Buyer guide
Understanding ownership in Thailand
General information, not legal advice. Obtain independent advice from a qualified Thai lawyer before signing or paying a deposit.
Condominium freehold
Foreign buyers may qualify to own a condominium unit freehold, subject to the building's foreign ownership quota and applicable requirements. A project's “freehold” label does not confirm that foreign quota is available for a particular unit.
Leasehold
Leasehold gives contractual use rights, not land ownership. Ask your lawyer to check the registered term, registration, transfer provisions and any renewal promises. A renewal must not be assumed to be guaranteed.
Villas and land
Owning a building and owning the land beneath it are separate matters. Foreign land ownership is generally restricted. Have the land title, building rights and proposed purchase structure independently reviewed; do not assume a company arrangement is lawful or suitable.
Before you commit
- Check the title, seller's authority and any encumbrances.
- Confirm ownership eligibility for the exact unit.
- Review contracts, payment milestones, maintenance fees and taxes.
- Use an independent qualified Thai lawyer, not only the seller's advisor.