Housing in Bangkok

There is a diverse range of accomodation in Bangkok. It starts with choosing the right location. Most expats prefer to live in the Central Business District (CBD) of Sukhumvit and Sathorn to Bang Na in the South, Nichada Thani in the North and all points inbetween.

The CBD consists mainly of Condo's and Servied Apartments, but there are also some houses and townhouses sandwiched within the concrete maze. There are also Suburban Villages or housing estates outside the CBD. They are planned neighborhoods that are usually quiet, more spacious and have cleaner air.
Serviced and Short-term leased Apartments:

The terms of lease are usually monthly, but weekly and fornightly rates are sometimes offered. Do not hesitate to negotiate especially if you are signing a long-term lease. A deposit is required usually between 1 - 3 months rent. You may forfeit the deposit if you leave prior to the lease expiry date.

Apartments and Condominiums:
It is recommended to buy a map or location guide which list apartments and condominiums in Bangkok when apartment/condominium hunting. Apartments include readily available maintenance and repir-services, 24 hours security and facilities such as a gym, pool, garden or childrens play area.

Condominiums offer the same level of service as apartments however, condominium implies individual ownership so the interior facility and decoration can vary considerably within the same building.

Townhouses:
There are a number of interesting townhouses tucked away down many sub-sois. They are usually less expensive than apartments. They are often multi-level with small garden areas. Some apartment complexes have a mix of apartments and townhouses in the same compound which therefore give the same level of security and facilities as the apartment.

Houses and Housing Estates:
Expatriate Moo Bans (villages) are generally on the fringes of the central areas, eg. Cheng Wattana, Bang Na or the On Nut area. They offer a different style of living than apartments in the city. They usually have shared facilities such as tennis courts and swimming pools and have the feel of a small community. Check the property section in newspapers for private rentals or drive around an area that you like, looking out for advertisements on gates or posts.