While the property market in Thailand has gone through many fluctuations over the years, one thing remains constant; the attractive affordability of condos in comparison to most Western countries. But, are cheap condos in Thailand any good? And is there a catch? Should you pay more than the average in favour of something a little more up market? Here’s everything you need to know on the subject…
It depends on what your vision of ‘cheap’ is
Are cheap condos in Thailand any good? The short answer is yes, absolutely, however, it really depends on what your vision of ‘cheap’ is.
If you are going off ‘cheap’ by Western standards, then you’ll be amazed by the quality of condo that you can snatch up in Thailand. As for the cheapest condos in Thailand, they may be a little bare from what you are used to in your home country – though perfectly adequate for comfortable living.
The cheaper you go, the fewer the facilities
There are many cheap condos for rent in Bangkok that are exceptionally well kitted out. To give you an idea, the average ‘cheap’ condo in Bangkok will typically offer the following facilities and in-house amenities:
- Fitness studio
- Swimming pool
- Balcony with a view
- Weekly room cleaning
- Round-the-clock security
- In-house restaurant
- Strategic location (close to BTS & MRT stations).
If you pay less than the average cheap condo in Bangkok, say 5,000 to 10,000 THB ($140 – $280 USD), you’ll likely miss out on the balcony, fitness studio, and swimming pool, however, you will have a comfortable enough space to call home.
That said, if you aim for the 30,000 to 50,000 THB per month mark ($840 – $1,400), you’ll be able to enjoy many luxurious features that would otherwise cost you a significant amount more in your home country.
There is no catch
Property prices are cheap in Thailand, it’s as simple as that. As mentioned above, the cheapest condos in Bangkok will certainly be quite minimalistic, but if you only plan on cooking, washing, and sleeping in your home, then you’ll have everything you need.
In Thailand, you get what you pay for – and what you pay is almost always very cheap compared to the West.
As long as you have everything you need
As long as you have everything you need in a condo, you shouldn’t necessarily pay any more or less than you are comfortable with.
If you are happy with a 30-sqm condo with a kitchen, bathroom, bed, sofa, and TV, then you will be perfectly fine paying between 5,000 and 15,000 THB per month.
However, if you need a little more luxury and want a balcony with a view, a swimming pool, and some of the other features and facilities that come with the higher price tag, then go for it.
Just remember, the cost of living in Thailand is especially good, so there’s no harm in treating yourself to a higher monthly rental spend in exchange for some ‘unnecessary’ additional home comforts.