{"id":6015,"date":"2021-03-22T20:05:00","date_gmt":"2021-03-22T12:05:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thesmartlocal.com\/vietnam\/?p=6015"},"modified":"2022-02-04T23:59:24","modified_gmt":"2022-02-04T15:59:24","slug":"renting-in-vietnam","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/thesmartlocal.com\/vietnam\/renting-in-vietnam\/","title":{"rendered":"Renting A Property In Vietnam: Insider Guide To Saigon, Hanoi, & Da Nang Districts & Rental Rates"},"content":{"rendered":"

Renting a property in Vietnam<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\n

Welcome to Vietnam, one of the world’s most populated countries and possibly one with the most chaotic traffic and complex urban geographies in Asia. Hunting for a house or apartment in Vietnam can feel like an uphill battle. From choosing the most liveable neighborhood from hundreds of them in every big city to talking with landlords, there is a lot to think about.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

However, we\u2019ve got you covered – here\u2019s our ultimate guide to <\/span>renting a property in Vietnam<\/b>\u2019s major cities – Saigon, Hanoi, and Da Nang.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Learn about where you\u2019re going to live in Vietnam<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of the process of renting a property in Vietnam and how it works, we’ll walk you through some of the simple details of living in Vietnam that you need to take notice of, such as culture and climates.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

– The culture of each city –<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

Saigon, Hanoi, and Da Nang may share Vietnamese as a common language, but the cultural differences among them can make these cities feel as if they were worlds apart.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

When it comes to moving to a city and building a new life here, here are some major differences between the communities of these cities that you need to know.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Saigon – the south<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Saigon
\nImage credit: @tronle_sg<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Saigon screams vibrance and modernity. You\u2019ll find a great number of skyscrapers in all districts of the city, as well as long rows of rickety townhouses stacked alongside one another.<\/p>\n

The people here are more open, dynamic, and welcoming. People don\u2019t mind going out of their way to make you feel comfortable and accepted.<\/span><\/p>\n

As sociable as they are, they avoid prying into the details of your personal life, and are among the more accepting communities in the country.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Saigon
\nImage adapted from: Tony Pham<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Expect cultural diversity and a bilingual population. Saigon is basically a land of immigrants, with different neighborhoods populated by people of different ethnicities, such as Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and Caucasian Westerners.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Hanoi – the capital up north<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"\"
\nImage credit: @nhat_bun<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

You\u2019ll find plenty of age-old Indochinese architecture dotted across Hanoi\u2019s Ho\u00e0n Ki\u1ebfm District, alongside modern office buildings in Ba \u0110\u00ecnh District and surrounding newly developed areas.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Hanoi
\nImage credit: Stanislav Rozhkov<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Here, people tend to be more observant and measured in their responses towards something or someone new.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Da Nang – a beachside city in Central Vietnam<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Danang
\nThe Han River<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>Huong Ho<\/span><\/a>
\n<\/em><\/p>\n

Surrounded by beautiful beaches and lush mountains, Da Nang is an ideal place for those enjoying outdoor activities such as forest adventures and water sports.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Golden
\nDa Nang\u2019s famous Golden Bridge<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>Andreea Popa<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

As a tourist city, this place doesn\u2019t lack foreigners. You won\u2019t feel alone here, especially since the local people are friendly, sincere, and helpful too.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

– The weather in each city –<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n
\n

Saigon – warm and humid<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Saigon
\nImage credit: Tron Le<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Saigon boasts year-long humid weather with daily temperatures in the range of 27<\/span>\u00b0C<\/span> to 35 <\/span>\u00b0C<\/span>, so you can put on summer clothes all the time.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"SaigonDaily rain in Saigon during the rainy season usually causes floods in many areas<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

The city\u2019s climate is divided into the sunny season in the first half and the rainy season in the second half of the year, so make sure you bring a raincoat with you all the time from July till December.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Hanoi – greater temperature differences between seasons<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Hanoi
\nImage credit: David Emrich<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Hanoi boasts a cool and crisp climate in winter and spring, during which the temperature can drop to 10<\/span>\u00b0C<\/span>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

In contrast, the weather here can be quite harsh in the hotter months from May to August, with frequent heat waves that have risen to a record high of 40<\/span>\u00b0C<\/span>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Da Nang – tropical weather, but slightly cooler in the winters<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Bus
\nImage credit: <\/span>@emily8103<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/a><\/em>
\nAll Vietnamese cities have bus systems and ride-hailing services such as Grab, Gojek Vietnam, and BE. However, if you plan to live here long-term, you should learn how to ride a motorbike.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Vietnam<\/p>\n

You can take motorbike riding or car driving lessons at many driving schools in these cities, where you can move on to register for driving tests right after graduation.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

