Buying a condominium in Thailand is possible and legal for foreigners. Many people from other countries come to Thailand and want to have a place to live or invest, especially in popular cities like Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Phuket, or Pattaya.
But the process is different from your home country. If you are new to buying property in Thailand, I will explain step by step in simple way what you should do. My goal is to help you understand clearly so you feel safe and ready.
Step 1: Check the Title Deed (Chanote)
The first step before buying any property in Thailand is to check the title deed, which in Thai is called a Chanote. This is the official document that shows who is the owner of the condominium.
We can go to the Land Office to get a certified copy of the Chanote. With this document, we can check everything about the condo, including:
- Who is the real legal owner
- If there is any loan, mortgage, or debt on the property
This process usually takes about two working days. It is very important. Without checking, you might buy a condo with legal problems, and it will be difficult to fix later.
Step 2: Review the Sale and Purchase Agreement
While we are doing the title search, the seller should prepare a draft of the Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA). This contract will show the terms and conditions of the deal.
If the seller does not have a lawyer, I can help recommend one. It is important for both sides to agree clearly.
The agreement should include:
- The deposit amount that you will pay in advance
- The delivery condition — for example, will the condo include furniture or not
- The transfer date at the Land Office
- Who will pay for taxes and fees
- The payment method — such as cashier’s cheque or bank transfer
I always suggest you let a lawyer read the contract before you sign. Some contracts are in Thai and maybe include terms you do not understand.
Step 3: Send Money to Thailand Correctly
When buying property in Thailand, foreigners must send money from overseas in the correct way. If you make mistake, you may not be able to register your name as owner.
Here is how to do it:
- Do not change your money to Thai Baht before sending.
You must send from your foreign bank account to your Thai bank account in foreign currency, like USD or EUR. - In the transfer, you must write the reason. For example:
“For purchase of condominium name … unit…”
This note is very important. After the money arrives, your Thai bank will give you a document called Foreign Exchange Transaction Form (FETF) or Bank Certificate. This document is required by the Land Office when you transfer the ownership.
Step 4: Get the Bank Certificate
The Bank Certificate is proof that the money came from outside Thailand for the purpose of buying the condo. Without this certificate, the Land Office will not allow you to transfer the title.
Step 5: Go to the Land Office on Transfer Day
Once the title search is done and money is ready, we will go to the Land Office together to transfer the condo into your name.
What you need to bring:
- Original passport
- Copy of your latest entry stamp in Thailand (from airport immigration)
- Bank Certificate or FETF
- Signed Sale and Purchase Agreement
At the Land Office, you will sign documents to transfer ownership. Government officers will collect taxes and fees. When finished, you will receive the new title deed with your name. The seller will give you keys and access cardsfor the condo.
Now, you are officially the new owner.
Step 6: After the Transfer is Complete
There are a few things to do after the transfer is finished:
1. Change utility accounts
You need to change the electricity and water bills to your name. You can do this online or go to the office, depending on the province. Bring your new title deed and passport with you.
2. Inform the condo juristic office
Go to the condo management office and let them know you are the new owner. They will update their system and give you information about monthly fees, building rules, and contact details for emergency or maintenance.
Usually, they ask for:
- A copy of your passport
- A copy of the new title deed
- Contact number or email
Summary
Buying a condo in Thailand as a foreigner is possible and not too difficult if you follow the right steps. Here is a quick review:
- Check the title deed at the Land Office
- Review the contract carefully
- Transfer money the correct way and do not convert to Baht before
- Get a Bank Certificate
- Go to the Land Office to transfer ownership
- Update your name for water, electricity, and inform the condo office
I help many foreign clients with this process. If you are planning to buy a condo in Chiang Mai or other parts of Thailand, I can support you from beginning until the end, with care and clear explanation.
If you have questions or want to plan your property purchase, feel free to contact me. I am happy to help.
Aphiwat Bualoi Law Office 
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