Buying property in a new development — especially off-plan — involves several payment stages. These payments are typically scheduled around construction milestones and legal steps. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:
📊 Typical Payment Timeline (Off-Plan or Under Construction)
Stage
Description
% of Total Price
When It’s Paid
1. Reservation Deposit
Secures the unit
฿50,000–฿200,000 (fixed)
Immediately
2. Contract Signing
Sign Sales & Purchase Agreement (SPA)
10–30%
Within 14–30 days of reservation
3. Construction Milestones
Payments aligned with build stages (optional)
20–60%
Over 6–18 months
4. Completion / Handover
Final payment + transfer fees
Balance (20–50%)
Upon project completion and title transfer
5. Ownership Transfer Fees
Paid at Land Office
Usually split 50/50 or as agreed
On transfer day
🏗️ Example: Condo Project Payment Breakdown
Stage
% of Price
Notes
Reservation
Fixed amount
Refundability depends on contract
Down Payment (SPA signing)
20%
Often negotiable
During Construction
3–5 payments of 10%
Based on floors, structure, roof, etc.
Completion / Transfer
30–50%
Final payment before keys are released
🧾 Other Costs at Completion
Fee Type
Who Pays
Estimated Cost
Transfer Fee
Buyer/Seller or 50/50
2% of property value
Withholding Tax
Seller
1% of appraised or contract price
Business Tax / Stamp Duty
Seller
3.3% or 0.5% depending on ownership duration
Maintenance Fee
Buyer
Paid yearly or monthly in advance
Sinking Fund
Buyer
One-time fund for building upkeep
📌 Key Tips Before Making Payments
✅ Always sign a formal contract (SPA) ✅ Use escrow or milestone payments to reduce risk ✅ Keep records and receipts for each payment ✅ Consult a Thai property lawyer before signing anything ✅ Ask for a developer’s license and construction permit
⚠️ Risks to Watch Out For
❌ Developers asking for large upfront payments without legal safeguards
❌ Projects without permits or EIA approval
❌ No refund policy on the reservation
❌ Delays without clear timeline protections in the contract
