I bought a stripped out unit in an older condo a couple hundred meters off the boulevard where a Sky Train line is under construction. I am far enough off the main street, and my soi dead ends at my condo, so that I don't hear traffic noise and the price was so low that I could remodel with all my own furniture and the appliances I wanted, tailored to my specifications, and still be cheaper than a furnished condo. Because I own, the costs will never go up but the property value will when the new BTS station opens in October. I can walk to a large Makro, TescoLotus, Big C, and a full-service private hospital. I pay zero property tax because its value is less than three million baht and my maintenance fee is Bt. 517 a month. We have a good security and maintenance staffs, great water pressure, and friendly, helpful management. I don't mow or paint or have any responsibilities for anything outside my own unit. Of course, I am intending to stay here until I die but, because of the proximity to a Sky Train station, I can always sell my condo for a profit. Because my unit faces East and is on the tenth/top floor, I get a great breeze all dry season and no hot sun in the evening. My best Thai friend found the unit for me and his GF, who owns many properties, did all the negotiating for price and went to the Land Office with me for the title change. The condo has restaurants, stores, hairdressers, laundry, exercise room, pool, and free parking. I've been here 16 months and have no regrets. I like the anonymity of condo life as my unit looks no different than all the others and anyone who sees me go in doesn't know which floor I'm going to much less which unit. I think I have a lot more privacy and security with a condo and certainly less work and expense.
Good work. I was going to buy a condo at a future sky train station many years ago. I asked experienced expats what they though. The all said "don't", and that Thailand was a basket-case country with a rickety financial foundation and Bangkok is sinking anyway... Shoulda gone with my gut lol.
I agree with everything you said except for which is better for security. I've had both a house and a condo and I feel a condo is much more secure if you decide to leave for a while. You just need to secure one door (assuming the condo is high enough that it would be hard to get in through the balcony door)
I agree, condo is much more secure. Many condos, non residents can't even enter the block without leaving ID with security, can't get up in the lift without a card.etc
Agree. Unless we can get a cheap beachfront house and a damn bank vault... or a pool villa with good security - a condo will be our choice for security reasons.
I live in a condo, sometimes I think I would like a house but then I appreciate someone else cleaning the pool, doing the gardens, security, building repairs and maintenance. Cheap to air-condition, easy to keep clean.
Another on point assessment, Loucous. Condos are definitely better for a minimalist, nomadic lifestyle. With a home, you'll only end up buying more things you don't need🤣😂
You're not allowed to hook a pump directly to the town supply (for possible contamination reasons if it creates suction in the pipes), so if you need to pump to get water pressure upstairs (i.e. for a shower), you need a tank that you can connect the pump to. (Tank fills up from the town supply, and everything in the house is fed from the pump on the tank). The side-effect of that is you have a tank's worth of water when the town supply is down for whatever reason. It's a down-side of not having a massively pressurised water supply... But it's pretty much a requirement everywhere in Thailand (At least if you have a shower upstairs. - We have a tank at our house in Bangkok for exactly that reason.) Another upside, I'm not aware of a house where you don't get government rates for electricity.
You should be able to install a backflow-reverser preventer. An engineer should be able to get that approved, if nothing else. Even outdoor hosebibs in the US require that, so the hose water doesn't mingle with the house's potable water.
@@6789uiop It's if there's a break in the pipe before it gets to your house, so long as there's positive pressure in the pipe, the groundwater doesn't get mixed in. - It's why municipal supplies tend to be pressurised. But if you start a pump on the incoming pipe from the street, suddenly you could be lowering the pressure in the pipe, allowing contamination from groundwater. (groundwater is not very deep in large parts of Bangkok - as the whole city is essentially in a flood plain). It happens, and is why people don't drink tap water (at least without running it through filters) despite the fact that it leaves the water treatment plant as perfectly drinkable.
Definitely a condo guy in Thailand but thank you for providing a solid and objective comparison. Hope you and yours are happy, healthy, and having a great 2021!
Really enjoy the channel and this video had some decent points in fairness, but honestly I feel like you didn't even mention the biggest plus for the house, and scored a draw for what in my experience is actually a huge advantage for the condo life. The MASSIVE pro for me at least on house v condo is potential noise issues. If you live in a condo block, as I do and have for 30 years ( in HK houses aren't really in my budget since my budget isn't 40k USD plus a month😕) , you have to look live with the inevitability of noise issues. Your neighbours may not get up when you do, go to bed when you do, like the same music you do, and unless the sound insulation is next level they'll be sharing all that with you and you with them. I've always been pretty lucky with that aspect in the main, but of course get the wrong upstairs neighbor and get ready to move out. Then there's the inevitability of renovation. A renovation involving lay out changes, walls coming down, hammer drilling the bathrooms back to bare shell isn't a question of some decent noise cancelling headphones. I have one two floors up just now I can still hear 5 minutes drive away. And they go on for months. One finishes another starts, my personal best was 4 seperate ones going on simultaneously. A detached house the neighbors could have a barking dog maybe but that's about it. No one's going to drill you out of bed hungover on a Saturday morning. The flip side is safety. High rise condos with good building management burglary is incredibly rare. Robbing a condo unit isn't that easy when you have to take lifts and walk through lobbies with your spoils. Detached homes on the other hand can be a magnet for thieves, especially if you travel a lot. So just my two cents. Houses - huge plus on noise, condos - huge plus on security.
I haven't spent any time outside of the cities in Thailand, but in the Philippines at least, it is not just dogs that you have to worry about. Worse are the roosters, and since I learned that there is cock fighting in Thailand apparently you may encounter that. Probably not an issue if you stay in the city but that could put housing prices out of reach due to the location. maybe not an issue if you like to wake up before the sun is up, but for a late sleeper I think they'd come to hate that pretty quickly.
The fact that I could move away if my neighbor bought a chicken was the straw that broke the camel's back when I was thinking of buying a BKK condo many years ago... plus all the expat advice that warned against it.
One other factor you could add to your list is maintenance. Houses you have some lawn and gardens to look after albeit mostly very small. Condo - nothing to look after - all done by on site staff. I guess it depends if you enjoy doing it yourself.
