Skip to main content

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

Location: Ko Samui, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Why You Need a Medical Certificate to Work in Thailand

  If you’re planning to work in Thailand, you might have heard that you need a medical certificate to get or renew your work permit. Many people wonder why this is necessary. Simply put, Thailand has regulations to ensure that the workplace remains safe and healthy. Under the Foreigners’ Working Management Emergency Decree, anyone who wants to work in Thailand must show that they are in good health. This means you need a medical certificate that proves you don’t have any serious health issues that could affect you or those around you at work. Specifically, the certificate must confirm that you do not have a mental illness and are free from six particular health conditions: Leprosy  – A chronic infectious disease that can lead to severe disfigurement. Tuberculosis (TB)  – A serious infectious disease that mainly affects the lungs. Drug Addiction  – Dependence on illegal or prescription drugs. Alcoholism  – Addiction to alcohol, which can affect work performance a...
Post a Comment
Read more

Inheritance Law: What Happens to Your Thai Condo If You Pass Away?

  It is a question no one likes to ask, but every smart investor   must   answer:   “If I pass away tomorrow, what happens to my property in Thailand?” You might assume it automatically goes to your spouse or children, just like back home. In Thailand, it does not. Without the right legal structure, your dream condo could be seized, your leasehold agreement could be terminated instantly, or your family could be forced to sell your assets within one year. At  Sukhothai Inter Law , we specialize in securing not just your visa, but your legacy. Today, we are breaking down  Thailand property inheritance law  and explaining how the  New Thailand Investment Visa  (specifically the  Invest THB 3M  option) can play a vital role in protecting your family’s future. The “1-Year Rule” for Condominiums If you own a freehold condominium in your own name (Foreign Quota), your heirs  can  inherit the title. However, there is a catch that ...
Post a Comment
Read more

How to Apply for a Residence Permit in Thailand

  If you’re planning to make Thailand your long-term home, applying for a residence permit is a crucial step. While the process might seem complicated, breaking it down into manageable steps can help you feel more confident about navigating it. Here’s an easy-to-follow guide on how to get started. Who Can Apply? To be eligible for a Thai residence permit, you need to meet a few basic requirements: Visa Status : You should have a Non-Immigrant Visa and have been living in Thailand for at least three consecutive years using one-year visa extensions. Background Check : If you’re 14 or older, a criminal background check is required. Personal and Financial Details : You’ll need to show information about your income, assets, work history, and family connections in Thailand. Authorities may also consider other factors, like national security. Language Skills : Basic Thai language skills are necessary for the interview process. Application Categories Your application will fall into one of ...
Post a Comment
Read more