Central Property Pattaya

Central Property Pattaya

Your Complete Buyer's Guide to Pattaya

From first search to title deed — everything you need to know about buying property in Thailand, guided by 30 years of local expertise.

The buying process, step by step

Eight clear stages from search to ownership.

01

Define Your Goals

Start by clarifying your budget, preferred property type, and how you plan to use it — personal residence, holiday home, or investment. Knowing your goals shapes every decision that follows.

02

Choose Your Area

Pattaya offers distinct neighbourhoods: Jomtien for a relaxed beach lifestyle, Pratumnak for quiet luxury, Central Pattaya for convenience, and Na Jomtien for premium sea-view estates.

03

Understand Ownership

Foreigners may own condos outright (freehold) up to 49% of a building's total quota. Land is typically held via leasehold (30+30+30 years) or a Thai company structure.

04

Property Search & Viewings

Our team presents a curated shortlist based on your brief. We arrange guided viewings at your pace — never rushed, always informative. Virtual tours are available for overseas buyers.

05

Due Diligence

We verify the title deed (Chanote), check the developer's track record, confirm building permits, and ensure the property is free of any liens or encumbrances before you commit.

06

Offer & Reservation

Once you've found your property, we negotiate on your behalf and draft a Letter of Intent (LOI) with the agreed terms. A reservation deposit (typically 50,000–200,000 THB) secures the unit.

07

Sales & Purchase Agreement

The SPA outlines payment milestones, penalties, and transfer conditions. We recommend having a qualified Thai property lawyer review the contract before signing.

08

Transfer at Land Department

On transfer day, ownership passes officially at the Pattaya Land Department. Transfer taxes and fees are settled, and the title deed (Chanote) is issued in your name.

Understanding ownership in Thailand

Thailand offers three main structures for foreign property ownership. The right choice depends on the property type, your goals, and how long you plan to hold it.

Freehold

Full ownership of the unit registered in your name on the Chanote deed. Available to foreigners for condos within the 49% foreign quota.

Leasehold

Registered long-term lease of 30 years, renewable twice for a potential total of 90 years. Common for land, houses, and villas.

Thai Company

A Thai-registered company (majority Thai shareholders) holds title to land or houses. Requires legal set-up and ongoing compliance. Best done with professional advice.

Thai property ownership

Our recommendation

Always consult a licensed Thai property lawyer before signing any contract.

Budgeting

Transfer taxes & fees to expect

On top of the purchase price, plan for government transfer fees. These vary depending on how long the seller has held the property and the appraised land value.

2%

Transfer fee

of the appraised value

1–3.3%

Withholding tax

seller's tax, often shared

0.5%

Stamp duty

if held 5+ years

3.3%

Specific business tax

if held less than 5 years

Ready to start your search?

Our agents know every neighbourhood, every developer, and every deal in Pattaya. Let us find your perfect property.