Buying a Condominium in Phuket

Pristine white beaches, ice-cold drinks, islands, and lush, tropical jungle. You’ve earned this holiday to Phuket and are soaking it all in.

Fresh seafood, unique cuisine, massages, shopping, and ageless culture. You’ve tasted “life,” in Phuket… and you want more.

As you swim in warm waters and wander the streets of Phuket Town, you wonder, “Could I enjoy this lifestyle for years? Could I make this my reality? Could I buy a property in Phuket?”

Yes, you can. In fact, buying a condominium in Phuket has never been easier.

There is something magical about the Kingdom of Thailand. People visit for a week and stay for a lifetime. It is intoxicating and always draws you back.

How Covid-19 Changed Our View of Travel

Travel changed in 2020. Covid-19 made it almost impossible to leave our homes, let alone visit a foreign shore. People realized feeling trapped, and many longed for the chance to escape.

A sense of normality is returning, but it’s still difficult to just “get away” for a week. Travelling requires some dedication and “long stay” vacations are becoming the norm.

There is a shift in mindset. If you need more time to enjoy the places you love, then owning your own piece of Thailand makes sense.

It is possible to create this reality. And we will show you how.

The Property Market of 2022

With Covid-19 affecting international travel and tourism, many potential investors delayed final decisions because of uncertainty. This led to a market downturn and an oversupply of properties.

Although development markets slowed over the period of ‘20-’21, there is renewed life in the dawn of 2022 for those looking to invest in property and lifestyle.

Since 2018, over 60 fresh developments in popular areas of Phuket have been completed, or are scheduled to be complete, in 2022/23.

• 2018 – 8 complexes
• 2019 – 15 complexes
• 2020 – 17 complexes
• 2021 – 13 complexes
• 2022 – 14 complexes (off-plan purchase opportunities)
• 2023 – 2 complexes (off-plan purchase opportunities)

We will dive into some of the most popular developments for various budgets further down and show what they offer.

Why Are People Investing in Phuket?

Location

In real estate, we hear this saying all the time. But it is the truth of Phuket.

Phuket has long been a popular tourist destination, known for its culture, nightlife, beaches, islands, shopping, and nature.

For those looking to escape during the cold winter months, it is a tropical paradise that immerses you in history and culture unlike anything at home.

As a property investor, it spoils you for your choice of lifestyle. You can bask on the beach, lose yourself in the lush forest, or enjoy a laid-back urban life with that old-town feel.

Tourism

Come for a day. Stay for a lifetime. Boasting a first-class international airport, Phuket is accessible from almost anywhere in the world.

The cost of living is minuscule compared to many holiday destinations in the west and the rich, multi-layered culture builds upon hundreds of years of history.

For many, Thailand is so far out of the bounds of experience that once they get a taste of “Thailand” they cannot get enough.

These are some reasons people choose to purchase property in this tourist-rich environment.

For people looking to set down roots and live their dream, Phuket is the perfect destination to live well for a fraction of the cost.

For those who want short-term escapes, owning a condo gives you a place to stay while offering passive income through short and long-term holiday rental.

Infrastructure Innovation

Geographically, Phuket is a mashup of the ocean, islands, and mountains. Part of its charm is traveling along winding roads through the mountains to reach secluded destinations. Some find it charming. For others, it is frustrating.

With 5 million tourists flocking to Phuket every year, traffic conditions can be a challenge, especially during the high season.

Phuket is investing to improve its infrastructure and has launched several new initiatives to bring public transport into the 21st century.

Chalong Circle Tunnel

Chalong completed a two-way, 300-metre-long, 800 million baht tunnel with a roundabout that will ease congestion and provide greater access to the overall area. The tunnel runs between Chao Fa West and Mueang Phuket School.

Kathu–Patong Tunnel

The twisting road from Kathu to Patong is an adventure, especially during monsoon season.

This 6 million baht tunnel project has been in the works for several years. Ecological and practical considerations have changed the concept several times.

The final construction will have separate tunnels for traffic in and out of Patong and Kathu. Tunnels will feature separate lanes for automobiles and a dedicated lane for motorbikes.

