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Navigating the Transaction Process: Key Stages, Payment Timelines, Essential Documentation, and Tax Considerations
Pristine white beaches, the alluring Andaman Sea breeze, a myriad of breathtaking sunsets, fresh and affordable fruits, delectable seafood, the warmth of local smiles, and an atmosphere of tranquility and stability all contribute to the idyllic setting.
We invite you to explore properties on our website or embark on a complimentary personalized tour with one of our experienced managers, who will guide you in discovering the perfect apartment or villa to serve as your personal residence or a lucrative investment on this island of eternal summer.
Regardless of your objective for purchasing real estate in Phuket, Thailand, rest assured that the transaction will be seamless, comprehensible, and transparent, which is a significant advantage of the Phuket property market. For further information, please refer to our article, "Why You Should Invest in Real Estate in Thailand and Phuket."
The deal takes place in just 3 steps: deposit -> contract -> acceptance.
First Stage: Deposit Process
During the initial stage of selecting an apartment or villa and negotiating the terms, a reservation agreement is executed between the buyer and the seller. This agreement necessitates the buyer to provide a copy of their passport, email address, phone number, and mailing address for proper documentation.
The reservation agreement encompasses essential details, such as the identities of the transaction participants, a description of the chosen property, its total price, the payment schedule, and the bank account information needed for fund transfers.
Upon signing the reservation agreement, the buyer is required to make a deposit, typically amounting to 1% of the overall property cost, in order to secure the property and remove it from the market.
Payment can be made either in-person at the developer's office or remotely through various methods, including cash, bank card, or cryptocurrency transactions. A passport serves as the sole documentation required for these transactions. It is important to note that our company does not impose any additional fees or commissions for our services and support throughout this process.
Second Stage: Purchase and Sale Agreement Execution
Within one to two weeks following the deposit submission, the seller, often a developer, will provide a preliminary purchase and sale agreement for review and potential amendments.
This agreement outlines critical information regarding the property, such as the apartment or villa details, acquisition terms, registration method, associated expenses for registration and ongoing maintenance, and penalty clauses for contractual breaches. Accompanying the agreement are copies of identification documents for the seller and buyers, as well as relevant property documentation.
Typically, the initial payment constitutes 25% of the property's value, inclusive of the deposit (refer to our article on "Installment Plans and Mortgages in Thailand" for a sample payment schedule). Developers frequently offer enticing incentives for full payment, such as complimentary furniture packages or the initiation of guaranteed income payments prior to construction completion.
For primary market property purchases, funds are transferred via non-cash methods according to the agreement, utilizing the developer's account details in Thailand. Funds can be sourced from an account established in any country. Transfers from a legally registered entity in any country are permissible, as long as you are the founder.
In secondary market transactions, buyers typically open a Thai bank account and transfer funds from another country. The check for the required amount is presented to the seller during registration at the Land Department. Notably, Thailand does not enforce origin of funds checks, unlike many countries worldwide.
Stage Three: Property Inspection and Property Rights Registration
Finally, we arrive at the most satisfying part of the process – inspecting your new apartment or villa and receiving the necessary documentation. All transactions are registered with the Land Department to ensure proper record-keeping.
When purchasing a property in the primary market, a representative from the developer typically handles the registration with the Land Department. This is done based on a power of attorney provided by the buyer. For purchases in the secondary market, a lawyer assists in navigating the process.
For your convenience, we can manage the property inspection, obtain the chanot (property deed), and send them to you via courier service. Should you have the opportunity to be present, we invite you to join us, and together, we will successfully complete this exciting process.
Taxes and Fees in Thailand
Thailand is famous for its low taxes, and sometimes even their absence. Let's take a look at all the taxes and government fees involved when registering a property.
When choosing a leasehold, you only pay two fees: a registration fee (1% of the assessed value) and a stamp duty (0.1% of the assessed value or contract price, whichever is applicable).
When purchasing a freehold (full ownership without time limitations), the total amount of taxes can reach up to 6.3%:
• registration fee - 2% of the assessed value of the apartment
• special business tax - 3.3% of the assessed value or contract price, whichever is higher. This tax must be paid if the property is being resold to you, and the previous owner acquired it less than 5 years ago
• stamp duty - 0.5% of the same amounts, applicable when there is no business tax
• withholding tax - 1% of the same amounts if the apartment is sold by a legal entity. In case of an individual seller, it will be equal to the income tax
All fees are typically shared 50/50 between the buyer and the seller.
When purchasing a freehold through a company:
Company registration: from 50,000 Baht
Legal management of the company: from 3,000-5,000 Baht/month
Accounting and annual balance: from 15,000 Baht/year
Do you have any further inquiries?
Please do not hesitate to contact us through social media. We would be delighted to offer complimentary consultations on any matter ⬇️
✔️ E-mail: hello@apart-homes.com
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