1. Is there sufficient parking space?

The first thing you should ask your apartment, condo, or building owner is how much parking is available, how it is allocated to tenants, and whether you will have your own parking space.

Things you should ask before signing a contract

• Dormitory or condo, do tenants have the right to park their cars?
• Is it a regular or rotating parking lot?
• If there is no parking, where can I park nearby?

If the dorm or condo you’re renting doesn’t offer parking, you may need to consider other options. If you absolutely must rent there, you should also look for other options, such as monthly parking near the dorm. Is parking available in the area around the dorm?

2. Are there any additional costs?

Even if the room rent is within your budget, don’t forget to check whether parking is included separately. Some apartments and condos charge separate room and parking fees. Parking is typically an additional charge of around 500-1,500 baht per month, depending on the location or size of your car. Be sure to inquire about this beforehand, as it could become an unplanned expense and cost you more than you need.

Questions to ask before signing a lease agreement

• Is parking included in the rental fee?
• If calculated separately, daily or monthly, how much is the amount?
• Do I have to pay in advance?

3. Parking safety

This is especially important if the parking area is dark, with no security guards or CCTV cameras around, meaning your car could be stolen and untraceable. Remember, cars are valuable assets, so you should always consider carefully before agreeing to rent.

In addition to risk prevention, if an emergency occurs, such as a car accident or stolen items, having CCTV footage will help track down the culprit more easily and quickly.

Things you should check

• Are there CCTV cameras covering every corner?
• Is there a 24-hour security guard?
• Is there an entry/exit system, such as a key card or barrier?

4. Check the conditions for using the parking lot.

Many condos and dormitories have parking regulations, such as allowing only residents’ cars to park, prohibiting parking beyond the designated time limit, or changing parking spaces regularly, which can be inconvenient for users. Therefore, it is always best to check the conditions beforehand.

What you should ask

• Do I have to park only in the numbered spaces?
• Are there any entry/exit times or other restrictions?

5. Is there parking for guests?

If you have friends or family visiting frequently, not having a guest parking spot could cause problems with neighbors or the management. For example, guests will have to park on the street, risking fines or even being warned about disturbing common areas. So, do your research, as this could cause complications for friends and family visiting, as well as yourself and your neighbors.

Data checking questions

• Can guests park in the common area?
• Are there any limits on the number or time period?
• Do guests need to register before parking?

6. Does car insurance cover damages caused by parking?

Many people believe that when a car is parked, nothing will happen. But in reality, accidents can happen at any time, such as:

• The car was hit while parked.
• Something fell on the car
• The vehicle was scratched or intentionally damaged.

So, make sure to check your insurance policy before moving in.

Because each insurance company’s terms and conditions are different, some policies may have specific exclusions, such as not covering private areas or if the car is scratched without witnesses.

Things to check in your insurance policy

• Does it cover cases where there is no other party involved?
• Does it cover the car if it is parked and then gets hit?
• Is there a claim service outside of business hours?
• Do you offer on-site repairs or free towing?

What type of car insurance is recommended?

• First class insurance covers your car in all cases, including accidents with or without other parties involved, including incidents that occur while the car is parked.
• Class 2+ or 3+ insurance only covers certain cases, and you should read the terms and conditions carefully to see if it covers incidents that may occur from parking.

For example, if a child in your condo scratches your car while playing and you have comprehensive car insurance, you can make a claim even if there is no other party involved.

Having a car is great, but if you’re renting a room or condo, planning and checking your parking space from the start can save you from future headaches, such as not having enough space, paying parking fees without realizing it, or risking theft or vandalism.

Parking may not seem like a big deal, but for those with cars, it’s a crucial factor in life, significantly impacting convenience, safety, and daily expenses. Choosing a rental car that meets your parking needs, along with comprehensive car insurance coverage, is an option that will help you live worry-free in the city.

Decorate your room in your favorite style to heal your heart when you open the door.

Believe it or not, decorating your room in a style you like can help heal your mind and spirit. When you open the door, the atmosphere inside the room will make you feel alive. Everywhere you look is pleasing to the eye and mind. These little touches will help you adjust to living in a dorm much better. They’ll definitely make your dorm life happier.

Don’t forget to bring your beloved items to your dorm !

A little trick to make your first dorm stay go smoothly and feel more secure is to bring your personal items with you, such as your favorite stuffed animal, a worn-out blanket, a worn-out pillow, etc. These items will help you feel safe and secure without even realizing it.

Carry a sacred object with you and keep it in your room for peace of mind.

