🏡 Koh Samui Property Buyers Guide - Everything you need to know - without the fluff.
🌴 Why Buy on Koh Samui?
Koh Samui continues to attract buyers from all over the world — and for good reason. Whether you're looking for a lifestyle change, a smart investment, or a holiday home you can rent out when you're not here, Samui offers a lot more than just stunning views.
A thriving expat and tourism destination with strong rental demand
Diverse range of locations and property types — from peaceful beachfront to buzzing nightlife
Affordable cost of living compared to most Western countries
International-standard hospitals, dental clinics, and other healthcare
Excellent range of restaurants, cafes, and services
Good English spoken in most areas
Strong long-term capital growth potential as the island develops further
🧾 Property Ownership Options
Foreigners can own property in Thailand, but the structure matters. It’s important to understand the difference between land ownership and building or apartment ownership. Here are the main options:
Chanote (Freehold title) – You own the land and the building outright. The most secure form of ownership but, requires expert legal support.
Leasehold (Long-term lease) – Usually 30 years, often renewable. Common for foreigners and still widely used.
Condo Freehold (Foreign Quota) – Foreigners can own up to 49% of the total unit area in a registered condo development.
There’s something for every buyer — but each comes with its own considerations.
Apartments – Often part of a managed complex. May include shared facilities and services.
Villas – Standalone or within gated developments. Vary widely in style and build quality.
Land – Foreigners can’t own land directly but can lease or purchase through a Thai company with proper legal structure. Complex, but possible.
🏘️ Types of Property on Koh Samui
⚠️ Pitfalls to Watch Out For
Not everything on Samui is sunshine, pools and sea views. Here’s what to look out for:
Unlicensed or unqualified agents – Many “agents” are not officially registered or tied to an agency. Stick with someone reputable (like me!).
Poor quality construction – Looks great today, but may fall apart tomorrow. Always inspect carefully or use a qualified inspector.
Hidden issues – Things like unclear land access, private electricity schemes, inconsistent water supply, or unregistered ownership structures.
Excessive property management fees – Check contracts and monthly costs before committing.
Lack of proper body corporate management – Some developments lack financial transparency or basic governance.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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.
Can I own land as a foreigner?
Not directly, but many foreigners lease land long-term or use Thai companies. The key is having strong legal protection.
What paperwork protects my ownership?
A proper sale and purchase agreement, lease registration (if applicable), due diligence on the land title (Chanote preferred), and legal support throughout the process.
Can I get a mortgage in Thailand?
It’s very limited for foreigners. Most purchases are cash, but some banks offer financing with strict conditions.
How are payments structured in new developments?
Typically staged based on build progress — e.g. deposit, foundation, structure, completion. Always check the developer's reputation and ask what happens if they go bust.
What’s a Blue Book and do I need one?
The "Tabien Baan" (Blue Book) is a household registration document. Not essential for ownership but helpful for visas and certain services.
Can I rent out my villa or apartment?
Yes. Many owners rent short-term or long-term. Some developments allow self-management, others require using their service.
What kind of rental return can I expect?
Depends on location, season, and marketing. A well-located villa or apartment can generate 6–10% annually with good management.