Rental property
Condos in Pattaya and Jomtien let well to long-stay foreigners and Thai professionals. Net yields of 4 to 6% a year are realistic for well-chosen units after fees, vacancies and management; gross figures in brochures are higher. Buy near what renters want (beach, transport, shops) and in buildings with healthy sinking funds.
- Running costs: common fees, sinking fund, insurance, management (often 10 to 15% of rent), repairs and furnishing.
- Foreign buyers bring funds from abroad: see buying a condo.
- Rental income is taxable in Thailand; keep records.
Business stakes
You can invest in a Thai company as a minority shareholder in restricted sectors, or as a majority owner through lawful routes. The test is simple: would the structure survive an official check? If it relies on nominees, the answer in 2026 is no.
Promises to walk away from
- Guaranteed rental returns for years, paid by the developer. Price the unit without them.
- Buy-back promises from companies you can't check.
- Land ownership 'through our company' for a fee.
- Off-plan projects without a construction permit and an environmental approval.