@@Rides4Kickz If its all tiled and paved, there is no garden or lawn to maintain. Renting a house does not require you to carry out repairs or paint the walls. In a condo you're rent includes a payment for maintenance.
To me...the best advantage of living in a condo,is the security..mine..visitors can only enter with a key card. I have high level condo,wich gives me fantastic sea views,plus a good breeze..i also have cnr unit. When i travel overseas.i just shuf the door and leave.its 99% secure. Being able to own in my own name,a big bonus.. No work involved in maintaining gardens or pool etc..also very secure parking.. Condos are generally in more central area.. Many more bonuses with a condo,but somebody with kids or pets are better to live in a house. Some of the gated complexes are fairly secure.. I last life,ive mostly lived on semi rural properties,with plenty of land,so having condo is a pleasant change.. Higher level condos,generaly free of insects and outside noise..
I think the advantages of a condo is you're going to get a pool, usually a gym/fitness center, you'll get stuff that breaks fixed faster, and most importantly you get some degree of policing/security.
While you were in some rooms in the house you were looking straight out and into the neighbours windows, a very short distance away. Noise is another consideration in a house where there is no management like in a condo to regulate noise levels of neighbours.
I'm a single guy who rode a motorcycle for years and I still wouldn't ride one in Thailand. My hat is off to Lucas, brave Lad. But I have to say with all the great new condo projects going up I'm more interested in those. Renting and NOT owning. Stay mobile and flexible. Go where you are appreciated and treated best. That is always subject to change, either political, financial or both. Fly in and fly out.
I would agree, a person who chooses not to have personal transportation, living in the city is easier than living out of the city. And while a person also has the option of a car instead of a motorbike, having driven both in Pattaya, having a car is usually a pain in the butt figuring out where to park it. :-)
@@ericwilliams398 lol, probably. It was the early 90's and you may have more experience spotting that than I had. They looked like waitresses etc getting off work to me.
I agree too, but location can be a game changer. I just bought/changed condos, but this time in central Pattaya. So condo is the most available and makes sense. When I was fully working & living in Pattaya, I was living over on the dark side. There you have quite a bit more stand alone housing options, so I rented a nice huge house and it was nice having a house with huge bbq grill and patio. When I worked in bkk, I rented a a condo as it works well there. I am now in the process of buying property in either Chiang Mai or Udon Thani. Up in Issan, I think a house may make more sense, so leaning towards buying a house up there.
Another interesting video...speaking of pets...maybe you coulddo a video on what condo's in Jomtien and Pattaya allow pets...and what type of pet services do they have in you area...if any. As a pet owner would love to take my pet overseas with me. Also is there an agency that takes care of the beloved critters paperwork...just an idea for a video as I am sure there are hundreds of pet owners out there who would love to come to Thailand long term. Also if Pattaya had a condo complex strictly for pet owners I think that would be a big hit...it would have a pet yard for dogs...or a pet room for cats to meet other cats...an active online bulletin board for pet sitting, etc....anyway Lucas, great material!
Thanks for the video interesting to see, I think many have concluded that if single go for the cool condo, house is for a family I reckon normally, but good fun looking around 😀
Very informative Lucas. I'm hopefully moving there later in the year.... situation allowing! I really want a condo but I have a dog and it's been looking like a house will be more likely. I've had all negative results when enquiring about condos. Thanks for mentioning pets! 👍
Listen , I Was Always Favoring Buying Than Renting , But Now Having A House In Thailand For 10 Yrs , Been Trying To Sell To Back To States , Great House , Good Location , Priced Below Market But After 3 Years And No Buyers ! So Now I Would Recommend To RENTING ONLY IN THAILAND , ... YOUR MORE FLEXIBLE IN YOUR PLANNING !
That's on my mine as well and I'm a ways from 70. The one house we're looking at comes with a maintenance man for a mandatory 2K Baht/mo extra. Much better than buying a ladder and rake!
I look at how close those houses are to each other in your second example and cringe at the lack of privacy I would feel in such a neighborhood. Give me the relative anonymity of a condo unit any day.
Seems to me unless you are looking to buy (for your wife) living in a condo is best for a place like Pattaya. Basically, to take advantage of the city, which is why you are there on the first place.
Great presentation and local scene look see! As always thank you Lucas. House is good for me. No elevators, just pull up your bike / car to you door and unload groceries.
Great video! I am undecided on which way I will go, but have thought about this very much. I think my first place will be a condo to get a feel for living in Thailand, but I think moving to a house later will probably be what happens. Great seeing the comparison video. Thank you!
Here is my feedback: Can you do the video regarding condo fees like HOA fee and other cost involving common areas fees? As always you video are fun to watch and very informative especially for expats. Thanks so much and keep them coming.
If I was single, I'd rent a small house, as long as it was detached. Townhouses here are dreadful places. And with condos, you can't guarantee not to get a noisy person moving into what is effectively the next room.
hey Loucous, have you considered doing a vdo / like a “add on” to this topic, but one about “Is it better to Rent or Buy”. I have bought condos here in Pattaya, but when newbies ask me that question, being a finance guy, I tell them it makes better sense financially for some people to just Rent. So, of course people ask me, why is it that you buy condos, but tell others that quite often it is better decision just to rent....now that is a longer and more detailed conversation, but keeping it simple, it’s balancing on one side the “finance side” and the other side “personal side”.
I'm also "a finance guy" and lived in Thailand for 5 years after retiring from my home country where I've owned houses and condos. In Thailand I always stayed in small hotels or rented modest houses never feeling the need to buy. I like to keep it simple and have the flexibility to move around. Having said that, some people just like to own their own home.
I wouldn't live in a condo in Europe but in Thailand with the gym, pool etc, I think it's not too bad if you like the city living! The problem with them is the're mostly tiny
I think “height” and “views” is another factor... I think it is amazing to have a Seaview balcony on a high floor....the BEST ...to have a morning coffee or a sunset cocktail ...watching the waves roll in...and the sun rising or setting! 😎🌈
My thai wife would prefer a house, but our condo in Hua Hin provides us the freedom to travel whenever we want.......drawbacks, no pets at our condo, also like you said, only 2 bedrooms so it is crowded when her family comes to visit.....trade offs either way i think......great work, and video again Lucas!
