Buying a house in Thailand as a foreigner: what to check
Understand the difference between a condo, a building and the land beneath it. Check the proposed rights with an independent Thai lawyer before paying.
A house, its land and a condominium unit can involve different ownership rights. Before paying a reservation or deposit, establish exactly what you would own or lease and whose name would be registered.
Check the proposed rights
Ask for the title documents and the written agreement. Have an independent Thai lawyer check the seller’s authority, existing mortgages or other registered rights, and your eligibility. Do not treat a company, marriage or a promised lease renewal as a shortcut to land ownership.
For a condo, confirm foreign-buyer eligibility and the building’s available foreign quota with the juristic office and Land Office. The Department of Lands’ registration guide explains the registration framework. Ask your receiving bank which funding evidence your case needs before transferring money.
Review the whole commitment
Have your adviser explain the registered term, maintenance costs, transfer costs, resale and inheritance arrangements. A future renewal should not be presented as guaranteed ownership.
Start with the property
Browse homes for sale, then send Happy Home an inquiry with the listing reference and your questions. We can discuss the property and viewing steps; obtain independent advice on the legal structure before committing.