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What are the best rental options for those on a DTV visa in Thailand?

Mar 25, 2025
8 days ago
Jason *****
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hi! For those on a DTV, are you renting an apartment on 6 month lease? Or do you rent for 1 year and do a border run?

Just looking for advice since the DTV is 180 days; also any advice on finding a place to live would be appreciated. Thanks!
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TLDR : Answer Summary
Expats on a DTV visa (180 days) have various options for renting apartments. While many landlords prefer longer leases of at least 6 months to 1 year, some expats successfully use platforms like Airbnb for month-to-month rentals. It's advisable to negotiate lease length based on personal travel plans, as frequent border runs are an option. Consider using apps like Property Hub to find suitable accommodations based on desired areas and budget.
DTV VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
Lorraine ******
6
Anonymous ******************
A year. I think you save more with a year than 6 months. Regardless of lease terms, most still want a 2 months security deposits. A big part of where to live here depends on your budget. Popular choices are along the green line BTS between On Nut and Chit lom + couple of stations outside.
Julie ********************
Tom *****
Many add on marketplace
Steve *******
Just because your first stamp is 180 days, doesn't mean you have to stay 180 days.

Come and go as you please. You showed 500k in an account when you applied, you can afford renting a condo here and traveling as you please around Asia.
Christopher ********
2 year lease.
Christian *************
@Christopher *******
did you/were you able to negotiate a cheaper rate for doing 2 years compared to 1?
Christopher ********
AmberLee ***************
I'm in an Airbnb and I extend for however long I feel comfortable...

So comfortable too reach out and ask me any questions… I've been here since September
Ocu ****
@AmberLee **************
isn't an airbnb more pricey than a leased unit?
Nick *******
@Ocu ***
yes for sure. Have been using airbnbs but will lease now - 30% to 40% cheaper based on my experience
Greg ********
You can get a lease on any visa, including Visa Exempt. As for the length of lease, most landlords want at least 6 months but prefer a year. Any shorter and you are paying a premium, and many agents do not want to work with you. If you really want short lets you should be looking at Airbnb or serviced apartments.
Jeremy *********
1 Year lease

Fly in and out reset 180

Property Hub app rocks for finding condos and you can specify area , complex all that if you want
Jason *****
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Jeremy ********
thank you! I'll check out property hub :)
Elías ********
Renting on Airbnb, month to month. This way I only pay for the months I'm in Thailand.
Marb ********
@Elías *******
you’re paying literally 2-3x the price of long term leases
David ********
@Marb *******
I would say 2x, considering in Airbnb electricity, internet, water is included. Good for people who are not hear the complete year and don't mind the hassle of moving around
Luit *****************
@David *******
Be prepared Airbnb does not always mean electricity, internet and water is included.

Especially electricity is often not included because the way you use airco can influence cost very much.
Elías ********
@Luit ****************
it's always written on the ad. Some do include it, some don't.
David ********
@Luit ****************
that's right, when I used airbnb, I prefer to choose the ones with electricity included
Jeremy *********
@Marb *******
at minimum!