One thing that makes many people who are living in a dormitory for the first time feel nervous is “fear of ghosts” (hee hee). So when it’s time to move into the dormitory, don’t forget to bring sacred objects with you. This is to create peace of mind. Also, don’t forget to bring offerings to the shrine downstairs to inform the spirits of the dormitory for good fortune in the dormitory life that is about to begin.

Choose a dormitory with a tight security system.

If you want to sleep soundly and not worry about your dorm’s safety, you need to thoroughly check before deciding to rent a room. Check the security systems in place, such as CCTV cameras, fingerprint scanners for entry and exit, security guards, keycard access to the room doors, and iron bars on the balconies. This will ensure your safety during your first time in a dorm.

Arrange a small favorite corner to make life feel more relaxing.

Whether you enjoy reading, drawing, painting, gardening, listening to music, cooking, or anything else, try creating a small corner in your room. Whenever you feel lonely or lost, sit in that corner and do what you love. This method will not only help you avoid distractions, but will also help you relax in your own safe zone.

Maybe try finding a roommate? If it’s going to be so lonely

If you’ve tried everything and still feel lonely and don’t want to be alone in the dorm, the last resort (suitable for students) is finding a roommate. Of course, the loneliness will disappear. You’ll have friends to chat with and talk to, so you won’t have to sleep alone. You’ll feel safe knowing there’s someone else there. But! You’ll have to take a chance and see if you’ll get along with your roommate. Will you be okay with the lost privacy? In other words, this method has both pros and cons, so think carefully before deciding on this one.

1. Planting trees in the room

Having a green space in your room can help refresh the environment and help you feel more relaxed. Caring for plants helps develop patience and makes you more responsible. You might want to consider planting small plants like cacti, pothos, or cactus when you first start. They’re not only easy to care for, but can also be placed in small spaces within the room. Plus, being close to nature can help reduce stress. Therefore, growing plants in your dorm room has become a very interesting hobby.

:  What kind of decorative plants should be in a dormitory?

:  Did you know? What kind of trees should be planted along the balcony of a dormitory?

2. Doing yoga and meditation

Yoga is a great activity or hobby for both body and mind. You can use your bedroom space to meditate or do gentle yoga poses without taking up a lot of space. Practicing yoga can improve muscle flexibility, help with concentration, and is a great stress reliever.

3. Drawing or doing art

Hobbies like creating art, such as drawing, painting, or making small crafts, not only stimulate our creativity, but also greatly relax our minds. Focusing on colors and shapes can make us forget about the stresses of everyday life for a while. Moreover, art allows us to express our feelings without words.

4. Cooking/baking

Making simple meals or desserts is a hobby that will bring you joy and pride. In addition to creating delicious meals or desserts, it also helps you practice your cooking skills and time management in the kitchen. You may choose to make simple meals or desserts following YouTube videos or online tutorials. Believe me, you will be so focused on cooking that you will forget about the stresses of life.

5. Reading books

Reading is a worthy hobby to indulge in during your free time. It’s a great way to relax and focus. You can choose books based on your preferences, such as fiction, documentaries, or psychology books. Reading allows you to temporarily escape reality, reducing exposure to blue light from your phone or computer screen. It also immerses you in a world of creativity and deeper knowledge. It also helps you stay away from toxic social media.

6. Handicraft training

Hobbies like crafting, such as knitting, sewing, or making small crafts, are hobbies that help us focus and enjoy creating new things. Crafts are also a great way to practice creativity and use your free time productively.

7. Writing notes/  Diary notes

Keeping a diary or journal allows you to express your feelings and thoughts in written form. Writing down your experiences or expressing your feelings is a way to organize your thoughts, relieve stress, and provide a tool for better understanding yourself. Your writing doesn’t have to be perfect, and you don’t have to practice handwriting. Simply writing down your feelings is enough.

8. Listen to music in the style you like.

Your favorite music can truly heal your soul. When you have some free time to yourself, you can create a playlist to listen to while you close your eyes and relax. Listening to music can help you relax and immerse yourself in the lyrics, melodies, and sounds of your favorite music. You can also listen to music while doing other activities.

9. Learning new things online

For those looking for a beneficial hobby, learning new things online is a highly attractive option. Whether it’s learning a third language, honing skills in various fields, or learning photography, you can learn in your classroom without having to leave. In addition to making good use of your free time, learning new things online also helps develop your skills in various areas.

10. Listening to  Podcasts

A hobby like listening to podcasts is another way to help your mind relax and gain knowledge at the same time. You can choose to listen to stories, interviews, or inspirational content as you wish. Listening also allows us to do other activities at the same time, such as cleaning the room, drawing, etc., resulting in time in the dorm being truly creative and valuable.

