Chiang Mai Property Buying Guide
Foreign Buyer’s Property Guide｜Safe Property Selection, Transfer Procedures & Complete Tax Breakdown
🧭 Property Buying Process & Key Considerations
Make every step of buying property in Chiang Mai safe and worry-free
📌 Overview of the Buying Process:
Choose Area & Property: Select the right location and project based on your budget, lifestyle, and future plans.
Negotiate & Pay Deposit: Negotiate with the owner or developer, and pay a deposit to reserve the unit.
Legal Review & Document Preparation: Includes the sale and purchase agreement, bank account setup documents, and proof of foreign currency inward remittance.
Transfer at the Land Office: Complete the transaction and register the new owner’s name.
Handover & Utility Transfer: Inspect the unit, transfer utilities, and set up water and electricity accounts.
📌 Key Considerations:
Foreigners cannot own land in Thailand but may purchase condominium units (at least 51% of the building’s units must be Thai-owned).
Funds must be remitted in foreign currency, with a Foreign Exchange Transaction Form from the bank as proof.
You may choose Freehold or Leasehold ownership (up to 30 years).
Some developers may request a nominee arrangement, but this carries legal risks and should be evaluated carefully.
🤝 ALT Butler Exclusive Property Buying Support
Work with our local Chiang Mai team to ensure a smooth and secure property transaction
🏘 Property Selection Advisory: Filter properties based on your needs, arrange viewings, and provide area analysis.
📑 Legal & Translation Support: Source a lawyer, review contracts, translate documents, and assist with ownership transfer.
💬 Communication Bridge with Sellers: Handle negotiations, verify property information, and confirm seller’s identity.
💰 Tax & Fee Estimation with Settlement Supervision: Help calculate and verify all costs payable by both buyer and seller.
🛠 After-Sales Management Advice: If you plan to rent out your property, we can connect you with our Airbnb management team PER CHance @ Chiangmai.
Mueang Chiang Mai District is the administrative and economic center of Chiang Mai Province, encompassing the Old City, Nimmanhaemin area, and surrounding key commercial and residential zones. It blends historical culture with modern living, featuring the traditional charm of the Old City’s moat and temples alongside shopping malls, international schools, and upscale residential communities. With convenient transportation and comprehensive amenities, it is one of the most popular residential areas for both expatriates and local residents.
Located east of Chiang Mai City, San Kamphaeng is famous for its hot springs, handicraft villages, and rural landscapes. It is an important origin of traditional Northern Thai handicrafts, home to workshops producing silk, cotton textiles, ceramics, and woodcarvings. The San Kamphaeng Hot Springs is a popular attraction, drawing visitors for soaking and picnicking. With a slower pace of life, the district is ideal for those who appreciate nature and local culture.
Located just north of Chiang Mai City, San Sai offers both urban convenience and suburban tranquility. The district is home to many residential communities, international schools, and lifestyle hubs, making it a popular choice for expatriates and local middle-class families. Some areas of San Sai are close to Mae Rim and the city center, offering scenic mountain views and open countryside, with a relaxed and pleasant lifestyle.
Located northeast of Chiang Mai City, Doi Saket is known for its vast rural landscapes, hills, and temples. The area offers a slow-paced lifestyle, fresh air, and extensive farmland and orchards, making it ideal for those who enjoy countryside living and self-sufficient lifestyles. With hot springs, waterfalls, and nature trails, it is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. In recent years, several villa and resort-style residential projects have been developed, attracting expatriate retirees and holiday home buyers.
Located south of Chiang Mai City, Hang Dong is renowned for its upscale villa communities, international schools, and shopping facilities. The district hosts a large expatriate community, offering a cosmopolitan lifestyle while being close to natural attractions such as Doi Suthep Mountain and waterfalls. Property options are diverse, ranging from modern detached houses to large estate-style residences, making it one of the top choices for high-income families and retirees.
Located in the northern outskirts of Chiang Mai City, Mae Rim is embraced by mountains and streams, offering a cool and pleasant climate. It is an ideal location for those seeking a resort-style lifestyle away from the city’s hustle and bustle. The district is home to numerous natural attractions, such as Mae Sa Waterfall, Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, jungle adventure parks, and zipline courses. It also features boutique coffee estates and Northern Thai-style resorts. Some areas offer high-quality detached villas and private estates, attracting expatriate retirees and artists.
Located southeast of Chiang Mai City along the riverside, Saraphi offers a lush and green environment with a relaxed pace of life. The district is known for its traditional rural scenery and riverside homes, while still being close to the city and major roads, making transportation convenient. It features numerous temples, orchards, and local markets that preserve the charm of Northern Thai culture. In recent years, the development of riverside villas and low-density housing has attracted many expatriate and local families seeking a peaceful lifestyle.
Located southwest of Chiang Mai City, San Pa Tong is known for its vast farmland, rural landscapes, and local markets. One of its most unique features is the weekly Buffalo Market, showcasing the traditional agricultural trading culture. The district preserves many Lanna-era temples and buildings, offering a slow-paced lifestyle ideal for those who enjoy rural settings and traditional culture. In recent years, some areas have seen the development of low-density housing and holiday homes, attracting families seeking a natural environment and more spacious living.
Chiang Mai Province is divided into 24 districts. In addition to the popular city areas and nearby zones, there are 16 other districts that also offer great potential for living and development. These areas are ideal for those seeking tranquility and a lifestyle close to nature. With affordable property prices, authentic communities, and steadily improving infrastructure, they are excellent choices for retirees, self-employed individuals, and families who value quality of life.
Beyond Chiang Mai, Thailand is home to many other highly livable destinations. Whether you dream of seaside living, a historic cultural city, or a serene mountain retreat, from Hua Hin to Chiang Rai, from Krabi to Phitsanulok, each place offers its own unique lifestyle and community character. These destinations are ideal for starting a new chapter in retirement, entrepreneurship, wellness, or family education, opening up more possibilities for your life.