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

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Mar 12, 2024

Summary: The average cost of a nice 2 bedroom home in Pattaya, Thailand is around $100,000 USD. A nice 3 bedroom home in Pattaya is around $150,000 USD. These properties typically include modern amenities such as air conditioning, swimming pools, and private gardens. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership for properties in Pattaya. An expat should search for a home to buy in Pattaya by researching the local real estate market, visiting the area, and speaking with local real estate agents. The most desirable neighborhoods in Pattaya include Jomtien Beach, Pratumnak Hill, and Naklua.

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How do I find a place to live in Pattaya?

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

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Pattaya is to use online resources such as websites and forums. Websites such as Pattaya Property Finder and Pattaya Real Estate offer listings of available properties in the area. Additionally, forums such as Pattaya Talk and Pattaya Expats provide a great way to connect with other expats who may have advice or recommendations for finding a place to live. Additionally, it is also possible to find a place to live by visiting the area and speaking to local real estate agents," explained one person living in Pattaya, Thailand.

"We chose our first home through a real estate company. The location was great (yacht club) but the neighborhood with no neighbors. We chose our second home because many people are living there with children and it is located on a golf course," said one expat in Pattaya.

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

"Expat homes and apartments in Pattaya are typically modern and spacious, with air conditioning, high-speed internet, and a fully-equipped kitchen. Many expats choose to live in condominiums, which offer amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, and 24-hour security. Expat homes and apartments in Pattaya are often located in close proximity to the beach, shopping malls, and other attractions," explained one person living in Pattaya, Thailand.

"We are living in a California-style house. It is typical for most expats with kids. There are beautiful condominiums too along the beach," said one expat in Pattaya.

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What is the average cost of housing in Pattaya?

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

"The cost of housing in Pattaya can vary greatly depending on the type of accommodation and location. Generally, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around 10,000-15,000 baht per month, while a two-bedroom apartment can cost around 15,000-20,000 baht per month. For those looking for more luxurious accommodation, the cost can be significantly higher," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Pattaya.

Should I buy or rent a home in Pattaya?

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

"Buying a home in Pattaya can be a great investment, as the city is a popular tourist destination and real estate prices are relatively low. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in Pattaya, as well as the cost of maintaining a property. Renting a home in Pattaya can be a more cost-effective option, as it allows you to enjoy the city without the long-term commitment of buying a home. Additionally, renting a home in Pattaya can give you the flexibility to move around and explore different areas of the city," remarked one member in Pattaya.

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

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

"1. It is important to research the area you are interested in buying property in, as well as the local laws and regulations. 2. Make sure to hire a reputable lawyer to help you with the legal aspects of the purchase. 3. Consider the cost of living in Pattaya, including taxes, utilities, and other expenses. 4. Be aware of the local zoning laws and restrictions that may affect the use of the property. 5. Make sure to inspect the property thoroughly before making a purchase. 6. Be aware of the potential risks associated with buying property in Pattaya, such as flooding, earthquakes, and other natural disasters. 7. Consider the potential for rental income if you are looking to buy an investment property. 8. Be aware of the potential for scams and fraud when buying property in Pattaya," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Pattaya.

Are foreigners allowed to own property in Pattaya?

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

"Foreigners are allowed to own property in Pattaya, but there are certain restrictions and conditions they must follow. Foreigners cannot directly own land in Thailand; however, they can own a building or structure built on the land. They can also own a condominium unit, provided that at least 51% of the building's total floor area is owned by Thai nationals. One way for a foreigner to own land in Pattaya is through a Thai limited company. The foreigner can be a shareholder in the company, but Thai nationals must hold at least 51% of the shares. The company can then purchase the land, and the foreigner can build a house or other structure on it. However, the Thai government has been cracking down on this practice, so it is essential to consult with a legal expert before proceeding. Another option for foreigners is to lease land for a long-term period, usually up to 30 years, with an option to renew the lease. This allows the foreigner to build a house or other structure on the land during the lease period. While this does not grant full ownership, it provides a long-term solution for those looking to invest in property in Pattaya. In summary, while foreigners cannot directly own land in Pattaya, they can own buildings and condominium units, or they can lease land and build on it. It is crucial to consult with a legal expert to ensure compliance with Thai laws and regulations when purchasing property in Pattaya," explained one expat in Pattaya.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Pattaya 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 Pattaya, rental properties typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, washing machine, and air conditioning unit. Additionally, some properties may also include a microwave, dishwasher, and water heater," explained one person living in Pattaya, Thailand.

Additional Information about Searching for a Home in Pattaya:

We asked foreigners in Pattaya 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 Pattaya often begin by browsing online property websites and local classifieds to get an idea of the housing market. They may also join expat forums and social media groups to seek advice and recommendations from fellow expats who have already gone through the process. Another popular method is to engage the services of a local real estate agent who is familiar with the area and can help navigate the property market. Expats may also visit open houses and attend property expos to view available properties in person. Word of mouth is also a valuable resource, as friends, colleagues, and acquaintances may have leads on available properties or know of reputable landlords and property managers. Additionally, expats may explore different neighborhoods in Pattaya to get a feel for the area and identify which locations best suit their lifestyle and preferences. This can involve walking around, talking to locals, and visiting nearby amenities such as shops, restaurants, and schools. Finally, once a potential property is found, expats should carefully review the rental or purchase agreement, negotiate the terms if necessary, and seek legal advice to ensure a smooth and successful transaction," explained one person living in Pattaya, 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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