Phuket Light Rail

A proposed Light Rail system will depart from Ta Nun and span Ao Phang Nga, or Phang Nga Bay, connecting Phuket to the Mainland. Once in Phuket, the line will move toward HKT, Phuket International Airport, and then continue south through Phuket Town to Saphan Hin, passing Chao Fa East Road and completing its loop in Chalong.

The light rail is scheduled to start in 2023.

Improving Infrastructure is good news for those looking to spend extended periods of time in Phuket, as traveling by public transport can be frustrating.

Infrastructure improvements are something to consider when assessing potential purchases. Will new projects add value to your property, or will your once secluded condominium now sit beside a tunnel entrance?

Types of Property Ownership

Before we look at the property available to foreigners, we should look at the property ownership available to foreigners.

Freehold – Foreigners can hold a freehold title in their own name; The Thai Land Office issues a title deed similar to a strata title and freehold property can be used as collateral in Thailand.

Condominiums offer freehold (or leasehold) title and are therefore the easiest and most popular way for a foreigner to invest in Thai property.

Leasehold – A foreigner can own a physical structure (property) as a Superficie or Usufruct entity, but the land it lives on is owned by a Thai national or Thai Limited company. They then lease the land for a period of up to 30 years, with a possibility to extend it for up to 90 years.

During the term of the lease, the property owner maintains the structures and land.

The lease is registered with the Thai Land Office and if the land is sold during this term, the new land owner takes over the lease.

Thai Limited Company – Land and structures can be owned through a Thai Limited company.

A foreigner can be a shareholder in the company, but the company must have at least two Thai National shareholders who hold a majority share (51%).

The company then leases the land as above.

Types of Property in Phuket

Condominiums are the easiest and most popular choice of property to own in Thailand. Holding a title in your own name offers security.

Purchasing a condo is the focus of this article, but there are other options and we will look at different property types available to purchase.

Condominium – A condominium is defined as a building featuring privately owned property and common property. The owners of condominiums own the land through a Juristic person of condominium. (The Condominium Act – The Commonly Owned Housing Act of 2522).

In layman’s terms, a “condo” is a living space that is part of a larger complex. The owner holds legal freehold title over the private residence and a joint interest in common areas of the property.

In Phuket (and other areas of Thailand), you may hear the term “low-end” condo. This does not reflect quality or location.

These condos are sometimes smaller in overall size (Studio or 1-bedroom) and not intended for family use. A “low-end” condo may not be on a beachfront or prime commerce location, but it will often be just a short walk away.

They are still furnished with modern appliances and comforts, and may still contain modern facilities and security.

“Low-end” condos can offer remarkable market value for those who are under budget constraints or want to “test the waters” of Thai property.

Apartment – An “apartment” is a condominium that cannot be owned under freehold title by a foreigner. Apartments sell as leasehold only and fall under the terms of Thailand’s 30-year leasing regulations.

Keep an eye out for this when looking at potential properties. For all intents and purposes, the properties are the same. Same living space, same fees, and common area obligations. You will enjoy the same facilities and comforts, but you will not own your property outright.

Resort Condo – A higher-priced condominium in a resort that can be owned with Freehold Title.

These modern developments will often contain more exclusive common areas, such as cafes, upscale fitness centers, infinity pools, and extensive gardens.

Medium-to-high-end resort-style condominiums price between 3 million and 15 million baht, depending on location, floor space, and amenities.

Resort-style condominiums are popular for people seeking an opportunity, rather than a place to live. New developments will often offer a guaranteed rental income for the first few years.

Luxury Freehold & Penthouse Condominiums – A freehold condominium catering to buyers who have an excess of capital to invest and seek the best of the best.

Luxury condominiums offer a greater choice of style and appearance. Some properties resemble a villa, while others, a luxury penthouse; complete with a rooftop garden, terrace, and private pool.

As part of a complex, these luxury condos offer high-end common area facilities, such as fitness centers, pools, restaurants, and grocers. They will employ first-class management teams and services.

The developer may also offer rental guarantees for the investor.

Villa – Villas are classified as a house, so will fall under the same ownership and purchase laws.

The defining factor of a villa is its offer of ‘exclusivity’. It is often part of a gated community and has shared facilities with other owners (pools, restaurants, gyms, etc). A villa gives you the 24-7 feel of resort living.

