FAQ: What Does Thu Thiem Apartment Management Fee Include

Hello there, for those of you "eyeing" apartments in Thu Thiem, or landlords wanting to rent out your property but still hesitant about management fees? Or perhaps you're a real estate agent researching to advise clients? This article is for all of us who want to "decode" what those Thu Thiem apartment management fees in Ho Chi Minh City include, and how to avoid being "overcharged" or surprised!

FAQ: What do Thu Thiem Apartment Management Fees in HCMC Include?

Reference information for: landlords or tenants (Vietnamese, foreign expats) or real estate agents.

Thu Thiem – just hearing the name brings to mind "luxury," modernity, and immense potential, doesn't it? Personally, every time I pass through this area, looking at the skyscrapers, wide roads, and lush green parks, I dream of living here. But accompanying such convenience and class are certainly some fees that we need to "memorize" to avoid being startled when the bill arrives. Especially the "management fee," which sounds general but is extremely important.

To be honest, many of my clients, both Vietnamese and expats from Europe, America, Korea, Japan... when looking for an apartment in Thu Thiem, initially only cared about the rent, the number of bedrooms, and the amenities. It's only after signing the contract that they realize and ask, "Wait, what's a management fee, and why do I have to pay it?" Alright then, today we'll "dissect" this cost in the most friendly, helpful, and experienced way possible!
  What is an apartment management fee? Why do we have to pay it?

Simply put, an apartment management fee is the amount of money you (whether an owner or a tenant) pay monthly for the Management Board (BQL) to operate, maintain, service, and provide general services for the entire apartment complex. Imagine this: an apartment complex like The River Thu Thiem or Metropole Thu Thiem, if left unmanaged and unmaintained, would look "run-down" in just a few weeks. Who would clean the hallways? Who would fix a faulty elevator? Who would provide 24/7 security?

In my opinion, this fee is extremely necessary. It's like hiring a housekeeper to keep your home clean and tidy. The difference is that here, it's a "shared housekeeper" for the entire building, ensuring everything runs smoothly so we can have the most comfortable life. Once, I visited an old apartment building in another area where the management fee was very cheap, and the result was dirty hallways, flickering lights, and a rattling elevator. From then on, I truly understood that "you get what you pay for"; a reasonable management fee will bring a worthy quality of life.

Common apartment management fees in Thu Thiem

In Thu Thiem, with high-end projects like The River, Metropole, Sala (An Loi Dong Ward, part of former District 2), New City Thu Thiem (Binh Khanh Ward, also part of former District 2), or The Sun Avenue (An Phu Ward, former District 2), the accompanying services are also much more "premium." Therefore, management fees often include the following:

1. 24/7 security and protection costs: This is an indispensable expense. You will always see a team of professional security guards stationed at entrances, lobbies, and patrolling continuously. Back in 2021, one of my clients, Mr. John from the US, living at The River Thu Thiem, shared that he felt very secure living there because of the tight security; strangers couldn't just walk in.

2. Cleaning and landscaping maintenance costs: This includes cleaning common areas such as lobbies, hallways, elevators, public areas, trash rooms... For me, this is extremely important because it directly affects daily living experience. The Thu Thiem area often has many green spaces and trees, so the cost of landscaping maintenance is also significant to keep the gardens beautiful.

3. Technical system maintenance costs: This covers elevators, fire protection systems (PCCC), general electricity and water systems, backup generators, security cameras... Don't underestimate this expense; a broken elevator or a malfunctioning PCCC system is a huge problem. In late 2022, I heard a story about a project in District 7 where the common water pump system broke down, leaving the entire building without water for several days before it could be repaired, all due to a lack of focus on maintenance.

4. Common utility costs (Swimming pool, gym, BBQ area...): Most projects in Thu Thiem have high-class swimming pools and gyms. Management fees usually include the operating, cleaning, and maintenance costs for these amenities. Some separate projects might charge individual fees for these amenities if you wish to use them, but most in Thu Thiem are already included in the management fee.

