Aitch

I’m in the process of updating MrRoomfinder's Quick Check List for Home Hunter’s. If any of you guys can see something missing from the lists and categories below, please shout and I’ll add them in if appropriate.

The Neighborhood

Check! - Immediate area and neighborhood – Lighting, security, & amenities.
Check! - Soi/road for access, aggressive hounds, flooding and drainage issues etc
Check! - Area at night – Barking Soi dogs, social disorder, traffic etc.
Check! - Inside & Outside of building – Lighting, security, cleanliness.
Check! - Fire & Safety throughout – Fire extinguishers, unblocked and unlocked fire exits etc.
Check! - Security – Building & room security, presence of security personal at night?
Check! - Transportation – Public & private transport access & availability.

The Accommodation

Check! - Room(s) – Size, storage, cleanliness
Check! - Electricity - lighting, location of electrical sockets etc.
Check! - Internet – The Service Provider, monthly charge, speed, reliability etc*
Check! - Cable/Satellite – Availability and costs. *
Check! - Telecom – Call charges, direct line, phone rental etc.
Check! - Water – Hot water available, water pressure, leaks etc.
Check! - Balcony – Size, safety, view, cleanliness etc
Check! - Apartment amenities – Gym, pool, salon restaurant etc.

The Charges

Check! - Moving In - Deposit requirement – 1, 2, or 3 months.
Check! - Moving-out - How much notice & duration for returned deposit.
Check! - Utility charges – Electricity & water.
Check! - Hidden Costs – Building maintenance fee, furniture charges etc.

* If it’s important to you, make sure the accommodation has a fast and reliable internet connection or the option to install own if you need to. Note that not all apartment buildings allow you to do this.

* If you like your box, then check that the apartment or condo has cable TV with at least a handful of good English speaking channels or allow the option to install own.

Cheers

Aitch