As a buyer, you will enjoy these facilities and be part of a community.

There are more details to be aware of in the buying process and contract, like common area obligations and community rules. But again, the right legal advice will streamline this process, protect you, and help avoid any potential financial risks.

Bungalow – Bungalows originate in the Bengal region of eastern India. A Bengali-style house usually comprises a small one-story structure with a porch extending from the entrance, providing a shaded area to relax.

Bungalows are the style of the beach house you see in the movies.

Bungalows near the sea are in high demand for their intimate settings. They develop newer upmarket bungalow projects in popular tourist areas with ocean views and modern beach hut themes.

Bungalows in Phuket vary in form, style, and price. Some bungalows are available for foreigners to buy if classed as a condo or apartment. However, many are classed as stand-alone homes and therefore marketed to Thai nationals.

Townhouse – A terraced structure with two or more stories. The Thai variation is known as a “shop house” because they have a shop on the ground floor, with living quarters on the upper floors.

Townhouses and Shop houses are quite common in Thailand. You will often see this style when you walk along the beach-front streets and in the suburbs surrounding Phuket Town.

For a foreigner with a Thai spouse who wants to be in the middle of it all, these properties are appealing. With a smaller land footprint, taxes are lower while offering spacious living conditions and an opportunity to generate income from the shop space if prepared to form a Thai Company.

House & Land – It is possible to own a house in Thailand, but the process is more involved. Under Thai law, a foreigner cannot own land. Any structure built is part of the ‘land’.

Don’t let this deter you. There are several ways you can build your home and own it. The three most common are:

• to lease the land for a period of up to 30 years as a person, Superficies or Usufruct.
• to be married to a Thai National who can own the land.
• to form a Thai Limited company in which you operate a genuine business.

In each of these cases, you will not own the land you build on, but you will own your house.

If you are looking to have more space for the kids and pets, or want to build a home in a quieter area, it is possible, and the right legal help will make it simple.

The Buying Process

It doesn’t matter if you are a seasoned property investor or a first-time buyer, it pays to remember that this is not your home country.

Though many of the laws and processes are the same, you are setting down roots in a country with an unfamiliar language and culture. Don’t worry, there are professionals who can help.

Should you buy an existing condo or off-plan?

One of the most important things to be aware of when buying a condominium in Phuket is that they offer most on a leasehold basis.

Phuket is a tourist-based economy and its property ownership reflects this. Most condominiums offer a guaranteed rental income, which is great for investors. But many complexes do not offer owners permanent residence.

Contracts will note time periods that owners can stay at the property for free or pay special rates. This cost will be on top of your purchase price.

Before you look at the buying process, there are a few questions you need to ask.

As we are looking at condominiums in this article, you need to ask yourself,

“What do I want to buy?”

Pre-owned

Pre-owned condominiums will give you a variety of choices and locations. Because they are not brand new, you will find a condo that suits your budget. Existing condos will have an established management team and Juristic person.

Newly completed

The joy of being the first person to walk through the door. A newly completed condominium will have appliances and furnishing of a more modern design.

Developers are responsible by law for any defects or structural repairs needed in the first five years of completion. This offers a level of security for your purchase.

Off-the-plan

There are risks and advantages to buying off-plan in a new development.

An off-plan project will often have an extended payment schedule with final payment due at the time of completion. This allows buyers time to save.

Developers are often seeking investment in their projects, so may offer a competitive purchase price. That said, because developers are working for a budget, you may find it does not incline them to negotiate the price.

49% of condominiums are allocated for foreign ownership. If buying off-plan, you know you are eligible to purchase.

A common risk is, “What if the project doesn’t complete?”

It is paramount to seek legal advice before signing an off-plan contract. Your lawyer will make sure that all relevant conditions are in place should the developer (or you) default as per the contract.

Another thing to be aware of is furnishing. New developments will have a show unit. However, not all units include furniture and appliances. It is important to confirm if they include furnishings in your contract price, or if this will be an extra cost.

Once you have decided what type of condominium you want, it is time to enlist the help of a law firm in Phuket.

Do your homework

You must research.

There is a wealth of knowledge on the internet. Conducting your own research will highlight areas, price ranges, and developers, and give you a visual of what is available in the market right now.

During your research, you should not only be aware of places you might buy but also other development plans.

