A clear, practical guide for international buyers — ownership, costs, the buying process, taxes, rental income and where to buy.
Phuket combines a year-round resort economy, limited low-rise supply and steady demand from international buyers — a rare mix that supports both rental income and long-term capital growth.
The right structure depends on the property type and your goals. These are the two foundations every buyer should understand.
Foreigners cannot own land outright. The common routes are a registered long-term Leasehold of the land (often combined with freehold of the building), or a properly incorporated Thai company that genuinely operates and keeps accounts. We structure the safest option for your situation with our lawyers.
Indicative figures — exact amounts depend on the property, its age and the ownership structure. We prepare a full cost breakdown before you commit.
Average new-build condo prices run roughly ฿100,000–160,000 / m². Furniture packages are often required to join a developer’s rental programme.
Thai banks generally do not lend to foreign buyers, so most purchases are cash. The practical alternative is buying off-plan: payments are spread over the construction period (often 2–3 years) at 0% interest, while the property can appreciate before completion.
A reservation fee (≈ ฿100,000–200,000 or up to 5%) takes the unit off the market.
Sign the contract and pay ~35% within 30 days.
Remaining sum is paid against construction milestones over ~2 years, usually 0% interest.
Quality-control inspection, final payment, keys, and registration at the Land Department.
A reservation deposit (≈ 10%) secures the property.
Lawyer verifies clean title; down payment of 30–40% within ~30 days.
Final payment, transfer at the Land Department (fees usually split 50/50), keys handed over.
Residents (staying 180+ days a year) are taxed on worldwide income; non-residents on Thai-source income only. Rental income is taxed on a progressive scale:
A company markets the unit and handles check-in, cleaning and maintenance (fee up to ~40% of yield). Flexible — ideal if you also use the property yourself.
Developers often guarantee 6–8% for a set period. The unit is run hotel-style (e.g. by a branded operator); owner use is usually limited (~30 days/year).
Owners share income from the whole project, managed centrally. A simple, passive option for hands-off investors.
Each part of the island suits a different lifestyle and rental profile. A quick orientation:
Short visits use a 30-day stamp on arrival or a 60-day tourist visa (extendable). For longer stays there are renewable one-year Retirement, Education, Business and Marriage visas, plus long-term options for investors. Requirements are case-by-case — we help arrange the right visa through our partners.
This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Terms and figures depend on current Thai law and the specific property. Phuket Property Sales & Rentals LB provides full legal and tax support for every transaction.
Tell us your budget and goals — we’ll shortlist the right properties and guide the whole purchase.