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Ownership
Can foreigners buy property in Thailand?
Yes, within limits. Foreigners can own condo units freehold within the 49% foreign quota of each building, and can hold houses and villas through registered leases of up to 30 years. See the full ownership guide.
Can a foreigner buy land in Thailand?
Not directly. The Land Code restricts land ownership to Thai nationals in almost all cases.
What is the 49% foreign quota?
The cap on how much of a condominium building’s total sellable area can be registered in foreign names. It is measured by area and applies building by building.
Can I buy a house in Thailand as a foreigner?
You can usually own the building but not the land, which is leased on a registered lease of up to 30 years.
Are 30+30+30 year leases guaranteed?
No. Only the first 30 years are guaranteed by law. Renewal terms beyond that are contractual promises that may not be enforceable.
Costs and money
How much are closing costs when buying property in Thailand?
The Land Office transfer fee is 2% of the appraised value, usually split between buyer and seller. Sellers pay their own taxes. New condos add a sinking fund. See the costs guide and calculator.
Can I bring money into Thailand to buy a condo?
Yes. For a condo in your name the funds must be transferred from abroad in foreign currency, and the bank provides paperwork that the Land Office asks for.
Can foreigners get a mortgage in Thailand?
Some Thai banks lend to foreigners on condos under conditions that vary by bank and visa. Many foreign buyers fund purchases from abroad. Ask us for an introduction to an independent adviser.
Are there annual property taxes?
Owners pay common-area fees and a local land and building tax where it applies, plus insurance and utilities.
Retiring and relocating
How old do you have to be to get a Thai retirement visa?
Retirement routes are generally for people aged 50 or over, with proof of finances. Check the current rules with the Thai Immigration Bureau.
Does buying a property give me a visa?
No. Owning a condo or holding a lease does not itself give you a right to reside. You need a visa route.
Why do people retire in Bangkok or Hua Hin?
Bangkok offers specialist hospitals, rail and culture; Hua Hin offers sea air, golf and a relaxed pace with private hospitals in town. Read the comparison.
Can you help with expat relocation?
Yes. We help sequence the move, introduce independent advisers and plan viewings. See expat relocation assistance.
The buying process
How long does it take to buy a condo in Thailand?
A resale condo with funds in place can complete in a few weeks. Off-plan purchases take until the building is finished.
Do I need a lawyer?
Yes. An independent Thai lawyer should check title, quota, contracts and registration.
What is a free property tour?
A no-charge viewing plan in Bangkok, Nonthaburi or Hua Hin, built around your brief. Book yours here.
What documents do I need to buy?
Typically your passport, the foreign-exchange paperwork for funds sent from abroad, and signed contracts. Your lawyer will confirm what the Land Office needs for your case.
Areas
Where should I buy: Bangkok, Nonthaburi or Hua Hin?
Bangkok suits freehold condos near rail and hospitals, Nonthaburi suits buyers wanting more space near the capital, and Hua Hin suits retirees and second-home buyers wanting the sea and golf.
How far is Hua Hin from Bangkok?
About 200 km, typically 2.5 to 3.5 hours by road.
Is Nonthaburi connected to Bangkok by rail?
Yes. The MRT Purple Line and Pink Line monorail serve Nonthaburi and interchange at Nonthaburi Civic Center.