You may find the perfect location to suit your budget, only to discover there is a fresh development scheduled for next year and your stunning ocean view will become a cement wall.

As noted above, Phuket is investing in infrastructure. This is great news for tourism and location accessibility, but as a buyer, you need to know how this infrastructure might affect you.

Will your secluded condo now sit beside a tunnel entrance?

Will there be more traffic flow and congestion outside your condo?

This is not to put you off buying your slice of paradise but to highlight that there is a lot happening, and doing some initial research will save you time in the long run.

So in this article, you are looking to buy a condo. A piece of Thai property you can own outright and call your own.

Here are some popular real estate sites to help get you started:

Siam Real Estate – Siam Real Estate has all the latest offerings.

FazWaz – FazWaz is a great resource for new and existing developments.

Phuket 9 – Phuket 9 is a great overview of completed and current development projects.

With keyword searches (nature, beach, history, nightlife, dining), you can discover areas that offer what you want.

We will cover some popular areas, their highlights, and attractions below.

Once you know areas and have a list of potentials, it is time to find a good real estate agent.

Your Real Estate Agent

Reputation and “keeping face” are important in Thai culture. A trusted agent will be your language and cultural liaison who is worth their weight in silver.

A knowledgeable agent knows the best existing property opportunities and upcoming developments. They will have a diverse network across the city.

A reputable agent works in the best interest of you and the seller.

An efficient agent saves you time and money.

Now that you have found the perfect place and negotiated a good price for your dream, it is time to remove the rose-colored glasses.

Remember that no matter how good your agent is, they are not an expert in Thai property law. You should never sign the dotted line until you enlist the help of a Thai Law Professional.

Your Property Lawyer (Conveyancer)

If you weigh your agent in silver, then your lawyer is worth gold. A trusted law firm will save you time, prevent frustration, and help you avoid potential financial loss or litigation. They are the experts.

A reputable law firm will remain impartial through the law while protecting your interests.

What Does Your Lawyer Do?

During the buying process, they will:

• Investigate under due diligence. This involves researching the background and history of sellers, development companies, buildings, and potential legal complications with any of the above.
• Conduct Title Searches to confirm legitimacy. This includes confirming title details match registered Land Office records; that the seller legally owns the property and is entitled to sell; and that there are no existing mortgages, liens, debts, or legal proceedings held against the property.
• Review contracts (Purchase & Sales Agreement) to ensure all details are correct and fair for the seller and the buyer.

Unlike contracts in Western culture, which are dry, detailed, and list numbers, many contractual agreements in Thailand focus on the relationship between buyer and seller. Think of it as the “Gentleman’s Agreement” or “Handshake deal”.

Unfortunately, this means they may omit several important conditions or clauses. Your property lawyer will translate and advise important conditions you should include to protect yourself.

• Reconcile transfer and payment of funds.

In any property transaction, the most important aspect is money. We will dissect this further, but your lawyer will confirm what monies are due (including registration, default clauses, and fees); which party pays the money and fees; and how funds are to be paid (payment schedules).

Your lawyer will make sure that all payments and time-frames are fair for both parties and scrutinize any hidden or ongoing costs with you.

• Attend settlement and registration of title at the Land Office.

Your lawyer will give and receive all relevant documents at the time of settlement. They can then act as your liaison with the Thai Land Office to register and file all documents, and pay the fees and taxes as per your contract.

• Help protect your asset.

A trusted Legal firm can help you look to the future.

What happens in the worst-case scenario of your passing?

We often create a will in our home country to ensure our estate in the event of death. Thailand does not recognize foreign wills and can be contested in Court.

A Thai lawyer can help draft a Will that is recognized in Thailand. Though it is not part of the buying process, it is an important aspect that is often overlooked when we think of protecting assets and providing for our spouse or dependents.

Signing the Contract

Your property agent has found you the perfect condo and helped you negotiate a purchase price.

Your lawyer has conducted due diligence, completed title searches, and reviewed your contract and everything is acceptable.

What happens now?

Review the payment schedule, pay your deposit and sign the contract.

Before paying any money, be aware that as a foreign investor, you must present evidence that your purchase funds originate from outside Thailand.