Nice video! In Thailand, I'll take a condo anytime over a house, just because of better security and lower utility bills. We should be in Pattaya in about 3 weeks. Maybe we'll run into you there.....Gar and Ann
If you don’t mind going basic thai style you can rent low cost houses on the dark side. We own a single story 2 bedroom place off soi Khao noi. Room for a car and a couple of bikes parking plus space to park on the road. My wife deals with the rental and normally to Thai people but only about bht 5000 a month plus water electricity WiFi etc. You don’t get the security and other amenities that you get in the housing complexes like chokchai but it’s ok for cheap living.
Interesting comparisons R4K the first house was really well laid out, ok little expensive but no worse than inner city living in most countries, probably a lot cheaper ultimately. I'd be sticking with a condo for the facilities myself but thanks for putting it together - really useful perspective as always. Big thumbs up from the UK 🇬🇧 👍
Thanks for the informative house vs condo video. What does the "dark side" of Pattaya mean? Dark in terms of a bad area, no activities, no "nightlife"? How far away was the house from the center of town, or from restaurant/places to eat?
It just local slang for the eastern side of pattaya- which would be defined by "east of Sukhumvit Rd " when you look at a map of pattaya ( with Bkk in the north ) many farang live there ,it's quiter and much cheaper than pattaya center but still has bars and farang restaurants etc,it's not about it being a bad area
Interesting and perfect timing as we are considering a rental in Pattaya - live in a nice house in a small village so for Pattaya I think a condo wins for us. Those housing estates have never appealed to me, houses all close together.
Lucas, thanx a lot for that great insight and I think both houses look excellent regarding the asking prices for the value they give you. That is exactly my thinking process for the time after my retirement. We are planning to go back and forth from my home here in Germany and Pattaya, so I will do short time rentals and will try both options for sure. But so far, regarding Condos, I totally agree with your choice of that Grand Avenue place, excellent value for the rental price! Location, interior, pool, gym etc. great package over all! I always enjoy your videos, they actually make me feel a lot better in these strange times; at least for the 20 min. I am watching...haha ;-)
Regarding the 2nd house and the balcony that connects to bedroom #2, would it be against the rules to erect permanent privacy fencing along the side of the unit? Not tall plants that would need to be taken care of however.
Wonderful vlog again.. makes me wonder what to pick condo or house.. thanks a lot for the info.. regards and keep on informing us with the best deals we kind a find out there in pattaya.
I've been living and working in Bangkok nearly 10 years. Started out in apartments, then stayed in a couple different condos. Currently renting a house for the last few years. It costs more but it's worth it, for me at least.
Yet another great video, trying to bring pets, so depending on my retirement money, thinking on a house. Thank you once again. One video after the other getting better, and better!!!!!!
I was going to ask if you could do a house review, it’s great that you have. I absolutely agree with you regarding if you have a family that a house would probably be better. I knew a guy who has a house at lakeside who’s house was broken into while he was away playing golf. The good thing was he had cctv and the cops were able to apprehend the toe-rags. Unfortunately I don’t think he got all of the £10000 back. Apparently they ripped his safe out of the wall.
5/6 year build (Arnom village, jontien),5 mins from beach 3 bed, 2 bathroom bungalow, large living/dining area, fully furnished modern, AC washing machine, dish washer etc, European kitchen, private pool, jacuzzi, gated/roofed carport, 24 hr security, 28,000 bht month, before C19, lived there for 3 years, before my move to Korat...
I lived in a Thai condo. Now I rent a house. The main difference for me is houses have windows in multiple directions. My rened condo was expensive to cool and very hot, only 1 window.
Are the villas in East Pattaya or further inland 10 km from the beach prone to floods" Think those nearer the coast would be as flooding can hit up to the railway line ..
Everybody should have a water tank, even if just renting, if they can afford it. I have one that is hooked up to the city water and house via pump. The second is just a stand alone tank filled with back-up water. It has a valve and hose on it. A decent sized "blue" plastic tank is 2,000 - 3,000 Baht. Not a lot for some peace of mind about water...if you can afford it. Houses in Thailand mostly have tile floors...this means pets are usually OK. I have to believe that there are some older houses in regular neighborhood's that are half or even less than half price of the second house...but that is a whole different living situation too. Good topic.
Hi Lucus, enjoyed your video. It gives one ideas and food for thought. I am a single guy and I don't like the idea of condo living. Firstly I do not want to be on the 8th floor I would not feel safe in case of fire. I want to be on the ground so a house would be my preference. I like the idea of living space outside. A dirty kitchen barbeque somewhere outside to entertain guests. Plus you get more space in a house but to get all this one has to expect to pay more. I would be happy to rent in the outer areas where rentals are much cheaper. All depends on what you want we are all different. Keep the vids coming. GOD Bless you and yours. M
2nd house was awesome.. great price.. I think I would end up with a larger bike collection! Definitely nice to BBQ and have some gatherings at that house. Still close to town. Easy to call a Grab and get to bar and back home.. House is key!
Lucas, what about the noise factor, can you hear your neighbors in most condos there?. Conversely, if you're listening to music on a nice system is it heard down the hallway?
Consider noise levels when either renting a condo/house. Utilize your own judgement but that may not be enough during your viewing (likely in the daytime). A luxury for most in cities, but you want to have undisturbed sleeps and not have rowdy neighbors/randoms working during the night/having quarter mile drag races outside; etc. Lol, I remember your situation at your old Bang Saen condo - I would have broke the lease haha. Oh, that's a point to add in one of your housing videos for the viewers. Can one break their 6/12 month lease and what's the penalty? More detached housing rental videos! Cheers from the Bay Area, CA. Safe trip after the SB!
great video indicating some important basics and comparisons. I'm a gas stove, gas grill and privacy guy and would the opportunity present it, live further out, away from the hustle and bustle....thats just me.
Condos..get a higher floor. Quieter, no crowing roosters etc., no snakes or other critters walking in, generally a good breeze and as Loucous mentioned, much better security. Plus, the pool/gym/landscaping is all taken care of.
Hey Lucas, there is one factor you mentioned nut forgot to add in your evaluation - method of use. In a house, I would assume that you have more freedom and flexibility in subletting / sublease, etc. than a condo. Anyway, another fantastic vid. Thanks bro.