5. Salaries for the Management Board and operating staff: The team of Management Board members, accountants, technicians, receptionists... These are the people who directly resolve issues, manage revenue and expenses, and coordinate all activities within the building.

6. Electricity and water costs for common areas: Lighting for hallways, lobbies, elevators, water for irrigation, and cleaning water are all included in this expense.

7. Other administrative and management costs: General insurance, audit fees, and other non-periodic incidental expenses.

What is the average management fee in Thu Thiem currently?

In reality, there isn't a fixed figure for all projects in Thu Thiem, as it depends on many factors. However, I can provide some reference figures based on my experience working with projects here since 2010.

For ultra-luxury, high-end projects like The River Thu Thiem, Metropole Thu Thiem, Grand Marina Saigon (newer): Management fees typically range from 25,000 VND to 35,000 VND/m2/month. For example, a 2-bedroom, 80m2 apartment at The River Thu Thiem could cost around 2,000,000 - 2,800,000 VND/month for management fees. This is quite high, but it comes with 5-star services and amenities.

For high-end projects such as New City Thu Thiem, The Sun Avenue, Sala (certain subdivisions): Management fees are usually a bit "softer," ranging from 18,000 VND to 25,000 VND/m2/month. For a 70m2 apartment in New City Thu Thiem, you might pay around 1,260,000 - 1,750,000 VND/month.

Compared to other areas in HCMC, such as District 1 (which has more office buildings than residential apartments), or traditional areas of Binh Thanh District (e.g., Vinhomes Central Park, Vinhomes Golden River with rates from 16,000 - 20,000 VND/m2/month), Thu Thiem still has relatively high management fees, commensurate with its status as a "new urban area" and the modern amenities it offers.

Factors affecting management fees you need to know

It's not by chance that management fees vary. Below are the "secrets" behind those numbers:

1. Project class and brand: Projects by reputable developers with international brands (e.g., SonKim Land, Empire City, Masterise Homes...) usually have higher management fees because they invest in service quality, amenities, and professional operating teams.

2. Quantity and quality of amenities: A building with an infinity pool, a modern gym with full equipment, BBQ areas, tennis courts, children's play areas, rooftop gardens... will certainly have higher management fees than a building with only basic amenities.

3. Project location and scale: Projects in prime locations, large-scale with many buildings, and numerous common areas requiring maintenance will incur higher management costs. Thu Thiem is inherently one of the most prime locations.

4. Age of the building: Newly built buildings often have lower initial maintenance costs because everything is new. However, as the building "ages," more major maintenance and repair items will arise, potentially leading to increased management fees in the future.

5. Quality of Management Board services: A professional Management Board that is responsive and resolves issues efficiently will certainly be highly valued and may command higher fees.

"Hidden" costs or tips when renting/buying an apartment in Thu Thiem

Besides management fees, there are other expenses that many people often forget, only realizing them when it's time to pay. These are questions I frequently get from clients:

"How can I know all the exact costs before signing the contract?"

You must thoroughly ask the landlord or real estate agent about ALL related fees: management fees, parking fees, electricity, water, internet. Request to see bills from previous months to get an idea of actual consumption.

"Is parking fee included in the management fee?"

It is very rare for parking fees (for cars, motorbikes) to be included in the management fee. Most projects will charge separately:

1. Motorbike parking fee: Usually ranges from 80,000 - 150,000 VND/vehicle/month.

2. Car parking fee: Much higher, ranging from 1,200,000 - 2,500,000 VND/vehicle/month depending on the project. In some VIP projects in Thu Thiem, this fee can be even higher.

"What about electricity and water for living?"

Electricity and water for daily living are always charged separately according to each apartment's meter and state-regulated tariffs. This is naturally the case!

"Are there any separate amenity usage fees?"

Some projects have special amenities such as karaoke rooms, golf simulators, BBQ areas, party halls... which may charge fees by the hour or per use. Ask clearly to avoid surprises.

