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? 🙏

Hey everyone, I’m about to rent a condo in Bangkok and wanted to check what’s standard practice here.

The agent told me: • I need to pay first month’s rent + security deposit (2 months) before the landlord will sign the lease. I paid the first month rent online to hold down my apartment • She said the landlord typically only signs once all money is received. • Alternatively, she suggested I could bring cash on move-in day, pay her directly, and then get the signed contract + keys together.

Back in London, I’m used to signing first, then paying, so I just want to make sure this is normal in Bangkok and that I’m not putting myself at risk.

Questions: 1. Is it standard here for the landlord to hold back their signature until the tenant has paid everything? 2. If I pay the agent (not the landlord directly), what’s the safest way to make sure I’m protected — e.g., should I insist on a written receipt right away? 3. On move-in day, should I expect to walk away with both keys and a fully signed lease?

Would really appreciate insights from anyone who has rented long-term in Bangkok recently. 🙏