Buying a villa on Koh Samui

A guide for foreigners to buy a villa on the island of Koh Samui

Many dream of living in an island paradise like Koh Samui. The thought of a tropical holiday, gazing at calm, turquoise waters, feeling soft, white sand between your toes, and basking in the warm sun.

As you stroll along the beach, through coconut palm groves and cozy streets, experience the sunset and enjoy the local atmosphere, while savoring exquisite regional cuisine or buying fresh local produce to prepare in your kitchen with a sea view.

You dive into your private pool as the last rays of sun sink below the horizon. You wash away the worries of the day, relax, and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Koh Samui is the ideal place to build an island life. Sheltered from the notorious Thai monsoons, the warm ocean currents and mild climate ensure that every day feels like summer.

Island life is wonderful, and as a foreigner, it can be yours too.

Covid has changed our view of traveling around the world.

Given the omnipresent pandemic, many people longed for a break, but at the same time felt trapped. How could they enjoy the places they love if they couldn't even leave their neighborhood?

People who knew the Thai way of life and returned year after year found it had been taken from them. Planned trips with friends were put on hold, and with no end in sight, it became increasingly difficult to keep the dream alive.

As we enter 2022 and the world adjusts to our new “normal”, Thailand opens its arms to welcome its visitors once again.

But travel has changed and now requires commitment and planning. "Just popping away for the weekend" is a thing of the past, and since more and more people are planning longer vacations, buying a piece of island paradise seems more sensible.

Buying a property in Thailand

Thailand has many types of real estate and forms of ownership. Although the purchasing process is straightforward with the right support, property laws for foreigners in Thailand can be complex.

This article will show you how to buy your own property in Thailand, specifically on the unique island of Koh Samui. We will explain the various property and ownership options available to you.

We will break down the purchasing and legal process in detail to give you a better understanding of the procedures involved and explain the benefits of those who can help you.

Finally, we would like to highlight some of the beautiful existing properties and future purchase opportunities for foreign investors.

Whether you are an experienced investor or looking to enter the lifestyle real estate market for the first time, remember that you are investing in a country that has different laws, regulations, and cultures.

If you take one thing away from this article, let it be this: Finding a good real estate agent will be a pleasure, and the right legal advice from a trusted real estate lawyer will protect you in your endeavor.

Lifestyle and investments

Koh Samui exudes exclusivity without losing its local charm. Since the island was developed for tourism later than many other parts of Thailand, this remains one of its worst-kept secrets, as more and more people are recognizing its beauty and potential. Local markets and restaurants blend seamlessly with top-notch accommodations and amenities.

World-renowned names like Four Seasons, Hyatt Regency, Hilton, and The Ritz-Carlton have established themselves here. Many celebrities and wealthy investors are interested in the region and want to settle here. Yet you can still retreat to your own secluded paradise while benefiting from this thriving business location.

Koh Samui is working intensively on developing its infrastructure to keep pace with increasing investment. The island has its own airport for convenient travel and offers first-class educational, medical, and commercial facilities.

It's a perfect blend of elegance and authenticity. Spend your time in exclusive spas, yoga retreats, wellness centers, and restaurants, or immerse yourself in the real Thailand by hiking through lush nature, swimming at a secluded beach, eating at local street food stalls, and receiving a traditional Thai massage from a woman whose family has lived on the island for generations.

Koh Samui understands its guests' desires and knows what's important to them. They want to preserve the authentic island flair that has made Thailand, and Koh Samui in particular, famous. The island combines tradition and modernity, tourists and locals, nature and innovation. It offers something for every potential real estate investor.

Long-term lifestyle

If you and your family are looking for a long-term lifestyle change, the market offers numerous opportunities to purchase beautiful villas in the mountains or in close proximity to golden beaches. Whether you're a single person seeking adventure, a couple looking to enjoy the freedom of the open road, a family focused on your children's education, or a retiree wishing to spend your golden years in the sun – take advantage of the growing tourist infrastructure while living like a local.

Koh Samui boasts a well-established expat community of diverse ages and backgrounds. Many consider it a second home, living in a rich, unfamiliar culture and being welcomed by friendly locals who treat them like one of their own.