Those tanks are required to save water . In Australia they can be connected to toilets , Think about every time people in a house flush it. Toilets uses about 12 litres of water , why not use rain water ? Houses give you space , never buy always rent ,you never know if things turn bad ,you may have to leave fast . Selling real estate can be very hard in bad times and you can loose a LOT .
My thoughts ,leaving a house if you go on a trip,or vacation .Worry about break-ins.Think a condo would be to leave unintended much more less worry....
This is a great video. Although the condo life seems simple, when the condo looks like a converted Bella Vista room, I would lose my absolute mind living in such a small, cramped place. This is nice and lots of options. I've also seen lots of videos on villas and they seem like such a nice place (Hua Hin especially). Thanks for the video.
I am with you on this. Even though I am a single guy, when I retire to Thailand I would much rather rent a 2-bedroom house mainly for the extra living space you get. I understand the security issue but I think you may need to factor that in to where you rent plus spending some money on security yourself.
1 extra thing for me was if your not there year round a condo is easier for leaving empty. And cleaning a condo a lot quicker and cheaper, especially if your paying someone to do it
I am 100% certain your condo also has water tanks, you just haven't seen them. :-) For me, I guess the number one thing in my mind is that in a condo there is someone else on the other side of the wall, in a house, there isn't. For security, I know more of my neighbors around my house than I did in Pattaya around my condo. The point to that is IMO, I think there is more "security" in a neighborhood, where people look out for people than there is where everyone is anonymous and no one knows any of their neighbors.
Great video..I think you covered it well..is noise better in one than the other? I remember the hotels being noisy there...but I hear burning and other dark side noises could equal condo noise🤷♂️🤷♂️?
Buying a house is usually a good deal. I was a construction worker, so looked for a fixer upper. Bought low and sold hi. Made about 50,000. But it cost me 25.000 to fix up. I enjoyed doing the work. And I put in some really cool fixtures. Got all my money back plus some. The biggest expense was the roof and sky lite. Put in double vanity. Which was easier than I though. lived there for 5 years and made a nice profit. House is the way to go. And you have a TY wife go through her. But she has to be totally on board with that kinda thing. She likes money doesn't she. Then buy another fixer upper. The next one you buy, is in a good location for resale. Your wife ,girl friend has an eye for property. You've been to enough places to know what you're looking for.
Foreigner cannot own land in Thailand. Because the land under a condo is shared, the total percent of foreigners owning units in a condo cannot exceed 49%. You can get a 30 year lease on house and land that can be extended another 30 years but you will never capitalize on any investments you make on the property as all rights will eventually revert back to the lessor. As far as trusting a Thai wife, or any wife for that matter, up to you; pressure from her family can be brutal. At least in Western countries she can get only half in a divorce whereas in Thailand, she will get ALL! I own my condo 100% and remodeled it myself. If/when I sell, I will get all the profit. In any case, I wish you well.
Hi Lucas. And excuse me for being frank. But most people who want to live here. don't look at either of these options as long term . Most people who have decided to live their lives here, accept that they will have to buy their own furniture. And of course that's a much cheaper option that what you have shown here. I know i have said this before, but renting an unfurnished house, vs renting an furnished place, is much less expensive, for anyone who wants to stay here ( emigrate ) rather than an have, just an extended holiday. Renting a fully furnished place, i would guess would be for anyone that was having doubts as to whether they really wanted to be here long term. I personally only rented fully furnished places, for a few months until my personally possessions arrived from my home country. I then bought everything i needed for my new home here. And now enjoy a large remote house, 10 minutes from the city centre, with a 50 foot by 50 foot games room, for 6000 Baht per month. Maybe i will give a plug to my own youtube channel next time lol.. Cheers
Shame you're still not in Bang Saen. I built a house in an estate owned by a rich guy here. Great price. Great facilities. Good size. Far more like the first home than the 2nd home, but has a price far more like the 2nd.
I bought a stripped out unit in an older condo a couple hundred meters off the boulevard where a Sky Train line is under construction. I am far enough off the main street, and my soi dead ends at my condo, so that I don't hear traffic noise and the price was so low that I could remodel with all my own furniture and the appliances I wanted, tailored to my specifications, and still be cheaper than a furnished condo. Because I own, the costs will never go up but the property value will when the new BTS station opens in October. I can walk to a large Makro, TescoLotus, Big C, and a full-service private hospital. I pay zero property tax because its value is less than three million baht and my maintenance fee is Bt. 517 a month. We have a good security and maintenance staffs, great water pressure, and friendly, helpful management. I don't mow or paint or have any responsibilities for anything outside my own unit. Of course, I am intending to stay here until I die but, because of the proximity to a Sky Train station, I can always sell my condo for a profit. Because my unit faces East and is on the tenth/top floor, I get a great breeze all dry season and no hot sun in the evening. My best Thai friend found the unit for me and his GF, who owns many properties, did all the negotiating for price and went to the Land Office with me for the title change. The condo has restaurants, stores, hairdressers, laundry, exercise room, pool, and free parking. I've been here 16 months and have no regrets. I like the anonymity of condo life as my unit looks no different than all the others and anyone who sees me go in doesn't know which floor I'm going to much less which unit. I think I have a lot more privacy and security with a condo and certainly less work and expense.
Good work. I was going to buy a condo at a future sky train station many years ago. I asked experienced expats what they though. The all said "don't", and that Thailand was a basket-case country with a rickety financial foundation and Bangkok is sinking anyway... Shoulda gone with my gut lol.
I agree with everything you said except for which is better for security. I've had both a house and a condo and I feel a condo is much more secure if you decide to leave for a while. You just need to secure one door (assuming the condo is high enough that it would be hard to get in through the balcony door)
I agree, condo is much more secure.
Many condos, non residents can't even enter the block without leaving ID with security, can't get up in the lift without a card.etc
Agree. Unless we can get a cheap beachfront house and a damn bank vault... or a pool villa with good security - a condo will be our choice for security reasons.
I live in a condo, sometimes I think I would like a house but then I appreciate someone else cleaning the pool, doing the gardens, security, building repairs and maintenance.
Cheap to air-condition, easy to keep clean.
