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Real Estate in Vientiane, Laos | Expat Exchange
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Real Estate in Vientiane, Laos

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jan 13, 2024

Summary: The most desirable neighborhoods in Vientiane, Laos are Xaysettha, Sikhottabong, and Sisattanak. The average cost to buy a nice 2 bedroom home in Vientiane is around $100,000 USD, while a nice 3 bedroom home can cost around $150,000 USD. These properties typically include modern amenities such as air conditioning, hot water, and a kitchen. Foreigners are allowed to own property in Vientiane, but there are certain restrictions. For example, foreigners are not allowed to own land, but they can own buildings and apartments. The best way for an expat to search for a home to buy in Vientiane is to use a real estate agent. Real estate agents can help expats find the best properties in the city and can provide advice on the local market. Additionally, expats can search online for properties in Vientiane, as there are many websites that list properties for sale.

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How do I find a place to live in Vientiane?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Vientiane is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Expat.com, Lao Property, and Lao Real Estate are great resources for finding rental properties in the city. Additionally, you can also search for rental listings on popular classifieds websites such as Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace. Additionally, you can also ask around in the local expat community for recommendations on rental properties. Finally, you can also contact local real estate agents who specialize in rental properties in Vientiane," said one person in Vientiane.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Vientiane?

"Expat homes and apartments in Vientiane are typically modern and comfortable. Many expats choose to live in the city center, where they can enjoy easy access to amenities such as restaurants, shops, and entertainment. Apartments tend to be spacious and well-equipped, with air conditioning, modern appliances, and plenty of storage space. Many expats also choose to live in gated communities, which offer additional security and privacy," said one person in Vientiane.

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What is the average cost of housing in Vientiane?

If you are thinking about moving to Vientiane, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Vientiane is generally quite affordable compared to other cities in the region. The average cost of renting an apartment in the city is usually around $200 to $400 per month, depending on the size and location. Prices for buying a house or condo in Vientiane can range from $50,000 to $200,000, depending on the size and location," remarked one member in Vientiane.

Should I buy or rent a home in Vientiane?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Vientiane, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Vientiane is a great option for those looking for a long-term investment. Some advantages include the potential for appreciation in value, the potential to build equity, and potential for tax deductions for mortgage interest. Renting a home in Vientiane is ideal for those who are unsure of how long they will stay in the area, those who don't have the savings for a down payment, or those who may not be able to qualify for a mortgage. The biggest advantage of renting is that it is more flexible and generally involves fewer costs up front," said one expat in Vientiane.

What do I need to know when buying property in Vientiane?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Vientiane, they said:

"When buying property in Vientiane, it is important to understand the local laws and regulations regarding property ownership. It is also important to research the local market and understand the current prices for different types of properties. It is also important to have a clear understanding of the costs associated with purchasing property, such as taxes, fees, and other costs. It is also important to have a good understanding of the local infrastructure, such as access to utilities, transportation, and other services. Finally, it is important to have a good understanding of the local culture and customs, as this can affect the process of buying property in Vientiane," explained one person living in Vientiane, Laos.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Vientiane?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Vientiane, they said...

"Foreigners are generally not allowed to own land in Vientiane. However, they can lease land for up to 30 years, with the possibility of extending the lease. Additionally, foreigners can own buildings and structures built on leased land. In some cases, foreigners can also own condominium units, provided that the total foreign ownership in a single building does not exceed 49%. It is essential for foreigners to consult with local legal experts to navigate the complex property ownership regulations in Laos," said one foreigner living in Vientiane, Laos.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Vientiane what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"In Vientiane, rental properties typically include a refrigerator, stove, washing machine, and air conditioning unit. Other appliances such as a microwave, dishwasher, and water heater may also be included depending on the property," said one expat in Vientiane.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Vientiane:

We asked foreigners in Vientiane what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included...

"Expats searching for homes in Vientiane often begin by browsing online property websites and local classifieds to get an idea of the housing market. They may also join expat forums and social media groups to seek advice and recommendations from fellow expats who have already gone through the process. Additionally, expats can reach out to local real estate agents who are familiar with the area and can help them find a suitable home. Word of mouth is another useful method, as friends, colleagues, or acquaintances may know of available properties. Finally, expats may choose to explore neighborhoods in person to get a feel for the area and look for "For Rent" or "For Sale" signs on properties," explained one expat in Vientiane.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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