All funds must be in foreign currency and show a clear paper trail of where the funds come from (withdrawal from the originating bank), the purpose of the funds (purchase of condominium), and proof of currency conversion in the recipient Thai Bank account (Foreign Exchange Form).

Payment Schedule:
Your contract will list the amounts and time frames for all payments. This will include the deposit, the balance of purchase, applicable Government fees & taxes, as well as who is responsible for any payments.

Deposit:
A deposit is paid before finalizing the contract. It is 10-15% of the purchase price but can sometimes be as high as 25%.

Balance:
The purchase balance is paid at the time of settlement unless otherwise specified in the payment schedule.

When purchasing off-plan, the payment schedule may differ with several payments made at certain stages of construction.

Government Fees:
Government fees are paid when documents are registered with the Thai Land Office. The fees depend on property value.

There are 3 types of value given to a property when calculating Government fees and taxes:

• Registered Value (Purchase price registered with the Land Office).
• Assessed Value (property value assessed by the Land Office).
• Market Value (often determined by real estate and current market trends).

Transfer fee: 2% of the registered value of the property

Stamp Duty:  0.5% of registered value. Only payable if exempt from business tax.

Withholding tax: 1% of the appraised value or registered sale value of the property (whichever is higher and if the seller is a company). If the seller is an individual, withholding tax calculates at a progressive rate based on the appraisal value of the property.

Business tax*: 3.3% of the appraised value or registered sale value of the property (whichever is higher). This applies to both individuals and companies.

*This tax is payable if the property has been owned for less than 5 years as is often the case in new developments.

Who pays?

 Settlement

Your property lawyer will attend settlement for you. Final balances and payments are disbursed for the purchase and all documents are registered at the local Thai Land Office.

Your lawyer will handle the registration and payment of all applicable fees at the Land Office.

With completed off-plan development, the Thai Government & Environmental departments conduct assessments before they issue the title for registration. They should complete these assessments before settlement takes place.

Where to Buy in Phuket?

Despite its small geographical footprint, Phuket is a rich and diverse place that spoils you for choice.

Below we list popular areas to buy and try to highlight an existing condo, new condo, and development under construction in each area.

Phuket Town

Contrary to popular belief, Phuket Town is one of the least “touristy” areas on the island. It is busy during the day, but at night, you will find many businesses close quite early.

Phuket Town is a blend of Thai history, culture, and beautiful old-world colonial architecture. You will find cheap street food, local bars, markets, temples and museums.

Existing – With the return of investment in Phuket, Phuket Town does not offer many existing condominiums opportunities right now.

New – The Base Central

Completed: 2020
Units: 590
Developer: Sansiri
Price range: 2,600,000 – 6,000,000

A low-rise complex in the heart of Phuket Town. The Base is a blend of traditional local and Chinese culture. Their condos are furnished and range from 25sqm – 75sqm.

It features beautiful gardens, swimming pool, gym, reception, 24-hour security and key card access.

Off-plan – No fresh developments are scheduled right now.

Nai Yang

Existing – Royal Lee The Terminal Phuket

Completed: 2017
Units: 513
Developer: Phuket Sirinath Property Co., LTD
Price range: 2,900,000 – 4,000,000

5 minutes from Phuket airport, 5 minutes to Nai Yang beach, and a 30-minute drive to Phuket Town. Every unit has a panoramic view of lush lawns and a lake.

Studio condos start at 37 sqm and offer an 8% guaranteed rental income for 3 years.

It features a top-rated management team, gym, pool, furnishings, 24-hour security, and an onsite shopping mall and offices.

New – The Title Residencies

Completed: 2018
Units: 472
Developer: Rhom Bho Property PLC
Price range: 2,500,000 – 7,200,000

A blend of modern design, vintage style, and warm colors. The Title is unusual for Phuket as they decorated it with red brick and look more like a medieval castle than a modern Asian condominium.

It features a recreation area, modern gym, saunas, pool (with pirate ship!), play area, restaurant, parking, and 24-hour security.

Off-plan – Beachfront Bliss

Completion: 2023
Units: 96
Developer: Ten Trillion Co., LTD
Price range:

Beachfront panoramic views. Beachfront Bliss’ goal is to offer “a new dimension of relaxation that meets any lifestyle need.”

