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Real Estate in Hanoi, Vietnam | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Hanoi, Vietnam

Real Estate in Hanoi, Vietnam

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jul 07, 2024

Summary: The most desirable neighborhoods in Hanoi, Vietnam are Ba Dinh, Hoan Kiem, Hai Ba Trung, Dong Da, and Cau Giay. The average cost to buy a nice 2 bedroom home in Hanoi is around $200,000 USD, while a nice 3 bedroom home can cost around $300,000 USD. These properties typically include modern amenities such as air conditioning, high-speed internet, and modern appliances. Foreigners are allowed to own property in Hanoi, but there are certain restrictions. For example, foreigners are not allowed to own land, and they must have a valid visa and work permit in order to purchase a property. The best way for an expat to search for a home to buy in Hanoi is to use a real estate agent or a property search website. These websites can provide detailed information about properties in the area, including photos, prices, and amenities. It is also important to research the neighborhood and the local market before making a purchase.

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How do I find a place to live in Hanoi?

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 Hanoi is to search online for rental listings. There are many websites that offer listings for apartments, houses, and other types of accommodation in the city. Additionally, you can also look for listings in local newspapers and magazines. Additionally, you can also ask around in the local community for recommendations. Finally, you can also contact a real estate agent who can help you find a suitable place to live in Hanoi," said one person in Hanoi.

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

"Expat homes and apartments in Hanoi tend to be modern and comfortable, with many featuring air conditioning, high-speed internet, and other amenities. Most expat homes and apartments are located in the city center, close to restaurants, shops, and other attractions. Many expat homes and apartments also feature balconies or terraces, providing a great view of the city. Expat homes and apartments in Hanoi are typically well-furnished and equipped with modern appliances," explained one person living in Hanoi, Vietnam.

What is the average cost of housing in Hanoi?

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

"Similar to UK. Land is expensive and housing can be too. You can find more local style housing for $500-700 a month but really you need to think about paying around $1000-1200 for something decent. The Embassy type housing goes for $1800-3500 and most good quality apartments will be $2500-3500. The most expensive place I have heard of is around $10,000 a month," remarked one member in Hanoi.

"The cost of housing in Hanoi can vary greatly depending on the type of accommodation and location. Generally, the average cost of renting an apartment in Hanoi is around $400 to $600 per month, while the cost of buying a house can range from $50,000 to $200,000," explained one expat living in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Should I buy or rent a home in Hanoi?

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

"Buying a home in Hanoi can be a great investment, as the city is growing rapidly and property values are increasing. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in Hanoi, as well as the availability of rental properties. Renting a home in Hanoi can be a great option for those who are not ready to commit to buying a home, as it allows for more flexibility and can be more cost-effective in the short-term. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Hanoi should be based on individual needs and preferences," said one person in Hanoi.

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

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

"1. It is important to research the local market and understand the current trends in the area before making a purchase. 2. It is important to understand the legal requirements for purchasing property in Hanoi, including any restrictions on foreign ownership. 3. It is important to have a clear understanding of the costs associated with purchasing property in Hanoi, including taxes, fees, and other costs. 4. It is important to have a clear understanding of the local infrastructure and amenities in the area, such as transportation, schools, and hospitals. 5. It is important to have a clear understanding of the local culture and customs in Hanoi, as well as any potential cultural barriers that may exist. 6. It is important to have a clear understanding of the local economy and job market in Hanoi, as well as any potential economic risks associated with the area. 7. It is important to have a clear understanding of the local political environment in Hanoi, as well as any potential political risks associated with the area. 8. It is important to have a clear understanding of the local environmental conditions in Hanoi, as well as any potential environmental risks associated with the area," wrote one expat who made the move to Hanoi.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Hanoi?

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

"Foreigners are allowed to own property in Hanoi, but there are certain restrictions and conditions they must meet. Foreign individuals and organizations can own residential properties such as apartments and houses, but they cannot own more than 30% of the total units in an apartment building or more than 250 houses in a given area. The property ownership is granted for a maximum period of 50 years, which can be extended under certain circumstances. Additionally, foreigners must have a valid visa and meet other legal requirements to be eligible for property ownership in Vietnam. It is also important to note that foreign ownership does not include land, as land in Vietnam is owned collectively by the people and managed by the state," explained one person living in Hanoi, Vietnam.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Hanoi 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 Hanoi, rental properties typically include a refrigerator, washing machine, air conditioner, and water heater. Additionally, some properties may include a microwave, oven, and/or dishwasher," explained one person living in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Hanoi:

We asked foreigners in Hanoi 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 Hanoi often start by browsing online property websites and forums to get an idea of the housing market and available options. They may also join expat community groups on social media platforms, such as Facebook, to seek advice and recommendations from fellow expats who have already gone through the process. Another common approach is to engage the services of a local real estate agent who is familiar with the area and can help navigate the rental or purchase process. Expats may also seek referrals from friends, colleagues, or acquaintances who have had positive experiences with particular agents. When searching for a home, expats often consider factors such as proximity to their workplace, international schools, healthcare facilities, and other amenities that cater to their lifestyle needs. They may also prioritize neighborhoods that are known to have a higher concentration of expats, as these areas tend to offer more Western-style accommodations and a greater sense of community. Once they have identified potential properties, expats typically schedule viewings with the landlord or real estate agent to inspect the home in person. During these visits, they may ask questions about the property's condition, maintenance, and any additional fees or charges that may apply. Finally, after finding a suitable home, expats will negotiate the terms of the lease or purchase agreement, often with the assistance of their real estate agent. This may include discussing rental rates, security deposits, contract duration, and any specific clauses or conditions that need to be included in the agreement. Once both parties have reached an agreement, they will sign the contract and complete any necessary paperwork to finalize the transaction," explained one person living in Hanoi, Vietnam.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad 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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