Buyer's Guide
Buy Property in Phuket and Krabi
Find the ideal property with the help of our local experts. Full support from search to signing — in Phuket and Krabi.
Complete Guide
Why buy property in Phuket and Krabi?
Phuket and Krabi have become two of the most sought-after real estate destinations in Southeast Asia. Whether you're looking for a holiday home, a rental investment, or a property for relocation, these two regions offer unique opportunities combining yield, lifestyle, and long-term capital appreciation. With over 200 properties in our portfolio — pool villas, sea-view condos, and buildable land — JLT Estate supports you at every step of your acquisition project.
A growing market
Phuket and Krabi have seen steady property appreciation of 5–8% per year, driven by tourism, infrastructure development and a growing expat community.
A safe environment
Thailand offers a stable legal framework for property acquisition, with proven mechanisms for foreign buyers (condominium freehold, leasehold, Thai company structure).
Excellent connectivity
Phuket and Krabi International Airports connect the region directly to many Asian and European hubs, ensuring easy travel and strong rental demand.
An exceptional lifestyle
Paradise beaches, lush mountains, rich culture and affordable cost of living — Phuket and Krabi combine quality of life with wealth-building investment.
Our method
The buying process in 6 steps
From the first contact to the handover of keys, we guide you at every step with transparency and professionalism.
Defining your criteria
We discuss your goals: property type (villa, condo, land), location (Phuket or Krabi), budget, number of bedrooms, sea view, pool, etc. This step ensures we target properties truly suited to your project.
Tailored selection
Our team curates a selection of properties matching your criteria, including off-market listings not visible on public portals. You receive a detailed dossier for each property (photos, floor plans, condition, price).
On-site or virtual viewings
We arrange viewings of selected properties, either during a visit to Phuket or Krabi, or via a guided virtual tour by video call. We analyze each property with you: build quality, surroundings, rental potential.
Negotiation and offer
Once the property is identified, we negotiate price and purchase terms on your behalf. Our knowledge of the local market allows us to secure the best conditions. The offer is formalized through a sale agreement.
Legal support
We coordinate the legal aspects with our partner law firm: title deed verification (Chanote), due diligence, acquisition structure (freehold, leasehold, Thai company), fund transfer from abroad. Our teams in both Phuket and Krabi ensure local follow-up.
Signing and handover
The final signing takes place at the Phuket Land Office. The title deed is transferred to your name, transfer taxes are paid, and you receive the keys to your new property. We remain available for any further needs.
Which property type?
Villa, condo or land: which is right for you?
Each property type has its advantages and legal specifics. Here is a guide to help you orient your search.
The Pool Villa
The private pool villa is the most sought-after property type in Phuket and Krabi. Ideal as a family residence or a high-end rental investment (short-term rental). Villas are found across all areas, from Phuket's west coast beaches (Bang Tao, Surin, Kamala) to the quieter south (Rawai, Nai Harn), as well as in Krabi (Ao Nang, Tubkaek).
Advantages
- Standalone property with private land
- High short-term rental potential (Airbnb, Booking)
- Private pool and outdoor living spaces
- Long-term appreciation in prime areas
Ownership
Acquired through a Thai company (majority Thai ownership) or as a 30-year renewable leasehold.
The Condominium
The condo is the only property type that allows a foreigner to acquire freehold ownership in their personal name, up to 49 % of the building's units. It is the simplest and safest option for a first purchase. Condos range from studios to sea-view penthouses.
Advantages
- Personal freehold ownership (up to 49 % of building)
- Simplified and fast purchase process
- Included amenities and security (pool, gym, reception)
- Ideal for long-term rental investment
Ownership
Direct freehold in your name (within the 49 % quota) or 30-year leasehold.
Buildable Land
Buying land to build a custom villa is an attractive option, especially in Thalang, Rawai, Phuket's east coast, or in Krabi. Note: a foreigner cannot own land freehold in their own name. Construction must comply with local zoning rules and requires a Chanote title (Nor Sor 4 Jor).
Advantages
- Full customization of your future villa
- Often lower cost per sqm than a turnkey villa
- Choice of location and orientation
- Good appreciation if the land is well-located
Ownership
Through a Thai company or leasehold. Chanote title (Nor Sor 4 Jor) is essential.
Legal aspects
Buying as a foreigner: the legal guide
Thai law regulates property acquisition by foreigners, in Phuket as well as in Krabi. Understanding the different ownership structures is essential to securing your investment. Our partner lawyers advise you on the optimal solution based on your situation.
Freehold condominium ownership
The Thai Condominium Act allows foreigners to own a condo in freehold in their own name, up to 49 % of the units in a single building. This is the most secure and straightforward form of ownership for a foreign buyer. The title deed (Chanote) is issued in your name at the Land Office.
Leasehold structure
Leasehold is a 30-year lease registered at the Land Office, renewable twice for a potential total of 90 years (30+30+30). It allows a foreigner to control land or a villa without owning the title deed. The lease must be registered to be legally enforceable and secure.
Thai company (Co., Ltd.)
To acquire a villa or land in freehold, it is common to set up a Thai Private Limited Company held 49 % by the foreigner and 51 % by Thai shareholders. The foreigner retains control through preference shares and tailored articles of association. This structure must serve a genuine business purpose and not be a mere shell.
Acquisition fees and taxes
Acquisition costs amount to approximately 6–8 % of the sale price: transfer fee (2 %), stamp duty (0.5 %), specific business tax (3.3 %), and withholding tax. These fees are typically shared between buyer and seller according to local customs.
⚠️ Important note: The information provided here is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Thai legislation may change. We recommend consulting a specialized lawyer before any acquisition. JLT Estate works with partner law firms to secure every transaction.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Answers to the most common questions from our buyer clients.
Yes. A foreigner can acquire a condominium in freehold in their own name, up to 49 % of the units in a single building. For a villa or land, other structures are required (Thai company or leasehold). JLT Estate and its partner lawyers will guide you to the most suitable solution, in Phuket as well as in Krabi.
Prices vary by type and location. A condo starts around 2–3 million THB (≈ $55,000–$85,000). A pool villa ranges from 5 to 30 million THB (≈ $140,000–$830,000) depending on location and standard. Buildable land starts at approximately 3 million THB per rai (1,600 sqm). Prices in Krabi are generally 10–20% lower than in Phuket.
Plan for approximately 6–8 % of the sale price for taxes and Land Office transfer fees. If you use a Thai company, add company setup and annual management costs (≈ 30,000–50,000 THB/year). JLT Estate's fees are included in the property price.
A freehold condo purchase can be completed in 4–8 weeks. For a villa through a Thai company, expect 8–12 weeks (company setup, due diligence, transfer). Transferring funds from abroad via a Thai bank (FET form) is a key step in the timeline.
Mortgages for foreigners are rare in Thailand. A few banks offer financing to residents with a minimum down payment of 30–50 %. Most acquisitions are cash purchases. Financing through your home country bank may be possible if you have sufficient collateral.
Gross rental yields range from 4 to 8 % depending on property type and location. Short-term villa rentals (Airbnb, Booking) can generate higher returns (6–10 %) but require active management. Long-term condo rentals offer more stable income (4–6 %).
Physical presence at the Land Office is recommended for the final signing, whether in Phuket or Krabi. If you cannot travel, you can grant power of attorney to a representative to sign on your behalf. Property viewings can be done virtually beforehand.
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