Can foreigners own property in Thailand?

Foreigners can own freehold condominium units (up to 49% of a building’s total units) but cannot directly own land. Alternatives include long-term leases (up to 30 years, renewable) or owning land via a Thai limited company with Thai majority shareholders.

What are the restrictions on foreign land ownership in Thailand?

Thai law prohibits foreigners from owning land under the Land Code Act. Options include leasing land for up to 30 years or setting up a Thai limited company (51% Thai-owned) to hold the land title.

How can foreigners buy a condo in Thailand?

Foreigners can buy freehold condos if the foreign ownership in the building is below 49%. Funds must be transferred from abroad, documented with a Foreign Exchange Transaction Form (FET). A lawyer is recommended for due diligence and title transfer.

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

Costs include transfer fees (2% of appraised value), withholding tax (1% of appraised or sale value), specific business tax (3.3% if sold within 5 years), and stamp duty (0.5% if no SBT applies). Legal fees range from 20,000–30,000 THB. Condo buyers may also pay sinking fund fees.

Can foreigners get a mortgage to buy property in Thailand?

Thai banks offer limited mortgages to foreigners (40–70% of property value, up to 15 years, with high interest rates of 6–9%). Eligibility requires proof of income and residency. Some developers offer financing, or buyers use overseas loans.

What is the process for buying property in Thailand as a foreigner?

Steps include finding a property, hiring a lawyer and agent, conducting a title search, signing a purchase agreement, transferring funds with a FET, and finalizing ownership at the Land Office (30–60 days).

Is it safe to buy property in Thailand as a foreigner?

Buying is safe with proper due diligence—hire a reputable lawyer, verify the seller’s title, and use registered agents. Risks include unregistered agents or buying without legal checks.

Can foreigners rent out their property in Thailand?

Foreigners can legally rent out their property, subject to income tax on rental earnings (progressive rates based on income). Management companies can handle rentals, but owners must comply with TM.30 tenant reporting.

What are the visa implications of buying property in Thailand?

Buying property does not grant visa privileges. However, investing 10 million THB in real estate may qualify for the Thailand Elite Visa (5–20 years). Standard visas (e.g., retirement, business) require separate applications.

What are the risks of buying property in Thailand as a foreigner?

Risks include buying without due diligence, using unregistered agents, condo depreciation, neglected building maintenance, or legal issues with leaseholds or companies. A lawyer mitigates these risks.

Real estate options for families relocating to Thailand

Relocating to Thailand with your family? Whether you’re moving for work, lifestyle, or long-term retirement, the Thai property market offers a wide range of housing options to suit international families. Here’s everything you need to know — presented simply and professionally.

🏠 Main Property Types for Families

Property Type	Best For	Key Features	Price Range (approx.)
Detached Houses	Families wanting space	Private yard, parking, multi-bedroom	฿5M–฿50M+
Townhouses	Urban families on a budget	Multi-story, compact space	฿2M–฿10M
Villas (Gated Estates)	Luxury living	Pools, security, modern amenities	฿10M–฿100M+
Condos (Large Units)	Small families, city life	Facilities, convenient location	฿4M–฿30M+
Serviced Apartments	Short stays or relocations	Fully furnished, flexible terms	฿25K–฿150K/month

📍 Best Cities & Areas for Families

City/Area	Why It’s Great for Families
Bangkok (Sukhumvit, Nichada Thani)	Top international schools, hospitals, shopping, expat-friendly
Chiang Mai (Nimman, Hang Dong)	Peaceful lifestyle, nature, lower cost of living
Phuket (Laguna, Rawai, Chalong)	Beach lifestyle, international schools, gated communities
Pattaya (East Pattaya, Jomtien)	Affordable villas, bilingual schools, near Bangkok
Hua Hin	Calm atmosphere, golf, beach, ideal for retirees with family

🏫 Key Considerations for Families

✅ School Proximity

Choose homes within 15–30 minutes of international schools like:

Bangkok Patana
International School Bangkok (ISB)
Prem Tinsulanonda (Chiang Mai)
British International School (Phuket)

✅ Healthcare Access

Top hospitals: Bumrungrad (Bangkok), Bangkok Hospital (nationwide), Samitivej

✅ Security & Lifestyle

Many families prefer gated communities for added safety, amenities (playgrounds, pools), and a community feel.

📑 Legal Tip: Can Foreigners Own Family Homes?

Ownership Type	Foreign Eligibility	Notes
Condo (Freehold)	✅ Yes (up to 49% of building)	Easiest option
House + Land	❌ Not directly	Requires Thai spouse, leasehold, or company setup
Leasehold Property	✅ Yes (30 years, renewable)	Popular for villas/houses

🛋️ Rental vs. Buying

Situation	Rent	Buy
Short-term relocation (1–3 years)	✅	❌
Long-term stay or retirement	🤔	✅
Unsure of school or location	✅	❌
Looking for investment returns	❌	✅

📦 Final Advice

🏫 Prioritize school location first, then house search
🏘️ Visit gated communities — many are family-oriented with playgrounds and pools
📄 Have a lawyer review contracts for purchase or long-term leases
🛏️ Choose rentals that include furniture and appliances for smooth transitions

Real estate options for families relocating to Thailand

🏠 Main Property Types for Families

📍 Best Cities & Areas for Families