How to Buy an Apartment in Pattaya with Skyline Estate: Complete Buyer’s Guide
Buying an apartment in Pattaya is one of the most popular choices among foreign buyers looking for real estate in Thailand - whether for investment, relocation, or a second home by the sea. With the right guidance, the process is safe, transparent, and fully legal.
Our company Skyline Estate is a professional real estate agency in Pattaya, specializing in condominiums for foreign buyers. In this guide, we explain how to buy an apartment in Pattaya step by step, based on real transactions and local expertise.
Key Takeaways:
- Define your purpose & budget: Decide if you are buying for investment, a vacation home, or long-term retirement. This determines which area is best for you.
- Understand ownership rules: Foreign Quota or Thai Quota/Leasehold. Foreigners are allowed to own apartments in freehold (49% rule) if the property is a registered condominium or foreign ownership in the building does not exceed 49% of the total living area.
- Choose the right location: More family-friendly, quieter location or busy and prestigious central area for nightlife and shopping.
- Financial requirements: To qualify for foreign ownership, the funds for the purchase must be transferred into Thailand in a foreign currency from an overseas account. The receiving bank will issue a "Foreign Exchange Transaction" (FET) certificate, which is required for the title transfer.
- The purchase process: From paying a deposit (usually 1500-3200$) to the final transfer of ownership that happens at the Land Office.
- Why Pattaya? Compared to Phuket or Bangkok, Pattaya offers a lower price-per-square-meter for high-end beachfront living and also offers high returns and stable growth up to 20% per year.
Step-by-Step: How to Buy an Apartment in Pattaya
1. Choosing the Right Area in Pattaya
Location directly affects price, rental income, and resale value. Our clients most often choose:
Skyline Estate helps you select the area based on your goals: living, renting, or investing.
- Central Pattaya – urban lifestyle, high rental demand
- Pratumnak Hill – quiet area near the beach
- Jomtien – popular for long-term living and families
- Na Jomtien – premium beachfront and luxury projects
Skyline Estate helps you select the area based on your goals: living, renting, or investing.
2. New Developments vs Resale Apartments
New condominium projects advantages:
Resale apartments advantages:
We work with verified developers and trusted resale owners only.
- Modern design and facilities
- Installment payment plans
- Developer warranties
Resale apartments advantages:
- Immediate ownership transfer
- Often better price per sqm
- Existing rental history
We work with verified developers and trusted resale owners only.
3. Apartment Reservation
After selecting a unit:
Skyline Estate represents your interests during this stage and negotiates conditions when possible.
- A reservation fee is paid (usually 1.000-3.000$)
- The apartment is taken off the market
- Reservation agreement is issued
Skyline Estate represents your interests during this stage and negotiates conditions when possible.
4. Legal Due Diligence
Before signing the contract, we verify:
For additional security, we can involve independent Thai lawyers upon request.
- Condominium registration
- Foreign freehold quota
- Title deed (Chanote)
- Absence of debts or legal risks
For additional security, we can involve independent Thai lawyers upon request.
5. Signing the Sales & Purchase Agreement
The contract includes:
All agreements are provided in Thai and English.
- Final purchase price
- Payment schedule
- Completion and transfer dates
- Ownership structure (foreign freehold)
All agreements are provided in Thai and English.
6. Transferring Funds to Thailand
To legally buy an apartment in Pattaya:
This generates a Foreign Exchange Transaction Form (FETF) - mandatory for ownership registration. Skyline Estate guides clients through this process step by step.
- Funds must be transferred from abroad
- In foreign currency
- With the purpose: “For condominium purchase”
This generates a Foreign Exchange Transaction Form (FETF) - mandatory for ownership registration. Skyline Estate guides clients through this process step by step.
7. Ownership Registration at the Land Office
At the Pattaya Land Department:
After registration, you receive the title deed in your name.
- Documents are signed
- Taxes and fees are paid
- Ownership is officially registered
After registration, you receive the title deed in your name.
Taxes and Fees When Buying an Apartment in Pattaya
Typical costs include:
In most transactions, fees are shared between buyer and seller. Skyline Estate calculates all costs in advance - there will be no surprises.
- Transfer fee: 2% of appraised value
- Stamp duty: 0.5% (if applicable)
- Withholding tax: depends on ownership structure
- Legal support: optional
In most transactions, fees are shared between buyer and seller. Skyline Estate calculates all costs in advance - there will be no surprises.
Apartment Prices in Pattaya
Approximate market prices:
We provide real market analytics, not advertised prices.
- Entry-level condos: USD 1.200-1.600 per sqm
- Mid-range projects: USD 1.800-2.500 per sqm
- Luxury beachfront: USD 3.000+ per sqm
We provide real market analytics, not advertised prices.
