Moving to a new city is already a big decision. Renting a house introduces a new challenge altogether. You are facing a different language, lease structures, and an unfamiliar rental market.
Expats and families relocating to this part of the Thai capital must get the choice right from the get-go.
Here’s what to look out for:
Space
Is the apartment big? Does it suit your lifestyle? You might get a well-furnished unit. But a small one. You will immediately feel the difference if you are moving from a spacious home elsewhere.
Families with children need to consider:
- Separation of bedrooms
- Study space
- Room for the kids to move around comfortably.
Look beyond the total square meterage. Consider the layout. It should work for your daily life.
An open-plan area feels very different to a closed space. Even with the same square footage. That difference matters enormously.
Location
The surrounding area matters. For example, a family with children might prefer an apartment for rent near Aster Bangkok. It provides proximity to the international schools.
A long daily commute across Bangkok traffic is not worth it. It lowers the quality of life. This issue compounds quickly over a school year.
Daily life in the neighborhood feels practical and enjoyable with access to:
- Public transport
- Major expressways
- Hospitals
- Supermarkets
- Dining options.
A well-decorated apartment in a poorly connected place will frustrate you soon.
Serviced vs Non-serviced
In a serviced apartment, the rental agreement includes:
- Regular housekeeping
- Linen changes
- Utility management
- A full set of kitchen utensils
- Appliances
- Furnishings.
In a normal apartment, you have to do all these things yourself. Also, it might or might not be furnished.
Suppose you are an expat arriving without your own belongings and no local connections. A serviced apartment eliminates the logistical complexity of the transition. But it is more expensive.
Ultimately, consider the value of what is provided. The extra cost compared to a standard unit is often much less than people imagine.
Facilities and Outdoor Space
Bangkok is a dense city. Access to outdoor space within a residential complex is a rare and truly valuable commodity. Consider a building with well-maintained:
- Gardens
- Fitness facilities
- A swimming pool
- Safe outdoor areas for children to play.
It meets needs that the surrounding urban environment often cannot. Families, in particular, should choose buildings with outdoor amenities within the compound.
Flexibility and Lease Terms
There are different types of lease agreements. Know what you’re getting into before signing. This way, you can avoid terms that don’t work for you.
There are standard long-term leases. They usually last at least a year. However, serviced apartments offer more flexible agreements, such as monthly periods. They accommodate foreign nationals whose:
- Posting durations are uncertain
- Plans are subject to change.
Make sure you understand:
- The minimum stay commitment
- The notice time
- The terms that apply if you need to leave the lease early.
The Last Words
With these considerations, you will choose an apartment that feels more like a permanent residence. Choose the right apartment and lease structure. That simplifies the transition and makes the day-to-day living more pleasurable.