How to Find Short Term Leases
Know what your options are when it comes to renting for a short period of time in Thailand.
What Is a Short-Term Lease?
Whatever your personal situation is, whether you are visiting Thailand for a short course, you have just moved to the country and need a place to stay temporarily, or you are still unsure of your professional situation in the country, short-term leases can be a great option.
A short-term lease gives you greater flexibility and allows you to save your money. It usually applies to a month-to-month lease, usually for three months or for up to six months.
Key Highlights
- A short-term lease usually applies to a month-to-month lease, usually for three months or for up to six months.
- AirBnBs and apartments are the safer options as they have clear check-in and check-out process.
- Renting from a private owner might not be as safe, so you may need to take extra safety and security measures.
Why Should You Consider a Short-Term Lease?
Given the flexibility of a short-term lease, it can help you in many situations. It could be just what you need if you are still uncertain of your future plans and just want to test the waters for a short period of time. For example, if you’ve just moved to Thailand for a job, you might need a temporary place to stay until you find out where you want to live permanently.
What Are Your Options?
The option for short-term leases can sometimes be unlimited in Thailand. However, it is possible to find places that offer a short-term lease, with one-, three-, or six-month contracts.
Here are your options:
1. AirBnB
If you are planning to stay in Thailand for a short period of time, it is best to find a place through Airbnb because it offers you the comforts of home at decent monthly rental rates. If you visit the website and search for rentals in Thailand, you will find thousands of listings. You can choose the best as per your needs. Airbnb is flexible, and you can select your exact move-in and move-out dates. You can find work-friendly spaces as well, making it easier for you to work. You may get high-speed Wi-Fi and a dedicated working space!
A short-term lease gives you greater flexibility and allows you to save your money.
2. Apartments
Although the terms apartment, condominium, and flat are sometimes used interchangeably in other countries, the term “apartment” in Thailand refers to a property that is owned and operated by a company. Apartments in Thailand are, therefore, professional accommodation providers who can accommodate renters with a variety of rental terms. This means they will offer leases that are as short as one month or as long as six months. Apartments usually provide fully furnished and ready-to-move-in units. In the case of Serviced Apartments, the properties may even come equipped with cutlery, linen, and extra services.
You can search for apartments online that offer three-month or six-month agreements. When looking online, use search terms like “short-term rentals,” “short-term leases,” and “temporary housing.”
could be just what you need if you are still uncertain of your future plans and just want to test the waters for a short period of time.
3. Private Owners
Many people in Thailand decide that they would prefer to rent through a private landlord because they are fed up with paying the costly letting agent fees. Another reason that people prefer to rent through a private owner is that they often don’t request a credit check as a part of the application process.
There are so many websites that house a list of private owners to list their properties online, such as hipflat.co.th and ddproperty.com. Social Media like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc., are all great ways to find private owners as well.
Word of mouth is also the easiest way to rent a property from a private owner. This may include tips from a relative, friend, or family member.
Final Notes
Remember to keep a cool head no matter how pressed for time you are to find your rental home.
AirBnBs and apartments are the safer options as they have clear check-in and check-out process.
Renting from a private owner might not be as safe. Therefore, make sure to request ID Cards/Passport Copies, receipts, and corresponding leases before you hand over any deposit or rental payments.
No matter what option you choose, you should always be careful of scams. Ensure that every agreement and payment is recorded and in writing.