10 Tips for Expats Renting an Apartment in Vientiane, Laos.

 

Moving to a new country can be incredibly exciting when you are hoping for a seamless move. Renting an apartment in Laos can be confusing and overwhelming, especially with the language gap, various apartment styles, and inconsistent fixed rental standards. Luckily our platform provides an array of different rental listings. Find an apartment for rent in Vientiane here.

 

There are several reasons why renting an apartment in Laos might be for you including being conveniently serviced, centrally located, secure, and flexible with rental plans.

 

Firstly, apartment complexes are quite new. More apartment complexes are being built in the past five years than ever before. Apartments in Laos offer more inclusive services and amenities than many other countries in the world. Some of these services include weekly cleaning, 24-hour security, laundry/dry-cleaning, and more! As the economy continues to grow in Laos, the apartment industry also develops with new places being built every year.

 

Here are 10 tips and tricks you should know before you start your apartment search that is particular to the Lao real estate market.

 

 

1. Most apartments are fully furnished, commonly including:

Renting an apartment in Vientiane, Laos is incredibly convenient because they are usually fully-furnished, making your move easier and stress-free. Many apartments come fully-furnished offering a variety of beneficial home goods and decor including:

 

- Bedding with comforters/sheets

- Couch

- Dining set

- Wardrobe

- Television

- Refrigerator 

- Kitchen utensils

- Silverware and plates for two people

- Rice cooker*

- Water kettle

- Pots and pan

- Microwave

 

There is usually a gas or electric stovetop to cook on. However, if you are coming from the west, ovens are not so popular here. So to our bakers, you might want to think about purchasing a toaster oven.

 

Every place is different and some landlords are much more flexible than others. If there is something reasonable that you need, don’t be afraid to politely ask for it before signing the lease. For example, a landlord may offer a two-bedroom apartment because they are sold-out of one-bedrooms, but convert the second bedroom into an office with no additional fees.

 

Another friendly note: Make sure to look for screens on the windows and/or balcony door, if there isn’t a screen try to close the window/door before sunset to avoid mosquitos.

 

Wooden Polished Furniture made from the remains of old Lao houses

 

2. Amenities

Another tip for renting an apartment in Vientiane is the variety of amenities that apartments can offer compared to most countries. Lao landlords are doing a wonderful job of providing optimal service and amenities for their tenants.

Amenities can really drive up or down the prices of apartments. The more amenities and additional services, the more pricey the apartment will get. Just know you get what you pay for, and always keep your options open so you know you’re getting a great, fair deal.  If there is something missing, ask for it and you might get it!

Amenities can include:

 

- Shared laundry facilities vs. personal one (there are rarely dryers here, clothes are airdried)

- Gym

- Pool

- Personal apartment balcony

- Common rooftop areas

- Garden

- Private Parking lots

- Additional Security

- Pet policies

- Weekly/biweekly cleaning services

 

It's also worth mentioning that due to COVID-19, many hotels offering some of the same amenities as above are now offering long- term accommodation deals.

 

Stay cool in a pool during the blazing, hot summers of Laos 

 

3. Security

One key factor for renting an apartment vs. a villa in Vientiane is the increased sense of security. Depending on the apartment, price, and location, high security might be an important factor to consider during your apartment search.

 

Many apartments can range in terms of security with:

- Gated entrances

- 24/7 security guards

- CCTV security cameras

- Key card access

 

Most places have security cameras throughout the building and at the entrances to ensure bicycles, motorbikes, and/or cars are monitored.

 

Be mindful that some places are strict on guest policies and have curfews particularly for foreigners bringing local guests over.

 

Laos is a relatively safe place, but like all places, you can never be too careful and cautious.

 

4. Culture Norms

When you are looking to rent an apartment, it best to be mindful of how you push negotiations; it can be culturally sensitive. If you are new to Asia, “saving face” is an expression used to mean “avoiding humiliation” and is heavily embedded in the local culture here. When negotiating, keep this in mind by being humble and polite with your requests.

 

Common areas to negotiate are:

- Monthly Rental Rate

- Move-in Dates

- Length of Contract (I.e. 12 Months, 18 Months, etc…)

- Special Requests (I.e. Provision of electrical appliances or replacement of an item of furniture)

- Offering to pay more money upfront is the best way to get a lower discount price.

 

Find out more about banking and finance options in Laos today on the Yula.la finance comparisons page.

 

5. Location, Location, Location!

Another key tip for renting an apartment in Vientiane is to look for places in popular areas to live as an expat. Apartments are usually centrally located for the convenience of the tenants to get to work or to school. For now, we will focus on sharing hot spots to live in the capital of Vientiane, because its the most popular destination for working in Laos.