Mixed investor

If you're not quite ready for a complete lifestyle change, but want to escape the daily grind and secure an additional income stream, buying a property on Koh Samui is a sound investment. You'll benefit from the island's amenities and attractions during your stay and can finance your holidays with ongoing rental income – all in a location that boasts a significantly longer high season than many other regions in Thailand (or the world).

They are then ready to switch to a permanent island lifestyle.

Full-time investor

For real estate investors, the market downturn caused by Covid-19 offers some purchasing power. Koh Samui is looking for new investors to further develop its infrastructure and reputation.

The market is still relatively young and therefore not yet affected by inflated prices. With many new projects coming onto the market, you have the choice of investing in an existing property or buying off-plan in the latest construction projects.

You can expect strong rental yields and long lease terms as tourism restrictions are eased and people return to the island (for longer periods).

Everything you need to know about buying your dream island

Important questions to ask before buying

Before investing in real estate, especially abroad, it's important to ask yourself a few questions. These questions will help you determine your motives, desired lifestyle, strategies, and budget.

If you are an experienced real estate investor, you know that there are many steps from the thought "I want to buy a property" to the completion and handover.

If you're looking to buy your first property, you'll need all the help you can get, especially in a foreign country like Thailand. Don't worry, there are experts who can make the process easier for you.

"What is the purpose of my purchase?"

Are you looking for an annual holiday destination? Are you looking for an investment property that generates income between your holidays? Are you planning to relocate permanently?

"What type of property do I want to buy?"

In Thailand, there are many different types of real estate. You can buy a condominium, an apartment, a villa, a townhouse, or even a house.

Each type of property has its own ownership rights and clauses, which we will examine in more detail below. A popular purchase option for foreigners is buying a condominium; however, the housing market on Koh Samui is rather limited due to the building regulations in place there.

We will take a look at the villa market of Koh Samui and examine how the legal structure works.

"Do I want to buy an older villa, a new villa, or invest in a new construction project and buy off-plan?"

This is an important question to ask yourself when setting your budget and timeframe.

Only a few Thai banks offer real estate financing to foreigners. As a foreign investor, you will therefore need equity capital, either from savings or the value of your property in your home country.

With so many options, it's easy to have big dreams and overextend yourself. You should set a realistic budget that you can stick to. Your budget plays a crucial role in deciding where you want to live on the island.

"Do I need the help of a real estate agent and a real estate lawyer?"

Yes! Regardless of your experience, remember that you are buying a property in a country with different laws, regulations, and a different culture.

In fact, we will introduce these service providers in more detail before we delve into the purchasing process and legal aspects. Regardless of the complexity of the topic, once you understand how a real estate agent and a lawyer can assist you, you will enter the Koh Samui property market with confidence.

Your real estate agent

In Thai culture, reputation and saving face play a vital role. Koh Samui is rapidly developing into an exclusive travel destination. A real estate agent will open many doors for you and act as a language and cultural mediator.

A knowledgeable real estate agent knows the best existing properties and upcoming construction projects. They have a diverse network across the entire island.

A reputable real estate agent works in the best interests of both you and the seller.

An efficient agent saves you time and money.

They review the objects you have researched, ask the right questions, and either remove objects or offer unlisted alternatives.

Your real estate agent will arrange viewing appointments and transport options and can provide you with information about the history of the buildings, developers, managers and areas.

They translate for the sellers to help with negotiating prices and terms of sale.

Since your agent is based on an island, he works with an exclusive market and is worth every penny.

Your real estate lawyer (lawyer specializing in real estate law)

If your real estate agent is worth silver, then your lawyer is worth gold.

A trusted real estate lawyer saves you time, avoids frustration, and helps you avoid potential financial losses or legal disputes. They are the expert.

A reputable law firm upholds the impartiality of the law while simultaneously protecting your interests.

What does your lawyer do?

During the purchasing process, they will:

This includes research into the background and history of the sellers, the construction companies, the buildings, as well as possible legal complications related to the points mentioned above.

This includes confirmation that the ownership details correspond to the data recorded in the land register; that the seller is the legal owner of the property and is authorized to sell it. It will be checked whether there are any existing mortgages, liens, debts, or pending legal proceedings against the property.

