Buying Property in Thailand as a Foreigner – Simple Guide
Thinking about buying property in Thailand? Whether it’s a condo, villa, or house, here’s an easy-to-follow guide to help you understand the process and make smart decisions.
🧭 Step 1: Choose a Trusted Property Agent
| Why Use an Agent? | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Knows the area & speaks Thai | Saves time and avoids miscommunication |
| Acts as your local representative | Negotiates better deals on your behalf |
| Helps you avoid scams and fake listings | Ensures transparency and legal safety |
📌 Tip: Don’t assume direct-from-developer is cheaper. Agents help you find the best deal overall.
⚖️ Step 2: Talk to a Property Lawyer
Before signing anything, consult a Thai property lawyer to:
- Understand ownership options
- Review contracts and deposit terms
- Guide you through the legal process
🔒 Your lawyer protects your interests.
📜 Step 3: Do a Title Deed Check
Ask your lawyer to perform a full title search:
- Confirm seller legally owns the land
- Check for mortgages, liens, or encumbrances
- Review zoning & building regulations
- Ensure access rights to roads & utilities
✅ Only proceed if everything is clear.
💸 Step 4: Make a Deposit
Once satisfied:
- Make a deposit to reserve the property
- Request “subject to clear title” clause for protection
📌 Note: Without such a clause, deposits are often non-refundable.
🧾 Step 5: Review the Sales Contract (SPA)
| What to Look For | Why It Matters |
| Penalty clauses | Avoid unfair fees for late payments |
| Delay & compensation clauses | Protects you if construction is delayed |
| Deposit conditions | Clarify refund rights or exit clauses |
📋 Always have your lawyer review before signing.
🏢 Condo Ownership for Foreigners
Yes, foreigners can legally own condos:
- Up to 49% of total floor area in a building
- Must transfer full payment from overseas in foreign currency
- Thai bank issues Foreign Exchange Transaction Form (FETF)
📝 You need this FETF to register ownership.
Example Fees
| CAM Fee (Monthly) | Condo Size | Monthly Fee | Yearly Total |
| 50 baht/sqm | 100 sqm | 5,000 THB | 60,000 THB/year |
Also: Sinking Fund Fee (one-time for first buyer)
🏡 Land Ownership: Can Foreigners Buy Land?
No, foreigners can’t own land directly but can:
- Lease land long-term (30 years, renewable)
- Build and own a house on leased land
- Set up a Thai company (requires real Thai shareholders)
🔑 Make sure the lease & building terms are clear in contracts.
If Married to a Thai
- Sign a lease or usufruct with your spouse to secure your rights
🧱 Can Foreigners Build a House in Thailand?
Yes, on leased land or land owned by your Thai spouse or company:
- Apply for the construction permit in your name
- House is yours, land is leased
🏠 The house and land are considered separate in this case.
🏢 Condo vs Landed Property: What’s Best?
| Feature | Condo | Landed Property |
| Ownership | Easier (49% foreign quota) | Complicated (via lease/company) |
| Privacy & Control | Limited | High |
| Maintenance | Shared (CAM Fees) | Private |
| Resale & Liquidity | High | Moderate |
| Legal Complexity | Low | High |
📌 For simplicity, condos are best. For space & privacy, consider land + lease.
🧠 Final Thoughts
- Always use a lawyer and a local agent
- Never skip the title check
- Use official contracts and documents
- Be clear on what you’re buying: land, house, or condo
📞 Need Help?
Let us assist you step-by-step:
Email: contact@centralcityproperty.com
WhatsApp: +66959920345
