A foreign buyer's guide to owning a luxury house in Bangkok

This post is not legal advice. It is a map of the terrain — so that when you do speak to a lawyer, you know what questions to ask.

Thailand is one of the few countries in Southeast Asia where foreigners cannot own land directly. You can own a condominium unit (up to 49% of the building's total floor area can be foreign-owned). But a detached house sits on land, and land ownership is restricted.

Three structures solve this.

1. Thai limited company (majority Thai-held, minority foreign). The company owns the land. You own the company. Shareholding is usually 51% Thai / 49% foreign, but the foreign party holds preference shares with voting control.

2. Long-term leasehold. 30 years renewable, registered at the Land Office. Cheaper, simpler, but your ownership is a lease — not a title.

3. Spousal purchase. If you are married to a Thai national, they purchase in their name. You can be registered as the usufructuary (right to use and benefit for life).

At ARQ10, we have walked multiple foreign buyers through each of these. The right choice depends on your timeline, tax jurisdiction, and whether you are buying as a family or an investment. Ask us, and we will introduce you to a qualified Thai real-estate lawyer who can give you an independent opinion.