Another on point assessment, Loucous. Condos are definitely better for a minimalist, nomadic lifestyle. With a home, you'll only end up buying more things you don't need🤣😂
You're not allowed to hook a pump directly to the town supply (for possible contamination reasons if it creates suction in the pipes), so if you need to pump to get water pressure upstairs (i.e. for a shower), you need a tank that you can connect the pump to. (Tank fills up from the town supply, and everything in the house is fed from the pump on the tank).
The side-effect of that is you have a tank's worth of water when the town supply is down for whatever reason.
It's a down-side of not having a massively pressurised water supply... But it's pretty much a requirement everywhere in Thailand (At least if you have a shower upstairs. - We have a tank at our house in Bangkok for exactly that reason.)
Another upside, I'm not aware of a house where you don't get government rates for electricity.
You should be able to install a backflow-reverser preventer. An engineer should be able to get that approved, if nothing else. Even outdoor hosebibs in the US require that, so the hose water doesn't mingle with the house's potable water.
@@6789uiop It's if there's a break in the pipe before it gets to your house, so long as there's positive pressure in the pipe, the groundwater doesn't get mixed in. - It's why municipal supplies tend to be pressurised.
But if you start a pump on the incoming pipe from the street, suddenly you could be lowering the pressure in the pipe, allowing contamination from groundwater.
(groundwater is not very deep in large parts of Bangkok - as the whole city is essentially in a flood plain).
It happens, and is why people don't drink tap water (at least without running it through filters) despite the fact that it leaves the water treatment plant as perfectly drinkable.
Definitely a condo guy in Thailand but thank you for providing a solid and objective comparison. Hope you and yours are happy, healthy, and having a great 2021!
Really enjoy the channel and this video had some decent points in fairness, but honestly I feel like you didn't even mention the biggest plus for the house, and scored a draw for what in my experience is actually a huge advantage for the condo life.
The MASSIVE pro for me at least on house v condo is potential noise issues.
If you live in a condo block, as I do and have for 30 years ( in HK houses aren't really in my budget since my budget isn't 40k USD plus a month😕) , you have to look live with the inevitability of noise issues. Your neighbours may not get up when you do, go to bed when you do, like the same music you do, and unless the sound insulation is next level they'll be sharing all that with you and you with them. I've always been pretty lucky with that aspect in the main, but of course get the wrong upstairs neighbor and get ready to move out.
Then there's the inevitability of renovation. A renovation involving lay out changes, walls coming down, hammer drilling the bathrooms back to bare shell isn't a question of some decent noise cancelling headphones. I have one two floors up just now I can still hear 5 minutes drive away. And they go on for months. One finishes another starts, my personal best was 4 seperate ones going on simultaneously.
A detached house the neighbors could have a barking dog maybe but that's about it. No one's going to drill you out of bed hungover on a Saturday morning.
The flip side is safety. High rise condos with good building management burglary is incredibly rare. Robbing a condo unit isn't that easy when you have to take lifts and walk through lobbies with your spoils. Detached homes on the other hand can be a magnet for thieves, especially if you travel a lot.
So just my two cents. Houses - huge plus on noise, condos - huge plus on security.
Great point on noise, I had one condo that was noisy, I think it depends more on location but houses may be less likely to be located in noisy areas.
I haven't spent any time outside of the cities in Thailand, but in the Philippines at least, it is not just dogs that you have to worry about. Worse are the roosters, and since I learned that there is cock fighting in Thailand apparently you may encounter that. Probably not an issue if you stay in the city but that could put housing prices out of reach due to the location. maybe not an issue if you like to wake up before the sun is up, but for a late sleeper I think they'd come to hate that pretty quickly.
The fact that I could move away if my neighbor bought a chicken was the straw that broke the camel's back when I was thinking of buying a BKK condo many years ago... plus all the expat advice that warned against it.
One other factor you could add to your list is maintenance. Houses you have some lawn and gardens to look after albeit mostly very small. Condo - nothing to look after - all done by on site staff. I guess it depends if you enjoy doing it yourself.
Not all houses, some have paving and concrete.
Yes, maintenance is definitely more in a house, lawn and garden not withstanding. 👍
@@Rides4Kickz If its all tiled and paved, there is no garden or lawn to maintain. Renting a house does not require you to carry out repairs or paint the walls. In a condo you're rent includes a payment for maintenance.
To me...the best advantage of living in a condo,is the security..mine..visitors can only enter with a key card.
I have high level condo,wich gives me fantastic sea views,plus a good breeze..i also have cnr unit.
When i travel overseas.i just shuf the door and leave.its 99% secure.
Being able to own in my own name,a big bonus..
No work involved in maintaining gardens or pool etc..also very secure parking..
Condos are generally in more central area..
Many more bonuses with a condo,but somebody with kids or pets are better to live in a house.
Some of the gated complexes are fairly secure..
I last life,ive mostly lived on semi rural properties,with plenty of land,so having condo is a pleasant change..
Higher level condos,generaly free of insects and outside noise..
Murray, can you tell us about the monthly maintenance costs and other fees as an owner? Thanks mate.
Thank you Lucas ! This video gives another perspective on Thai living. You have always given very good insight and information. Superb !!!
Happy to hear that!
I think the advantages of a condo is you're going to get a pool, usually a gym/fitness center, you'll get stuff that breaks fixed faster, and most importantly you get some degree of policing/security.
Although only advantages if you are the type of person that would use them. There is quite a bit to consider when making the house vs condo decision.
Most people are not interested in spending 80,000.00 baht (2,665.00 usd) for a home rental there.
Correct
While you were in some rooms in the house you were looking straight out and into the neighbours windows, a very short distance away.
Noise is another consideration in a house where there is no management like in a condo to regulate noise levels of neighbours.
As a single female, who chooses not to ride a motorbike, this impacts where I live.
I'm a single guy who rode a motorcycle for years and I still wouldn't ride one in Thailand. My hat is off to Lucas, brave Lad.
But I have to say with all the great new condo projects going up I'm more interested in those. Renting and NOT owning. Stay mobile and flexible. Go where you are appreciated and treated best. That is always subject to change, either political, financial or both. Fly in and fly out.
