Foreigner's Guide to Buying a Condo in Pattaya: Quota, Tax & Transfer

Foreigners can own condominium units freehold in Thailand, as long as foreign ownership in the building does not exceed 49% of total sellable area.

Key steps: 1. Confirm foreign quota availability with the juristic office before paying a deposit. 2. Transfer the purchase funds into Thailand in foreign currency — your bank issues a Foreign Exchange Transaction (FET) form, required at the Land Office. 3. On transfer day expect: 2% transfer fee (often split), 0.5% stamp duty or 3.3% specific business tax, and withholding tax.

Buildings in Jomtien and Wongamat with sea views hold their foreign quota value best — quota units typically resell at a 5–10% premium over Thai-name units.