Contact Us | Published on: 24 July 2025 | Updated: 16 March 2026 | 5 MIN READ

Buying Property in Thailand: A Step-by-Step Guide

Buying property in Thailand is actually quite similar to purchasing property in many Western countries. In fact, the overall process is familiar in many ways, although there are a few important differences you should be aware of. When it comes to factors that are unique to Thailand, working with experienced property advisors—like our team at Pulse—can make the process much easier.

This is especially helpful if you’re not yet familiar with Phuket, or if you’re still learning how foreigners can legally own property in Thailand. It’s also worth noting that Thailand is largely a cash-buyer market, as mortgages and bank loans for foreigners can be difficult to obtain unless the loan is taken in the name of a Thai national.

If you’re new to the Phuket property market, it’s a good idea to speak with one of our property advisors. Better yet, utilize our Property Finder Service where you provide us with your requirements, or simply send us an email and one of our property advisors will put together a personalized shortlist of properties for you.

1. Preliminary Property Research

Starting your property search in Phuket can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the market. Working with one of our experienced property advisors can make a real difference. Having lived on the island for over two decades, our team offers genuine, on-the-ground insight into both Phuket and its property landscape.

Most buyers begin with practical requirements—such as the number of bedrooms, layout, or features like a spacious kitchen—before refining preferences like design, size, or pool. In Phuket, location-specific factors also play an important role, whether it’s sea views, proximity to the beach, or convenient access to the airport. Foreign buyers should also consider ownership structures, while families often prioritize being close to international schools.

Once you have a clear idea of your requirements, simply share them with us and we’ll take it from there. With a database of over 1,000 properties across Phuket, we’ll refine your search based on location, property type, and key features such as foreign freehold eligibility and private pools to help you find the right fit.

2. Inquiry & Initial Consultation

If you find a property you like, either add it to your shortlist on our website for later action, or send us an inquiry for a specific property directly. Your inquiry will be assigned to one of our property advisors who will get in touch with you within 24 hours after sending your inquiry. It’s advisable to get a 10-15 minute consultation done right at the start of your property search.

This way, our property advisor can provide clarification on finer details, and they are in a better position to start offering properties that are a great match. From there, our property advisor can also suggest other properties similar to the inquiries you submitted. You’ll finalize which properties you’d like to visit and your property advisor will do the rest of the work for you. 

3. Viewing Your Shortlist & Property Inspections

This is the most exciting part of the property search. You’ll not only be able to compare the pictures to reality, but you’ll also be able to see the immediate neighborhood, as well as the areas beyond that. When you have agreed on a shortlist of properties, our advisor will make arrangements for a property tour. Your property advisor will coordinate showings into a convenient schedule, and ensure gaining access isn’t a problem.

We offer free pick up and drop off at your hotel/residence and will show you the properties in person. If you can not attend in person, we can record a video or set up a video call so you can conduct the viewing remotely.

4. Price Negotiation & Reservation Agreement

Our trained property advisors will help you with the negotiation process. For example, when purchasing an off-plan unit (i.e., a property that is under construction), the furniture package that normally costs extra can often be included in the deal. You can also often get a price reduction, if you are ready to pay a large portion upfront. When it comes to dealing with private sellers, we can help negotiate the final price, distribution of sales tax and transfer fees, obtain the required documentation, and basically do a lot of the leg work so you don’t have to.

Once a price is agreed upon, a Reservation Agreement (RA) is prepared. The RA states that you, as the buyer, have the intent of purchasing the property from the seller to take the property off the market until due diligence can be performed by the buyer's lawyer. The RA also includes the reservation fee amount and the date for the final transaction. A standard number for the reservation fee is 5-10% of the agreed sale price, but this figure varies.

5. Due Diligence & Sales and Purchase Agreement

At this stage, it is highly recommended that both the buyer and the seller have appointed their own lawyer to prepare the paperwork, and in the buyers' case ensure that due diligence is completed. Examples of due diligence to be made are a confirmation of the land title and ownership or presence of building permits for off-plan properties.

Others examples include, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA; for condominium purchases only), building regulations, or that the property isn’t violating any local or national restrictions. Once the lawyers have verified the contractual details, both parties sign the Sales & Purchase Agreement (SPA). This is most commonly signed within 30 days of signing the reservation agreement, but it can differ. 

6. Transfer at the Land Office & Final Payment

The final step takes place at the Phuket Provincial Land Office, where the official transfer of ownership is completed. For completed properties, the transaction typically takes two to six weeks to finalize. For off-plan properties, the final transfer happens once the development is finished and ready for handover.

If you’re not in Thailand, the process can still be completed by granting your lawyer power of attorney, allowing them to act on your behalf. At this stage: the final payment is made, transfer fees and taxes are settled. 

Bonus: Can You Buy Property in Thailand Remotely?

Yes—you absolutely can.

At Pulse Real Estate, we regularly assist international buyers who purchase property without being physically present in Thailand. We can arrange virtual property tours, either by recording detailed walkthrough videos or by conducting live video calls where we guide you through the property in real time.

The legal transaction can also be completed remotely by giving your lawyer power of attorney (POA), allowing them to sign documents and complete the transfer on your behalf. Whether you're an investor, a future resident, or simply exploring your options, now is the time to think long-term. Browse our curated collection of suitable properties in Phuket—or reach out for  a personal consultation.