Unlike contracts in Western culture, which are dry, detailed, and numerous, many contractual agreements in Thailand focus on the relationship between buyer and seller. One could describe it as a "gentleman's agreement" or a "handshake agreement."

Unfortunately, this means that important conditions or clauses may be missing. Your real estate lawyer will explain the most important conditions to you and give you recommendations on what you should include to protect your interests. Reviewing contracts is essential when buying villas, as you are acquiring both the building itself and leasing the land on which it stands.

In any real estate transaction, money is the most important aspect. We will explain this in more detail later, but your lawyer will confirm what costs are due (including land registry fees, penalties, and other charges), who bears these costs and charges, and how the payments will be made (payment schedule).

Your lawyer will ensure that all payments and timeframes are fair for both parties and will carefully review all hidden or ongoing costs with you.

Your lawyer will hand over and receive all relevant documents at the time of settlement. He can then act as your contact person at the Thai Land Registry to register all documents and pay the fees and taxes according to your contract.

A trustworthy law firm can help you look to the future. What happens in the worst-case scenario of your death?

We often draw up a will in our home country to ensure our assets are protected after our death. Thailand does not recognize foreign wills, and they can be contested in court.

Thai lawyers can assist you in drafting a will valid in Thailand. While this is not part of the purchase process, it is an important aspect often overlooked when it comes to protecting assets and providing for spouses or dependents.

You have now asked yourself some important questions and better understand how your real estate lawyer and your real estate agent can help you.

Let us look at the purchasing and legal process involved in acquiring your new dream villa and present you with some of the best offers.

Legal real estate acquisition in Thailand? Full ownership vs. leasehold.

It is important for foreign investors to understand the different forms of ownership. The different types of ownership determine the legal process and the security of your purchase.

Property rights – Foreigners can acquire property rights in Thailand in their own name. The Thai Land Registry issues a title deed, similar to a declaration of division, and property rights can serve as security in Thailand.

Lease – A foreigner may own or be entitled to use a physical structure (a property), but the land on which it stands belongs to a Thai national or a Thai limited liability company.

They then lease the land to the landowner for up to 30 years, with the possibility of extending the lease to up to 90 years.

During the term of the lease agreement, the landowner is responsible for the maintenance of the buildings and the property.

The lease agreement is registered with the Thai Land Registry, and if the property is sold during the term, the new landowner takes over the lease agreement.

Thai Limited Company – Land and buildings can be acquired through a Thai Limited Company.

A foreigner can be a shareholder in the company, however, at least two Thai nationals must hold a majority (51%) of the shares. The company must operate a legitimate business in Thailand; otherwise, it cannot be registered.

The company then leases the land as described above.

During due diligence with your lawyer, pay close attention to the ownership structure. Due to Koh Samui's geographical features, various ownership forms can exist.

Full ownership + lease – A full ownership title will be issued in your name for the villa itself, but you will receive a separate lease title for the land.

Leasehold + Leasehold – The property is acquired with a leasehold for the building (this is often the case in holiday areas) and a separate leasehold for the land.

Thai company – If a Thai company owns the land, you can either have a right of ownership or a leasehold for the building and a separate leasehold for the land owned by your company.

What types of real estate can I buy?

Our focus is on buying a villa, but we will also give an overview of the different types of properties available for purchase in Koh Samui.

Villas – Villas are considered residential buildings and are therefore subject to the same ownership and purchase laws as houses and land. They can be part of a holiday complex or stand alone on their own plot of land.

The defining characteristic of a villa is its promise of exclusivity. It may be part of a gated community with communal facilities (pools, restaurants, gyms, etc.) available to all owners. As a buyer, you enjoy these amenities and become part of a community.

Koh Samui differs in that many villas are designed and built to feel like detached houses. During the purchase process and in the contract, several additional details must be considered, such as responsibilities regarding communal areas and the house rules. If a villa is part of a complex, the 49% foreign ownership quota, similar to that for condominiums, may restrict the purchase.

Your real estate lawyer will help simplify this process and point out potential problems.

Condominium – A condominium is a building with private and common ownership. The owners of a condominium own the property through a legal entity that manages the condominium. (The Condominium Ownership Act – the Act on Jointly Owned Residential Property of 2522).

