher, it can be advantageous for negotiating price discounts or shorter lease terms due to less demand in the local market.

What defines a mass market condo in Bangkok?

Mass market condos are typically older buildings from the late 2000s to mid-2010s, offering basic amenities like swimming pools, gyms, and saunas. They are generally more affordable and popular among local Thais, often located near BTS or MRT stations.

What are the main benefits of older condos in Bangkok?

Older condos often feature larger units with open concept designs, bigger balconies, and lower prices per square meter. They are also known for better noise insulation due to solid concrete construction.

What are the challenges associated with older condos?

Older condos may have outdated amenities, wear and tear, and potential issues like poor internet connectivity and sewage problems. They may also lack modern features and have difficulty keeping up with newer technologies.

How do condos in Bangkok typically come furnished?

Most condos in Bangkok come fully furnished, making it unnecessary for tenants to buy furniture. However, landlords often don't allow tenants to make significant changes to the condo without explicit permission.

What should tenants consider when choosing a condo location in Bangkok?

It is important to live near a BTS or MRT station for convenience. Additionally, living near a mall, shopping center, or convenience store adds to the convenience, especially during the rainy season. Walkability and avoiding busy intersections are also key factors to consider.

Why is convenience important when selecting a condo in Bangkok?

Convenience is vital in Bangkok due to the city's size and traffic. Having easy access to public transport, malls, food courts, and convenience stores makes daily life much easier, especially in terms of avoiding traffic and inclement weather.

What noise-related problems might condo renters face in Bangkok?

Noise is a common issue in Bangkok. Renters should consider both external noise from construction or major roads and internal noise from neighboring units. Condos from the mid-2000s to 2010s are particularly prone to noise issues due to high occupancy and lower build quality.

What steps can renters take to avoid noise issues in Bangkok condos?

Renters should visit potential condos in the early evening to observe occupancy levels and listen for noise. Additionally, checking Google and Reddit reviews for noise-related complaints can provide valuable insight into a building's noise levels.