Considered one of the most exceptional places to live in Thailand, Hua Hin is a lovely city around 200km away from Bangkok. Whether you’re looking for a short holiday destination or want to find a new place to live, this city is undoubtedly a great option.
If you now consider Hua Hin your new home, you may want to buy real estate in the city. Of course, there are restrictions on the purchase of real estate in Thailand for foreigners, but this doesn’t mean you cannot buy real estate in Hua Hin.
Basically, there are different ways to go about this process. So, you only need to know the right things to do to purchase real estate in Hua Hin. These points will be explained in this post.
Legal restrictions on buying real estate in Thailand
As noted by Legalserviceshuahin.com, the major challenge with buying properties in Hua Hin is that the law prohibits foreigners from possessing land in the country. Therefore, if you are a foreigner, you cannot buy any real estate that requires you from owning a property.
But does this mean that you cannot buy properties in Thailand? Of course, you can do so as there are several methods you can explore to purchase real estate.
Ways to legally buy real estate in Hua Hin?
Thai laws have some clauses that make it easy for foreigners to purchase real estate in Hua Hin. The various legal ways of buying properties in the city include:
- Purchase an apartment or a condo
According to Thaiembassy.com, the simplest way of buying real estate in Hua Hin is to purchase an apartment or a condo. Based on the guidelines provided by the Condominium Act of Thailand (2008), foreigners can buy as much as 49% of the units in a condo development. This process is called a freehold.
While the act is simple to interpret, some developments come with additional regulations that make it difficult for non-foreigners to own condos and apartments. So, carefully read the paperwork of each development before parting ways with your hard-earned money.
The freehold option also allows you to buy real estate and register it in your partner’s name. However, this is risky as your partner may decide to claim the property for themselves.
- Use a leasehold
Leasehold is another route you may want to take. Generally, this option allows you to buy real estate in Thailand and register it for 30 years. After the said period, the government can reassign the property or pass it on. As long as you follow up with the real estate, it’ll likely be reassigned to you after 30 years.
Although leasehold is easy and lawful, it’s also risky.
- Set up a Thai limited company
The next choice you have involves setting up a Thai limited company. Then, you can buy properties in the name of the company without any issues.
It’s noteworthy that there are rules guiding the creation of a Thai limited company. Basically, the firm must have a minimum of two Thais as shareholders and their shares must be at least 51%. So, as a foreigner, you cannot own more than 49% of a Thai limited company.
Why many people are buying properties in Hua Hin?
Considering the issues associated with buying properties in Thailand, you may wonder why people are still purchasing real estate in Hua Hin. The reasons include:
- Great environment
In addition to the city’s great warm climate, Hua Hin is blessed with numerous astounding natural and manmade attractions. The environment makes the city a great place for people to stay, enjoy retirement, or even raise kids.
With the available elephant sanctuaries, magnificent temples, sandy beaches, conservation centers, sprawling hills, and national parks, the city is surrounded by beautiful things. You can never go wrong with buying real estate in Hua Hin and its environs.
- Strategic location
Without a doubt, location is one of the most essential factors to consider when choosing a place to buy property. In this regard, Hua Hin is a great option as the city sits in a nice location. It’s not far from Bangkok, the capital and most lively city in Thailand.
Most visitors come into the city through Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, the busiest airport in Thailand. This airport isn’t far from Hua Hin; hence, vacationers can stay in Hua Hin while exploring the country as a whole.
If you’re buying real estate to rent out to vacationers, Hua Hin is an exceptional choice as you’ll always have guests.
- Comfortable and cool atmosphere
Although Hua Hin isn’t far from Bangkok, it doesn’t experience the traffic congestion, accommodation issues, and craziness associated with the capital city. It’s a laid-back town that makes life enjoyable for you.
If you’re a retiree or digital nomad that doesn’t want stress, Hua Hin is a better choice than Bangkok and many other locations.
- Affordability
While Hua Hin isn’t the cheapest place to live in Thailand, it’s relatively more affordable than other popular cities such as Bangkok and Phuket. Buying properties in the city gives you more value for your money than doing the same in other Thai cities or many other countries around the globe.
Looking for a way to make the most of your money? Don’t overlook buying properties in Hua Hin, Thailand.
- Wonderful amenities and activities
Since there are many attractions in Hua Hin, it’s unsurprising that the city has numerous activities you can do. From snorkelling to swimming, hiking, surfing, kayaking, and diving, you can enjoy several activities in the city. Even if you love golfing, cycling, etc., there are provisions for you to enjoy in Hua Hin.
In addition, the city offers great healthcare services, good schools, and lots more.
Is buying real estate in Hua Hin reasonable?
As explained above, there are many reasons to buy properties in Hua Hin. Therefore, if you can afford it, don’t hesitate to purchase real estate in the city.
Conclusion
As a foreigner, there are restrictions you need to deal with when buying real estate in Hua Hin and other places in Thailand. However, if you can follow the methods described in this article, it’s possible as many non-Thais have properties in the country.