Simply put, a "condo" is a residential unit within a larger building complex. The owner has full ownership of their unit and a share of the common areas. Under Thai law, foreigners may own a maximum of 49% of a building complex.

Although the market for condominiums in Koh Samui is not large, there are options if you are looking for a secure title.

Apartment – ​​An “apartment” is a condominium unit that cannot be purchased outright by foreigners. Apartments are sold exclusively as leasehold properties and are subject to Thai regulations governing 30-year leasehold agreements.

Pay attention to this detail when searching for potential properties in Thailand.

At first glance, condominiums and rental apartments seem similar. They offer the same living space, the same fees, and the same responsibilities for common areas. Owners enjoy the same amenities and comforts, but they are not the sole owners.

Terraced house – A terraced building with two or more floors. The Thai version is called a "shop house" because the ground floor contains a shop and the upper floors are the living quarters.

Townhouses and commercial buildings are widespread in Thailand. This architectural style is often found in older residential areas or in market districts along the coast.

These properties are attractive for foreigners with Thai spouses who want to be fully integrated into Thai life. Thanks to the smaller plot size, taxes are lower, while still offering spacious living quarters and the opportunity to generate income by establishing a Thai company in the retail space.

House and land – It is possible to own a house in Thailand, but the process is more complex.

Under Thai law, foreigners cannot own land. Any structure built on it is considered part of the "property".

Don't let that discourage you. There are various ways to build and own a house. The three most common are:

In all these cases, you do not own the land on which you are building, but you do own your house.

Koh Samui has a large market for houses and land.

Should you buy an existing villa, a new one, or a villa in the planning stage?

Koh Samui is a thriving commercial ecosystem. It's a mix of old villas from a time when the island was still unknown, villas completed before the Covid pandemic, and new construction projects that are now coming back onto the market.

It is likely one of the most difficult places in Thailand to assess potential price ranges and offers. On the one hand, the island is developing the tourism market and seeking investors to expand its infrastructure. This could lead to good buying opportunities for those entering the market early.

On the other hand, there is an island that recognizes its own potential and future. Its exclusive reputation is growing, and the prices reflect this. Since space is limited, location plays a major role in determining prices.

Buying a pre-owned villa in a prime location doesn't necessarily mean you'll get a discount due to its age. Purchasing a newly built home can offer more affordable prices, as projects with competitive pricing attract investment, but these are often located in less desirable areas. If you're not in a hurry to move, the construction period gives you time to save and increase your budget.

Pre-owned villas offer a wider range of locations and often provide a more authentic Koh Samui experience. An older villa might offer more space and be closer to nature or local markets. However, a pre-owned villa may also be showing its age and require renovations or new furniture.

New construction – the feeling of being the first to walk through the door. A newly completed villa features modern appliances and furnishings. It may be part of a larger project and comes with an established management team to assist you with rentals and marketing.

Property developers are legally obligated to rectify all defects and carry out necessary structural repairs within the first five years after completion. This offers you a certain degree of security when buying a property.

Buying off-plan – Purchasing apartments in new construction projects off-plan carries risks and advantages.

For construction projects that are not yet planned, a longer payment plan is often used, with the final installment only due upon completion. This gives buyers time to save.

Property developers seek investors for their projects and may therefore offer competitive purchase prices. However, since they are working with a limited budget, they may not be willing to negotiate the price.

New projects aim to appeal to a higher-end segment while preserving local charm. Here you'll find state-of-the-art equipment, facilities, and management teams. Many new construction projects already take into account the future development of Koh Samui.

A common risk is: "What happens if the project is not completed?"

It is absolutely essential to seek legal advice before signing a purchase agreement for a new construction project. Your lawyer will ensure that all relevant conditions are met in case the developer (or you) cannot fulfill the contract.

Another important point is the furnishings. New construction projects usually have a model apartment. However, not all apartments are furnished and equipped with household appliances. Therefore, be sure to clarify whether the furnishings are included in the contract price or whether there are additional costs.

How can I buy a villa in Koh Samui?

As previously mentioned, buying a villa is more complex than buying a condominium. You need to consider the different ownership rights and structures. Your real estate lawyer will assist you in setting up the necessary structure and guide you through the purchase, transfer, and registration of ownership.

Apart from that, the buying process is always the same, regardless of the type of property or where it is located.

