Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Property in Phuket, Thailand as a Foreigner

Dreaming of owning a slice of tropical paradise? Whether you’re looking for a sea view condo for winter getaways or a private villa as a long-term investment, Phuket has become one of Asia’s most desirable property markets for foreign buyers.

However, buying property in Thailand as a foreigner involves its own specific process, and with the right guidance, it can be a smooth and rewarding experience. At Storm Real Estate, we’ve helped hundreds of expats and international clients navigate the property market in Phuket with confidence.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of buying property in Phuket as a foreigner, from the early research phase to ownership registration. You might also want to read up on the legal aspect of how foreigners can buy & own property in Thailand.

Define Your Goals and Budget

The first step is understanding why you’re buying. Are you looking for a holiday home, planning to retire in Phuket, or are you focused on rental returns and long-term capital growth?

Your goals will shape your search—and so will your budget. Be sure to account not just for the purchase price, but also for taxes, legal fees, transfer costs, and furnishing or renovation expenses if needed.

To give you a rough idea:

• Modern one-bedroom condos in good locations start around THB 3–5 million
• Pool villas range from THB 10 million upwards, depending on location, size, and view

Start Your Research (Online & On the Ground)

Online listings are a great place to start, especially if you’re overseas. We at Storm Real Estate try to keep our database up to date, so you’re seeing real-time availability and pricing. Are we perfect? Definitely not, but we are trying our best and have one of the most accurate property databases in Phuket.

As you browse, pay attention to:

• Neighborhood vibes and nearby beaches
• Freehold vs leasehold options
• Project reputation and developer history (we are happy to help you with “inside info”)

Many of our clients start by narrowing down a shortlist of favorites online with the assistance of one of our consultants, before scheduling an inspection trip to Phuket or request video walk-throughs.

Choose a Reputable Real Estate Agent

The right local agent is essential, especially if you’re new to the market or based abroad. Storm Real Estate specialises in helping foreign buyers find the right property and avoid common pitfalls. We act as your guide, negotiator, and liaison between lawyers, developers, and other parties.

Unlike some agents, in Phuket to make a quick buck, we prioritise transparency and long-term client relationships. We have a team all long-term residents of Phuket, and we have no plans of leaving.

Shortlist Properties & Go for Viewings

Once you’ve narrowed down your criteria, your agent will help line up the most suitable properties based on:

• Location (beach access, quiet neighbourhoods, proximity to amenities)
• Type (condo, villa, off-plan, resale)
• Lifestyle needs (privacy, views, modern design)

During viewings, we recommend checking:

• Build quality and finishes
• Common areas and facilities
• Internet and mobile reception
• Noise levels and nearby developments

If you’re looking at off-plan projects, we’ll also provide background on the developer and previous projects delivered.

Make an Offer & Start Negotiations

Once you’ve found the right property, it’s time to make an offer. Your agent will help you understand the market value and guide you through negotiations.

If the seller accepts your offer, you’ll typically pay a reservation deposit (often between THB 100,000–300,000) to secure the property while your lawyer conducts due diligence.

Legal Due Diligence

Hiring a local lawyer is highly recommended—and in many cases, essential. Your lawyer will:

• Verify the title deed
• Check for encumbrances or debts on the property
• Review zoning and building permits
• Vet the developer (for off-plan)

This phase usually takes 1–2 weeks. Storm Real Estate can recommend experienced English-speaking lawyers familiar with foreign buyer needs.

Sign the Sales & Purchase Agreement (SPA)

Once due diligence is complete, both parties sign the Sales and Purchase Agreement. This outlines:

• Agreed price
• Payment schedule
• Transfer conditions
• Penalties for non-compliance

For off-plan properties, the SPA will also include the expected completion date and handover procedure.

Payment & Ownership Transfer

Payments are usually made in instalments (especially for off-plan units), either from your overseas bank or a Thai bank account. If you’re buying freehold, funds must be remitted in foreign currency with proper documentation (Foreign Exchange Transaction Form) to register ownership under your name.

For completed properties, the final payment is made on the day of ownership transfer at the Land Office. Your lawyer and agent will accompany you, handle tax and transfer fee calculations, and ensure the paperwork is correct.

Post-Purchase: What Comes Next

Once ownership is transferred, congratulations, you’re now a Phuket property owner!

From here, it’s about setting up:

• Utility accounts (electricity, water, internet)
• Common area fees (for condos or gated communities)
• Rental management, if you plan to rent out the property

Storm Real Estate can also connect you with vetted service providers for interior design, maintenance, or rentals.

Final Thoughts: Buying Property in Phuket Is Straightforward with the Right Team

Buying property in Phuket as a foreigner may seem daunting at first, but with the right support and a clear understanding of the process, it can be a seamless and rewarding experience.

At Storm Real Estate, we’ve spent years helping foreign buyers navigate every step of the journey, from identifying the right neighbourhood and property type, to closing the deal and settling in.

Start your Phuket property journey with confidence, explore our latest listings or reach out to our team today.

Browse all available listings online here – narrow down your search with advanced search options

Submit your requirements here – one of our expert consultants will put together a shortlist of properties for you to review.

Connect via Whatsapp here – start chatting right away with our sales director.

Send an email inquiry on our Contact Us Page.

A. Nuno Isitemiz

With extensive expertise in Phuket's property market and Thai property laws, as well as deep connections with local developers, Nuno co-founded one of the largest real estate agencies in the region. Recently, he launched his own venture, Storm Real Estate, specializing in a carefully curated selection of properties that meet his high standards. Unlike larger agencies where frequent staff turnover can disrupt client relationships, Nuno is committed to offering a stable, one-on-one experience with himself or a member of his team of experienced property consultants, from initial consultation through purchase and beyond. By prioritizing quality over quantity, he ensures that each client’s unique needs and budget are met, making dream homes a reality.