5 Things You Should Read Before You Buy A Condo for Sale in Bangkok
Bangkok is one of the most dynamic cities in Asia a place that screams culture, cuisine, commerce, and convenience. Ever since the country’s real estate industry began booming, the trend has been to invest in a condo for sale in Bangkok, whether as a permanent home, a vacation house, or a rental property.
But before you put your signature on the dotted line, here’s what a few things you’ll need to know. Here’s a (not-so-) scary guide of the friendly variety to help you make an intelligent and informed decision.
Learn About Foreign Ownership Laws
If you’re not a Thai national, the first thing to keep in mind is the fact that foreigners can legally own condos in Thailand — but there are a few caveats. Thai legislation permits foreigners to own up to 49% of the total number of condominium units in a project.
So, when you’re looking for a condo for sale in Bangkok, make sure to inquire whether or not the unit is available in foreign quota. If not, you’ll need to look elsewhere or consider leasehold some more.
Location Is Everything
In Bangkok, it’s all about location. Are you looking to live close to public transportation? Are you looking for a quiet neighborhood or a place that’s near nightlife and shopping?
That is Schmerz territory, and it is finding high buyers for its condos in popular neighborhoods throughout the city.
(Vibrant and expat-friendly) Sukhumvit
Downtown — Silom/Sathorn (business district)
Ari (trendy and quieter)
Rama 9 & Ratchada (investment new kids on the block)
The neighborhood you select impacts your lifestyle as well as the resale value and rental potential of your property.
Know What You’re Paying For
Price per square meter can be significantly different because of the location, the age of the building, views, and how the building amenities compare to another. 2.) Central luxury condos might go for around 200,000 THB/m², while bargain outskirts units can be less than 80,000 THB/m².
When investigating buying a condo in Bangkok, be sure to look:
Monthly maintenance fees
Sinking fund (one-time deposit to the building’s reserve fund)
Features are parking and furniture and appliances, etc.
Remember to include transfer costs and taxes — these are typically shared by buyer and seller, at 50/50.
Check the Reputation of the Developer
The developer you buy from makes a difference, whether you are buying off plan or a resale unit. A developer who is trustworthy, a better builder who delivers a better product, less hassle and headache in the long run.
Do a quick background check. Look at their past projects. Are they well-maintained? Were they completed on time? Are the managers responsive?
Remember buying a Thailand condo for sale in Bangkok is not just buying a room, you are buying into an experience.
Looking Forward: Resale and Rental Value
Things can always change, even if you’re someone who buys for personal use today. That’s why it makes a lot of sense to think like an investor. Is the area growing? Is there demand for rentals? Will the condo be easy to resell?
Units close to BTS/MRT stations, international schools, hospitals and lifestyle hubs usually have good rental returns and future appreciation. If you pick the right one, your condo can be a place ‘where your house works for you — instead of just being your house.’
Final Thoughts
The purchase of a condo for sale in Bangkok is a covenant you make, whether it is for your personal lifestyle, your future or your investment portfolio. But as with any major decision, you’ll need to go into the deal with your eyes open.
By knowing the fundamentals such as zoning, pricing, a developer’s reputation and long-term value you’ll be on the right path to finding the perfect space in one of the most exciting cities in Asia.
And don’t forget, you're not just investing in a condo; you're investing in the way you want to live, in Bangkok.
Learn About Foreign Ownership Laws
If you’re not a Thai national, the first thing to keep in mind is the fact that foreigners can legally own condos in Thailand — but there are a few caveats. Thai legislation permits foreigners to own up to 49% of the total number of condominium units in a project.
So, when you’re looking for a condo for sale in Bangkok, make sure to inquire whether or not the unit is available in foreign quota. If not, you’ll need to look elsewhere or consider leasehold some more.
Location Is Everything
In Bangkok, it’s all about location. Are you looking to live close to public transportation? Are you looking for a quiet neighborhood or a place that’s near nightlife and shopping?
That is Schmerz territory, and it is finding high buyers for its condos in popular neighborhoods throughout the city.
(Vibrant and expat-friendly) Sukhumvit
Downtown — Silom/Sathorn (business district)
Ari (trendy and quieter)
Rama 9 & Ratchada (investment new kids on the block)
The neighborhood you select impacts your lifestyle as well as the resale value and rental potential of your property.
Know What You’re Paying For
Price per square meter can be significantly different because of the location, the age of the building, views, and how the building amenities compare to another. 2.) Central luxury condos might go for around 200,000 THB/m², while bargain outskirts units can be less than 80,000 THB/m².
When investigating buying a condo in Bangkok, be sure to look:
Monthly maintenance fees
Sinking fund (one-time deposit to the building’s reserve fund)
Features are parking and furniture and appliances, etc.
Remember to include transfer costs and taxes — these are typically shared by buyer and seller, at 50/50.
Check the Reputation of the Developer
The developer you buy from makes a difference, whether you are buying off plan or a resale unit. A developer who is trustworthy, a better builder who delivers a better product, less hassle and headache in the long run.
Do a quick background check. Look at their past projects. Are they well-maintained? Were they completed on time? Are the managers responsive?
Remember buying a Thailand condo for sale in Bangkok is not just buying a room, you are buying into an experience.
Looking Forward: Resale and Rental Value
Things can always change, even if you’re someone who buys for personal use today. That’s why it makes a lot of sense to think like an investor. Is the area growing? Is there demand for rentals? Will the condo be easy to resell?
Units close to BTS/MRT stations, international schools, hospitals and lifestyle hubs usually have good rental returns and future appreciation. If you pick the right one, your condo can be a place ‘where your house works for you — instead of just being your house.’
Final Thoughts
The purchase of a condo for sale in Bangkok is a covenant you make, whether it is for your personal lifestyle, your future or your investment portfolio. But as with any major decision, you’ll need to go into the deal with your eyes open.
By knowing the fundamentals such as zoning, pricing, a developer’s reputation and long-term value you’ll be on the right path to finding the perfect space in one of the most exciting cities in Asia.
And don’t forget, you're not just investing in a condo; you're investing in the way you want to live, in Bangkok.