Is It Wise to Buy Property in Thailand? A 2025 Investor's Guide
Thailand’s property market continues to draw global attention in 2025, thanks to its lifestyle appeal, international accessibility, and wide variety of real estate offerings. But as the market matures and competition intensifies across Southeast Asia, many are asking: Is buying property in Thailand still a wise move?
If you’re investing smartly, with the right guidance, the answer is a confident yes.
Why Property Buyers Still Favour Thailand
Lifestyle Meets Accessibility
From the beachside calm of Phuket to the urban energy of Bangkok, the cultural richness of Chiang Mai, and the coastal vibrancy of Pattaya or Hua Hin, Thailand offers lifestyle diversity that few regional markets can match. This variety allows buyers to align their personal goals with their investment strategy.
Entry Points for All Budgets
Thailand offers real estate across a wide pricing spectrum. Condos in Bangkok or Chiang Mai can start from around THB 2.2 million / £50,000, while resort-style villas in Phuket or Samui typically begin at THB 5–8 million / £110,000–£180,000, depending on quality and location.
Strong Tourism-Driven Rental Demand
Thailand welcomed over 28 million international visitors in 2023 and is on track for even more in 2025. That supports consistent demand for both short-term and long-stay rentals, especially in high-traffic areas like Phuket, Pattaya, and Bangkok. Alestria’s curated projects often come with property management and rental programs, streamlining ownership for overseas clients.
Legal and Developer Maturity
While Thai property law has its nuances, the market now supports a strong network of trusted developers, legal advisors, and agents who cater specifically to foreign buyers. Through our partner network, buyers benefit from contract reviews, due diligence, ownership registration, and structured purchase models that align with Thai law.
Key Considerations and Legal Realities
Foreign Ownership Rules
Foreigners can own freehold condos outright (up to 49% of the building’s area). For villas or landed property, the most common legal route is long-term leasehold (typically 30 years with renewals).
Some buyers have used structured ownership via Thai majority companies, but this approach now carries legal risk. Thai law prohibits nominee arrangements, and enforcement has increased. If using a Thai company, it must be operational and not a shell, making this method suitable only in limited, well-advised cases.
Alternatively, developer-backed hybrid models, such as leasehold with shared freehold through a holding company, can offer legal and practical security when vetted by experienced lawyers.
Short-Term Rental Regulations
In cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, daily rentals in residential condos are restricted under the Hotel Act unless the building has a hotel licence. Enforcement of these rules has increased. By contrast, villas and licensed developments in tourist zones like Phuket are often legally positioned for short-term rental use. Projects in our portfolio are selected with these compliance factors in mind.
Market Conditions by Region
Some parts of Bangkok have experienced softer resale demand, especially in overbuilt segments. But demand in prime locations near BTS/MRT lines remains stable. Meanwhile, Phuket, Pattaya, and emerging markets like Hua Hin and Samui are seeing renewed interest thanks to lifestyle migration, infrastructure upgrades, and recovering tourism.
How Thailand Compares in the Region
Malaysia: Strong legal clarity, residency programs like MM2H, but more suburban and business-oriented.
Vietnam: High-growth potential but restrictive and less transparent legal access for foreign buyers.
Indonesia: Bali remains lifestyle-driven, but land ownership structures are complex and evolving.
Thailand offers a middle ground: a lifestyle-rich destination with increasingly solid legal infrastructure, especially for condo buyers and leasehold villa investors.
Final Verdict: Wise to Buy - If You Buy Smart
Thailand remains a compelling destination for overseas property investment in 2025. Whether you’re after a vacation home, a rental income stream, or a long-term base for semi-retirement, there are opportunities across the country.
The key is buying wisely and legally, by working with experienced legal teams and selecting developments that are designed with foreign buyers in mind.
Through Alestria’s network, you gain access to vetted properties, legal support, and market insight across Thailand’s best locations, from Phuket’s beaches to Bangkok’s city hubs, and everything in between.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
Whether you're considering a beachfront villa in Phuket, a rental-ready condo in Bangkok, or a cultural escape in Chiang Mai, we’re here to help.
Browse our curated listings or speak with a property specialist to find the right opportunity, secure, legal, and tailored to your goals.
