Phuket’s real estate market offers far more than just villas. From condominiums to townhouses, land and commercial real estate—there’s something for every buyer. Here’s a clear breakdown of what’s on offer, and what it means for investors:

Property Types in Phuket

1. Condominiums

Ideal for foreign buyers: up to 49% of any project can be owned by foreigners. Phuket Condos combine convenient locations (like Patong, Kata, Bang Tao, Rawai), amenities, and often short‑term rental options in licensed buildings.
Key stats: Average condo price on the west coast ฿6M and upwards to ฿40M; gross rental yield, possibly 9%

2. Villas / Detached Houses

Available in Phuket luxury villa beachfront zones (Kamala, Surin, Layan, Millionaire’s Mile) and more affordable inland areas like Kathu, Phuket Town, Chalong.
External land titles required; often insurance and security-heavy managed estates.
Average villa price ฿17M and upwards to US$10 million.

3. Townhouses

Typically low-rise, compact units in communal villages—common in western Phuket and the inland areas of Kathu or Rawai. Affordable, attractive for long-term stays, but not ideal for short-term rental licensing.

4. Land (Plots)

Buy one of the many plot of land for sale with Chanote title, then build later. Popular around Mai Khao, Pa Khlok, and Natai. Legal ownership requires leasehold, condo, or BOI structure due to foreign land ownership restrictions.

5. Commercial Properties

Café spaces, beachfront hotel-residences, mixed-use plots- often in high-tourist areas or malls. Viable for investors looking to combine hospitality with property ownership.

Quick Reference Table

Property Type Foreign Ownership Typical Use Price Range (THB)
Condo Freehold (49% cap) Rental, vacation or long-term living ~3M – 40M+
Villa / House Leasehold / Company Personal use, resale, rental ~11M – 300M+
Townhouse Leasehold Community living, retiree lifestyle ~3M – 35M
Land / Plot Leasehold or via BOI Custom building, long-term investment ~5M – 50M+
Commercial Company-owned Hotel units, retail, serviced housing ~10M – 80M+

Buyer Tips & Considerations

  • Foreign ownership rules: Only condos are eligible for freehold; villas and land require legal structures like leasehold or BOI company.

  • Rental income potential: Premium returns occur in tourist zones—condos and condotels excel.

  • Long-term ownership vs. flexibility: Villas offer permanence and privacy; condos offer mobility with ease.

  • Location matters: For strong yield—look for coastal areas; for affordability—consider inland towns or Phuket Town.

Buying Phuket Villas as a Foreigner 

Please note that, while a foreigner may own a villa (the physical “bricks and mortar”) outright, full freehold ownership of Phuket property relies on the right to own land – a right which is only afforded to foreigners under extremely special circumstances.

The same law applies to estate houses, bungalows and townhouses (unless they have been legally structured for foreign freehold ownership).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can foreigners own villas in Phuket?

Foreigners cannot directly own land in Thailand, which includes land beneath a villa. However, you can legally own a villa in Phuket through structures like leasehold agreements, A legitimately run/legally compliant, and properly structured Thai company Limited is also possibly an option, as are Board of Investment (BOI) approvals. These are widely used and professionally managed to ensure legal compliance.

What type of property can a foreigner own freehold?

Foreigners can legally own up to 49% of the saleable area in a registered condominium development. This is the most straightforward freehold option available in Phuket.

Which property types offer the best rental yields in Phuket?

Condominiums, especially those in prime beach locations or close to tourist hubs (Patong, Kata, Bang Tao), typically offer the highest rental yields, especially when hotel-licensed for short-term stays. Condotels and branded residences are also strong performers.

Is land a good investment in Phuket?

Yes—land ownership via leasehold or company structure can be a strong long-term investment, especially in emerging areas like Mai Khao, Pa Khlok, or inland Chalong. However, due diligence is essential to ensure the land has a Chanote title (the highest form of ownership).

What’s the difference between a townhouse and a villa?

A villa is usually a detached property with a private pool and more space, often found in gated estates. A townhouse is a connected, multi-storey home that may share walls with neighbouring units and often doesn’t include a pool.

Can I build my own home on land in Phuket?

Yes, but as a foreigner, the land must be leased or owned through a legal structure. Many investors buy a 30-year lease on land and construct a villa through a separate building contract.

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