If you’re a teacher, a budding entrepreneur or work for a local NGO you may have a limited amount of money to budget for an apartment, but don’t fret - Phnom Penh by most measures still has an affordable housing market.
If you are on a tight budget explore areas further from the riverside where there are bargains to be had. I was lucky enough to have a network of Khmer friends who were more than happy to help me. As a matter of fact they wouldn’t leave me alone, hoping to help me find a place and receive a commission in the process. I was shown several places near the riverside for $200 a month, but decided after viewing several poorly lit options located down dark alleyways to settle for a large furnished apartment near the Russian Embassy for the princely sum of $150 per month. It was furnished, with a balcony, plenty of light, a roof deck and even a place to store my motorbike.
Word of mouth is a great option, so try to enlist the assistance of friends or co-workers, who may know of a nice place in your price range that just opened up. Prepare to negotiate too, though many Khmer landlords are looking for a fixed price depending on the market and demand.
Negotiating is a challenge, and many won’t budge on the price, but it helps to being a Khmer friend along with you to help with the negotiation and to act as a translator. Make sure that all the necessary repairs are agreed upon before you sign your lease, and be aware that you may have to pay for any additional construction costs, such as the installation of air conditioning units, or changes to the structure of the apartment. Most landlords are willing to work with you and give you a fair price.
My friend Kich recently moved back to Phnom Penh. Needing to find a place near his work, he enlisted the help of a local real estate agent. Many cater to foreigners and will work within your budget and specific needs. “I walked into the office and the agent remembered me,” he said. He was shown a variety of places in his price range and settled on a furnished apartment near the Royal Palace for $230 a month. “Agents consider the needs of foreigners,” he said, from higher ceilings to furniture, and in some cases utensils, washing machines, and cleaning services included.
Utilities? Expect to pay between $30 and $50 a month for electricity depending on the season, or about 700 to 1000 per KWh of usage, and water should run around 15 percent of your total utility bill. You can ask your landlord to view a previous bill, and it is best to have easy access to your own meter. Cable television will run you about $5 per month, and there are now moderately priced internet services available.
Security is another important issue. A well-lit apartment with easy street access is ideal, especially for women living alone. Kich’s apartment has a double locked entryway, gated windows, and privacy curtains on his balcony. And if you have your own motorbike, look for a place where you can store it a night. And before you sign the lease, visit the place in the evening and take a look around. If you have concerns regarding your personal safety outside of your apartment you may want to consider something on a busier street. Phnom Penh is relatively safe at night and most residents go to bed early, but as with any city it pays to take sensible precautions.