I would agree, a person who chooses not to have personal transportation, living in the city is easier than living out of the city. And while a person also has the option of a car instead of a motorbike, having driven both in Pattaya, having a car is usually a pain in the butt figuring out where to park it. :-)
I have a feeling the worst neighborhood in Pattaya is still safer than the best neighborhood in Baltimore.
That’s a shame but it’s true
You watched The Wire too?
I was shocked when I first went to Bangkok in the early 90's and saw non-pro ladies in skirts walking around alone late at night.
@@6789uiop They were pros, the smart ones
@@ericwilliams398 lol, probably. It was the early 90's and you may have more experience spotting that than I had. They looked like waitresses etc getting off work to me.
Anything low maintenance wins in my book.
Yeah being a single guy the condo wins out every time, but nice to see what's on offer there nice one.
I agree too, but location can be a game changer. I just bought/changed condos, but this time in central Pattaya. So condo is the most available and makes sense. When I was fully working & living in Pattaya, I was living over on the dark side. There you have quite a bit more stand alone housing options, so I rented a nice huge house and it was nice having a house with huge bbq grill and patio. When I worked in bkk, I rented a a condo as it works well there. I am now in the process of buying property in either Chiang Mai or Udon Thani. Up in Issan, I think a house may make more sense, so leaning towards buying a house up there.
Another interesting video...speaking of pets...maybe you coulddo a video on what condo's in Jomtien and Pattaya allow pets...and what type of pet services do they have in you area...if any. As a pet owner would love to take my pet overseas with me. Also is there an agency that takes care of the beloved critters paperwork...just an idea for a video as I am sure there are hundreds of pet owners out there who would love to come to Thailand long term.
Also if Pattaya had a condo complex strictly for pet owners I think that would be a big hit...it would have a pet yard for dogs...or a pet room for cats to meet other cats...an active online bulletin board for pet sitting, etc....anyway Lucas, great material!
Thanks for the video interesting to see, I think many have concluded that if single go for the cool condo, house is for a family I reckon normally, but good fun looking around 😀
Very informative Lucas. I'm hopefully moving there later in the year.... situation allowing! I really want a condo but I have a dog and it's been looking like a house will be more likely. I've had all negative results when enquiring about condos. Thanks for mentioning pets! 👍
Listen , I Was Always Favoring Buying Than Renting , But Now Having A House In Thailand For 10 Yrs , Been Trying To Sell To Back To States , Great House , Good Location , Priced Below Market But After 3 Years And No Buyers ! So Now I Would Recommend To RENTING ONLY IN THAILAND , ... YOUR MORE FLEXIBLE IN YOUR PLANNING !
currently living on a very short term lease in a condo and already started researching houses. So this was very informative for me, thank you Sir.
Glad it was helpful!
At almost 70 years of age, I am more into a carefree condo than a house.
That's on my mine as well and I'm a ways from 70. The one house we're looking at comes with a maintenance man for a mandatory 2K Baht/mo extra.
Much better than buying a ladder and rake!
I look at how close those houses are to each other in your second example and cringe at the lack of privacy I would feel in such a neighborhood. Give me the relative anonymity of a condo unit any day.
Seems to me unless you are looking to buy (for your wife) living in a condo is best for a place like Pattaya. Basically, to take advantage of the city, which is why you are there on the first place.
Great presentation and local scene look see! As always thank you Lucas. House is good for me. No elevators, just pull up your bike / car to you door and unload groceries.
Great video! I am undecided on which way I will go, but have thought about this very much. I think my first place will be a condo to get a feel for living in Thailand, but I think moving to a house later will probably be what happens. Great seeing the comparison video. Thank you!
Another great video Lucas. Mark me down for a brand new CONDO!
Here is my feedback: Can you do the video regarding condo fees like HOA fee and other cost involving common areas fees? As always you video are fun to watch and very informative especially for expats. Thanks so much and keep them coming.
Good point. I see owners paying that usually and include it in the rent
If I was single, I'd rent a small house, as long as it was detached. Townhouses here are dreadful places. And with condos, you can't guarantee not to get a noisy person moving into what is effectively the next room.
Yes but you can complain if they make massive amount of noise especially at night right?
Top Vlog Today Lucas. Man your good at thinking up new items.👍👍
Furnished vs no furnished would be a deal breaker for me
hey Loucous, have you considered doing a vdo / like a “add on” to this topic, but one about “Is it better to Rent or Buy”. I have bought condos here in Pattaya, but when newbies ask me that question, being a finance guy, I tell them it makes better sense financially for some people to just Rent. So, of course people ask me, why is it that you buy condos, but tell others that quite often it is better decision just to rent....now that is a longer and more detailed conversation, but keeping it simple, it’s balancing on one side the “finance side” and the other side “personal side”.
I'm also "a finance guy" and lived in Thailand for 5 years after retiring from my home country where I've owned houses and condos. In Thailand I always stayed in small hotels or rented modest houses never feeling the need to buy. I like to keep it simple and have the flexibility to move around. Having said that, some people just like to own their own home.
I wouldn't live in a condo in Europe but in Thailand with the gym, pool etc, I think it's not too bad if you like the city living! The problem with them is the're mostly tiny
Thanks, I was wondering which option would be best for me.
If I was buying one tomorrow I would choose -Condo.
I think “height” and “views” is another factor... I think it is amazing to have a Seaview balcony on a high floor....the BEST ...to have a morning coffee or a sunset cocktail ...watching the waves roll in...and the sun rising or setting! 😎🌈
My thai wife would prefer a house, but our condo in Hua Hin provides us the freedom to travel whenever we want.......drawbacks, no pets at our condo, also like you said, only 2 bedrooms so it is crowded when her family comes to visit.....trade offs either way i think......great work, and video again Lucas!
Nice video! In Thailand, I'll take a condo anytime over a house, just because of better security and lower utility bills. We should be in Pattaya in about 3 weeks. Maybe we'll run into you there.....Gar and Ann
If you don’t mind going basic thai style you can rent low cost houses on the dark side. We own a single story 2 bedroom place off soi Khao noi. Room for a car and a couple of bikes parking plus space to park on the road. My wife deals with the rental and normally to Thai people but only about bht 5000 a month plus water electricity WiFi etc. You don’t get the security and other amenities that you get in the housing complexes like chokchai but it’s ok for cheap living.