Why Buy an Apartment in Pattaya with Skyline Estate?
Clients choose Skyline Estate because we offer:
We work in your interests - from first consultation to ownership registration.
- Verified properties only
- Full support for foreign buyers
- Transparent pricing
- Assistance after purchase (rentals, resale, management)
- Local market expertise
We work in your interests - from first consultation to ownership registration.
Is Buying an Apartment in Pattaya a Good Investment?
Many of our clients buy apartments in Pattaya for:
The Thai real estate market has been showing steady growth year after year. Demand for rentals in Pattaya remains consistently high throughout the year. This allows investors to earn a net annual return of up to 15%, and in premium segments, up to 20%. By investing today, you become the owner of an asset that not only generates monthly passive income but also constantly increases in value.
- Rental income
- Capital appreciation
- Personal residence or retirement
The Thai real estate market has been showing steady growth year after year. Demand for rentals in Pattaya remains consistently high throughout the year. This allows investors to earn a net annual return of up to 15%, and in premium segments, up to 20%. By investing today, you become the owner of an asset that not only generates monthly passive income but also constantly increases in value.
You Can Explore Available Apartments in Pattaya and Buy It at Special Price
from 168.000$
Luxurious high-rise apartments with premier beachfront living experience and top-tier amenities
from 152.000$
Luxury condominium featuring 279 exclusive residences with five-star resort amenities
from 93.400$
Luxurious high-rise condominium, located on the vibrant 3rd Road with panoramic views of Pattaya Bay
from 66.400$
A new luxury project by The Riviera Group Thailand, which has become the seventh in their prestigious collection
from 146.800$
Get unparalleled lifestyle experience with an array of world-class amenities. A new landmark of luxury living is set to rise
from 71.500$
A true haven of tranquility and comfort in the bustling Pratumnak area. Ideal solution for both permanent living and profitable investment
from 96.400$
Tallest building in Pattaya with modern design apartments located on Thappraya Street
from 84.400$
Luxurious residential complex located in the Jomtien area consisting of 8-story buildings surrounded by green gardens and picturesque landscapes
from 72.700$
Residential project by Universal Group Thailand, located in the prestigious Jomtien area of Pattaya, just 1 km from the beach
from 100.300$
Prestigious high-rise condominium, located on Jomtien 2nd Road, that offers an exceptional living experience
from 57.400$
Modern project consisting of six buildings with cozy and functional atmosphere located near key urban infrastructure facilities in Pattaya
from 122.100$
Luxury complex, consisting of three elegant towers, that offers residents unrivaled views and exceptional level of comfort
from 152.200$
Elite residential complex that harmoniously blends natural mangrove motifs with modern infrastructure
from 78.500$
Beautiful condominium surrounded by nature that offers calm and relaxing lifestyle
from 130.700$
Luxurious high-rise condominium project located just 500 meters from the serene Jomtien Beach
from 87.600$
A new approach to elite living, combining modern amenities with a focus on health and harmony
from 179.000$
Premium condominium inspired by the natural beauty of the coast located near Walking Street and Royal Garden Plaza
from 110.000$
Luxury condominium for those who prioritize wellness and active living, developed by the renowned Riviera Group
from 78.200$
Prestigious resort-style residential complex offering a refined blend of modern elegance and world-class amenities
from 82.000$
Modern condominium that offers a full range of amenities for comfortable and private living in the heart of Pattaya
from 192.500$
Iconic luxury condominium inspired by the rhythm of the sea and the tropical warmth of Pattaya’s shoreline
from 187.000$
Situated in a prime location, this complex offers an unparalleled lifestyle enriched with premier amenities
from 149.000$
A stunning condominium that delivers a full spectrum of leisure and wellness amenities
from 107.500$
Ultra-modern, stylish 8-story building surrounded by tropical landscaped gardens
Comparative Analysis of Residential Projects in Pattaya
Conclusion
Understanding how to buy an apartment in Pattaya is essential for a safe and profitable purchase. With professional guidance, the process is straightforward and legally secure.
Skyline Estate helps foreign buyers purchase apartments in Pattaya confidently - from property selection to final ownership.
Skyline Estate helps foreign buyers purchase apartments in Pattaya confidently - from property selection to final ownership.
We will answer all your questions in detail, select a suitable property, and arrange
a personal meeting if necessary
a personal meeting if necessary
We will answer all your questions in detail, select a suitable property,
and arrange a personal meeting if necessary
and arrange a personal meeting if necessary
Submit a request for
a consultation with a specialist
a consultation with a specialist
Submit a request for a consultation with a specialist
