Thai Baht : Has regained a degree of parity following a period of recession that affected most Far Eastern currencies. Living costs in Thailand are among the lowest in the world. Nevertheless a modern infrastructure provides good facilities.

Economic climate : The Thai economy has rebounded during the past two years and considerably more investment has been finding a home in the property sector. The construction focus has been on higher end condominium properties. Rental returns have not fluctuated and are expected to rise on new inventory as the number of permanent expatriates is on the increase.

Capital Gains Tax : There is no capital gains tax for private investors and very low ongoing costs.

Popular buying areas : Phuket, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Koh Samui and Chiang Mai remain popular locations and a crop of new luxury developments are in progress aimed at foreigners. Bangkok is generally for expatriates who live and work in Thailand and high end business investment in prestigious projects.

Price ranges : Property prices are rising in line with the current economic outlook but range between U.S. $ 80,000 and 5 million and are dictated by the standard of building and location. Condominium projects in central Bangkok and luxury resort developments in Phuket and Pattya tend to be high value purchases.

Budgetary guide : Apartments: 2 bedroom from US$ 160,000, 3 bedroom from US$ 200,000, 4 bedroom deluxe villa US$ 425,000, 5 bedroom deluxe villa US$ 505,000, High Quality House: U.S. $ 85,000 to US$ 168,000. Basic apartments start from US$ 34,000 to two bed houses at US$ 85,000.

Overseas Investors : Despite legislation to the contrary, foreign owners can acquire property on a finite (50 years) or renewable (30 + 30 years + extension) leasehold basis or through a Thai company with a foreign joint venture partner.

Service Fees : Stamp Duty 0.5%, Special Business tax 0.11% (Vendor has owned property for under 5 years), “Income Tax” 1 to 3%( local version of VAT) & transfer fees 0.01% of sale price

Mortgages : Mortgages usually not available to foreigners, but developers often arrange local loans of up to 90% with the actual property as the loan guarantee.