Question 1

Can foreigners buy property in Thailand?

Accepted Answer

Yes, foreigners can buy property in Thailand with restrictions. The most straightforward option is purchasing a condominium within the 49% foreign ownership quota. Foreigners can also use long-term leases (30 years, renewable) or a Thai Limited Company structure. Direct land ownership by foreigners is generally not permitted under Thai law.

Question 2

What is the foreign ownership quota for condominiums in Thailand?

Accepted Answer

Under the Thai Condominium Act, foreigners may own up to 49% of the total sellable area in any condominium building. The remaining 51% must be owned by Thai nationals or Thai juristic persons. Always verify quota availability before purchasing.

Question 3

What is the difference between freehold and leasehold in Thailand?

Accepted Answer

Freehold means you own the property outright with a Chanote title deed in your name — available to foreigners for condominiums within the foreign quota. Leasehold gives you the right to use the property for up to 30 years, renewable for up to 90 years total. Leasehold is common for villas and land where foreigners cannot hold freehold title.

Question 4

What is the process for buying property in Thailand?

Accepted Answer

The process involves: selecting a property and agreeing on price, signing a reservation agreement and paying a deposit, conducting due diligence on the title deed, signing the Sale and Purchase Agreement, then final payment and title transfer at the Land Department. The process typically takes 4 to 12 weeks.

Question 5

What are the costs and taxes when buying property in Thailand?

Accepted Answer

Transfer costs at the Land Department include: Transfer Fee (2% of appraised value), Stamp Duty (0.5%), Specific Business Tax (3.3% if sold within 5 years), and Withholding Tax. Buyers should budget approximately 2-3% of the purchase price for transfer costs, plus legal fees of 30,000 to 80,000 THB.

Question 6

Can foreigners get a mortgage in Thailand?

Accepted Answer

Thai banks generally do not offer mortgages to non-resident foreigners. Developer financing and instalment plans are available from many developers. International buyers typically finance through home-country banks or remit funds from overseas. Foreign funds used to purchase condominiums must be accompanied by a Foreign Exchange Transfer (FET) certificate.

Question 7

What documents do I need to buy property in Thailand?

Accepted Answer

Foreigners need: a valid passport, a Foreign Exchange Transfer (FET) certificate from the bank (required for condominiums), and a Thai tax ID if applicable. Thai nationals need their national ID card, house registration book (Tabien Baan), and tax ID.

Question 8

Do I need a lawyer when buying property in Thailand?

Accepted Answer

It is strongly recommended to hire an independent Thai property lawyer, especially as a foreign buyer. A lawyer will conduct title deed due diligence, review contracts, verify foreign quota availability, check for encumbrances, and represent you at the Land Department. Siam Real Estate works with trusted legal partners across Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya.

Question 9

How does property rental work in Thailand?

Accepted Answer

Most rental agreements in Thailand run for 1-year terms. Standard leases require 1 to 3 months deposit plus first month rent upfront. The lease should be drafted in both English and Thai, clearly stating repair responsibilities and utility obligations. Siam Real Estate handles all rental search, lease negotiation, and property management across Thailand.

Question 10

Which areas in Thailand are most popular for property investment?

Accepted Answer

Bangkok is the business hub with strong rental yields in Sukhumvit, CBD, and Riverside areas. Phuket is the top resort market for international buyers. Pattaya offers affordable entry prices with strong rental yields. Hua Hin and Koh Samui are popular with retirees and holiday home buyers. Siam Real Estate has listings across all major Thai property markets.

Frequently Asked Questions — Thailand Property

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