– Types of rental properties in Vietnam –<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n
\n

Apartments and condominiums<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"SkySky Garden Apartment Building in District 7<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

In rapidly developing Ho Chi Minh City, it’s hard to walk past a neighborhood where you don’t see an apartment building. This type of housing was only introduced to Vietnam a couple of decades ago, and has since quickly become a lifestyle choice for young people. Despite the communal living they offer, apartments should not be considered inferior to a house with higher privacy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Apartment
\nImage credit: Opal Tower<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Not only are apartments cheaper when renting a property in Vietnam, but they also come with lots of perks.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Every apartment building comes with amenities such as a swimming pool, a gym, a tennis court, and a management board that takes care of everything from repairs, maintenance, and security.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

All you have to do is to pay a fixed management fee every month and focus on enjoying your life.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Townhouses and villas<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Villa
\nVillas in Saigon Pearl<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>Opal Tower<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Commonly referred to as landed properties, townhouses and villas are properties with multiple floors and private entrances. Some townhouses and villas come with a garden in the front and back, and a swimming pool.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

If you\u2019re renting for your family or with a group of friends, you may want to consider renting a townhouse or villa for some extra space and flexibility. However, the cost of renting a townhouse or villa in the city can be quite hefty.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

For example, a 500 sqm villa in Saigon Pearl, a riverside development in B\u00ecnh Th\u1ea1nh District, sports a rent price tag upward of<\/span> USD4,000 <\/b>per month.<\/span><\/p>\n

For more affordable options, you might want to move further to District 9, where you\u2019ll find spacious and well-equipped townhouses that rent fo<\/span>r VND13,000,000 – VND20,000,000 (~USD563.19-USD866.44) <\/b>per month. Bare-minimum villas with gardens or swimming pools in District 9 normally go from <\/span>VND40,000,000 (~USD1,732.88)<\/b> per month.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Studios and mini apartments<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Hoozing
\nImage credit: <\/span>Hoozing<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Studios and mini-apartments are very popular rental properties in Saigon, given the city\u2019s lack of residential space. These properties are smaller in size compared to normal apartments, averaging 25 to 45 sqm. Despite their compact size, studios and mini-apartments are all fully furnished and ready to move in.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

– Types of furnishings in rental properties –<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n
\n

Bare shell properties<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"warmshell
\nImage credit: <\/span>Palm City<\/a><\/span><\/em>
\n
\nIf you are moving house with tons of furniture of your own<\/a> or you’re keen to decorate your own living space<\/a> based on your sense of aesthetics, you might want to search for bare shell properties.\u00a0<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

A bare shell property is basically an apartment with nothing but basic flooring, plastered walls, and an operational plumbing system. You’ll need to do all the fittings of the apartment yourself, from installing lighting to carpeting the floors to moving in furniture.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Warm shell properties<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"conditions
\nImage credit: B\u1ea3o Trang<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

A warm shell property is also similar to a bare shell property, except that it\u2019s already fitted with basic amenities and decor such as lighting, air conditioners, ceiling, walls, flooring, and even a pantry in certain properties.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"conditions
\nImage credit: Palm City<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

All you have to do is to bring your own furniture in.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The majority of landlords in Vietnam lease their properties in warm shell conditions.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Furnished properties<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"\"
\nA fully furnished apartment in Da Nang<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>DaNa Home – Nh\u00e0 \u0110\u00e0 N\u1eb5ng<\/a><\/span><\/em>
\n
\nThose who prefer ready-to-move-in apartments where you find the essential items of daily living already prepared for you, from beds to couches to TVs, can go for furnished properties.\u00a0<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Sunwah
\nA fully furnished apartment in Saigon\u2019s Sunwah Pearl<\/span>
\n<\/span>Image credit: <\/span>Nguyen Quang<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

The monthly rent of a fully furnished property depends largely on the quality of the furniture and amenities inside it, which can range from low-cost to ornate. Therefore, don\u2019t be surprised if you see landlords quoting significantly different price points for different apartments on the same floor and with the same view.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Even though furnished properties are more costly than bare shell and warm shell properties, the amount of money you can save on buying furniture and having them delivered to your doorstep is quite worth it.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

– How to choose which neighborhood of your city to live in –<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n
\n

Saigon<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n
\n

District 1 – the heart of Saigon<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"District<\/p>\n

The heart of Saigon, District 1<\/strong>, is where major tourist attractions, government agencies, and office buildings are located.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Saigon'sSaigon\u2019s City Hall in District 1<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