1. Location of the apartment dormitory

Location is a crucial factor that shouldn’t be overlooked when choosing an apartment or dormitory rental. A good location can reduce travel time and increase convenience in daily life, whether it’s commuting to work, school, or convenience stores. Therefore, choose an apartment or dormitory that’s located close to your daily routine to save time and travel expenses.

2. Rental price and other expenses  

Rent and other expenses are another important factor to consider when choosing an apartment. In addition to the monthly rent, there are other related costs, such as water, electricity, internet, and common area service fees. Therefore, before making a decision, you should inquire with the apartment owner about these details to ensure that the monthly price (roughly) falls within your budget.

3. Lease agreement and various conditions

Another important factor to consider before deciding to rent an apartment is the rental contract and its terms and conditions. You should carefully read and understand the terms and conditions, such as the rental period, security deposit, flexibility in terminating the contract, and any penalties for damage. Understanding the rental contract and its terms and conditions will help prevent problems and conflicts that may arise later.

4. Environment inside the apartment dormitory

The environment within an apartment building is another factor that shouldn’t be overlooked. Therefore, consider the surrounding atmosphere, such as the cleanliness, quietness, and orderliness of common areas. Also, observe other tenants to determine whether their lifestyles align with yours. A good environment will contribute to your long-term comfort and safety.

5. Security system

Security is a crucial issue you absolutely must not overlook when choosing to rent an apartment. A comprehensive security system will help you feel secure and safe while living there. Ask the apartment owner what security systems the apartment has, such as CCTV cameras, entry and exit systems, keycards, smoke detectors, emergency stairs, fire extinguishers, security guards, and more. The more detailed information you provide, the better.  

6. Condition of the apartment building

The condition of the apartment building is something you should carefully examine before deciding to rent. Check to see if the building is strong, modern, and well-maintained. What are the electrical, plumbing, ventilation, and other equipment both inside and outside the room like? Are they ready for use? Furthermore, choosing to rent an apartment building with a complete and beautiful building will also help promote a good image for the renter in another way.

7. Facilities

Apartment facilities are another crucial factor that should never be overlooked. They can make your life easier, including appliances, wardrobes, beds, air conditioning, water heaters, fitness centers, swimming pools, parking, laundry rooms, co-working spaces, water dispensers, and more. Nowadays, many apartments are paying more attention to their amenities. Having complete facilities can be a strength and a highlight of that particular apartment.  

8. Apartment dormitory management

Dormitory or apartment management is a factor that affects tenants’ quality of life. Therefore, it is important to consider whether the manager or owner is professional and ready to assist tenants. For example, whether the manager or owner manages common areas, responds to tenant complaints, or implements technology for billing utilities within the dormitory. A dormitory with good management will help tenants’ living experience run smoothly and avoid problems once they move in.

9. Public transportation

For those without a personal vehicle, whether it’s a car or a motorcycle, you may need to pay some attention to details when choosing an apartment or dormitory. Choose one that’s close to public transportation, such as bus stops, train stations, motorcycle taxi stands, etc. This will help make your commute more convenient.

1. Flexibility is the key to modern life.

The new generation faces a rapidly changing world, whether it’s a career change, a new workplace, or even a new city. The “uncertainty” aspect of life has become the norm, making long-term commitments undesirable for many. Dormitory living is a perfect solution, as it eliminates the long-term commitments of buying a condo. Moving out is easy, requiring just one month’s notice. Unlike buying a condo, selling or renting out requires more time and complicated procedures. If you want to change jobs, change your lifestyle, or even just change the atmosphere of your room, simply move to a new dorm and be done with it. No need to overthink things.

2. Don’t want to be in long-term debt before you’re  30.

To be frank, buying a condo in Bangkok these days requires a down payment of hundreds of thousands, and sometimes nearly a million. This doesn’t include the monthly installments that must be paid continuously for a decade, plus maintenance fees, common area fees, renovations, and more. But if you choose to live in a dorm, your monthly expenses will be settled, with no additional debt, no interest, and no long-term burdens. This makes it ideal for those who want to live independently and don’t want to be “salarymen paying off their mortgages until they’re old.” For some, being debt-free is a lifelong security.

3. Want to spend money on  “experiences”, not “assets”.

One of the most prominent perspectives among millennials is that “owning a condo doesn’t necessarily mean success.” Many people, therefore, choose to spend their money on travel, taking courses, or investing in faster-return investments like small businesses or stocks instead of plunging their entire fortune into real estate. They don’t view owning a home or condo as a failure, but rather as a streamlined option that better suits their lifestyle. The experience of traveling to three different countries may be more valuable than securing a single condo key (in many people’s minds).

