Buying or Leasing Property in Thailand
Are you thinking about putting down roots in Thailand — either permanently or part-time? Whether you’re a digital nomad ready to own a base, a retiree exploring peaceful coastal towns, or an expat seeking a second home, Thailand offers a wide range of property options for foreigners.
🏡 Can Foreigners Buy Property in Thailand?
While foreigners cannot own land directly, you can legally own a condominium (freehold title) and lease land or houses under certain conditions. Here's how most expats invest:
- ✅ Freehold Condo Ownership — The simplest option for foreigners
- ✅ Leasehold Property — 30-year renewable leases for villas or land
- ✅ Thai Company Ownership — Not recommended unless properly structured
- ✅ Spouse Ownership — For foreigners married to a Thai national
🧭 Popular Places to Buy Property
Thailand’s property market varies a lot by region. Here are top picks for different lifestyles:
- Bangkok – Urban condos, investment-friendly
- Chiang Mai – Laid-back mountain life
- Phuket / Krabi – Luxury villas and beachfront properties
- Hua Hin – Great for retirees and long-stayers
- Koh Samui / Pattaya – Vacation rentals and expat havens
🛠 Where to Start Your Search
We’re building comparison tools for trusted Thai real estate platforms. Meanwhile, here are some recommended property sites:
🔍 Compare Thai Property Portals
| Platform | Focus | Strengths | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| DotProperty | Buy & Rent | Wide listings, English UI, map search | Visit |
| FazWaz | Buy | Verified agents, good UI, data tools | Visit |
| Hipflat | Buy | Market analytics, resale insights | Visit |
⚠️ What to Watch Out For
Before buying, make sure you: - ✅ Use a local property lawyer - ✅ Double-check ownership titles and zoning laws - ✅ Understand foreign ownership limits (e.g., 49% condo rule) - ✅ Know the total taxes, transfer fees, and maintenance costs
💡 Want to Retire in Thailand?
Check our upcoming guides on: - Long-term visas for property owners - Health insurance requirements - Best areas for peaceful, affordable living
Stay tuned — we're adding local agent recommendations, checklists, and featured properties soon!