FAQs About Renting and Buying Property in Bangkok

Bangkok’s vibrant real estate market attracts buyers, renters, and investors from around the world. Whether you’re looking for a luxury condo with skyline views or your next investment opportunity, you probably have a few questions. At Bangkok Residential, we get asked the same questions daily — so we’ve put together this handy guide to answer the most common ones about renting and buying property in Bangkok.

Buying Property in Bangkok

✅ Can foreigners buy property in Thailand?
Yes, foreigners can buy and own condominium units in Thailand, but not land. By law, up to 49% of the total saleable area of a condominium project can be foreign-owned (Foreign Quota).

✅ What’s the difference between Freehold and Leasehold?

Freehold means you fully own the property and can sell it anytime.
Leasehold typically offers 30-year leases, which can sometimes be renewed. Most investors prefer freehold for better long-term value.

✅ What extra costs should I expect when buying?
Typical additional costs include:

Transfer fee: 2% (often shared 50/50 with the seller)
Withholding tax
Specific business tax or stamp duty
Legal fees (if applicable)

✅ Can foreigners get a mortgage in Thailand?
It’s challenging but possible. Some Thai banks and international lenders offer mortgage options to foreigners, usually requiring a substantial down payment.

✅ Is it safe to buy off-plan in Bangkok?
Buying off-plan is common, but choose reputable developers. Research the project, developer history, and payment schedules carefully.

Renting Property in Bangkok

✅ What’s the standard rental contract length?
Typically we can only offer minimum 12 months. Some landlords may accept 6 month contracts at a higher monthly rate.

✅ How much is the security deposit?
Standard is 2 months’ rent as a security deposit plus 1 month’s rent upfront. Deposits are refundable at the end of the lease if there’s no damage.

✅ Can I negotiate the rent?
Yes, it’s common to negotiate — especially for longer contracts or if the property lease can commence quickly and without requests for additional furnishings etc

✅ Who pays maintenance fees, internet, and utility bills?

Landlord: Common area fees and maintenance
Tenant: Utilities (electricity, water), internet, TV subscriptions, and cleaning

✅ How soon can I move in after signing the lease?
Immediately, or within a few days once payment and contract signing are complete. The vast majority of properties are ready to move in.

Investment Questions

✅ What rental yield can I expect in Bangkok?
Rental yields range from 4% to 6% depending on the area, property, and market conditions. Prime locations like Sukhumvit, Sathorn, and Silom tend to perform well.

✅ Which areas offer the best investment potential?

Sukhumvit (Thonglor, Phrom Phong, Asoke)
Sathorn (Chong Nonsi)
Silom
Rama 9

✅ Is Airbnb legal in Bangkok?
Short-term rentals (under 30 days) in condos are generally not legal unless the building is licensed as a hotel. We are unable to assist with short term rentals or the sub-leasing of properties.

Living in Bangkok – General FAQs

✅ How much is the average cost of living?
A comfortable lifestyle (including rent) for expats ranges from 50,000 to 100,000+ Baht per month, depending on location and lifestyle.

✅ Are pets allowed in condos?
Most condos don’t allow pets. We strongly advise against the keeping of any pets in a unit which has a not pets allowed policy — the juristic offices have the authority to evict any resident that fails to follow the buildings rules and guidelines.

✅ How do I pay utility bills?

For condominiums, electricity and water bills can be paid at 7-Eleven, banks, or online. Whereas all such utility bills while residing in an apartment building are payable at the building management office
Internet and TV subscription bills are usually paid monthly by the tenant.

✅ Can I extend my lease easily?
Usually yes, but discuss renewal terms when signing your lease. Some landlords may increase rent slightly upon renewal.

FAQs About Our Service at Bangkok Residential

At Bangkok Residential, we aim to make your property search smooth, transparent, and stress-free. Below are some common questions about how we work and what you can expect when working with us:

✅ How much is your service fee?

Our service is completely free for tenants and buyers. You don’t pay us anything. We earn a commission directly from the landlord or seller once a deal is successfully completed.

✅ Are all prices negotiable?
In most cases, yes — especially for house and condo rental properties. Negotiations depend on the landlord’s situation, the property’s condition, current market demand, and the length of the lease. We’re happy to assist you with negotiations to get you the best possible deal.

✅ Are all listings on your website available?
Bangkok’s property market moves quickly, and availability can change without notice. While we update our listings regularly, it’s always necessary to reconfirm availability with the landlord before scheduling a viewing. Contact us, and we’ll double-check everything for you.

✅ Can you help with both renting and buying property?
Yes! We assist with luxury rentals, sales, and investment properties — including condominiums, houses, and serviced apartments. Whether you’re looking for a long term rental or an investment opportunity, we can guide you through the process.

✅ Will you assist with the lease agreement and handover?
Absolutely. We handle everything from negotiation to lease drafting and reviewing the contract. We’ll also be there during the property handover to ensure everything is in order before you move in.

✅ Do you offer property management or after-sales services?
Yes, we can assist with property management services for landlords during the tenancy period and offer after-sales support to ensure your transition is smooth. Just let us know what you need.

✅ How do I get started?
It’s easy! Contact us directly with your requirements, and we’ll send you personalized property options. From there, we’ll arrange viewings, answer your questions, and guide you every step of the way.

Final Thoughts

Still have questions? We’re here to help! Contact Bangkok Residential today for expert advice, the latest listings, and personalized property guidance.