If you're moving to Hanoi, one of the first decisions you'll face is whether to rent a serviced apartment or go with a traditional rental. Each has its pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your lifestyle, budget, and expectations.
What is a Serviced Apartment?
- A fully furnished apartment with hotel-like services (cleaning, laundry, utilities included).
- Often found in buildings catering specifically to expats.
What is a Traditional Rental?
- A standalone apartment, house, or villa rented directly from a landlord.
- Usually requires more involvement in maintenance, bills, and furnishing.
Pros of Serviced Apartments:
- Hassle-free: Cleaning, bills, and maintenance are included.
- Ideal for short- to medium-term stays.
- Usually located in central or expat-friendly areas.
Cons of Serviced Apartments:
- Higher price point.
- Less personal—some feel more like hotels than homes.
- Limited customization (you can’t change much about the space).
Pros of Traditional Rentals:
- More options, including larger homes or unique spaces.
- More affordable in the long term.
- Greater flexibility to decorate and live like a local.
Cons of Traditional Rentals:
- Need to handle bills, cleaning, and sometimes furniture.
- Landlord communication may be a challenge (language barrier).
- Maintenance and repairs are your responsibility unless stated otherwise.
Who Should Choose Serviced Apartments?
- Expats on short contracts (6–12 months).
- Professionals with housing budgets from companies.
- People who value convenience over customization.
Who Should Choose Traditional Rentals?
- Long-term residents or families.
- Those on tighter budgets.
- People wanting a more “local” living experience.
Tip: You can start in a serviced apartment for your first month or two while looking for a traditional rental that fits your needs.
Final Thought:
Both options work well—it just depends on what “home” means to you in Hanoi.
Compare (0)