How to Build a House in Thailand
- 1). Locate and acquire a piece of land on which to build your new home.
According to ThailandGuru.com, it's not possible for a foreigner to own land outright in Thailand. Foreigners may own a house or condominium, but not the raw land. However, there are ways to acquire land, via a lease or a Thai company, so you can build a house.
One way is to create a Thai company, in which you are the largest shareholder. Then the company, in which you are part owner, owns the land where your house is located, and you own the house.
You can also use what is called the "two times 30" rule, meaning that you can lease the land for 30 years from a Thai company or individual, with an automatic option to renew for another 30 years. Again, you can own the house, but you are leasing the property on which it is built.
The Anglo Info website advises that an individual foreign investor may lease a maximum of one Rai of land in Thailand, which is a little less than a half acre. - 2). Confirm current ownership of the property and sign a purchase contract.
Work with a Thai lawyer and have him or her check everything before you sign the contract, including performance of a search to ensure that no one else has a claim to or liens on the property. The lawyer should also do an identity check to make sure that the person you are dealing with is the actual owner of the property and that you, as the new owner, will have rights to the access road to the property. - 3). Find an architect to design your home.
You can search for architects online, but chances are the ones you find will probably be from the larger and more expensive Bangkok firms. If you want to work with a local architect, find houses that you like in the area and ask the owners who designed their house.
Once you find the architect, give him or her clear instructions. Show the architect photos of houses you like, and draw a rough sketch of the house you have in mind, plus give your specifications for materials, timing and budget. - 4). Get permits from the local authorities.
If your land has a clear and legal title deed, you or your representative can apply for a building permit at your local Land Department Office. You will need to take a copy of your title and the architect's drawings with you when you apply. - 5). Employ a reputable builder.
Ask for recommendations for builders from others who have built recently in the area. Get estimates from recommended builders, which should include labor and all materials, with no add-ons. It's best to let your builder purchase the materials directly, since he is familiar with local sources.
Your builder should be responsible for establishing and maintaining costs, preparing and modifying engineering documents, monitoring quality and safety on the job site, and coordinating and executing the construction. - 6). Supervise the construction of your new home.
Be sure that you can be on the site personally each day, and develop a good relationship with the foreman. Pay the construction company as the money is needed, with a slightly larger up-front payment for materials, then labor and other costs on a weekly basis.
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