"Who pays for internet and cable TV?"

Typically, the landlord will provide internet and cable TV connections and include them in the rent if it's a serviced apartment or a high-end unit for expats. Otherwise, the tenant will register and pay monthly fees themselves.

I remember in mid-2023, a Korean friend named Lee rented an apartment in The Metropole Thu Thiem. He only focused on the rental price and didn't ask thoroughly about car parking fees. In the first month, he was shocked when the car parking fee amounted to nearly 2,000,000 VND/month. Luckily, I was able to explain and guide him on how to negotiate a bit with the landlord. That's a hard-earned lesson, everyone!

Who pays the management fee?

This is a question both landlords and tenants are interested in.

If you are the owner living there: You will definitely be the one paying this amount monthly.

If it's a rental apartment: It depends on the agreement between the landlord and the tenant.

1. Landlord pays: This is the most common case in high-end apartments, especially for foreign tenants (expats). Landlords often include this amount in the rental price to offer a more attractive "all-inclusive" rate. For example, a 2-bedroom apartment at The River Thu Thiem for 1300 USD/month already includes management fees.

2. Tenant pays: Some landlords may require tenants to pay the management fee separately. This often happens when the apartment's rental price is already very competitive or when the landlord wants to itemize expenses.

My personal opinion: From my experience advising many clients, I believe it's best for landlords to include the management fee in the rent, especially when renting to foreigners. Firstly, it helps tenants easily visualize the total cost and avoids feeling like there are "unexpected" charges. Secondly, it demonstrates the landlord's professionalism. After all, this fee is for maintaining the value of your apartment!

Advice for both landlords and tenants

For tenants (including expats):

1. Ask thoroughly, ask clearly: Don't hesitate to ask the agent or landlord about ALL related fees. "How much is the management fee? Is it included in the rent? What about parking fees?"

2. Read the contract carefully: Check if terms regarding management fees, parking fees, electricity, and water are clearly stated in the contract. If possible, seek legal advice to review the contract, especially if you are a foreigner and the contract is in Vietnamese.

3. Keep records/save invoices: To easily cross-reference if any questions arise later.

For landlords:

1. Transparent information: Provide complete and clear information about management fees to tenants from the outset.

2. Consider including management fees in the rent: This often makes your apartment more attractive, especially to foreign tenants who desire simplicity and transparency.

3. Stay updated: Management fees may change over time (the Management Board will notify). Ensure you have the latest information to inform tenants if needed.

Need to find a "perfect" apartment and "all-inclusive" support in Thu Thiem?

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Client Testimonial

"I am Ms. Lan, an owner of a 3-bedroom apartment at The River Thu Thiem. Early in 2023, I intended to rent it out myself, but found the paperwork and advising foreigners too complicated. Fortunately, 456 Vietnam helped me; they clearly advised me on management fees, agency fees, and found me a wonderful French family to rent to. What stood out was that the staff even helped create a professional bilingual contract, so I didn't have to worry about anything. They are still living there, and everything has been smooth. I am very satisfied with 456's service!"

I hope that through this article, you have gained a clearer understanding of apartment management fees in Thu Thiem, as well as the "hard-earned" experiences that I and the 456 Vietnam team have accumulated. Don't forget that an apartment is not just about its rental or sale price, but also a whole "ecosystem" of accompanying fees and services. Understanding them will help you make smart decisions and enjoy a comfortable and stable life in this wonderful Thu Thiem.

Need more information or expert advice?

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Read more: FAQ – General Real Estate Questions
The potential for infrastructure development around Thu Thiem New Urban Area
The River Thu Thiem vs The Metropole – Two Distinct Lifestyles
FAQ: Should you invest in a Thu Thiem apartment for living or renting in HCMC?
Thu Thiem Bridges 3 & 4 – Key Urban Connectivity Updates in HCMC

Reference information - contact professional entities for support in actual cases.