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Buying a condo in Thailand

A plain-English overview of how foreigners buy a condo in Thailand, and what to check before you do.

This page is general information, not legal, tax, or financial advice. Property rules change and vary by case. Use a licensed Thai property lawyer and your own professional advisers before you buy anything.

In short

Foreigners cannot own land in Thailand, but they can own a condo unit outright, as long as foreign owners hold no more than 49 percent of the units in that building. Most foreign buyers purchase a condo in their own name and pay from an overseas transfer. Always verify the rules and the building's foreign quota with a lawyer.

What foreigners can and cannot own

In general, foreigners can own a condominium unit outright under the foreign-ownership quota, but not the land itself. Some buyers use a long lease for a house or villa instead. Freehold and leasehold are very different, so understand which one you are being offered and what happens at the end of a lease.

Due diligence before you buy

  • Confirm the building's foreign-ownership quota has room for your purchase
  • Check the title, the developer, and any debts on the unit
  • Understand the total cost, including transfer fees and taxes
  • Confirm how funds must be transferred from abroad for a foreign purchase
  • Use an independent lawyer who does not also represent the seller

Renting first is usually smart

Most people who train in Thailand rent long term rather than buy. It is faster, far lower risk, and lets you test an area across seasons before committing. If a long stay is what you actually want, start with the long-term stays guide.

Questions

Common questions

Can a foreigner own property in Thailand?
A foreigner can own a condo unit outright within the building's foreign-ownership quota, but generally not land. Verify the current rules and your specific case with a licensed Thai lawyer.
Should I buy or rent for a training stay?
For most people, renting long term is the better first step. It is lower risk and lets you learn an area before you consider buying.
Is this legal advice?
No. This page is general information only. Use a licensed Thai property lawyer and your own advisers before any purchase.
Ready when you are

Try a long stay first

See how long-term rentals near the camps work before you think about buying.

See long-term stays Read the long-stay guide