Buying your first property in Thailand is exciting and, let's be honest, a little intimidating. Here's the checklist we give every first-time client.
Before you look
- Decide your ownership route: freehold condo or leasehold villa.
- Set a realistic total budget including transfer fees (typically 2–4%).
- Work out your use: holiday home, full-time living, or rental investment — it changes everything.
When you find the one
Reserve first, then run due diligence — don't pay anything significant before your lawyer has checked the Chanote title deed for encumbrances.
Budget roughly 1–2% of the price for legal fees and surveys. It's the cheapest insurance you'll ever buy.
At transfer
Meet at the Land Office, sign in front of the officer, pay the taxes, and take your title. From reservation to keys, most purchases complete in 4–8 weeks.
We've walked hundreds of first-time buyers through this. You won't be alone.
