May 02, 2023

Property Hunting in Pattaya

Discovering a suitable home can be a difficult task regardless of where you reside, but it can be particularly demanding in Pattaya, and indeed throughout Thailand.

In contrast to the United States, Canada, and various other nations, Thailand has an unrestricted listing policy. This means that a property owner can list their property with numerous agencies simultaneously, with the belief that more agents would increase the likelihood of selling. However, we will delve into this matter later. For now, let us examine some of the techniques individuals employ to search for homes in the Pattaya region.

Word of mouth and Referrals

Believe it or not word of mouth and referrals is still an excellent way to find a home. Pattaya has a vibrant night life and a lot of expat clubs and groups so sometime simply mentioning that you are looking for or selling a house or condo can generate quite a few properties for you to view or potential buyers for your property. Of course, at Coastal Real Estate we love referrals from past clients and friends. It means we are doing our job and people are confident that if they send us a client we will do our best to help them.

Driving around

I understand that in the 21st century, the internet is the go-to resource for most people, and it's uncommon for individuals to drive around looking for a house. However, you might be surprised to learn that quite a few home buyers and renters still enjoy driving around the neighborhoods they like, searching for signs indicating a house for rent or sale.

Although this approach can be time-consuming, and it isn't as practical if you're searching for condos, many quality properties are still sold or rented out with nothing more than a sign on the gate. Therefore, our agents strive to persuade homeowners who list their properties with us to allow us to put up our "for sale" or "for rent" signs at their homes because it is still an effective way to attract attention.

Moreover, going back to the word of mouth technique, anyone who walks or drives past the home may not be actively seeking to buy, but they could pass the information on to friends, family, colleagues, and neighbors. As a result, this old-fashioned approach remains effective, even with the advent of the internet.

Visiting an Agency

Placing signs in their windows with their latest rental and sale offerings is a common practice among agencies located on streets with high pedestrian traffic. This strategy can effectively catch the attention of people looking for a new home. Our former office on Soi Diana was able to successfully close many deals by having people come in after seeing the signs in our windows. Whether they were interested in the advertised property or something else, it was a great starting point to start the conversation. If you have the time, visiting a local agency can be a beneficial way to gather information and begin your property search. We encourage individuals to visit our office in Pattaya for a chat about real estate, despite our location not being heavily trafficked by pedestrians. We have ample parking available and are always eager to assist with any inquiries.

The Internet

The Internet is the go-to option for finding a new home in Pattaya, with hundreds of agencies having websites where you can browse properties in your preferred location or development. However, it's essential to exercise caution as the property you're interested in may no longer be available or may have a different price. Some agencies don't update their listings regularly, and some even leave unavailable properties on their sites to trick you into buying or renting something else.

If you have listed your property with Coastal Real Estate, you can rest assured that our dedicated team keeps in touch with property owners to ensure that our listings are accurate and up to date.

It's a common misconception that bigger property websites with more listings are always better. Some sites display a vast number of properties, including duplicate listings from multiple agencies, which may be misleading. The same property can be listed at different prices, and if the original agency fails to update their site, the information on secondary sites can be incorrect. Some agencies even list the same property multiple times to increase their chances of getting inquiries.

Furthermore, some popular property websites in Thailand do not research or add new developments, resulting in missed opportunities for users to learn about new housing or condo projects. Some of these sites have also stopped displaying logos of the agencies, making it harder for users to know who they are dealing with. Therefore, having the most extensive listing of properties doesn't always equate to the best or most reliable website.

Social Media

If you're a Facebook, Twitter, or any other social media user, you may have come across advertisements for houses and condos available in Pattaya. If you're in the Pattaya or Bangkok area, you might have even seen our ads. Various agencies and individual agents regularly post properties for sale or rent on these platforms, making it a great way to attract potential clients. While the selection may be limited compared to an agency's window display, it's still a good way to see which agencies are active in the market.

In conclusion, we recommend that you visit an agency's website directly to begin your property search. This is because the agency's website will be up-to-date, and its staff will be knowledgeable if they're professional. There are many ways to look for properties in Pattaya, but we feel that starting with an agency's website is the best approach.

