Service apartment vs regular apartment: best choice for expats?

Serviced Apartments vs. Regular Apartments – Which is the Best Choice for Foreigners?

Neon lights reflect off the bustling streets of Saigon, the cacophony of car horns blending with the laughter and chatter of the busy crowds. Amidst this vibrant rhythm, Mark, an American engineer who has just arrived in Vietnam, faces a crucial decision: choosing a comfortable serviced apartment or a regular apartment with local flavor as his home for the coming years. This decision, seemingly simple, holds countless unexpected factors, unforeseen pitfalls, and incredible opportunities. 1. The Opening Act: Serviced Apartments – A Safe Choice?

Serviced apartments appear as comfortable oases in the midst of a foreign city. Fully furnished, with cleaning, maintenance, and 24/7 security services, they offer a sense of safety and familiarity, like being at home. Mark can easily integrate into his new life without worrying about issues like plumbing repairs or finding a maid.

But is this security everything? Will Mark truly experience the rhythm and culture of Vietnam when living in a closed-off space, detached from the outside world?

Undeniable Advantages:

Fully equipped: Modern furniture, complete appliances, ready to move in.

Support services: Cleaning, laundry, maintenance, 24/7 security to save time and effort.

Central location: Often located in bustling areas, with convenient transportation, easy access to amenities.

But beware of:

High costs: Rent is usually higher than regular apartments, especially in prime locations.

Limited privacy: Some services may infringe on personal privacy.

Lack of local cultural experience: Difficult to integrate into the local community.

2. A Turning Point: Regular Apartments – A Challenging Adventure?

Regular apartments offer a completely different world. Mark can freely design his living space according to his personal style, explore the city's nooks and crannies, get to know friendly neighbors, and experience local life in the most authentic way.

However, the road ahead is not smooth. Mark will face difficulties in finding a suitable apartment, negotiating prices, solving arising problems, and adapting to a new culture.

Unmissable Plus Points:

Affordable prices: Renting a regular apartment can save significant costs.

Flexible living space: Freedom to design and decorate according to personal preferences.

Integration opportunities: Easy to get to know locals, explore Vietnamese culture.

But don't forget the risks:

Solving all problems yourself: From plumbing repairs to finding a maid, you have to take care of everything yourself.

Language difficulties: Language barriers can cause difficulties in communication and resolving arising issues.

Security risks: Need to be careful in choosing an area and ensuring security for the apartment.

3. A Difficult Decision: What Factors Matter Most?

Between two tempting options, Mark begins to consider the factors that are most important to him.

Budget: Mark needs to clearly define the maximum cost he can afford to pay for rent each month.

Length of stay: If only staying in Vietnam for a short time, a serviced apartment may be a better choice.

Level of integration: If wanting to experience local life fully, a regular apartment is a better option.

Support: If not having much experience living abroad, Mark may need support from professional real estate companies.

4. Expert Advice: Seeking Help

While Mark is hesitant, a colleague introduces him to 456 Vietnam - a unit specializing in providing consulting services and renting luxury apartments in Ho Chi Minh City. With over 13 years of experience in this field, 456 Vietnam has helped thousands of foreign customers find their ideal home.

At 456.com.vn - 456 Vietnam, Mark receives dedicated advice on the types of apartments and areas suitable for his needs and budget. The team of real estate experts, fluent in foreign languages, helps Mark better understand legal processes, lease agreements, and necessary procedures for foreigners.

In particular, 456 Vietnam also provides a full package of support services, from apartment selection consulting, legal support, free apartment viewing and handover, to guidance on temporary residence registration and support in contacting the building management. As a result, Mark feels more secure and confident in making a final decision.

456 Vietnam continuously updates apartments for rent and sale to Vietnamese and foreigners (expats) from Europe, the United States, England, France, Germany, Korea, Japan... with over 13 years of experience in providing legal support and consulting in finding apartments in Districts 1, 2, 4, 7, Binh Thanh, Thu Duc in Thao Dien, Thu Thiem, Phu My Hung areas...: Vinhomes Central Park, Vinhomes Golden River, Grand Marina, Sunwal Pearl, Masteri Thao Dien, Lumiere Thao Dien, Estella Height, The Vista, Thao Dien Green, Thao Dien Pearl, The River Thu Thiem, Metropole Thu Thiem, Sala, The Sun Avenu, New City Thu Thiem, Feliz En Vista, Palm Height, Millenium, Goldview, Icon 56, Saigon Royal, Sunrise City, Saigon Pearl, The Manor, City Garden, Pearl Plaza...

At 456.com.vn, we provide comprehensive support services for tenants and homeowners:

1. Consulting on apartment selection according to needs, budget, location, and lifestyle.

2. Legal support – bilingual contracts (Vietnamese – English, Korean... if needed).

3. Free apartment viewing and handover, including outside office hours.

4. Guidance on temporary residence registration, procedures for foreigners.

5. Support in contacting building management, registering resident cards, internet, and utility services.

6. Supporting tenants throughout their stay, responding quickly to support requests.

7. Managing apartments for rent for homeowners: inspection, reporting, periodic maintenance.

5. A Surprising Ending: Mark's Choice

After carefully considering the factors and receiving dedicated advice from 456 Vietnam, Mark decided to rent a regular apartment in Thao Dien, District 2. He wants to freely explore life in Vietnam, integrate into the local community, and experience new things.

Although knowing that there will be difficulties and challenges ahead, Mark still feels excited and full of energy. He believes that, with careful preparation and support from new friends, he will have a memorable life in Vietnam.

Customer Experience:

"I was very worried when I first came to Vietnam and had to find a suitable place to live. Fortunately, I found 456 Vietnam. They helped me find a great apartment in the city center, assisted me with legal procedures, and were always ready to help me when needed. I am very satisfied with their service and will recommend them to my friends if they need it." - John Smith, British engineer.

Need more information or expert advice?

Contact 456 Vietnam – Your trusted partner for premium apartments in Ho Chi Minh City:

Hotline/Zalo/WhatsApp: +84 09.3883.9977

Email: info@456.com.vn

Website: 456.com.vn

KakaoTalk: xitruong456

Read more: FAQ - General Real Estate Questions (for all users)