Frequently Asked Questions About Property in Koh Samui
💼 Buying Property in Thailand
Can foreigners legally own a villa or apartment in Thailand?
Yes — foreigners can own buildings, including villas and apartments. Land ownership is restricted, but secure alternatives exist, such as leasehold or company structures.
👉 Read our full guide to buying property in Koh Samui →
Can I own land as a foreigner in Thailand?
Not directly. Foreigners cannot own freehold land in their own name — but many lease land long-term (30 years + renewals), or structure ownership via a Thai company.
👉 We explain all the options in our Buying Property Guide →
What paperwork protects my ownership?
For villas or apartments: a proper sale and purchase agreement, due diligence on the land title (Chanote is best), and legal representation. Leaseholds should be registered with the Land Office.
👉 Learn about Chanote titles and legal risks here →
Can I get a mortgage in Thailand as a foreigner?
It’s rare. Most purchases are cash-based. Some Thai banks offer limited financing to foreigners, but with strict terms and high deposit requirements.
👉 Get the full breakdown in our Koh Samui Property Buying Guide →
How are payments structured in new developments?
Typically staged — deposit, foundation, roof, lock-up, completion. Always ask what happens if construction stalls, and research the developer's reputation.
👉 We share our own experience building in Koh Samui →
What’s a Blue Book and do I need one?
The Blue Book ("Tabien Baan") is a household registration document. Foreigners can be listed as occupants but not owners. Not essential, but useful for long-term visa holders.
💰 Investment & Returns
Can I rent out my villa or apartment?
Yes. Most owners rent short-term (holiday lets) or long-term. Some developments require using their rental service; others allow you to self-manage or use an agent.
👉 Explore ownership strategies in our Koh Samui Buying Guide →
What kind of rental return can I expect?
Location, marketing, and seasonality make a huge difference. Some villas yield 6–10% annually — more with good management and solid occupancy.
👉 Learn more in our Investment & Lifestyle article →
🏝️ Living in Koh Samui
How much does it really cost to live in Koh Samui?
Less than most Western cities — but not dirt cheap. Groceries, rent, scooters, massages, gyms, and healthcare all add up. We’ve done the math.
👉 Read our full Cost of Living Guide →
Is Koh Samui safe?
Mostly, yes. Petty theft is rare, violent crime even rarer. The biggest risks? Motorbikes, scams, and property traps.
👉 Our no-nonsense safety guide is here →
What is the healthcare like in Koh Samui?
Quick, clean, and surprisingly affordable — especially for routine care. Several private hospitals, clinics, and dental practices are island-wide.
👉 Here’s what happened when we needed an MRI, a dentist, and a vet →
How do I get around on the island?
Most expats rent or buy scooters. Cars are popular for families. Public transport is limited to songthaews (shared taxis). Driving here takes getting used to.
👉 Read our guide to getting around Koh Samui safely →
Is the internet any good in Thailand?
Yes. Thailand’s internet is fast, cheap, and reliable — often better than New Zealand or Australia.
👉 We break it down in our internet & connectivity post →
What’s it like bringing pets to Koh Samui?
Coming here is easy. Getting them out again — especially to NZ or Australia — is a mission.
👉 Read our real-life pet relocation story →
🌴 General Life & Local Knowledge
Where’s the best place to live on Koh Samui?
It depends on your lifestyle. Chaweng is lively, Lamai is relaxed, Maenam is family-friendly.
👉 Here’s our no-fluff area guide →
Are there dangerous animals or insects in Koh Samui?
Some — but nothing to panic about. Mosquitoes (dengue), jellyfish, the odd snake. Mostly manageable with common sense.
👉 Our bitey things guide is here →
🧭 That’s the lot
Want to know more? Check out all our Moving to Samui blogs here →