Serviced apartments vs condos in Thao Dien: Which one fits you best?

Choosing between a serviced apartment or condo in Thao Dien can be tricky, especially for expats navigating the vibrant rental market in Ho Chi Minh City. With both options offering modern living, great locations, and expat-friendly features, how do you decide which one fits your lifestyle and long-term needs?

In this article, JHouse will explore the key differences between serviced apartments and condominiums in Thao Dien, weighing their pros and cons to help you make a confident decision. Whether you’re seeking comfort, community, or convenience, this guide will point you in the right direction — saving you time, reducing stress, and helping you feel at home faster.

1. What makes Thao Dien so appealing to expats?

Before comparing apartment types, let’s take a quick look at what makes Thao Dien so appealing to expats. Located in District 2, Thao Dien has evolved into a top neighborhood for expats in HCMC. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a digital nomad, or moving with a family, Thao Dien offers:

• A strong international community
• International schools nearby
• Quiet, green surroundings
• Walkable streets and modern infrastructure
• Pet-friendly parks and cafes
• Riverside charm with trendy restaurants and artisan markets

Beyond lifestyle, its strategic location just minutes from District 1 via Saigon Bridge or the new Metro Line makes commuting convenient while living standards remain high. From luxury condos to boutique serviced apartments, Thao Dien offers a wide range of housing options. Each is designed to meet the evolving needs of long-term expats looking for comfort, convenience, and community.

For long-term renters, choosing the right housing type is key to enjoying this unique lifestyle.

Read more: Thao Dien – The Ideal Living Paradise in Ho Chi Minh City

2. What are serviced apartments in Thao Dien?

Serviced apartments are fully furnished rental units designed for short- or long-term stays, with hotel-style services like:

• Housekeeping (daily or weekly)
• 24/7 front desk or reception
• Utilities and internet often included
• On-demand maintenance

They typically come with modern interiors, kitchenettes, laundry areas, and basic amenities. Serviced apartments are perfect for:

• Expats on temporary contracts
• Digital nomads
• Those valuing convenience over customization

Read more: What is a serviced apartment? 5 important questions you need to know

Some serviced apartments in Thao Dien even offer rooftop pools, gyms, and riverside views, blending convenience with lifestyle.

3. What are condominiums in Thao Dien?

A condominium (or condo) refers to a privately owned unit in a residential building. Condos in Thao Dien are known for:

• Spacious layouts (1 to 4 bedrooms)
• High-end finishes
• Private ownership (often rented directly or via an agent)

Most condo buildings feature:

• 24/7 security
• Underground parking
• Shared amenities like pools, fitness centers, and gardens

Ideal for:

• Families or couples staying long-term
• Those who want a more “residential” feel
• Renters who want to customize their space

Condos provide flexibility for personalization — you can bring in your own furniture, set up a home office, or even do minor redecorating (with landlord permission). Many buildings also foster a stable community atmosphere where neighbors know each other and longer tenures are common.

4. Side-by-side comparison: Serviced apartments vs condominiums

Still unsure? Think about your priorities: flexibility, ease, and services point to serviced apartments; while space, customization, and long-term value lean toward condos.

5. Budget comparison: What can you expect to pay?

In Thao Dien, rental prices vary based on location, amenities, and size:

• Serviced apartments: $600 – $1,500/month (studio to 2BR)
• Condos: $800 – $2,500/month (1BR to 3BR+)

Condos might seem more expensive upfront, but they offer more space. However, serviced apartments often include all services, making budgeting easier.

Keep in mind: your overall expenses with a condo may include internet, management fees, parking, water, and electricity. With a serviced apartment, many of those costs are already bundled into the rental fee, which offers better cost predictability — something especially useful for newcomers.

Read more: Apartment Rental Costs in Thao Dien: The Right Price for You

6. Lifestyle & community

If you prioritize community connection and easy living, serviced apartments are often found in buildings with shared lounges, co-working areas, and weekly events. Great for social individuals or newcomers to Vietnam.

On the other hand, condominiums in Thao Dien cater to those who prefer a quieter, more residential atmosphere. You’ll find families, long-term expats, and more personalized home settings here. While community events may be less frequent, the feeling of “home” is often stronger.

7. Safety, security, and management

Both apartment types in Thao Dien offer good security. Serviced apartments often provide 24/7 reception and immediate response teams. Condos depend on building management and individual landlords – some are excellent, others vary.

Some high-end condos offer concierge services, smart home features, and app-based access control. However, inconsistencies in maintenance and response time from private landlords can be a drawback.

If you’re new to Vietnam, a serviced apartment offers smoother onboarding. If you’re familiar with the city, condos provide more independence.

8. Legal & contract considerations

When renting a serviced apartment, the process is generally simpler. You’ll typically sign a lease with the property management company or an individual landlord, often with lower deposits and more flexible stay durations. All costs, from rent to services, are bundled into a single monthly invoice, making it easier for tenants to manage their budget.

With condos, rental contracts may vary by landlord. Some might request notarized documents, longer commitments, and stricter rules on deposit refunds. Before signing the lease contract, make sure all terms are clearly outlined and in accordance with local laws.

Tip (for condos): Always confirm whether your lease includes management fees, internet, parking and other fees before signing.

Read more: Security Deposit Agreement: Free Download Sample Agreement 2021

Conclusion

Choosing between a serviced apartment or condo in Thao Dien comes down to your lifestyle, length of stay, and personal priorities. For flexible, all-inclusive living, serviced apartments are ideal — especially for newcomers, remote workers, or those seeking simplicity. For more space, privacy, and a true “home-like” atmosphere, condominiums may be the better fit, particularly for families or long-term residents who want to personalize their space.

Both options are plentiful in Thao Dien – a neighborhood loved by expats for its riverside serenity, vibrant international community, excellent schools, and modern conveniences. Whether you’re new to the city or building a life in Vietnam, there’s always a perfect home for you in Thao Dien.

Ready to take the next step? Let JHouse help you find the right apartment in Thao Dien today!

JHouse Content Team

The in-depth content development team on housing services for foreigners & Vietnamese in Vietnam. The content is simple, easy to understand, and logically arranged to bring readers useful topics and information from real experiences.