With its dazzling golden temples, rich cultural mix, and tropical temperatures, Myanmar is an exciting, and relatively untapped, location for foreigners. There is a mix of accommodation available, from landed bungalows to new apartment buildings with facilities such as pools and gyms. 

Myanmar areas

Nay Pui Taw
Myanmar’s capital city is Nay Pyi Taw, purpose-built by the government. Foreigners are by law required to stay in hotels here as at 2016, though this may change. 

Yangon  
The biggest city in Myanmar is former capital Yangon, where there are a variety of international schools, expat social clubs and embassies. 

Within Yangon, centrally located in Golden Valley is popular with expat families looking for bungalows with gardens, while newer condominiums, restaurants and cafes can be found in the area around Yaw Min Gyi St.  

Mandalay  
The former royal city of Mandalay is the country’s next largest and commercial centre of the north, located on the Irrawaddy (Ayeyarwady) River. 

Residential leases

Agencies
Housing agents can provide useful assistance in finding a home to rent, particularly if you don’t speak Burmese. An agent who is experienced with expats  may be able to help with everything from negotiating with landlords to finding tradespeople and other services. 

Lease terms
Residential leases are generally made on a 365-day basis, paid upfront, with a month’s rent as commissio n. Longer-term leases are also available with a 5 to 10 per cent per annum increase in rental rates. Rents tend to be advertised in US dollars. Be aware that transactions are often done in cash, although cheques or even wireless transactions may be possible depending on the landlord. Furnished apartments are available for a premium. You will need to provide your business visa and expect to pay a stamp duty of 1½ to 2 percent.

Installation and monthly charges for utilities such as water, electricity and internet are generally the tenant’s responsibility, but in some cases may be included. Charges may vary depending on the size of the property and how often air conditioning is used, but are typically less than US$50 a month.

Land leases
In addition to residential leases, Myanmar’s 2012 Foreign Investment Law (FIL) specifies that foreign investors are eligible for a land lease, with terms of up to 50 years and the option of two consecutive ten-year renewals. Lease terms beyond 50 years may be possible in remote or economically underdeveloped areas and leases are granted by the Myanmar Investment Commission (MIC).

 
Source: www.dica.gov.mm