FAQ for Foreigners and Real Estate in Thailand
Below are frequently asked questions (FAQ) about real estate in Thailand. The faq goes over the main questions asked by foreigners about real estate and property ownership in Thailand.
Foreigners can own buildings 100% in their own name such as a house. Condo buildings have a 49% foreign ownership quota, so if the building has less then 49% of foreign ownership the you may own one 100% in your name. Foreigners cannot own land in their name.
To acquire land to use, the foreigner can legally lease land for a period of up to 30 years, registered at the land office. Leases can be renewed after that period if agreed upon. If a foreigner has a Thai wife then the land could be registered in her name and a lease to the foreign husband if desired. Some people form a company to own the land but that is a grey area and the foreigner should consult with a lawyer with knowledge in real estate law.
Yes, a foreigner can legally own a home in Thailand. The best way is by getting a building permit in your own name and then build the house. It is then registered in your foreign name. If buying a pre-built home use a lawyer to make sure that the house is registered in your foreign name. Foreigners cannot own the land, but owning the building is legal.
Yes, A foreigner can own a condo 100% in their own name. The condominium law states that there can be up to a 49% of the available rooms be titled to foreigners. So for example if the condominium has 100 rooms, then 49 of them can be registered in a foreign name.
Yes, A foreigner can own a condo 100% in their own name. The condominium law states that there can be up to a 49% of the available rooms be titled to foreigners. So for example if the condominium has 100 rooms, then 49 of them can be registered in a foreign name.
No, Foreigners cannot own land in Thailand. Foreigners can legally lease land for up to 30 years registered at the land office. This gives the foreigner a legal right to use the land to build a home for up to 30 years. The lease can be extended. Other options are to have a lawyer create a Thai company, but this is more complicated and requires paperwork and taxes to be submitted yearly.
A Chanote is the highest form of title for land or condos in Thailand. They are the title of choice for property in Thailand.
Thai banks will rarely dive a mortgage to a foreigner unless they are married to a Thai. Even then mortgages are difficult to obtain. For the most part you will need to be able to pay in full for the property.
Yes, A foreigner can register and own any vehicle in Thailand. Cars, trucks, and motorcycles are all legal to own for foreigners in Thailand.
There are many things to read and study for foreigners before purchasing real estate in Thailand. Know the laws and how to protect yourself before investing in any property. It is wise to rent a place in the area you are interested in while you are researching and see if you like the area and know the real estate laws before making a purchase.
You can read more information about Thailand real estate here:
Thailand Real Estate: Your Comprehensive Guide to Buying and Selling Property