For this reason, this is also considered the most expensive place to live in the city.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The most popular rental properties in District 1 are studios or mini-apartments, which typically have only 25-45 sqm of space but come fully fitted.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The average rent for a studio or serviced apartment in District 1 is in the range of<\/span> VND6,000,000 to VND10,000,000 (~USD216.61-USD324.91)<\/b> depending on how prime the location is.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Vinhomes
\nAn apartment in Vinhomes Golden River<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>Vinhomes Golden River B\u00e1n & Cho thu\u00ea<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

There are not many apartment buildings in District 1 except for those who are already decades old, so the rent here is usually 20% to 50% higher than the other places due to lower supply.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

A 2-bedroom apartment of 65-75sqm in District 1, for example, would rent for <\/span>USD1,200-USD2,000<\/b> per month.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Some of the recommended apartment buildings in District 1 include Vinhomes Golden River, D1mension, Saigon Sky Garden, and Somerset <\/span>Nguy\u1ec5n B\u1ec9nh Khi\u00eam<\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Japan
\nJapan Town in District 1<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

District 1 is also home to a large number of Japanese expats who work and live mainly in the Japan Town area<\/a>, which is made of L\u00ea Th\u00e1nh T\u00f4n and Th\u00e1i\u00a0V\u0103n\u00a0Lung Streets.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

B\u00ecnh Th\u1ea1nh District – a stone\u2019s throw away from District 1<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Landmark
\nVinhomes Central Park development. In its center is Landmark 81, the tallest building in Vietnam.\u00a0<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>Tron Le<\/a><\/span>
\n<\/span><\/em>
\nThose who want both proximity and affordability should move to B\u00ecnh Th\u1ea1nh District<\/strong>, which is adjacent to District 1 and only a 5 to 10-minute drive away. Featuring the largest number of apartment buildings in town, B\u00ecnh Th\u1ea1nh District gives you a wide range of apartments to choose from as well as more competitive prices.\u00a0<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Sunwah
\nSunwah Pearl in B\u00ecnh Th\u1ea1nh District offers a spectacular view over District 1\u2019s skyline<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>Hu\u1ef3nh Xu\u00e2n<\/a><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Some of the most popular developments in the area include Vinhomes Central Park, Saigon Pearl, Sunwah Pearl, City Garden, and The Manor.<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Sunwah
\nAn apartment in Sunwah Pearl<\/span>
\n<\/span>Image credit: <\/span>H\u00f9ng L\u00ea<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

A 2-bedroom apartment with a size of 65-75 sqm normally rents for<\/span> USD1,000-USD1,500,<\/b> depending on how well-furnished the apartment is.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

District 7 – large Korean and Taiwanese communities<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"PhuPh\u00fa M\u1ef9 H\u01b0ng neighborhood in District 7<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

A short 20-minute drive from District 1, District 7<\/strong> is known for its large population of Korean and Taiwanese communities.<\/span><\/p>\n

There are so many Korean and Japanese restaurants, coffee shops, and marts in District 7 that you don\u2019t even have to speak fluent Vietnamese to adapt to the way of life here.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"
\nSky Garden Apartment Building in District 7<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

District 7 is endowed with modern infrastructure, good security with numerous street cameras, and plenty of public parks. Residents here can take a breezy stroll down the tree-lined lanes or cycle along serene residential compounds.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

If you\u2019re a health-conscious person who likes to exercise outdoors at any time of the day, this is the place for you.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Korean
\nKorean International School in Ho Chi Minh City<\/em>
\nImage credit: M\u00fa Chan<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Another reason why District 7 is particularly popular among Asian expats is because of its abundant international school choices, including the Taipei School in Ho Chi Minh City, the Japanese School in Ho Chi Minh City, the Korean International School in Ho Chi Minh City, the Lawrence S. Ting School, and many more.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Some of the highly recommended developments in the area include Sky Garden, Scenic Valley, Era Town, and Riviera Point, because all of them are known to be well-equipped and close to mega shopping malls such as Crescent Mall and SC Vivo City.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The rental range for a 2-bedroom apartment of 65-70 sqm in District 7 is from USD600-USD1,200<\/strong>.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

District 2 – the \u201cBeverly Hills\u201d of Saigon with a bilingual community<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"ThaoSaigon Outcast in Th\u1ea3o \u0110i\u1ec1n<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Considered Saigon\u2019s \u201cBeverly Hills\u201d due to its plethora of Western-style F&B businesses and international schools, it\u2019s no coincidence that District 2<\/strong> is a major draw among Western expats. <\/span><\/p>\n

\"European
\nEuropean International School Ho Chi Minh City in District 2<\/em>
\nImage credit: European International School Ho Chi Minh City<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

