Buying property in Thailand as a foreigner
A short overview of the points our foreign buyers ask about most.
Condominiums
Foreigners who qualify under the Condominium Act can own a condominium unit in their own name, as long as total foreign ownership in the building stays within 49% of the total unit area. For listings marked “Foreign quota available”, we have checked the quota with the building’s juristic person and show the date we checked; the quota can change until your transfer is registered.
Bringing the money in
Most foreign buyers qualify by transferring the purchase money into Thailand from abroad in foreign currency, in their own name and for at least the purchase price (other permitted routes include a non-resident baht account or a foreign currency deposit account in Thailand). The receiving Thai bank issues a Foreign Exchange Transaction (FET) form or a bank certificate, which the Land Office asks for. Talk to us before you transfer so the buyer’s name and the purpose of the transfer are correct.
Houses and land
Foreign nationals generally cannot own land in Thailand. A registered lease is limited to 30 years, and promises to renew it may not be enforceable. Holding land through a Thai nominee is illegal. Please get advice from an independent lawyer before reserving a house.
Contracts
Our reservation and sale agreements are prepared in Thai with an English version; if they differ, the Thai text prevails. You are welcome to have your own lawyer or interpreter review them before you sign. For developer projects, the developer’s own contracts are used.
Costs on transfer day
Transfer fees and taxes are assessed by the Land Office on the transfer day. Who pays which item is agreed in the contract.
General information only, not legal advice. Rules can change — please confirm with a lawyer before you buy.
Homes for sale