Absolutely, always another option 👍
High rise condo for me. To each his own.
Interesting comparisons R4K the first house was really well laid out, ok little expensive but no worse than inner city living in most countries, probably a lot cheaper ultimately.
I'd be sticking with a condo for the facilities myself but thanks for putting it together - really useful perspective as always.
Big thumbs up from the UK 🇬🇧 👍
Another pro for a house is you are able to have a garden
But most houses( in Pattaya) have very high walls/ very small pools / gardens ) at reasonable money that is ( under 40 k )
Thanks for the informative house vs condo video. What does the "dark side" of Pattaya mean? Dark in terms of a bad area, no activities, no "nightlife"? How far away was the house from the center of town, or from restaurant/places to eat?
It just local slang for the eastern side of pattaya- which would be defined by "east of Sukhumvit Rd " when you look at a map of pattaya ( with Bkk in the north ) many farang live there ,it's quiter and much cheaper than pattaya center but still has bars and farang restaurants etc,it's not about it being a bad area
@@mrmartin2079 Thank you, appreciate the clarification.
Interesting and perfect timing as we are considering a rental in Pattaya - live in a nice house in a small village so for Pattaya I think a condo wins for us. Those housing estates have never appealed to me, houses all close together.
Excellent subject matter, well done in comparisons.
Lucas, thanx a lot for that great insight and I think both houses look excellent regarding the asking prices for the value they give you. That is exactly my thinking process for the time after my retirement. We are planning to go back and forth from my home here in Germany and Pattaya, so I will do short time rentals and will try both options for sure. But so far, regarding Condos, I totally agree with your choice of that Grand Avenue place, excellent value for the rental price! Location, interior, pool, gym etc. great package over all!
I always enjoy your videos, they actually make me feel a lot better in these strange times; at least for the 20 min. I am watching...haha ;-)
Regarding the 2nd house and the balcony that connects to bedroom #2, would it be against the rules to erect permanent privacy fencing along the side of the unit? Not tall plants that would need to be taken care of however.
Wonderful vlog again.. makes me wonder what to pick condo or house.. thanks a lot for the info.. regards and keep on informing us with the best deals we kind a find out there in pattaya.
I've been living and working in Bangkok nearly 10 years. Started out in apartments, then stayed in a couple different condos. Currently renting a house for the last few years. It costs more but it's worth it, for me at least.
Thanks for sharing!
Loved the video, great content love this channel 😁
Yet another great video, trying to bring pets, so depending on my retirement money, thinking on a house. Thank you once again.
One video after the other getting better, and better!!!!!!
Very interesting. Thx ! I am a drone enthousiast too. Which one are you using please ?
I was going to ask if you could do a house review, it’s great that you have. I absolutely agree with you regarding if you have a family that a house would probably be better. I knew a guy who has a house at lakeside who’s house was broken into while he was away playing golf. The good thing was he had cctv and the cops were able to apprehend the toe-rags. Unfortunately I don’t think he got all of the £10000 back. Apparently they ripped his safe out of the wall.
I would imagine that renting something in a cheaper price bracket would be less of a thief magnet too!!
Great video! Excellent detailed comparison of condo vs house. 🤓🌏✈️
5/6 year build (Arnom village, jontien),5 mins from beach 3 bed, 2 bathroom bungalow, large living/dining area,
fully furnished modern, AC washing machine, dish washer etc, European kitchen, private pool, jacuzzi, gated/roofed carport, 24 hr security, 28,000 bht month, before C19, lived there for 3 years, before my move to Korat...
I lived in a Thai condo. Now I rent a house. The main difference for me is houses have windows in multiple directions. My rened condo was expensive to cool and very hot, only 1 window.
Are the villas in East Pattaya or further inland 10 km from the beach prone to floods"
Think those nearer the coast would be as flooding can hit up to the railway line ..
Everybody should have a water tank, even if just renting, if they can afford it. I have one that is hooked up to the city water and house via pump. The second is just a stand alone tank filled with back-up water. It has a valve and hose on it. A decent sized "blue" plastic tank is 2,000 - 3,000 Baht. Not a lot for some peace of mind about water...if you can afford it. Houses in Thailand mostly have tile floors...this means pets are usually OK. I have to believe that there are some older houses in regular neighborhood's that are half or even less than half price of the second house...but that is a whole different living situation too. Good topic.
Is the city water drinkable or are you required to bring in clean drinkable water on a separate bases.
Hi Lucus, enjoyed your video. It gives one ideas and food for thought. I am a single guy and I don't like the idea of condo living. Firstly I do not want to be on the 8th floor I would not feel safe in case of fire. I want to be on the ground so a house would be my preference. I like the idea of living space outside. A dirty kitchen barbeque somewhere outside to entertain guests. Plus you get more space in a house but to get all this one has to expect to pay more. I would be happy to rent in the outer areas where rentals are much cheaper. All depends on what you want we are all different. Keep the vids coming. GOD Bless you and yours. M
If you are the type of person that thinks about fire on the 8th floor ,perhaps Thailand may not be best place for you to live in
Yes agreed chap on his own condo every time but add Thai gf/wife and add on kids then house is the way to go . Thanks for your insight Lucas 👍🏽
2nd house was awesome.. great price.. I think I would end up with a larger bike collection! Definitely nice to BBQ and have some gatherings at that house. Still close to town. Easy to call a Grab and get to bar and back home.. House is key!
Houses often have the possibility of a through draft. Few condos are constructed with that in mind. Finding those that do is a lot of work.
Lucas, what about the noise factor, can you hear your neighbors in most condos there?. Conversely, if you're listening to music on a nice system is it heard down the hallway?
I will buy an electric vehicle next. Is there facilities to charge the car/bike in the parking area in condos?
Consider noise levels when either renting a condo/house. Utilize your own judgement but that may not be enough during your viewing (likely in the daytime). A luxury for most in cities, but you want to have undisturbed sleeps and not have rowdy neighbors/randoms working during the night/having quarter mile drag races outside; etc. Lol, I remember your situation at your old Bang Saen condo - I would have broke the lease haha. Oh, that's a point to add in one of your housing videos for the viewers. Can one break their 6/12 month lease and what's the penalty? More detached housing rental videos!
