Renting a condo in Vietnam can be a smart move. Compared to many countries, prices are still reasonable. Modern buildings, serviced amenities, central locations. On paper, it looks like a great deal. Most foreigners don’t lose money because rent is too high. They lose it on the deposit. And the worst part? It often happens before you even move in.

Before you unpack. Before you find the light switch. Before you realize the “ocean view” is technically visible… if you lean out the bathroom window and squint.

Welcome to housing in Vietnam, where the food is world-class, the people are warm, and your security deposit can disappear faster than a startup founder chasing funding.

Recent expat surveys suggest that over 70% of foreigners report facing some form of rental scam or deposit dispute. With new housing regulations introduced last year, parts of the real estate in Vietnam market are still adjusting. Scammers, however, adapt quickly.

This article breaks down 12 condo rental mistakes foreigners keep making and shows you exactly what to do, when to do it, and where problems usually appear in the rental process.

Because learning Vietnamese contract law by accidentally funding a landlord’s new iPhone is not ideal.