Do your homework

The internet offers a wealth of information. Your research will reveal areas, price ranges, developers, and points of interest. This will give you an overview of the current market offerings.

Keyword searches (nature, markets, transport, education, nightlife, gastronomy) help to discover areas that offer what you are looking for.

Think back to the questions you asked at the beginning. Your answers will help narrow down your search queries and keep them realistic.

Don't just look at potential properties for sale, but also at other development plans. Koh Samui is constantly developing, so numerous construction projects and infrastructure improvements are planned.

Here are some good websites to help you get started:

Below we present some popular areas, their highlights and attractions.

Find your real estate agent

Once you have found potential properties, you should contact a real estate agent. Real estate agents on Koh Samui serve a manageable but diverse market.

Your real estate agent will review your research, make suggestions, organize viewings and transport, and provide you with information on the history of the buildings, developers, managers, and areas.

They translate for the sellers to help with negotiating prices and terms of sale.

If you have found your piece of Thailand and are ready to sign a contract… DO NOT sign the dotted line.

It's time to find your second expert.

From the above, you have a good overview of what your lawyer will do for you.

As experts in Thai law, they will now conduct due diligence and property searches. They will review your contract to ensure it is advantageous for both buyer and seller, and, if necessary, add, amend, or remove relevant terms or clauses.

Your lawyer will confirm the payment terms and the disbursement of funds upon transfer of ownership. At the agreed time, he will attend the transfer and register your new title deeds with the relevant Thai land registry office.

A contract review is of utmost priority if you want to buy a property off-plan.

Pay your deposit and sign the contract.

Before you pay any money, please note that as a foreign investor you must provide proof that your purchase funds originate from abroad.

All funds must be in foreign currency and have clear proof of the origin of the funds (withdrawal from the originating bank), the purpose of the funds (purchase of a condominium) and proof of currency conversion in the Thai recipient account (foreign exchange form).

Payment plan

Your contract lists the amounts and deadlines for all payments. This includes the deposit, the remaining balance, any applicable government fees and taxes, and the respective payers.

Summary of your payment plan:

When buying a property off-plan, the payment schedule may differ, with several payments due at specific construction phases.

When calculating government fees and taxes, a property is assigned three different values:

Transfer fee: 2% of the registered value of the property.

Stamp duty: 0.5% of the registered value. Only payable if exempt from trade tax.

Withholding tax: 1% of the market value or the registered sales value of the property (whichever is higher if the seller is a company). If the seller is a private individual, the withholding tax is calculated progressively based on the market value of the property.

Business tax*: 3.3% of the market value or the registered sales value of the property (whichever is higher). This applies to both private individuals and companies.

* This tax is payable if the property has been owned by the owner for less than 5 years, which is often the case with new construction projects.

When purchasing a villa in a holiday complex, ongoing costs may arise for the maintenance of communal areas, facilities, and management. These costs may be the same for all owners within the complex or may depend on the size of the property.

settlement

Your lawyer will represent you during the property transfer. The final documents will be signed, the funds disbursed, and the keys handed over.

Before ownership can be transferred for completed new construction projects, the Thai government and environmental authorities conduct assessments before issuing the new title deed.

Registration of ownership

After the transfer of ownership, all documents must be registered with the relevant Thai land registry office. Please note that when purchasing a villa, a title deed may be registered in your name, while simultaneously a lease agreement is registered in the land registry of the landowner.

Your lawyer will handle the registration and payment of all applicable fees.

Who pays which fees?

Where can you shop in Koh Samui?

Now that you know what to consider when buying a property in Thailand, let's take a look at popular locations for buying property on the island.

We will take a closer look at each area and its attractions. For each area, we will try to highlight one existing villa, one new villa, and one property in the planning phase.

Maret (South/Southeast)

Experience breathtaking sunrises over the sea in the eastern district of Maret. Maret offers a wide selection of villas – from existing properties to new builds and villas under construction. Enjoy the diverse range of beachfront villas and relaxed jungle villas with sea views.

This is where the famous Lamai Beach is located. Many of Koh Samui's adventure activities – paintball, elephant and monkey encounters, as well as the Samui Aquarium and Tiger Zoom – are in this area. You can also visit the Grandfather and Grandmother rock formations.