If you\u2019re looking for a neighborhood where you can get by while speaking English only, Th\u1ea3o \u0110i\u1ec1n and An Phu Ward in District 2 are the perfect places to be in.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Featuring an enormous population of expats from all walks of life, District 2 is always buzzing with modern aesthetics and cultural activities.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"masteri
\nMasteri Th\u1ea3o \u0110i\u1ec1n\u00a0<\/em>
\nImage adapted from: <\/span>Masteri Th\u1ea3o \u0110i\u1ec1n<\/a><\/span><\/em>
\n
\nThe average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment of 65-75 sqm in District 2 is currently <\/span>VND12,000,000-VND15,000,000 (~USD519.86-USD649.83)<\/b>. An apartment boasting a size of <\/span><\/span>93-120 sqm normally rents for <\/span>VND20,000,000-VND50,000,000 (~USD866.44-USD2,166.10)<\/b>.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

District 9 – an enclave of affordable landed properties<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"District
\nImage adapted from: Saigon Viewers<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

If you have a big family and are willing to trade in a tiny city apartment for a spacious landed property further out from the city center, you’ll enjoy living in District 9<\/strong>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Situated 13KM away from Saigon’s city center to the east via District 2’s Hanoi Expressway, District 9 is brimming with villa compounds.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Lucasta
\nImage credit: <\/span>Lucasta Khang Dien<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Among the many villa compounds you can find in District 9 include Lucasta Khang \u0110i\u1ec1n, Melosa Garden, Villa Park, and Mega Residence.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The average rent for a furnished 136-153 sqm villa in District 9 is currently <\/span>VND17,000,000-VND21,000,000 (~USD736.47-USD909.76).<\/b> A villa with a size of 200-260 sqm normally rents for <\/span>VND25,000,000-VND40,000,000 (~USD1,083.05-USD1,732.88)<\/b>, depending on whether it comes with a swimming pool or not.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Hanoi<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n
\n

Ba \u0110\u00ecnh District – Hanoi\u2019s Central Business District that’s home to a large Japanese population<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Ba
\nBa \u0110\u00ecnh Square<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>@socialist_vietnam__<\/a><\/span><\/em>
\n
\nBa \u0110\u00ecnh District<\/strong> is considered the most prestigious address in Hanoi, where the country\u2019s most prominent office buildings and important political agencies are located. It\u2019s also home to numerous tourist attractions, such as the President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Ba \u0110\u00ecnh Square, Th\u0103ng Long Citadel, and Gi\u1ea3ng V\u00f5 Art Gallery.<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Ba
\nImage credit: @dj_chadoll<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

A large part of Kim M\u00e3 Street is populated with Japanese restaurants, cafes, and pubs, indicating the strong presence of the Japanese community in the area.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Lancaster
\nAn apartment in Lancaster Hanoi<\/span>
\n<\/span>Image credit: <\/span><\/em>Lancaster Hanoi<\/a><\/span><\/em>
\n
\nSome of the residential developments you can check out here include Vinhomes Gi\u1ea3ng V\u00f5 and Lancaster Hanoi.\u00a0<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

As of this year, the average rent in Ba \u0110\u00ecnh District is <\/span>VND11,000,000-VND14,000,000 (~USD476.53-USD606.49) <\/b>for an apartment of 50 sqm, and <\/span>VND18,000,000-VND22,000,000 (~USD779.77-USD953.05) f<\/b>or an apartment of 120 sqm.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

On the busy streets of Ba \u0110\u00ecnh District such as Kim M\u00e3, Linh Lang, and \u0110\u00e0o T\u1ea5n, you\u2019ll find plenty of studios and mini-apartments boasting a size of 35-45 sqm renting from <\/span>VND4,800,000 to VND6,500,000 (~USD207.94-USD281.58)<\/b> per month.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

H\u00e0 \u0110\u00f4ng District – established infrastructure & transportation system<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Ha
\nH\u00e0 \u0110\u00f4ng District<\/span>
\n<\/span>Image credit: <\/span>Capitaland<\/a><\/span><\/em>
\n
\nSituated 12KM away from Hanoi\u2019s city center and in the southwest is H\u00e0 \u0110\u00f4ng District<\/strong>, one of Hanoi\u2019s fastest-developing neighborhoods. It gathers a good number of newly built large-scale residential developments including M\u1ed7 Lao, V\u0103n Qu\u00e1n, V\u0103n Khu\u00ea, An H\u01b0ng, and Usilk City. Among the many residential developments you can check out here include Mulberry Lane H\u00e0 \u0110\u00f4ng and Seasons Avenue.\u00a0<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

\"chung-cu-Mulberry-Lane-\"
\nMulberry Lane<\/span>
\n<\/span>Image credit: <\/span>Du An Nam An Khanh<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

