BUYERS GUIDE
Thai property ownership laws can seem daunting at first, but with the proper advice the process is straightforward. This guide covers everything you need to know — and our team is always on hand to walk you through it in person.
Whether you are a lifestyle owner seeking beaches, golf and world-class dining, an investor focused on rental returns in one of Thailand’s busiest property markets, or a combination of both — Phuket has a property to match.
Why buy property in Phuket?
Low cost of living compared to European and Asian cities. Rental returns on vacation properties of 6–15% are achievable — but only on the right property at the right price — versus 2–6% in most Western markets. Growing demand from Asian travellers, strong infrastructure and international schools.
Lifestyle owners enjoy beaches, diving, golf, restaurants, healthcare and easy airport access. Investors benefit from one of Thailand’s most active property markets. Most of our buyers do both — a holiday home that works as an investment.
The Essentials At A Glance
Everything from ownership rights and land titles to taxes — click any topic to expand.
Foreigners cannot own freehold land in Thailand, but they can own condominium units (up to 49% of a registered building), buildings separate from the land, and 30-year leaseholds, which are commonly written with two further 30-year options — though only the first 30 years is registered and renewals are not guaranteed.
Under the Condominium Act (1979), foreigners can own up to 49% of the total unit space in a registered condominium building — the simplest and most popular form of foreign ownership in Phuket.
100% of the purchase funds must come from overseas. Banks issue an FET form on transfers of USD 50,000 or more; below that you will need a credit advice letter from the receiving bank instead. The FETF document is essential for avoiding tax complications when you resell.
Long-term leasehold: a registered 30-year term, commonly written with two further 30-year options. Only the first 30 years is registered, and a landowner can refuse to register a renewal — have a lawyer review the contract. Limited liability company: the foreigner owns 49% of shares with Thai juristic persons holding the remainder; note the government has increased scrutiny of nominee shareholders in recent years.
1 Wah = 2 metres | 1 Talang Wah = 4 m² | 1 Rai = 1,600 m² (about 0.40 acres)
Foreigners should only consider: Chanote (the most secure, GPS-surveyed true title), Nor Sor 3 Gor (aerial-surveyed possession right), Nor Sor 3 (legal possession right), and Condominium Title. Building transfers outside condos require a 30-day public notice posting.
On purchase/sale: Transfer Fee 2%; Specific Business Tax 3.3% if owned under 5 years; Stamp Duty 0.5% (when SBT does not apply); Withholding Tax around 1.1% for companies. Annual ownership taxes are minimal compared to Western countries.
- Prices far lower than London, Sydney, Hong Kong or Singapore
- Direct international flights via Phuket International Airport
- Affordable cost of living
- Booming economy with international investment
- Rental returns of 6–15%, versus 2–6% in most Western markets
- Minimal property taxes and fees
- Low reported crime compared with many Western cities
- Thai culture, temples and famously warm people
- Government investment in airport expansion and infrastructure
- Growing foreign investment fuelling market growth
Get In Touch With Phuket Property Advisors
Have a question about buying, selling or investing in Phuket? Send us a message and one of our advisors will get back to you shortly.
Prefer to talk? Call, WhatsApp or email us — our team speaks your language and is always happy to help.
- 64/137, Kamala, Phuket 83150
- +66 86 526 5733
- david@phuketpropertyadvisors.com
