Buying a House or Condo in Thailand as a Foreigner

Buying a House or Condo in Thailand: What Foreigners Should Know

Thailand is one of the most popular destinations for foreigners whether for retirement, long-term living, or investment. Many foreigners dream of having their own home here, but Thai law has some special rules. Heres a simple guide:

• Foreigners can buy a condo in their own name.
• The rule: foreigners can own up to 49% of the total sellable area in a project.
• Money must be transferred from overseas in foreign currency, with a bank certificate (FET Form).
• Once you buy, the condo is 100% yours, same as Thai citizens.

This is why condos are the most popular and safest choice.

• Foreigners cannot directly own land.
• You can own the house (the building itself), but not the land underneath (except in rare cases, like investing 40 million THB or more).

• Long-term Lease: Up to 30 years, renewable, and must be registered at the Land Office.
• Usufruct (Right to Use for Life): Right to use and live on the land for life.
• Right of Habitation: For living only, not for renting or business.
• Thai Limited Company: Some set up a Thai company (foreigners max 49%). Must be a real business, not only for holding land.

• Title deed (ownership documents).
• For condos check if foreign quota (49%) is still available.
• For houses check lease or rights carefully.
• Taxes & transfer fees.

• Always use a lawyer to review contracts and documents.
• For condos check if there are unpaid common fees.
• For houses make sure rights or leases are registered at the Land Office.

Conclusion
For foreigners, buying a condo is the simplest and safest option in Thailand. If you prefer a house, you need to use other legal options such as long-term lease or rights of use. With proper legal advice, buying property in Thailand can be smooth, safe, and enjoyable.