With the rise of the digital nomad, those who want to happily spend their months in Bali experience with Phuket’s long-term rental villas are on the increase. Private villas can generally offer plenty of space, privacy, and value compared to hotels and are found throughout the rice fields of Canggu, surf breaks of Uluwatu, or beaches of Bangtao or Rawai.
But along with this rapidly expanding rental market have the opportunities for scams as well as misleading listings and unmanaged properties. A perfect looking lease in photos can actually have hidden fees, legal issues or maintenance issues that only become evident after you sign the lease.
It is a good idea to make a few important checks prior to using a huge security deposit or a 6 or 12 month lease. The glamour and ease of interior decorating can be worth thousands of dollars and so much stress during your trip.
Don’t Rush Into Sending Money
Some of the most glaring indications include having to pay immediately by bank transfer or cash deposit. Fraudsters also duplicate authentic properties and promote them with prices which seem far too good to be true and put on a quick sale with false scarcity claims.
When moving in with a landlord or agent who demands payment before inspection, take care of yourself. Ask for a live video tour which includes the entrance, streets around the villa and the full tour as one file. The payment account should be the same name as the legal name on the rental agreement of the company or property owner.
Make Sure the Contract Clearly Explains All Monthly Costs
If essential running costs are the unspoken agreement if the rent is low, it will soon add up. A number of residents of long-term rentals find themselves only on the inside where they know that they have to pay for electricity, garden services, housekeeping or security.
It should make it explicit who has to pay electricity, WiFi, pool cleaning, collection of the trash, regular maintenance etc. One of the areas that merit special interest are electricity costs, particularly in tropical countries where air conditioning operates nearly always and costs can make up the bulk of a person’s monthly bills if the landlord’s prices exceed the official utility tariff rates.
Inspect the Property Beyond Its Appearance
Colour photographs do not usually show the quality of a villa in winter without snow, or when it is in use every day. Poorly constructed or water leaks and mould hidden during dry weather may be exposed during the tropical season.
While viewing, look for building walls and ceilings where they have been painted recently or for water damage which may be the sign of previous water damage. Test all the air conditioners, switch on both the showers and water pressure should be good as well as running an internet speed test with the internet connection in the villa. These focus on easy checks that can show issues that may impact comfort in the event that you intend to work remotely or for a number of months.
Verify That the Villa Has the Proper Permits
Enforcement has increased in Indonesia and Thailand of buildings that are not permitted or constructed in restricted areas. An unlicensed villa that is rented could result in tenants’ conveniences being interrupted by an investigation by the authorities.
Request the landlord or representative that they check to see if the villa is appropriately approved and has permits as per local regulations. If someone is a true owner of the property, he or she should be willing to produce the proper documentation. Take it as a big drawback if it becomes offensive or if a person rejects any and all discussion about permits.
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Why Does Due Diligence Matters?
For long term villa rentals, you will typically be required to pay a large lump sum in the form of a security deposit and several months’ rent in advance. The recovery of those funds after acknowledgment of hidden problems can be hard, especially in the event that you’re coping with an international property owner.
A little extra trouble with verifying documents and examining the villa for any signs of damage, as well as going over each and every term of the lease can maximise he prevention of any financial loss and unexpected issues can be avoided. It’s also a good idea to sign agreements with a landlord and ask to have receipts for all payments made.
FAQs
Are villas in Bali and Phuket safe to rent online?
Yes, but don’t rent if you can’t confirm the property and verify it through a reputable agency or by contacting the property owner directly.
Do I need to make a deposit prior to seeing the Villa?
Before investing any funds, consider looking at the property or booking a virtual tour of it. Only written receipts from accounts affiliated with the legal owner or registered business of the property should be responded to with payment.
What doesn’t include the expense of villa rent?
Electricity, internet, pool maintenance, gardening, housekeeping and local service fees may be performance optional. If these costs are charged, they should be disclosed in the rental contract prior to accepting the lease.
