Thailand's real estate market continues steady growth. According to the Bank of Thailand (BOT), since 2008, average property prices have risen by 4.2–5.8% annually. Even during periods of political instability, such as the 2014 coup, growth continued — villas increased by 4.9%, and apartments by 14%.
Prices in 2025: New Highs
The trend continues in 2024–2025. Average prices in Bangkok reached 128,000 THB/m² (~3,600 USD), and in premium areas (Sukhumvit, Rayong) — up to 320,000 THB/m² (~8,900 USD), comparable to 2014 levels but adjusted for inflation and rising demand.
In resort areas:
- Pattaya — from 95,000 THB/m²;
- Phuket — from 110,000 THB/m²;
- Samui — from 135,000 THB/m².
Who Is Buying: Foreign Investor Breakdown
According to REIC, foreign buyers purchased 18,700 units in 2024 (+38% vs 2023). Top by volume:
- China — 37%;
- India — 21% (sharp rise);
- Russia — 15%;
- Singapore — 9%;
- USA — 6%.
By investment value:
- China — 35%;
- Russia — 22% (high average deal size);
- Singapore — 16%.
Thus, Russians remain in the top 3 by investment volume, despite RUB fluctuations.
Where Are Buyers Investing?
Most in-demand regions:
- Pattaya & Eastern Seaboard (EEC) — due to infrastructure growth and affordability;
- Phuket & Samui — popular with Chinese and Russian buyers;
- Bangkok (Sukhumvit, Ramkhamhaeng) — preferred by Singaporeans, Americans, and Indians.
Investments & Rental Yields: 6–8% Returns
Over 60% of Russians buy Thai property for investment. Yields:
- Short-term (Airbnb) — 6–8% annually;
- Long-term — 4–5%;
- Hotel-managed complexes (Centara, Banyan Tree, Movenpick) — 7% guaranteed returns.
Many developers hand over units to hotel chains, allowing owners to combine vacation use with income.
Construction: Slowdown & Oversupply
As in 2015, construction has slowed. According to Colliers International, new project launches in Pattaya dropped by 35% over 2 years due to:
- Excess supply in economy and mid-range segments;
- Lower domestic demand;
- Anticipation of new land ownership rules.
In 2025, secondary market transactions are rising — many investors are selling units bought in 2021–2023, increasing competition and lowering prices by 5–10%.
Government Support & Infrastructure
The Thai government continues to stimulate the market:
- Reduced transfer fee from 2% to 1.5% for purchases before 2026;
- Easier mortgage access for foreigners (up to 50% LTV);
- EEC development — high-speed rail Bangkok–Pattaya–U-Tapao, launch in 2026;
- Thailand Elite Visa Plus — long-term visa for property purchases over $500K.
Foreign Ownership Rules
Rules remain unchanged:
- Foreigners can own 49% of units in a project as freehold;
- Remaining 51% — leasehold only (30+30+30 years);
- For villas: house — freehold, land — leasehold (30+30+30).
Abolishing these rules is not planned — it's part of national land protection policy.
Outlook 2025–2026
Analysts from CBRE and Colliers forecast:
- 5–7% annual price growth;
- Rising share of Chinese and Indian buyers;
- Political stability and tourism recovery (42 million visitors expected in 2025);
- Growth in commercial real estate — especially hotels and serviced apartments.
Thailand remains the top destination in APAC for Russians and CIS citizens. Over 7,200 people monthly search for apartments and villas in the country.
Despite global challenges, Thailand's market remains stable and attractive. My Thai Home helps you find property with investment returns, location, and legal safety in mind.