 

Most expats tend to live near the following:

 

International Schools - Living near international schools is quite popular rather you're a teacher, have kids, or just wanting to live near other expats. Many landlords and real estate agents have plenty of properties populated in these areas. There are many apartments for rent in near most international schools. The main districts to live in are Chanthabury, Sisattanak, and Xaysetha.

 

Some of the most famous International Schools in Vientiane to live near are:

Vientiane International School

Panyathip International School (PIS)

Vientiane Pattana School

International School of Laos

Kiettisack International School (KIS)

 

Mekong River is definitely the tourist and expat hotspot, crowded with the best bars, restaurants, clubs, and shopping. Living next to the Mekong river definitely has its benefits with almost all entertainment within walking distance.

 

It is known to be more expensive with new, modern apartments at $1,000+ per month. If that is within your budget, I would say the vibrant sunsets and sunrises painting the skies over the Mekong River into Thailand every day, is well worth the price. View our riverside apartments here!

 

Close to Embassies – Many expats come to Laos to work in embassies, so naturally living close to work is ideal. The most popular embassies western expats tend to live around are the Australian, American, and British embassies.

 

Find some time for inner peace with a pool and garden at your new

 

6. Lease Agreement:

After you have found the apartment you would like to rent, always make sure to read the fine print and ensure your lease agreement is fair and clean! Double-check all the details. Noise levels, deposits, rent schedule, damaged property etc.

 

The following items should be included on a lease agreement:

 

- Name and contact details of the tenant and landlord

- Location details

- Agreed on rent and payment schedule

- Security Deposit (if required)

- Term information and extensions terms

- Termination of lease

- Use of premises

- Obligations of each party

- Representation and warranties

- Bring your Passport

If you need legal support for real estate in Laos, please contact us here. We will link you with Laos leading legal consultant. Consultations are available in Lao, English, and Mandarin languages.

7. Research market prices

As mentioned above, the apartment market is continuing to grow as more expats move to Laos. Already within the past five years, more apartment complexes than ever before are being built. So it's wise to check out the average market prices and properties on our website to get an idea of different apartment styles and rental rates.

Average price guide per one-bedroom apartment in Vientiane, Laos below:

Check out our apartment listings by price range below:

Budget: $200 - $300 per month in Vientiane. 

Affordable: $400 - $600 per month in Vientiane. 

Mid-Range Modern: $700 - $1,000 per month in Vientiane. 

Luxury: $1000 - $1400 per month in Vientiane. 

All other bills are included within your monthly rent besides the electricity bill. See the chart below for the average rate:

Low voltage (residential)	Price (LAK/USD) Kwh
0 - 150 Kwh	355kip/ .039USD
More than (>) 150 Kwh	710kip/ .079USD

 

8. Real Estate Agents

Another tip for renting an apartment in Vientiane is if you need extra help on your apartment search, there are plenty of English-speaking real estate agents! Create an easier experience by finding a professional agent. If you want an adventure, you can take a drive around the area and ask apartments or landlords directly. However, be aware of language barriers.

 

Here are some pros and cons for having a real estate agent:  

 

Pros

They will negotiate the terms for you.

They can provide transportation to various property options.

They usually arrange visits to 3 – 6 properties based on your needs.

Saves your time and energy.

 

Cons

They can work in their interest in commissions.

Their property choices can be higher than the local market prices.

They have other clients they need to manage their time with.

At least one middle-man to negotiate a rental deal.

 

 

In Laos, agents typically act as brokers or middle-men between the landowners and you. Many landowners don’t speak English, so if you’re new to Laos having an agent can really come in handy. If you are looking at modern apartments, many are staffed with English-speakers who can help accommodate your needs.

 

If you are like me, you can explore both options! I typically like to search around first and see what’s available. If I have a hard time communicating for a property then you can reach out to a real estate agent.

 

Are you looking for an agent? We can arrange an agent within the next two hours.

Contact us here today!

 

Talk to expats already living in Vientiane

Find and join expat groups on Facebook and other online forums. Here are some additional friendly tips from individual expats living in Vientiane! Follow us on Facebook here.

 

Here are some friendly tips for you from other expats living in Laos!

 

 

Tip 9: “It might be worth checking out renting a place short term. We arrived and booked into a place for a couple of days and then approached the landlord about paying here directly. We got a great discount. We have been here for a year now.” - Taj from Australia

 

Tip 10:

1. Look for places to stay in expat groups on social media. 

2. Ask someone to give you guidance on rental rates in Laos. 

3. Some owners advertise on social media, talk to owners directly for discounts.  

4. If going through an agent, be sure to see as many properties as possible. Agents usually show the properties they cannot rent first and keep the best properties for later.

We hope these tips are helpful on your journey of renting an apartment in Vientiane!

 

In conclusion, market prices for apartments are changing rapidly. As of 2020, new, affordable apartments and are being built everywhere. Overall apartment management and customer service levels are also rising, making your stay even more pleasant.  

 

 

Disclaimer note: 

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