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. 🙏