Key Information Before Buying or Renting Property in Thailand
What Payment Methods Are Available for Foreign Buyers?
International Bank Transfer (SWIFT)
The most common method is an international bank transfer sent directly to the developer’s or seller’s account. This type of payment is required to validate the legality of the transaction and to register property ownership.
Important note: the payment reference must clearly state that the funds are intended for the purchase of real estate in Thailand.
Payment in Thai Baht
If you have a Thai Baht account, you can make the payment directly in local currency. This is especially convenient for those who already operate in THB or want to lock in the exchange rate.
Payment from a Thai Bank Account
Foreign nationals can open a bank account in Thailand. Once you have one, you can make payments domestically without international transfers — which is especially useful for installment plans or rental payments.
Cash Payment
In some cases, partial or full payment in cash is possible, especially for short-term rentals or security deposits. All transactions must be documented in the contract, with official receipts provided. For property purchases, cash payments are less common and require compliance with legal formalities.
Cryptocurrency Payment
Several modern developers in Thailand, particularly in Phuket and Bangkok, accept payments in cryptocurrency such as USDT, BTC, ETH, and others. This can be a convenient option for international buyers, especially those who hold most of their assets in digital form.
We coordinate the possibility of crypto payment with the developer in advance, handle legal documentation, and assist with exchange if needed.
Is It Possible to Buy Property in Installments If It’s Still Under Construction?
Answer: Yes, if you are buying property during the construction phase.
Interest-free installment plans are typically available throughout the entire construction period.
Payments are made in stages, based on the progress of the build.
You do not need to be physically present in Thailand — payments can be made remotely via invoices issued by the developer.
Typical payment schedule:
100,000 THB – reservation deposit
30% – within 30 days (contract signing)
20% + 20% + 20% – every 3.5 months, depending on construction progress
10% – upon transfer of ownership
Can a Foreigner Legally Own Property in Thailand?
There are two main forms of property ownership in Thailand: freehold (full ownership) and leasehold (long-term lease).
Foreigners can legally purchase freehold property, but only within certain limitations.
In condominiums, for example, foreigners are allowed to own up to 49% of the total units in a single building.
When it comes to villas, foreigners cannot directly own land under their personal name as freehold. However, there are two fully legal options:
Leasehold – A long-term lease agreement for 30 years, with the option to renew twice (30+30+30).
Freehold via a Thai company – The buyer sets up a legal entity in Thailand and registers the villa under the company’s name. This is a common and lawful practice among international investors.
What Taxes Will You Need to Pay When Buying Property in Thailand?
The amount of taxes depends on the type of ownership.
If you are purchasing under leasehold (long-term lease), the registration fee is approximately 1.1% of the property price. This cost is usually shared equally between the buyer and the developer.
For freehold (full ownership), the total taxes and transfer fees are higher — around 6.8% of the property value. However, it is also common practice for the buyer and seller to split these costs.
In both cases, the tax structure is straightforward, transparent, and the expenses are easy to anticipate in advance.
Why Is Investing in Thai Real Estate a Smart Choice?
Thailand’s economy continues to grow steadily, with major improvements in tourism and construction quality. The local currency — the Thai Baht — remains one of the most stable in the region, consistently ranking among the most reliable global currencies.
These factors make the property market highly attractive. Prices show consistent upward trends, and foreign investor interest continues to rise.
Additional growth is expected with the launch of large-scale infrastructure projects such as the high-speed rail network and the planned legalization of designated entertainment zones — both of which could drive property values even higher in the near future.
What documents do I need to rent?
It is usually enough passports. For long-term rentals, you may need visa et copy of the air ticket.
What deposit do they take and when is it returned?
When long-term the rent is charged a deposit of 1-2 months, depending on the length of the contract.
When short term rent half of the month's stay.
What is included in the rent and what is paid separately?
What is usually included in the rent:
Lodging
Living space: an apartment, house or villa is usually fully ready for occupancy.
Furniture
In most cases, homes are rented fully furnished: bed, table, wardrobe, sofa, basic kitchen furniture.
WiFi/ Internet
Sometimes included, especially in condos or short-term rentals. It can be shared with a building or individual for an apartment.
TV/cable TV
Not always, but often there are. Usually with a basic set of channels.
Territory maintenance (at the condo)
Maintenance of the pool, gym, security, elevator and general order.
What is paid separately:
Electricity
Usually by meter: from 4 to 7 baht/kWh. Sometimes the rate is higher if you rent from a private owner.
Water supply
Often a fixed amount or by meter: 20-30 baht/m³.
Internet (if not enabled)
Connecting your own tariff, approximately 300-700 baht per month.
Cleaning
In short-term rentals, it can be included (once a week), in long-term rentals — for an additional fee (from 300 baht for cleaning).
Laundry/laundry services
If there is no washing machine, residents usually use services nearby.
Is it possible to cancel the contract early and return the deposit?
In most cases deposit is withheld, unless otherwise specified.
