Frequently asked questions

Koh Samui offers strong rental yields, a growing international buyer market, and freehold ownership options for foreigners. The island's infrastructure, international airport, and established tourism industry make it one of Thailand's most stable property markets.

Prices have increased steadily over the past decade and demand from European, Russian, and Asian buyers continues to grow.

Foreign nationals cannot directly own land in Thailand, but several established legal structures provide secure long-term rights. The most common is freehold ownership of the building combined with a 30-year leasehold of the land, renewable for further terms.

Purchasing through a Thai limited company is also possible and provides effective control of the land, though it carries ongoing compliance requirements. Condominiums may be owned freehold by foreigners up to a 49% quota of the total floor area.

The Chanote (Nor Sor 4 Jor) is the strongest land title available in Thailand. It confirms full ownership with precise GPS boundaries surveyed by the Land Department.

All properties in our sales portfolio carry Chanote title unless explicitly stated otherwise.

The total tax burden at transfer typically ranges between 3% and 6.5% of the registered value, depending on who is selling, how long they have held the property, and which taxes apply.

The four main costs are the transfer fee (2%), withholding tax (sliding scale), specific business tax (3.3%) or stamp duty (0.5%), and legal fees. We model the exact figures for every transaction before contract signing.

From offer accepted to title transfer at the Land Office, the typical timeframe is six to twelve weeks for a straightforward Chanote purchase. Company structures and leasehold arrangements may add further weeks.

Every enquiry is reviewed personally and responded to within 24 hours. We confirm availability with the villa manager directly, then send full payment details and the rental agreement.

No upfront fees. We work on a commission-only basis, payable at successful completion. Professional photography is also prepared at no upfront cost once we agree to proceed with a listing.

The Land and Building Tax Act took effect in 2020. Rates depend on the property's use (residential, commercial, agricultural) and assessed value. For owner-occupied residential property under THB 50 million, rates are minimal. Investment and rental properties carry slightly higher rates.