Why You Need a Thai Lawyer When Buying a Condo in Thailand

 

Buying a condo in Thailand is a big step, and if you’re an expat, navigating the process can be a little tricky. While it might seem like having an agent on your side is enough, keep in mind that agents typically work for the seller. Their commission—usually around 3% of the sale price—is paid by the seller, which means their primary obligation is to get the best deal for their client, not necessarily you.

That’s why having a dedicated Thai lawyer is so important. At Sukhothai Interlaw, we make sure your interests are fully protected. Our job is to carefully review the Sale and Purchase Agreement (SPA) and ensure that everything is fair and transparent. This way, you won’t find yourself caught off guard by any hidden clauses or unfavorable terms.

Another critical role we play is making sure that the property’s documents are in order. We verify that the seller has legitimate ownership and that the condo is clear of any legal issues. This step is especially important for foreign buyers because the regulations can be a bit different. Typically, foreigners need to show a Foreign Exchange Transaction Form (FET) from a Thai bank as proof that the money used to buy the condo was transferred from overseas. However, if you’re working for a Board of Investment (BOI) company, you’ll need an E-Land letter issued by the BOI instead. It’s a small but crucial difference, and it’s a process we’re very familiar with.

For many of our foreign clients, handling everything alone can feel overwhelming. That’s why we often suggest granting Power of Attorney, so we can represent you at the Land Department and take care of the title transfer. It saves you time and spares you the hassle of dealing with local authorities on your own.

With over 30 years of experience in property law, Sukhothai Interlaw has helped many expats confidently navigate Thailand’s real estate market. Whether it’s reviewing contracts, negotiating terms, or ensuring smooth payments and escrows, we’ve got you covered.

If you’d like to know more about how we can assist you, feel free to reach out:

Address: 17 Chan 35, Chan Road, Sathorn, Bangkok 10120, Thailand
Phone: +662 212 6866-7
Fax: +662 213 3124
Email: it@sukhothaiinterlaw.com
Website: www.sukhothaiinterlaw.com