Bookings & leases
What's the minimum lease term?
6 months is our standard minimum. Some landlords offer 3-month terms; some require 12-month minimums. The minimum is shown on every listing before you book. Long-term (24mo+) leases typically unlock 5–10% better monthly rates.
How much deposit?
Standard is 2 months' rent as deposit + first month upfront on signing. Deposit goes into escrow (held by us), not the landlord. It's returned within 14 days of move-out, less any documented damages.
Can I do a virtual tour before flying out?
Yes — every listing supports a 30-minute video tour with the local agent. Schedule it from the property page or in your dashboard. Most clients tour 3–5 properties virtually before flying in for the final two.
Who handles maintenance during the lease?
For BestRent-managed properties (about 60% of catalog): we handle it directly via WhatsApp, 24/7. For landlord-managed: contact info is in your dashboard. Either way, common issues (AC, plumbing, internet) are fixed within 48h or you get the day refunded.
Payments & fees
What does BestRent actually charge?
One service fee, paid once at signing: 8% of the first year's rent. Shown clearly on every listing before you book. No recurring monthly fees. No commission to landlords. No side payments.
What currencies can I pay in?
USD (default), EUR, GBP, SGD, THB, JPY, IDR. Wire transfer, Wise, or credit card (3% surcharge). Rent is denominated in USD on the lease; FX rate locked at signing.
What if I need to break the lease early?
Standard early-termination clause: 2 months' notice + forfeit of 1 month's deposit. Some landlords waive the forfeit for force-majeure cases (medical, job loss with documentation). The clause is on every lease — read before signing.
Visas & residency
Do I need a visa for the lease?
You don't need a long-term visa to sign a lease — but you need one to live there. Most countries we operate in offer Long-Term Resident, Elite, or DTV visas suitable for 6+ month stays. Our agents can refer you to immigration lawyers we trust.
Will my landlord help with TM30 / address registration?
Yes. In Thailand specifically, landlords are legally required to register your address (TM30). For BestRent-managed properties this is automatic. For landlord-managed: we follow up to make sure it happens within 24h of move-in.
The property itself
Are listings furnished?
Each listing specifies. Fully furnished is the norm for our catalog (about 80%). For unfurnished or partially furnished, the listing says so. "Fully furnished" means: all furniture, kitchenware, linens, basic appliances. Bring your clothes.
Pets?
Filter by "pets OK" — about 40% of listings allow them. Larger pets (dogs over 15kg) restrict you further. Pet deposit typically +1 month's rent.
What's included in the monthly rent?
Usually: building/HOA fees, basic maintenance, building amenities (pool/gym if shared), security. NOT included: utilities (electric typically $80–200/mo in Asia), internet (often included, sometimes $25/mo), housekeeping (optional).