The average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment of 65-75 sqm is from USD400-USD800 <\/b>per month.<\/p>\n

Despite its seemingly long distance from Hanoi\u2019s city center, H\u00e0 \u0110\u00f4ng is equipped with an established infrastructure system for easy transport connections with major districts such as C\u1ea7u Gi\u1ea5y and Nam T\u1eeb Li\u00eam. Aside from traffic links that reduce traffic congestion and commuting times such as Th\u0103ng Long – Khu\u1ea5t Duy Ti\u1ebfn tunnel and V\u1ea1n Ph\u00fac – L\u00ea V\u0103n L\u01b0\u01a1ng intersection, H\u00e0 \u0110\u00f4ng also offers a large public bus system so you can get around town easily.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Even when you\u2019re too lazy to travel, you can still shop and have fun at plenty of shopping malls in the area, such as AEON MALL H\u00e0 \u0110\u00f4ng, Metro H\u00e0 \u0110\u00f4ng, and Big C H\u00e0 \u0110\u00f4ng.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Thanh Xu\u00e2n District – the city\u2019s new commercial center<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Thanh
\nImage adapted from: Homedy<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

One of the major draws of Thanh Xu\u00e2n District<\/strong> is the presence of <\/span>Trung H\u00f2a – Nh\u00e2n Ch\u00ednh <\/b>, Hanoi\u2019s major educational and commercial center. Not only does Thanh Xu\u00e2n District play host to numerous prestigious schools and universities such as the <\/span>Hanoi – Amsterdam High School For the Gifted and Regional Political Institution I (<\/span>H\u1ecdc vi\u1ec7n Ch\u00ednh tr\u1ecb khu v\u1ef1c I)<\/span>, but also has many banks.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Hapulico
\nHapulico Complex<\/span>
\n<\/span>Image credit: <\/span>Hapulico Complex<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Some of the residential developments you can check out here include Riviera Park, Hapulico Complex, and Royal City.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The rental range for a 2-bedroom apartment of 71-94 sqm in the area is <\/span>VND11,400,000-VND14,000,000 (~USD493.85-USD606.49)<\/b>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Thanh Xu\u00e2n District is also known for its large Korean communities, so you can find affordable K-BBQ joints and Korean supermarket goodies at your doorstep if you live here.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

T\u00e2y H\u1ed3 District – prestigious location and home to a large Western expat community<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Tay
\nImage credit: <\/span>Cho Thu\u00ea C\u0103n H\u1ed9 T\u1ea1i H\u00e0 N\u1ed9i I Sunshine Housing<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Adjacent to Ba \u0110\u00ecnh District to the south and packed with famous tourist attractions including the West Lake, Qu\u00e1n Th\u00e1nh Temple, and Tr\u1ea5n Qu\u1ed1c Pagoda, the T\u00e2y H\u1ed3 District<\/b> is one of Hanoi\u2019s most prestigious neighborhoods.<\/p>\n

\"Chua
\nTr\u1ea5n Qu\u1ed1c Pagoda<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>@ob.kc<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Because of its prime location and scenic surroundings, the area appeals to many Western expats in the city.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Therefore, you\u2019ll find in this area a wide variety of serviced apartment buildings and residential developments, such as CIPUTRA Hanoi, 6th Element, D\u2019el Dorado, and Elegant Suites Westlake.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Elegant
\nImage credit: Elegant Suites Westlake, Hanoi<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

The average apartment rent in T\u00e2y H\u1ed3 District is around <\/span>VND7,000,000-VND10,000,000 (~USD303.25-USD433.22) <\/b>for an apartment of 28-33 sqm, and <\/span>VND13,000,000-VND15,000,000 (~USD563.19-USD649.83)<\/b> for an apartment of 80-120 sqm.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Ecopark – residential township in a nature setting<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Ecopark
\nImage credit: Ecopark<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

If peace and affordability are what you\u2019re after when renting a property in Vietnam, start packing your bags for Ecopark<\/strong>. Situated 17KM away from Hanoi\u2019s city center, Ecopark is northern Vietnam\u2019s largest suburban residential development that spans 500 hectares.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"ecopark
\nA kindergarten in Ecopark<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>Ecoparker<\/a><\/span><\/em>
\n
\nOffering enormous green space, a wide range of amenities such as restaurants, schools, and sports facilities, as well as convenient access to public transport, Ecopark has drawn over 20,000 residents ever since its establishment in 2012.\u00a0<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

In terms of square meters and features, Ecopark offers you more bang for your buck. Not only can you live in a serene environment surrounded by lush greenery, but you also pay less for your rent.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"eco
\nA villa in Ecopark<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>Ecoparker<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

