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What precautions should I take when paying booking fees for a condo in Thailand?

Nov 20, 2025
5 hours ago
Laurențiu ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hello, I am trying to find a long stay condo, I see agents here ask for a booking fee which is first month rent without getting any contract signed or other paper. Also, two different agents, one asked that this booking fee to be transferred to the owner directly and the other asked to send it to the agency bank account.

It is very strange to me to transfer money without any confirmation, anyone some advice here? 🙏
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The post highlights concerns about the payment process for booking fees associated with renting a condo in Thailand, where some agents ask for fees without a signed contract. Community members clarify that it's common for the owner to cover the agency's commission, and generally a two-month deposit is required, with one month used for the agent's commission. They advise to ensure you receive a receipt and have some form of written agreement before transferring any funds to avoid scams.
जगद्गुरु *****************
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Greg ********
The norm in Thailand is 2 months deposit. The agent gets 1 month commission out of that. The landlord pays it out of your deposit. If by booking fee the agent wants 1 month rent while the contract is drawn up is also common. That then is used as part of the 2 months deposit and 1 month in advance you pay
Jerry *******
In Thailand, the owner is responsible for paying the agency commission to the agent. I initially transferred the full amount directly to the owner.
Zaynab *******
Greg ********
Elías ********
I did book a condo to live there from Jan 1st. Paid and got 1) a receipt for the money and 2) a signed paper with the basic clauses, signed by the owner
Laurențiu ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Elías *******
did you pay first without any confirmation paper?
Elías ********
@Laurențiu *******
no, I met, and we exchanged the cash and the receipt and papers.
Laurențiu ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Elías *******
with the owner or agency?
Elías ********
A few days before that, I visited the condo and saw the unit. The other day couldn't see it again as it had been rented for three months by somebody else by then
Stefan ******
Stay away. There's usually one month deposit but only upon signing the contract.
Greg ********
@Stefan *****
2 month is norm in Thailand for deposit.The owner pays 1 month of that commission to the agent
Zaynab *******