Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Property values in Thailand can move up or down depending on location, supply, building age/management, and condition. Stand-alone land often appreciates over time, while condo units can soften if the building is older, poorly maintained, or there’s oversupply nearby. Other factors include access to transit, schools, amenities, and upcoming infrastructure. For leasehold properties, value may decline as the remaining lease term shortens.
How to protect value as a seller: complete minor repairs, repaint, service air-conditioning, settle juristic fees, and prepare clean documents (e.g., Chanote title, debt-free letter for condos). Professional photos and realistic pricing based on recent comparable sales also help you avoid unnecessary price reductions.

It can be. Older condos/houses often offer larger floor areas and established neighborhoods at a lower price per sqm. You may also benefit from mature landscaping and quieter streets. However, check for maintenance backlogs, higher utilities, and any special assessments in condo buildings.
New builds provide modern layouts, energy-efficient systems, updated facilities (pools, gyms, co-working), and developer warranties—but usually at a premium and sometimes with smaller unit sizes.
Tip for sellers of older properties: highlight space, location, and recent upgrades (kitchens, bathrooms, ACs) and show building maintenance records. Buyers in Pattaya/Chonburi areas often appreciate larger older units when they see they’re well-kept and professionally managed.

Yes. In Thailand, transfer taxes and fees are settled at the Land Office on transfer day. Who pays what is negotiable in the SPA, but common practice is:

• Transfer fee: 2% of the Land Department appraised value (often split 50/50).

• Specific Business Tax (SBT): 3.3% if selling within 5 years of purchase (with certain residence exemptions).

• Stamp duty: 0.5% (charged when SBT does not apply).

• Withholding tax: based on a formula for individuals (progressive); 1% for companies.
  Insurance: you keep your policy active until transfer; if there’s a mortgage, the bank may require fire insurance until the loan is released.
  Your broker can handle all logistics, but payment itself is made by the parties at the counter. (This is general guidance—always confirm your exact tax position with your lawyer or accountant.)

Timeframes vary by buyer and bank:

• Thai buyers: pre-approval 3–7 days, full approval 1–3 weeks after appraisal and documents.

• Foreign buyers: expect 4–8 weeks due to extra documentation and limited lending options.
  Once the loan is approved and the SPA conditions are met, the broker schedules the Land Office transfer (often 3–10 business days later, depending on the queue and document readiness).
  For cash buyers, completion can be as fast as 1–2 weeks after due diligence and juristic letters are ready.
  Tip for sellers: request the buyer’s pre-approval early, keep all building fees current, and prepare title deed, ID/house book, and any corporate docs in advance to avoid delays.