Looking for a house in Seminyak Bali

Almost 3 years ago I came to Bali and was looking for a house in Seminyak. This is the main expat area, and there is no shortage of longterm stayers. Reading through an old article from 2003, I remember the thoughts that were going through my mind. I used a company called Bali Land & Houses, located on Jl. Raya Kerobokan, who showed me a selection of places.

Jl. Drupadi was my eventual location and a 2 storey house on that quiet street was where I ended up. What I found during the following year was that the house was not built as well as it looked. Many leaking pipes, flimsy locks and no security. I was promised a security man, who would patrol the street, but never saw him. The guys at Bali Land & Houses were great though and came over many times at my request.

I think they are a decent company to go through, but you will get the best deals by looking around yourself, either on foot or on motorbike. Knock on doors, or call ‘hello’ and ask the resident if there are any places for rent nearby, and the price.

Rental prices are going up, despite the dip in tourism. I would suggest that a house should have strong doors and windows, working plumbing and electrical outlets. If a place is in disrepair and the landlord tells you he will fix it after you move in, its probably won’t happen.