Existing – 4-bedroom villa, Maret

Completion: 2007 Price range: 8,900,000 (14,900,000)

This 200 m² two-story villa has 4 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms. It offers sea, mountain and park views, a private pool, 3 parking spaces and is furnished.

New – The Pearl Residence

Completed: 2019; Price: 6,000,000

This 110 m² villa has 2 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. It offers a fully equipped western-style kitchen and is situated in a completely private location, as there are no neighbors to the left, right, or in front.

This villa is fully furnished and features a private pool, a terrace and a garden with banana trees.

It is located 3 km from Lamai Beach and is only a short drive from Silver Beach and convenient shopping facilities.

Off-Plan – Oasis Samui

Completion: 2022 Units: 19 Developer: Cascades Estate Company Limited Price range: 15,000,000 – 30,000,000

Coconut palm groves and tropical forests surround this luxury villa project on Lamai Beach.

Each villa has 3-4 bedrooms, a spacious balcony, a large hot tub, a swimming pool and an outdoor seating area with 180-degree views of Lamai beach.

Bo Phut (North/Northeast)

Koh Samui Airport is located in BoPhut, a rapidly developing area. The district is growing quickly and offers modern shopping opportunities as well as, as mentioned, first-class amenities. Numerous new construction projects are underway in this area.

However, BoPhut is quite a large area, stretching from the curved BoPhut Beach on the north coast around the Thongson Beach peninsula and along the east side of the island to the picturesque natural bays of Silver Beach.

Bophut Beach is a trendy area with a vibrant nightlife. Stroll through the fishing village market and experience traditional Thai dance performances, Muay Thai fights, delicious local specialties, and handicrafts. One of the island's most famous landmarks, the Big Buddha, is located in Bophut.

Existing – Newly built 2-bedroom pool villa with sea views in Chaweng Noi

Completion: 2019 Price range: 9,200,000

This is a detached villa on the east side of Bo Phut. We've included this villa in our list because villas in this area often cost over 50 million baht. It offers partial sea views and is located in a quiet, private complex.

This is a 225 m² two-story villa with 2 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. It features a private pool, a garden, and a terrace.

Existing – unique residence

Completion: 2018 Units: 20 Developer: Belgian-Thai construction project Price range: 12,500,000 – 38,000,000

Unique Residence is a mixed-use holiday complex on the hillside of Bangrak. It comprises apartments and pool villas. With breathtaking 180-degree sea views, it is located near Chaweng Beach, the fishing village, Angthong National Marine Park, and the Big Buddha.

Although it's closer to the airport, it offers excellent value for money due to its location and amenities. These include an infinity pool, a whirlpool, a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, a cardio area, 24-hour security, and access to personal training, yoga, and Pilates.

New – The Legend luxury villas with sea views

This property is a prime example of what to look for when signing a contract. A 3-bedroom, 4-bathroom villa with mountain views. It features a cinema/media room, a private pool, a terrace, a hot tub, a garden, and covered parking. Chaweng beach is less than 1 km away.

It is rented unfurnished (this would incur additional costs) and can only be purchased or leased from a Thai company.

Off-plan – Baansuay Bophut

Completion: 2023 Villas: 8 Developer: Baansuay Land and House Co., Ltd Price range: 6,900,000 – 8,300,000

Baansuay Bophut is a small development with 8 residential units in 5 different designs. There are options with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, as well as 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, each with a private pool. The villas have a central driveway yet offer privacy with unobstructed views.

All shopping facilities such as the Central Festival Samui, Samui Airport and many of the popular beaches are within a 10-minute drive.

Maenam (North)

Maenam is located on the north coast of Koh Samui. Maenam Beach offers easy access to the water and stunning views of Koh Phangan. The area boasts a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly bungalows, hostels, and boutique hotels for backpackers to five-star resorts like the Santiburi Koh Samui and the W Koh Samui.

Maenam is often considered a quiet residential area when buying property. There is plenty to see and do along the beachfront, but the area offers a wonderful atmosphere for those seeking a permanent island lifestyle.