Cheers from the Bay Area, CA. Safe trip after the SB!
great video indicating some important basics and comparisons. I'm a gas stove, gas grill and privacy guy and would the opportunity present it, live further out, away from the hustle and bustle....thats just me.
Very good video, I love it. I am always for the house life. 🙏
Yes, thank you
Thanks for the vid.. enjoy it alot and I was drolling for the first house until I heard the price :) more expensive than my mortgage in US.
Condos..get a higher floor. Quieter, no crowing roosters etc., no snakes or other critters walking in, generally a good breeze and as Loucous mentioned, much better security. Plus, the pool/gym/landscaping is all taken care of.
Another great video, thanks.
Your videos are very intesting because it helps to see life in Thailand with the eyes of an expat. Thanks a lot!
Glad you like them!
Nice job. Keep up the good work. Take Care
Hey Lucas, there is one factor you mentioned nut forgot to add in your evaluation - method of use. In a house, I would assume that you have more freedom and flexibility in subletting / sublease, etc. than a condo. Anyway, another fantastic vid. Thanks bro.
Those tanks are required to save water . In Australia they can be connected to toilets , Think about every time people in a house flush it. Toilets uses about 12 litres of water , why not use rain water ?
Houses give you space , never buy always rent ,you never know if things turn bad ,you may have to leave fast . Selling real estate can be very hard in bad times and you can loose a LOT .
Good looking house...and not expensive when as you suggest sharing....
My thoughts ,leaving a house if you go on a trip,or vacation .Worry about break-ins.Think a condo would be to leave unintended much more less worry....
This is a great video. Although the condo life seems simple, when the condo looks like a converted Bella Vista room, I would lose my absolute mind living in such a small, cramped place. This is nice and lots of options. I've also seen lots of videos on villas and they seem like such a nice place (Hua Hin especially). Thanks for the video.
I am with you on this. Even though I am a single guy, when I retire to Thailand I would much rather rent a 2-bedroom house mainly for the extra living space you get. I understand the security issue but I think you may need to factor that in to where you rent plus spending some money on security yourself.
One thing that stood out in this video was something you said about crime in houses vs condos. Is there really that much burglary there?
1 extra thing for me was if your not there year round a condo is easier for leaving empty. And cleaning a condo a lot quicker and cheaper, especially if your paying someone to do it
That is an excellent point. 👍
I am 100% certain your condo also has water tanks, you just haven't seen them. :-) For me, I guess the number one thing in my mind is that in a condo there is someone else on the other side of the wall, in a house, there isn't. For security, I know more of my neighbors around my house than I did in Pattaya around my condo. The point to that is IMO, I think there is more "security" in a neighborhood, where people look out for people than there is where everyone is anonymous and no one knows any of their neighbors.
Great video..I think you covered it well..is noise better in one than the other? I remember the hotels being noisy there...but I hear burning and other dark side noises could equal condo noise🤷♂️🤷♂️?
If you have a thai partner then its best to build your own house
I would be interested to see the difference between Thai style vs Western style houses.
Buying a house is usually a good deal. I was a construction worker, so looked for a fixer upper. Bought low and sold hi. Made about 50,000. But it cost me 25.000 to fix up. I enjoyed doing the work. And I put in some really cool fixtures. Got all my money back plus some. The biggest expense was the roof and sky lite. Put in double vanity. Which was easier than I though. lived there for 5 years and made a nice profit. House is the way to go. And you have a TY wife go through her. But she has to be totally on board with that kinda thing. She likes money doesn't she. Then buy another fixer upper. The next one you buy, is in a good location for resale. Your wife ,girl friend has an eye for property. You've been to enough places to know what you're looking for.
Foreigner cannot own land in Thailand. Because the land under a condo is shared, the total percent of foreigners owning units in a condo cannot exceed 49%. You can get a 30 year lease on house and land that can be extended another 30 years but you will never capitalize on any investments you make on the property as all rights will eventually revert back to the lessor. As far as trusting a Thai wife, or any wife for that matter, up to you; pressure from her family can be brutal. At least in Western countries she can get only half in a divorce whereas in Thailand, she will get ALL! I own my condo 100% and remodeled it myself. If/when I sell, I will get all the profit. In any case, I wish you well.
Agreed with some others .condos for singles .houses for families. Nice houses in your video . Thanks
I totally agree!
Hi Lucas. And excuse me for being frank. But most people who want to live here. don't look at either of these options as long term . Most people who have decided to live their lives here, accept that they will have to buy their own furniture. And of course that's a much cheaper option that what you have shown here. I know i have said this before, but renting an unfurnished house, vs renting an furnished place, is much less expensive, for anyone who wants to stay here ( emigrate ) rather than an have, just an extended holiday. Renting a fully furnished place, i would guess would be for anyone that was having doubts as to whether they really wanted to be here long term. I personally only rented fully furnished places, for a few months until my personally possessions arrived from my home country. I then bought everything i needed for my new home here. And now enjoy a large remote house, 10 minutes from the city centre, with a 50 foot by 50 foot games room, for 6000 Baht per month. Maybe i will give a plug to my own youtube channel next time lol.. Cheers
You talking rubbish about what most people want
Great video mate interesting choices 👍
I love the first house!!!
I brought my house in Bangkok in 2008! (Of course I don't own) but got a good deal from American chick who married a Thai....For me it's perfect
You pay for what u get indeed high price for better comfort and surroundings or a price u can afford etc.
Ask Suzanne to show you some houses
Shame you're still not in Bang Saen. I built a house in an estate owned by a rich guy here. Great price. Great facilities. Good size. Far more like the first home than the 2nd home, but has a price far more like the 2nd.
Sounds great 👍
Hello again!
Is it Lucas or Lukas? Many condos have poor floor plans and few closets.
Internet point could go to the condo. If the house is far from town.
You forgot thai woman Like to have garden vegetable and flower. . Cant have in Condo. I like Condo fir the amenities.
Another good thing about having a house is you could have more people round for a Barbecue for example.
What about solar on houses?
Quality viewing as always
You need a car or at least a motorbike to get around outside of the main town area. Two guys or gals sharing is definitely a possibility.