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.

Is Jomtien better than Central Pattaya for living?

Feature	Jomtien	Central Pattaya
🌿 Lifestyle	Quieter, relaxed beachside living; popular with retirees and families	Busy, vibrant, tourist-heavy; nightlife, shopping, and entertainment hubs
🏖️ Beach Access	Long and calm beaches, ideal for swimming and walking	Beachfront is accessible but crowded and commercialized
🏘️ Property Options	Many mid-range to upscale condos, pool villas, and low-rise buildings	Condos dominate, often in high-rise buildings, smaller units
👪 Community	Expats, retirees, and long-term residents	Short-term tourists, digital nomads, and some expats
🛒 Convenience	Fewer malls, but good restaurants and daily needs nearby	Surrounded by shopping malls, markets, nightlife, and tourist services
🚦 Noise & Traffic	Quieter streets, less traffic	Noisy and congested, especially near nightlife areas
🏫 Family-Friendliness	Family-oriented environment with nearby international schools	Not ideal for families due to party scene and noise
💰 Cost of Living	Slightly lower for rent and food	Slightly higher due to proximity to central services
🧘‍♂️ Quality of Life	More peaceful, nature access, ideal for long-term living	Dynamic, but can feel chaotic for full-time residents

🌟 Verdict: Which One is Better for Living?

✅ Choose Jomtien if you value peace, beach lifestyle, larger homes, and family-friendly surroundings.
✅ Choose Central Pattaya if you want fast access to nightlife, convenience, and don’t mind the hustle and bustle.

Buying property in Pattaya: Pros and cons

Top beachfront condo projects in Pattaya

Is Jomtien better than Central Pattaya for living?

🌟 Verdict: Which One is Better for Living?

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Is Jomtien better than Central Pattaya for living?

🌟 Verdict: Which One is Better for Living?

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