Asked by someone moving next month
“How much do I need up front to rent a condo, and is there an agency fee?”
My answerShane Ruddle, 20+ years in PattayaUsually two months' deposit plus one month's rent in advance. The renter pays no agency fee.
The owner pays the agency's introduction fee. The only exception is if you agree to rent somewhere and then back out before signing, when some charge a cancellation fee.
Electricity and water are charged at the standard government rate in about 99% of rentals now.
Take photos of everything when you move in. It makes getting the deposit back much easier.
Up to date as of November 2026. Rules in Thailand change often, so check the current position before you act.
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Renting · Asked by a couple trying Pattaya before they commit“Can I rent a condo for three to six months instead of a full year?”Six months is possible with some owners, usually at a slightly higher rent. Twelve months is the norm.My full answer Renting · Asked by a remote worker“What should I budget for a decent one-bed condo?”Around ฿20,000 a month. Our average across both agencies is just over ฿18,000 for a one-bed of 30 to 45 square metres.My full answer Renting · Asked by a first-time renter“Friends lost their whole deposit at the end of a lease. How do I avoid that?”It mostly happens to people who rented direct or through a freelancer. A proper agency mediates when there's a disagreement.My full answer Renting · Asked by a family of four“What does a family house with a pool cost to rent?”Roughly ฿40,000 to ฿50,000 a month with a pool, or ฿30,000 to ฿40,000 without.My full answer