Existing – Coconut Laguna Villas

Completion: 2009 Price range: 17,900,000

Coconut Laguna Villas is an older, tropical resort-style property with eleven private villas. This particular villa has three bedrooms and three bathrooms and offers breathtaking mountain views. The price reflects the fact that, despite the mountain views, it also provides direct access to Bang Por Beach.

New – 2-bedroom villa for sale in Maenam

Completion: 2022 Price range: 7,500,000

This two-bedroom, two-bathroom villa is nestled in the hills of Maenam. It offers sea views and is built in a Balinese style with a Stone Age feel. Features include a private pool, a garden, a fully equipped Western kitchen, and private parking.

Off Plan – APSARA by Tropical Life Residence

Completion: Still in planning (no scheduled date) Units: 7 Developer: Real Estate Engineering Samui Co., Ltd Price range: 4,900,000 – 8,500,000

Aspara is a secluded residential development with houses and villas nestled amidst lush nature and offering stunning mountain views. The complex, featuring a private pool, is located next to the Santiburi golf course and offers homes with two to four bedrooms. Maenam beach is just a short drive away.

Ang Thong (West/Northwest)

Experience breathtaking sunsets in the northwest. Ang Thong is the perfect place for ocean lovers. With the stunning Ang Thong Marine Park, Ang Thong is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding islands of the archipelago.

Many boat tours offer attractions on the water such as snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking on neighboring islands.

The Four Seasons Resort is located in Ang Thong. Along the western coast of this area, you can visit Laem Yae Beach, Bang Makham Beach, the town of Nathon, the Nathon Market, and Hin Lat Waterfall. Koh Samui Hospital is also located in Ang Thong.

Existing 3-bedroom villa for sale in Ang Thong

Completion: 2008 Price range: 14,900,000

This property is a 238 m² villa with 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, nestled in the hills of Ang Thong and offering magnificent views of the forests and mountains.

The villa spans two floors and features a Western-style kitchen and full furnishings. Amenities include a cinema, a private pool, a garden, a wine cellar, a servants' room, and a peaceful location.

Taling Ngam (West/Southwest)

Taling Ngam extends further along the west coast and southwards. The Conrad Resort is located on the southwestern peninsula. Taling Ngam has many older-style villas, but due to the beautiful views to the west, villa prices there are still quite high.

Taling Ngam could be of interest to pet owners. There are numerous facilities and services for animals in this area.

Taling Ngam is not known for its beaches, but it is located on the opposite side of the island from the airport and offers a particularly authentic island experience.

Existing 4-bedroom villa for sale in Taling Ngam

Completion: 2012 Price range: 18,900,000

This property is a 600 m² villa with 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, a private pool, gardens, a terrace, a western-style kitchen and is furnished.

With mountain views and partial sea views, this villa impresses with its size and outward-facing views.

This villa is an example of how to review contracts together with a lawyer. It would have to be acquired either through a leasehold agreement or via a Thai company.

New – a design masterpiece with 3 bedrooms

Completion: 2019 Price range: 49,000,000

A truly unique property. A 656 m² villa with 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms.

It offers complete privacy, plenty of space, and a lush tropical garden. Located at the foot of a coconut plantation, it boasts breathtaking sunsets overlooking the Gulf of Thailand and the Angthong National Marine Park.

Land Registry Office (including address)

Even if you have a reliable real estate lawyer to assist you with the purchase and registration, it is helpful to know where your local land registry office is located.

Surat Thani Provincial Land Office, Ko Samui Branch Address: 18/2 หมู่ที่ 1 Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84140 Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Telephone: +6677423653

Summary of your purchase process

There is a lot of information above. Given the many options, here is a simple overview of how to proceed.

Real estate lawyers | Lawyers specializing in property law

If you want to buy your dream property in Thailand, sound legal advice is essential. A qualified real estate lawyer familiar with Thai law will advise and support you throughout the entire purchase process and take care of all the formalities.

Siam Legal is a registered law firm with over 17 years of experience in real estate law. The team maintains offices in the major metropolitan areas of Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, and Phuket and is intimately familiar with the specific conditions in each location.

You can contact the Siam Legal office at the following address:

Address: Two Pacific Place Building, 18th Floor, Unit 1806, 142 Sukhumvit Road, Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110, Thailand. Phone: +66 2 254 8900 Mobile: +66 84 021 9800 Website: www.siam-legal.com Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM