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Real Estate in Phuket, Thailand | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Real Estate in Phuket, Thailand

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jan 12, 2024

Summary: The average cost of a nice 2 bedroom home in Phuket, Thailand is around $150,000 USD, while a nice 3 bedroom home can cost around $200,000 USD. These properties typically include modern amenities such as air conditioning, swimming pools, and private gardens. Foreigners are allowed to own property in Phuket, but there are some restrictions. For example, foreigners are not allowed to own land, but they can own condominiums and apartments. The best way for an expat to search for a home to buy in Phuket is to use a real estate agent or search online. There are many websites that list properties for sale in Phuket. The most desirable neighborhoods in Phuket are Patong, Kata, and Karon. These areas are popular with tourists and offer a variety of amenities, including shopping, restaurants, and nightlife.

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How do I find a place to live in Phuket?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"I searched all the rental sights and settled on a PEACEFUL place short term, through airB&B that spoke English and had a friendly feel. That was a crucial part of the transition. The I made connections and wound up renting long term in the same area in Phuket. Rental agencies and driving in place I was unfamiliar with was stressful and did not avail me a long term home," said one expat in Phuket.

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Phuket is to use online resources such as websites and forums. Websites such as Expat.com, Thailand Property, and Phuket Property offer listings of available properties for rent or sale. Additionally, forums such as Phuket Forum and Phuket Talk are great resources for finding information about living in Phuket, including advice on where to look for housing. Additionally, it is possible to find housing through word of mouth, by asking friends or colleagues who have lived in Phuket for recommendations," remarked one member in Phuket.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Phuket?

"2 bedroom house on a bit of land. I do not know what is "typical" for expats living in Phuket," said one person in Phuket.

"Expat homes and apartments in Phuket are typically modern and luxurious, with many featuring private pools, spacious balconies, and stunning views of the ocean. Many expat homes and apartments come fully furnished with high-end appliances and furniture, and are equipped with air conditioning and other modern amenities. Expat homes and apartments in Phuket are often located in gated communities, providing a safe and secure environment for expats to live in," said one expat who made the move to Phuket.

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What is the average cost of housing in Phuket?

If you are thinking about moving to Phuket, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Phuket can vary greatly depending on the location and type of accommodation. Generally, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre is around 15,000-20,000 baht per month, while a two-bedroom apartment can cost around 25,000-30,000 baht per month. Outside of the city centre, the cost of housing can be significantly lower, with one-bedroom apartments costing around 10,000-15,000 baht per month and two-bedroom apartments costing around 20,000-25,000 baht per month," said one expat who made the move to Phuket.

"Much lower of course! But I do deal with funky factors, not so clean, not so airtight and not so functional," explained one foreigner living in Phuket, Thailand.

Should I buy or rent a home in Phuket?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Phuket, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Phuket can be a great investment, as the area is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in the area, as well as the availability of rental properties. Renting a home in Phuket can be a great option for those who are looking for a more flexible living situation, as it allows for more freedom to explore the area and its attractions. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Phuket should be based on individual needs and preferences," explained one expat living in Phuket, Thailand.

What do I need to know when buying property in Phuket?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Phuket, they said:

"1. It is important to research the local laws and regulations regarding property ownership in Phuket. 2. Make sure to hire a reputable lawyer to help you understand the legal aspects of purchasing property in Phuket. 3. Consider the location of the property and the surrounding infrastructure, such as access to public transportation, schools, and hospitals. 4. Be aware of the potential for natural disasters, such as floods and earthquakes, in the area. 5. Make sure to inspect the property thoroughly before making a purchase. 6. Be aware of the potential for hidden costs, such as taxes, fees, and maintenance costs. 7. Consider the potential for rental income if you are purchasing a property for investment purposes. 8. Be aware of the potential for scams and fraud when purchasing property in Phuket," said one expat in Phuket.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Phuket?

When we asked expats what advice they would give a foreigner before buying a property in Phuket, they said...

"Foreigners are allowed to own property in Phuket, but there are certain restrictions and conditions they must follow. Foreign nationals can own condominium units outright, as long as the total foreign ownership in the building does not exceed 49%. However, they cannot directly own land or a house in their name. To own a house, foreigners can either set up a Thai limited company to purchase the land and house, or they can enter into a long-term lease agreement, typically for 30 years, with the option to renew. It is essential for foreigners to consult with a local lawyer or property expert to ensure they follow the correct legal procedures when purchasing property in Phuket," said one expat in Phuket.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Phuket what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"In a rental property in Phuket, tenants can typically expect to find a refrigerator, stove, oven, microwave, washing machine, and air conditioning unit. Additionally, some properties may also include a dishwasher, water heater, and other small appliances," explained one foreigner living in Phuket, Thailand.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Phuket:

We asked foreigners in Phuket what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included...

"Expats searching for homes in Phuket often begin by browsing online property listings on websites such as ThaiVisa, DDProperty, and Dot Property. They may also join expat forums and social media groups to seek advice and recommendations from fellow expats who have experience in the local property market. Another common approach is to engage the services of a local real estate agent who can help navigate the property market and provide valuable insights into the best areas to live in, based on the expat's preferences and budget. Real estate agents can also assist with negotiating rental or purchase agreements and navigating the legal aspects of acquiring property in Thailand. Expats may also explore local newspapers and classified ads for property listings, as well as network with friends, colleagues, and acquaintances who may have knowledge of available properties in the area. Visiting neighborhoods and areas of interest in person is also an essential part of the home search process, as it allows expats to get a feel for the community, amenities, and overall atmosphere before committing to a property. While exploring, they may come across "For Rent" or "For Sale" signs on properties that may not be listed online or in print. Lastly, attending property expos and events can be a useful way to meet real estate professionals, learn about new developments, and discover potential properties in Phuket," explained one person living in Phuket, Thailand.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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