It features a clubhouse and dining room, fitness center, and infinity pool. The project offers a guaranteed 6% rental return for 10 years and 30 days free stay/year.

Kamala

Kamala is a close-knit beach community that offers peace and quiet amidst beaches and jungles. Many consider Kamala as a place to move to for life.

Deserted island vibes do not mean you won’t find amazing local markets, fresh cuisine, and nightlife.

Existing – Citygate

Completed: 2019
Units: 374
Developer: Citygate Exclusive Development Co., Ltd
Price range: 4,400,000 – 9,800,000

Citygate’s goal was to create a mixed-use complex. All living qualities in one place. You can take advantage of its residential zone, restaurants, shopping facilities, and medical center. It is located close to the famous Kamala Beach and entertainment areas.

The complex is low set, with furnished, studio-style units. It offers a 7% rental guarantee for 5 years.

It features a lobby, infinity pool with sundecks, rooftop restaurant, sky lounge, gym, yoga, and dance studio, spa, library, meeting room, and general medical services, dentists, and aesthetic clinics from the Bangkok Hospital Group. There are also detox and anti-aging health center services.

New – ADM Platinum Bay

Completion: March 2022
Units: 432
Developer: New World ADM Platinum
Price range: 2,800,000 (prices will change as later stages become available)

ADM Platinum is available for foreigner quota under leasehold. Every unit has panoramic sea views with a mountainous backing and comes furnished. Aimed at every lifestyle, it offers children facilities for families.

Facilities include a lobby, rooftop pool, waterfall pool, children’s pool, sky Bar, gym, spa, yoga studio, rooftop garden, restaurant, parking, and 24-hour CCTV security.

Off-plan – Kamala Bay Ocean View Cottages

Completion: Dec 2022
Units: 300
Developer: Phuket Holiday Services (PHS)
Price range: 5,900,000 (prices will change as later stages become available)

The Ocean View Cottages are a unique development project. Bungalow-style villas blend tropical and contemporary architecture with the elegant decoration. Each villa has a unique panoramic view of the deep blue Andaman sea.

Enjoy your private jacuzzi in a lush, natural environment.

The project offers a guaranteed 7% rental return for 15 years and a buy-back option.

Facilities include a lobby, pool, lounge, gym, Wi-Fi, spa, shuttle service, parking, and 24-hour CCTV security.

Bang Tao

Existing: Diamond Condominium Bang Tao

Completed: 2018
Units: 295
Developer: Silk Projects Co., LTD
Price range: 4,000,000 – 28,000,000

With a simple walk to Bang Tao Beach, you can have a perfect vacation with access to local shopping centers, shops, restaurants, nightlife, and entertainment.

Diamond is close to Porto de Phuket – a new lifestyle shopping mall, and Laguna Phuket Golf Club.

The complex offers a guaranteed rental return of 7% for 3 years.

It features a fitness center, gardens, parking, swimming pool, jacuzzi, BBQ area, shuttle bus service, Wi-Fi, and CCTV security.

New: Sole Mio

Completed: 2021
Units: 124
Developer: Railand Property International
Price range: 3.600,000 – 6,500,000

Sole Mio is a resort style condominium and sold as leasehold. They modelled its design as a cruise ship which features a large infinity pool on the rooftop ‘deck’.

Sole Mio offers both lifestyle and investment opportunities with a guaranteed 7% rental return for 15 years.

It features a rooftop pool, gym, full furnishings, on-site restaurant, bar, sauna & massage facilities, children’s area, and 24-hour CCTV security.

Off-plan – Sky Park

Completion: April 2022
Units: 400
Developer: Laguna Property
Price range: 3,800,000 – 5,300,000

Nestled in lush nature, you will enjoy a magnificent view of Laguna Phuket Golf Course and the Andaman Sea.

The complex offers 1 & 2-bedroom units with living, dining, kitchen, ensuite, and balconies.

It features a reception and management team, gardens, a communal pool, on-site restaurants, a gym, 24-hour CCTV security, and parking.

Patong

If you are seeking the famous Phuket excitement, then Patong is the place to look. It is well known for its beach parties, bars, restaurants, cabaret shows, markets, and nightlife.

Patong may be one of the most ‘touristy’ areas of Phuket, but it will never bore you as you bask on beautiful Patong Beach.