The average rent for a 4-bedroom villa of 162-200 sqm is from <\/span>VND20,000,000-VND27,000,000 (~~USD866.44-USD1,169.69)<\/b> per month. For cheaper options, you can check out a wide range of apartments here, which rent from<\/span> VND5,500,000-VND8,500,000 (~USD238.27-USD368.24) <\/b>for those of 45-76 sqm.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Ecopark
\nImage credit: Ecoparker<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

While Ecopark is in the suburb, it offers a comprehensive public transportation system that covers nearly all parts of the township with reliable and frequent service. To commute to Hanoi, residents can hop on Bus 47A, Bus 47B, and Bus 69.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Da Nang<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n
\n

H\u1ea3i Ch\u00e2u – Da Nang\u2019s Central Business District<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Hai
\nImage credit: @dramatic_hanoi<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

H\u1ea3i Ch\u00e2u<\/strong> is considered the central business district of Da Nang, and living near the city center comes with lots of perks, from convenient transportation to numerous healthcare facilities.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

You’ll find a dizzying array of recreational options to choose from here, including art galleries, museums, clubs, and parks.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"
\nImage credit: @xcalibal<\/a><\/em>
\n<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

The district is also the epicenter of government agencies, office buildings, and shopping complexes – meaning you won\u2019t have to take a long ride to work or struggle with chaotic traffic to get home in the evenings.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"
\nDa Nang International Airport<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>Wikipedia<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Da Nang International Airport is also situated in the district, meaning that you won\u2019t have to worry about rushing to the airport in time for check-in compared to if you lived in other parts of Da Nang.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"
\nView over the city from Indochina Riverside Tower Apartment Building<\/span>
\n<\/span>Image credit: <\/span>Di\u1ec7p Minh Ngh\u1ecb<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Some of the developments in the area include Indochina Riverside Tower and Blooming Tower Da Nang.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

S\u01a1n Tr\u00e0 – suitable for those who love outdoor activities<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"\"
\nImage credit: @ruslankolotogin<\/a><\/em>
\n<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Lying in the northeastern part of Da Nang and west of H\u1ea3i Ch\u00e2u District is S\u01a1n Tr\u00e0<\/strong>, an urban residential district with access to nature.<\/span><\/p>\n

Aside from beautiful beaches with spectacular coral reefs such as Ph\u1ea1m V\u0103n \u0110\u1ed3ng Beach, B\u1ee5t Beach (B\u00e3i B\u1ee5t), and R\u1ea1ng Beach (B\u00e3i R\u1ea1ng), S\u01a1n Tr\u00e0 District is also home to the magnificent S\u01a1n Tr\u00e0 Island and S\u01a1n Tr\u00e0 Mountains spanning 4,400 hectares, which have formed the S\u01a1n Tr\u00e0 Nature Reserve since 1992.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"
\nImage credit: @q.u.e.n_uiux<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

This district makes a great living place for outdoorsy people, who can engage in an array of water activities such as swimming, jet skiing, and surfing, or go on camping trips whenever they feel like it.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Son
\nParagliding across S\u01a1n Tr\u00e0 Mountain<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>@danangparaglidings\u00a0<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Some of the apartment developments in the area that you can consider include The Monarchy and S\u01a1n Tr\u00e0 Ocean View.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Son
\nA fully furnished apartment in S\u01a1n Tr\u00e0 Ocean View Apartment Building<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>S\u01a1n Tr\u00e0 Ocean View apt<\/a><\/span><\/em>
\n<\/a><\/span><\/i>
\nFor a 2-bedroom apartment of 65-75 sqm, the rent can go from VND8,000,000 to VND12,000,000 (USD346.98-USD520.47)<\/b> per month.
\n<\/a><\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

\"son
\nThe swimming pool at S\u01a1n Tr\u00e0 Ocean View Apartment Building<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>S\u01a1n Tr\u00e0 Ocean View apt<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

For a townhouse of 3 bedrooms with a size of 120sqm – 320 sqm, the monthly rent is from <\/span>VND12,000,000 to VND16,000,000 (~USD520-USD693.27)<\/b>. Added amenities such as swimming pools or gardens automatically translate to an increase in the rent.
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

What makes a good place to live in Vietnam?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\"Ecopark\"
\nEcopark development<\/span>
\n<\/span>Image credit: <\/span>Ecopark<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Before you commit to any development when renting a property in Vietnam, remember to check it out comprehensively. Remember that no neighborhoods and buildings satisfy everyone equally, and you have to make trade-offs to choose the best value based on your preferences and budget. Every development has desirable features and less-than-ideal aspects, and you have to learn to<\/span> strike a happy medium.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"PhuDistrict 7<\/em><\/p>\n

