Educational Information Only
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Condo Purchase Checklist for Foreigners in Thailand
Essential documents and steps for buying a condominium as a foreign national.
Document Checklist
Verify building foreign ownership quota (under 49%)
Check with the Juristic Person (condo management) BEFORE making an offer.
Hire an independent Thai lawyer
Conduct title deed (Chanote) verification at Land Office
Check for liens, mortgages, or legal disputes on the unit
Sign reservation agreement and pay deposit (1-5%)
Review and sign Sale and Purchase Agreement
Transfer purchase funds from abroad (CRITICAL)
Funds MUST come from a foreign bank account — the receiving Thai bank issues FETF/Thor Tor 3.
Obtain Foreign Exchange Transaction Form (FETF/Thor Tor 3)
This document is REQUIRED at the Land Office for foreign ownership registration.
Attend Land Office transfer with seller
Pay transfer taxes and fees (2-6% of purchase price)
Receive new Chanote in your name
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not checking the foreign ownership quota BEFORE making an offer.
Using THB from a Thai bank account instead of transferring from abroad — Land Office will reject.
Relying solely on the developer's lawyer instead of hiring independent counsel.
Not getting the FETF (Thor Tor 3) from the bank — it's the single most critical document.
Helpful Tips
The FETF must match the exact purchase price — discrepancies cause problems.
Keep ALL banking documentation — you'll need it if you ever sell.
Transfer fees: 2% transfer fee + 0.5% stamp duty (negotiable who pays).
Off-plan purchases carry developer default risk — research the developer thoroughly.
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