Because of its tourist reputation, there are many complexes available for purchase with foreign quota, but they sell most units as leasehold.

Existing – Bayshore Ocean View

Completed: 2014
Units: 138
Developer: Bayshore Ocean View Co., LTD
Price range: 1,600,000 – 12,000,000

A close walk to all of Patong’s best nightlife and entertainment areas, Bayshore is in a quiet, out-of-the-way soi. This allows privacy in an otherwise busy area and may be perfect for families.

Standing on a hillside, it offers beautiful balcony views of the beach and night lights. The rooms are furnished and have large windows to provide excellent sea breeze ventilation.

It features a swimming pool, pool bar, restaurant, Wi-Fi, sauna, gym, parking, shuttle bus, and 24-hour CCTV security.

New – Patong Bay Sea View Residence

Completion: Dec 2022
Units: 454
Developer: Phuket Holiday Services (PHS)
Price range: 3,400,000 – 3,500,000

Enjoy sunset ocean views and privacy. This complex is a modern, tropical design with interiors decorated with natural materials and warm color schemes.

The condos are furnished and modern. They have a private jacuzzi and pool.

The property offers a 7% rental guarantee, a 10-year buyback option, and is sold as a leasehold.

It features a lobby, management team, parking, gardens, pool, gym, living room, restaurant, Wi-Fi, shuttle service, and 24-hour CCTV security.

Off-plan – Paradise Beach Residence

Completion: Dec 2023
Units: 1152
Developer: Phuket Holiday Services (PHS)
Price range: 2,800,000 (prices will change as later stages become available)

Next to the famous Paradise Beach, it is a beautiful, quiet area that offers many adventure activities like kayaking and beach volleyball.

Surrounded by tropical plants and spacious common areas, you will have a garden, pool, and sea view. Units on the second floor include a private jacuzzi.

The complex offers a 7% rental return for 15 years and owner VIP benefits at local bars and restaurants. They do not charge owners CAM, water or maintenance fees.

Facilities include a lobby, management team, gym, sauna, jacuzzi, gardens, pool, Kids Club, on-site restaurant, conference room, parking, shuttle bus, and 24-hour CCTV security.

Other popular areas to research for potential investment opportunities are:

• Kata
• Karon
• Paklok
• Rawai

Land Department Offices (including address)

Though you will have a reliable conveyance lawyer to help with your purchase and registration, it’s good to know where your local Land Office is. Here is a list of the Phuket Land offices and their contact details.

Phuket Provincial Land Office

Address: 36 Damrong Rd, Tambon Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000
Hours: Mon-Fri 08:30 – 16:30
Phone: +6676212103
Web: www.dol.go.th

Phuket Land Office

Address: Highway 4029, Kathu, 83000 Kathu, Phuket, 83120
Hours: Mon-Fri 08:30 – 16:30

Thalang Provincial Land Office

Address: 1/348 ม.1 ต Thepkrasatree Rd, Thalang District, Phuket 83110
Hours: Mon-Fri 08:30 – 16:30
Phone: +6676311617
Web: www.dol.go.th

Wrap up

There is a lot of information above. Overloaded with options, here is a simple breakdown of your process.

• Ask yourself questions about what you want.
• Conduct your own research.
• Be aware of areas and potential future developments.
• Hire a good real estate agent.
• View potential properties.
• Hire good legal advice before signing any contracts.
• Sign your contract and pay a deposit.
• Settle and pay balances.
• Register your property with legal aid.
• Enjoy your fresh slice of Phuket paradise.

Property Lawyers or Conveyancing Lawyers

Reputable legal advice is essential if you are thinking of purchasing your dream in Thailand. Versed in Thai law, a qualified property lawyer will advise and support you through the buying process, dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s.

Siam Legal is a registered legal firm with over 17 years of property conveyancing experience. Their team has offices in the key areas of Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, and Phuket, and are well versed in their local areas.

You can contact the Siam Legal (Phuket) office at:
Address: 123 / 27-28 Moo 5, Bangtao Place T. Cherngtalay, A. Thalang, Phuket 83110
Office Hours: 09 AM – 6 PM
Phone: +6684 021 9800
Website: www.siam-legal.com