For example, when in Saigon, you cannot expect to find an apartment in District 7 or District 9 that rents for half the price of that in B\u00ecnh Th\u1ea1nh District and expect it to be just a 10-minute drive from District 1. Or if you\u2019re eyeing a spacious and affordable villa in District 9 where your big family can live comfortably, you have to be willing to drive for 30 to 45 minutes between your home and your workplace if you work in District 1.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The same rule applies for the rental market in Hanoi. You can find townhouse and villa compounds across the city, but the monthly rent varies big time depending on their locations.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Ecopark
\nImage credit: <\/span>Ecopark<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

For example, a fully furnished 4-bedroom villa in <\/span>Ecopark<\/span>, a suburban residential development 17KM away from Hanoi\u2019s city center, rents for only <\/span>VND22,000,000 (~USD953.08)<\/b>. Meanwhile, an equally large villa in C\u1ea7u Gi\u1ea5y District, an urban Hanoi district bordered by Ba \u0110\u00ecnh District can rent for over<\/span> VND60,000,000 (~USD2,599.32)<\/b> per month.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

If you don\u2019t mind taking a 45-minute bus ride between Ecopark and Hanoi\u2019s city center every morning, then a villa surrounded by one third of the rental price tag of villas in urban districts can be a good deal. On the other hand, if you don\u2019t mind paying top dollar for proximity to the city center, despite the traffic noise, you can live in the city.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Communities<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"DistrictPh\u00fa M\u1ef9 H\u01b0ng in District 7<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Before you move into any neighborhood, do thorough research on the communities there.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

For example, Korean-speaking tenants renting a property in Vietnam will most likely want to live in Ph\u00fa M\u1ef9 H\u01b0ng in District 7, where a lot of Korean residents live and plenty of Korean-style F&B and entertainment businesses are located. <\/span>If you live in other districts where hardly anyone speaks Korean, you\u2019ll be missing out on this aspect of a social life.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"JapanJapan Town in District 1<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

If you can speak Chinese, you\u2019ll feel at home in Ch\u1ee3<\/b>\u00a0L\u1edbn<\/b> area of District 5 and District 6, where your neighbors communicate in Chinese dialects and you\u2019ll be surrounded by Chinese restaurants.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Cho
\nA decades-old apartment building in District 5<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>Kim Hanh Do<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

If you\u2019re a Japanese family living in Hanoi, you\u2019ll want to move to Ho\u00e0n Ki\u1ebfm District or Ba \u0110\u00ecnh District where you\u2019ll find a growing number of Japanese communities.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Hanoi
\nHo\u00e0n Ki\u1ebfm District in Hanoi<\/em>
\nImage credit:<\/span><\/em> @anna.an.93<\/span><\/em><\/a><\/p>\n

For Koreans renting a property in Vietnam, Thanh Xu\u00e2n District and Nam T\u1eeb Li\u00eam District where a large population of Korean expats reside are ideal places to live.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Surrounding amenities<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Wet
\nImage credit: Thu Nguyen<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Make sure that your development has marts that sell basic necessities or groceries or is close to a supermarket where you can shop conveniently. Proximity to a pharmacy or a clinic is also a big bonus.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Apartment density<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"District
\nAn apartment building in District 2<\/em>
\nImage credit: <\/span>Kelvyn Zyteng<\/a><\/span><\/em>
\n
\nFor quietness and convenience, you should move into buildings with a low or moderate number of apartments, say 5,000 apartments per project at most.\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Living with too many people in the same premises means that you\u2019ll take a longer time waiting for elevators, buying groceries, or having trouble navigating the crowded lanes during rush hour.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Japan
\nA residential lane in District 1<\/em><\/p>\n

Tip: you can visit the development you\u2019re eyeing between 8AM and 6PM to suss out the daytime noise levels and traffic.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Parking space<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Japan
\nA street parking lot in Saigon<\/em>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Choose a development that gives you ample parking space. Most apartment owners and paying tenants in cities prefer to park their vehicles in a covered or underground parking lot rather than outdoors, but parking in Saigon can be challenging as the number of vehicles often outnumbers the parking lots available, forcing some to park outdoors during peak hours. <\/span><\/p>\n

To avoid this, find yourself an apartment building with really spacious parking areas. <\/span>You won\u2019t want to park your vehicles on the streets on a rainy night just because there\u2019s no parking lot in the basement.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

What goes into a rental fee in Vietnam?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

\"Savills
\nCondo maintenance staff at work<\/span>
\n<\/span>Image adapted from: <\/span><\/em>Savills Vietnam<\/span><\/em>
\n<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