4. Changing work styles make  “agility” more important than ever.

These days, it’s no longer necessary to go to the office every day. Many companies are enabling employees to work in a hybrid environment, meaning that living quarters no longer need to be near the office. Younger generations can choose to live in their preferred neighborhood or easily relocate to suit their needs at different stages of life. Dormitories fully meet this requirement, offering the option to change residences at any time. Simply find a new location that’s right for you, pack up, and move right away. No need to sell or wait for tenants. Life no longer needs to be tied to the same location.

5. Condo prices in the city are out of reach (especially for beginners who are learning to save money).

Just look at the new condo projects launching in Bangkok right now. Prices start from 3-5 million baht, especially in locations near the BTS or in the city center. Buying a condo is nearly impossible for someone who’s only been working for a few years. Meanwhile, nearby dormitories can cost just a few thousand to tens of thousands baht. Plus, you don’t need a large deposit to move in. Just pay a deposit and the first month’s rent and you’re good to go!

6. Dormitories nowadays have everything. They feel similar to condos but are cheaper.

Many dormitories these days have evolved significantly. They’re no longer just plain square rooms, but now offer keycard security, CCTV, fitness centers, shared laundry rooms, co-working spaces, and even an in-house cafe. Their interiors are designed to be minimalist, simple, and elegant, practically identical to new condos. However, the rents are significantly lower. The concept of “living in a dormitory feels like living in a condo” has become a reality that many people can now experience.

1. Flexibility is the key to modern life.

The new generation faces a rapidly changing world, whether it’s a career change, a new workplace, or even a new city. The “uncertainty” aspect of life has become the norm, making long-term commitments undesirable for many. Dormitory living is a perfect solution, as it eliminates the long-term commitments of buying a condo. Moving out is easy, requiring just one month’s notice. Unlike buying a condo, selling or renting out requires more time and complicated procedures. If you want to change jobs, change your lifestyle, or even just change the atmosphere of your room, simply move to a new dorm and be done with it. No need to overthink things.

2. Don’t want to be in long-term debt before you’re  30.

To be frank, buying a condo in Bangkok these days requires a down payment of hundreds of thousands, and sometimes nearly a million. This doesn’t include the monthly installments that must be paid continuously for a decade, plus maintenance fees, common area fees, renovations, and more. But if you choose to live in a dorm, your monthly expenses will be settled, with no additional debt, no interest, and no long-term burdens. This makes it ideal for those who want to live independently and don’t want to be “salarymen paying off their mortgages until they’re old.” For some, being debt-free is a lifelong security.

3. Want to spend money on  “experiences”, not “assets”.

One of the most prominent perspectives among millennials is that “owning a condo doesn’t necessarily mean success.” Many people, therefore, choose to spend their money on travel, taking courses, or investing in faster-return investments like small businesses or stocks instead of plunging their entire fortune into real estate. They don’t view owning a home or condo as a failure, but rather as a streamlined option that better suits their lifestyle. The experience of traveling to three different countries may be more valuable than securing a single condo key (in many people’s minds).

4. Changing work styles make  “agility” more important than ever.

These days, it’s no longer necessary to go to the office every day. Many companies are enabling employees to work in a hybrid environment, meaning that living quarters no longer need to be near the office. Younger generations can choose to live in their preferred neighborhood or easily relocate to suit their needs at different stages of life. Dormitories fully meet this requirement, offering the option to change residences at any time. Simply find a new location that’s right for you, pack up, and move right away. No need to sell or wait for tenants. Life no longer needs to be tied to the same location.

5. Condo prices in the city are out of reach (especially for beginners who are learning to save money).

Just look at the new condo projects launching in Bangkok right now. Prices start from 3-5 million baht, especially in locations near the BTS or in the city center. Buying a condo is nearly impossible for someone who’s only been working for a few years. Meanwhile, nearby dormitories can cost just a few thousand to tens of thousands baht. Plus, you don’t need a large deposit to move in. Just pay a deposit and the first month’s rent and you’re good to go!

6. Dormitories nowadays have everything. They feel similar to condos but are cheaper.

Many dormitories these days have evolved significantly. They’re no longer just plain square rooms, but now offer keycard security, CCTV, fitness centers, shared laundry rooms, co-working spaces, and even an in-house cafe. Their interiors are designed to be minimalist, simple, and elegant, practically identical to new condos. However, the rents are significantly lower. The concept of “living in a dormitory feels like living in a condo” has become a reality that many people can now experience.