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FAQ (Frequently Asked Question)
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7. What is a Townhouse? |
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A townhouse is a single vertical dwelling, in a block of similar verticle dwellings, each owned by one owner. |
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8. How do I pay the utility bills? |
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If you are renting, most buildings will pay the bills for you and add them to your monthly rent. It is a good idea to find out the cost of utilities before you move in so that you know how much you will have to pay. If you are living in a house, there are a few methods of payment you can use. For example, most utility bills can be paid direct from your bank account and the receipts sent to your residential address. Nowadays, you can also pay utility bills at any 7/11 store. When buying, you should also inquire about telephone and electricity connection fees. |
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9. What is the difference between a Lease and Leasehold? |
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When you rent an apartment, you sign a Lease. Typically, a lease is for a minimum 12 months in Thailand, although some landlords may consider a shorter or longer term. When you sign a lease, you are required to pay a 2 month deposit which is refundable when you move out, less any charges for damage to the property.
There are 2 types of Land Title Deed: Freehold and Leasehold. Leasehold means that the buyer is only leasing the property from the land owner for a pre-determined period of time. Thai law stipulates that a property sold with a Leasehold title deed is only valid for up to 30 years. Renewal for a further 30 years with an option for a further 30 years only is at the discretion of the lease holder (land owner). Property owned by the Crown Property Bureau is always Leasehold. Some private property owners may also sell their property with a leasehold title deed. These are the conditions in operation today (2005), but they may change at any time in the future. Obviously, buying leasehold property has its drawbacks.
A Freehold Land Title Deed, on the other hand, gives full ownership rights to purchasers, including the right to buy, sell, or lease the property, pass it on to their heirs, and to develop the property within the guidelines under Thai law. Foreigners may own a condominium freehold; with full rights of ownership. You should always consult a qualified real estate lawyer before signing any purchase agreement. |
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10. What sports and exercise facilities are available? |
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Thailand offers a wealth of sports, including golf, jungle trekking, para-gliding, diving, fishing, golf, squash, jogging venues, and so on. Serviced apartments and condominiums usually have their own exercise rooms and swimming pools. Ask your agent to show you properties with the facilities you want. |
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11. I have heard there are bad floods here sometimes. Will I have to worry about them? |
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In the bad old days floods were a problem every year. Some years were worse than others. But since the Bangkok government has installed anti-flooding measures flooding is not a big problem in Bangkok any more. The drainage system has been upgraded and is well maintained so that even the worst floods will drain away within a few minutes or hours if we have a particularly heavy downpour. If you plan on living outside Bangkok your agent can advise you on the best places to live to avoid the problem. |
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