If you’re thinking of buying a real estate in thailand, you’ll be happy to know that the country has strong property ownership laws and a secure title system. This makes it a great place for investors.
Foreigners can own condo units in Thailand, but not the land on which they are built. To purchase land, you must either marry a Thai citizen or create a 30-year lease agreement with the land owner.
Land
If you want to buy land in Thailand, you must comply with rules and regulations stipulated in the Ministerial Regulation. These rules require that you invest in a promoted company with at least 50% foreign ownership and submit documents to prove your investment. The company must also be engaged in an economic activity, such as the manufacture or export of products and services.
Land prices are rising in Thailand, due to a growing middle class that is buying land in the city as a future inheritance for their children. However, the judiciary is not as strong as in Hong Kong or Singapore, so there are risks when it comes to property rights and investment freedom.
The easiest method for foreigners to own property in Thailand is to buy a condo. However, it is important to be aware of transfer fees and taxes. Depending on the location of the property, these costs can be high. Moreover, the purchase must be made through a Thai-registered entity.
Condominiums
Due to restrictions on land ownership for foreigners, many people opt for condos when looking to purchase property in Thailand. However, buying a condominium is still a complicated process, especially when purchasing an off-plan property (one that is still being built). These purchases require the purchaser to pay a deposit and monthly instalments during construction with the final payment at the time of settlement and registration. This must be done in foreign currency and have a clear paper trail showing where the funds came from, why they are being used to buy a condo in Thailand and a confirmation that they are from a bank in the overseas country.
Once settled, a property lawyer should attend settlement to ensure all documents are signed and disbursed and the final keys handed over. It is also essential to read the rules, regulations & by-laws of your new condominium before committing. It will help you decide if it is the right investment for your lifestyle.
Houses
Many people dream of owning a house in Thailand, especially with its tropical paradise reputation. However, it’s important to separate the dream from the reality and understand the complexities of purchasing a property in Thailand.
Under Thai law, foreigners are prohibited from purchasing land in the country, but they can own condominiums and apartments in Thailand. A foreigner can also buy a house separated from the land, which is known as a freehold house.
Buying a house in Thailand is not easy and requires good legal advice. Real estate agents’ fees are high, and withholding tax and stamp duty are levied on the transfer of ownership. In addition, a deposit of 10-15% will be required to reserve a property until the purchase process is complete. The deposit is usually non-refundable unless specified in the contract. Moreover, there are several other fees and taxes to consider when buying a house in Thailand. For more information on these costs, visit the page’real property conveyancing and tax’.
Apartments
If a foreigner wants to buy freehold condominiums or landed property in Thailand they must either establish a Thai company or obtain a usufruct. This allows a foreigner to own a share in the company and the right of undisturbed possession of the property for 30 years.
The company can also sell the property to a non-resident foreigner without restrictions. This structure is very popular for developers buying land plots to develop condos and other properties.
It is very difficult for a foreigner to secure financing from a local bank in Thailand. Unless the buyer has a good credit history and sufficient income it is often easier for them to get a mortgage in their home country. This is a major hurdle for anyone looking to purchase a property in Thailand. It is not impossible to overcome but it does require a lot of determination and patience.