Deposit on renting a condo.

[exbrit]

I need advice. I have found a nice condo to rent for a month in Jan. It appears to be thru. a reputable company, but they are asking me to pay the deposit (20,000 Baht) directly to the owner of the condo, and not to the Company!
They say the deposit will be sent to the Company by the owner at least 2 days before I check out. I will then be paid the deposit (less utilities) on the day i check out.

Anybody else rented in this way? Is it safe?

Cheers,

Exbrit

[Big Boy]

I always rent that way, but without using the company as a middle man. Have always told them to let my (Thai) daughter have the deposit, less utilities, back - never had a problem. In fact on the last 2 occassions, I'm sure they undercharged us for utilities.

[wanwan_lk]

yes,it is a normal way to do rent a condo or even house.we do like that.actually a middleman or agency do only find a customer for an owner and do run for the paper work.its normal to ask for a deposite,normally they will ask for a garanteed money too,when you check out,If something broken.that mena if you want to rent the house or condo you must pay for 1.rental 2.Garantee money 3.advance renta payment in case for a long term renting. water and electric you pay yourself later (calculate by a meter) have a good day