If you\u2019re renting a property in Vietnam in an apartment building, your rent will usually include <\/span>utility bills<\/b> plus a <\/span>management fee per sqm<\/b>, which is dictated by the building manager.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The management fee goes to the building management fund, which pays for services such as security, cleaning and landscaping tasks, and the periodic maintenance of building amenities.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Gym
\nImage credit: Opal Tower<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

In most apartment buildings in Saigon, Hanoi, and Da Nang, the management fee is in the range of<\/span> VND15,000-VND20,000 (~USD0.65-USD0.87)<\/b> per sqm.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

For example, if you\u2019re living in a 60 sqm apartment that costs you<\/span> VND5,000,000 (~USD217.52) <\/b>in rent per month, chances are you\u2019ll pay a <\/span>VND900,000 to VND1,200,000 (~USD39.04-USD52.02) <\/b>monthly management fee.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

If you\u2019re renting a room or a townhouse, your rent only includes the cost of utilities and hygiene management fees, which vary among neighborhoods.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Remember to ask your landlord in the beginning about all the fees that you have to pay when renting a property in Vietnam so you have no uncertainties as to what the landlord is charging you for.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

* Note: most agents and landlords will quote rental rates in USD. However, rental is payable in VND.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

\n

What\u2019s the process of renting an apartment in Vietnam?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n
\n

Applying for residency with local authorities<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"residency
\nImage credit: <\/span>Lao Dong<\/a><\/span><\/em>
\n
\nMost of the time, your landlord will help you apply for residency with local authorities within 12 hours of your check-in.\u00a0<\/span>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

If you are able to go through the process by yourself, you can apply via the electronic residence websites available in all provinces such as <\/span>Ho Chi Minh City<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>Hanoi<\/span><\/a>, and<\/span> Da Nang<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Making a deposit<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"Vietnam
\nImage credit: @puiitj<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Most landlords ask you to make deposits worth one or two months of your monthly rent before renting a property in Vietnam<\/span>.<\/p>\n

For example, if your monthly rental fee is USD500, you might be asked to put down USD500 or USD1,000 as a deposit. <\/span>If you don\u2019t meet your lease responsibilities, such as paying rent on time or keeping the property in intact conditions, you may lose your deposit.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Remember that any prices quoted in USD are only for reference purposes and you should ask your landlord to denote the rent in VND in the written contract<\/strong>. It is required by law (Decree No.04\/2003\/NQ-HDT) that tenants must make their payment in VND.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Reading rental contracts<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"reading
\nA property agent helping her client with rental agreements<\/em>
\nImage credit: H Y\u1ebfn Nguy\u1ec5n<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

All contracts are made in both English and Vietnamese languages and it\u2019s the <\/span>Vietnamese <\/b>copies that are considered legally binding. Thus, make sure that you have your agent help you read through the contracts carefully and only sign them when you\u2019re sure that the English copies accurately reflect the content in the Vietnamese copies.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Even though the law does not require rental agreements to be notarized, having them notarized can lend your agreements more legal support and give you more assurance of your rights as a tenant. <\/span><\/p>\n

\"notarize
\nImage credit: <\/span>Ngh\u1ec1 Nghi\u1ec7p Cu\u1ed9c S\u1ed1ng<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Notarization<\/b> (c\u00f4ng ch\u1ee9ng)<\/span><\/em> refers to a fraud-deterrence process that can be performed by a notary executive in any Notary Office in the city that includes appraising, certifying, and documenting important and legal documents. The purpose of notarizing a document is to make sure that it is authentic, trustable, and legally binding.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"notarize
\nA Notary Office<\/span>
\n<\/span>Image credit: <\/span>B\u00e1o Ph\u00e1p Lu\u1eadt<\/span><\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

The normal notarization fee is<\/span> VND40,000 (~USD1.73) <\/b>for a rental contract document for a property with rental value under VND50,000,000 (~USD2,166.75) and <\/span>VND80,000 (~USD2.46)<\/b> for a rental contract for a property with rental value in the range of VND50,000,000 to VND100,000,000 (~USD2,166.75-USD4,333.51).<\/span><\/p>\n

You can ask your landlord to work with you on the notarization of your rental agreements or ask your property agent to do it on your behalf.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Paying your property agent<\/strong><\/h4>\n
\n

\"savills
\nImage adapted from: Savills Vietnam<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Deal with your property agent upfront before engaging their services. Most agents are paid by the landlords themselves and do not require consultation fees. <\/span>Remember that you should never have to pay to see a rental property or meet the landlord.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

However, you can tip your property agents as a gesture of your thankfulness for their services.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

What are some important words to know related to renting a place in Vietnam?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
\n

Here’re some key terms in rental contract and discussions that you need to take notice of.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n