Costs of buying property in Thailand
The purchase price is not the total cost. Budget for the categories below, and agree in writing who pays each one before you sign.
Transfer taxes and fees
Transfers of land in Thailand attract government fees and taxes calculated at the Land Office, which can include a transfer fee, stamp duty or specific business tax, and withholding tax. Which apply, and at what rate, depends on the seller, how long the property has been held and the assessed value.
Rates and rules change, and temporary measures are sometimes introduced. Ask your lawyer for a current calculation for your specific transaction rather than relying on figures found online.
Who pays what
There is no fixed rule. Sharing of transfer costs is negotiable and should be stated in the contract. A price quoted as net to the seller means the buyer carries the costs.
Professional costs
Legal fees for due diligence and contract work, survey fees if boundaries need confirming, translation and notarisation where required, and company formation or lease registration costs if your structure involves them.
Holding and development costs
Land and building tax, maintenance and clearing of vacant land, and utility connection charges when you develop. Construction costs, permits and design fees sit on top of the land price for any project.
For a project budget, treat land as one line among several rather than as the whole cost.