Are you torn between buying or renting property in Pattaya? It is a decision that depends on your lifestyle, financial goals, and long-term plans and requires exploring costs, lifestyle perks, and market trends. Contact Coastal Real Estate, your trusted and reputable real estate agents in Pattaya, to find your perfect property today.Advantages of RentingFlexibility: When you rent property in Pattaya, you have complete flexibility and can move around easily without being tied down to a specific location or property.Lower upfront costs: A security deposit and the first month's rent are typically sufficient, making it more affordable in the short term.Zero responsibility for maintenance: Landlords will handle property maintenance, taking the burden of time and money off your shoulders.ChallengesThe cost to rent property in Pattaya has been risingYou will be limited in your scope to personalize your living spaceAdvantages of BuyingInvestment opportunities: Buying property in Pattaya is a safe bet, as the real estate market shows consistent growth and provides excellent potential returnsCustomization: When you buy a property in Pattaya, it’s yours to renovate and personalize as you see fitLong-term stability: Buying property in Pattaya can be more economical if you plan to stay for an extended period and provides a sense of permanenceChallengesThe cost of buying property in Pattaya: It requires a significant upfront investment for foreigners to buy property in PattayaForeigners face property ownership restrictions in ThailandUltimately, renting property in Pattaya is ideal for those who prefer flexibility or only have short-term stays planned, whereas buying suits individuals who desire long-term stability or lucrative investment opportunities.Understanding the Costs: Renting vs. Buying Property in PattayaThe cost of buying property in Pattaya vs renting is a vital consideration. Each option has distinct benefits and financial implications, as follows:Renting costsMinimal: A security deposit of 2 months' rent and the first month's rent upfrontOngoing rent: MonthlyNo maintenance costsBuying costsPurchase price of the propertyClosing costsLegal feesProperty taxesFluctuating property prices that seem set to continue rising in a thriving real estate marketMaintenance: Owners are responsible for upkeepLifestyle Flexibility: Which Option Suits Your Stay in PattayaFor those intending to make Pattaya their permanent home or those planning an investment, it may make sense to buy rather than rent. However, with competitive rental prices, many choose to rent. The lifestyle flexibility of renting property in Pattaya is a major advantage for some, because they can move to another property easily and simply at the end of their lease. People with families and other long-term commitments often like to make the property their forever home, with various upgrades and renovations that fulfil their vision of the perfect place to live, which is not generally possible to do in a rental property. Ultimately, it’s all about the desired lifestyle, long-term goals, and their current situation as to whether renting or buying is the best option.The Bottom LineRenting property in Pattaya offers ultimate flexibility and lower upfront costs. It is ideal for those who prefer short-term stays or have uncertain plans.Buying property in Pattaya offers long-term stability and high-yield investment potential, but it requires a substantial financial commitment, careful planning, and professional assistance.Market Trends and Legal Considerations for Foreign Buyers in PattayaMarket TrendsPattaya remains a desirable hot spot for property investment in Thailand. Foreign investors are particularly drawn to buying property in Pattaya due to its consistent growth, vibrant social scene, stable rental market, and dependable profitability. Navigating these trends and legalities requires careful planning and professional advice from experts like those at Coastal Real Estate. Some key trends in the property market for expats when considering property for sale in Pattaya include:Rising property pricesAs the demand for quality Pattaya real estate for sale continues to grow, the price per square meter for condos is keeping pace.High potential rental yieldsMany areas already offer impressive returns for rental properties, and more are being developed and improved constantly.Government regulations and policiesTaxes and local regulations shape the market to incentivize foreign investment.Legal ConsiderationsSpecific restrictions and opportunities apply to foreign investors when buying property in Pattaya, as follows:Condominium ownershipForeigners are restricted to owning a maximum of 49% of the total area in any condominium building, ensuring that the majority of ownership remains with Thai nationals. This creates a highly competitive foreigner quota market, often driving up unit prices. Individuals unable to secure a condo within the quota can negotiate leasehold agreements or form a majority Thai ownership company.Contact Coastal Real Estate TodayIf you’re ready to learn more about Pattaya real estate rental or purchases and find exclusive luxury property for sale in Pattaya, look no further than Coastal Real Estate.We offer an exceptional collection of properties for sale in Pattaya, along with the knowledge, expertise, and experience you need. Our former clients highly value our client-first approach. Once you experience our professionalism, integrity, and dedication firsthand, we are confident that you’ll be impressed.  Please don’t hesitate to contact us today to learn more. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you find property for sale in Pattaya.

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Finding the Perfect Condo for Sale in Pattaya, Thailand

Mar 01, 2025

If you’re looking for the best condo for sale in Pattaya, you should be prepared for a lengthy search, as the choice of first-class properties in this corner of Thailand is truly exceptional at the moment. There’s a great mix of modest and luxury condos for sale in Pattaya central and further afield, spread over a variety of developments. Some of these developments are still under construction, with others being a mix of newly completed and older, well-established condominiums. But finding the best condo for sale in Pattaya doesn’t have to be an arduous task if you approach it in the right way.Why Pattaya is a Prime Location for Condo BuyersBefore we share our top tips on how to find the best condo for sale in Pattaya, let’s consider for a moment why this part of Thailand is such a great place for real estate. If you know what makes a condo for sale in Pattaya or Jomtien a more attractive property investment than a condo for sale elsewhere in Thailand, you can focus your search on units with an abundance of the most highly prized qualities.Firstly, Pattaya is, of course, a coastal resort, which makes it an appealing location for all types of buyers. If you can find a suitable condo in Pattaya for sale at a competitive price, it’s well worth your serious consideration for this reason alone. Secondly, it's the site of some of the best new condominium developments in this part of the world. The average condo for sale in Pattaya is built to a higher quality and finished to a better standard than many comparable properties across the region. There are many other reasons that a luxury condo in Pattaya, for sale at the right price, could be a fantastic investment opportunity, not to mention a great holiday apartment or retirement unit. Because it's a well-established resort town, there's a mature tourism infrastructure that ensures visitors from overseas are always well-catered for. There are also excellent links to Bangkok airports, so it will be easy to come and go once you find the right condo for sale in Pattaya and make your offer.Key Factors to Consider When You Buy a Condo in PattayaIf you want to find the best condo for sale in Pattaya, we recommend that you consider the following key factors as you search for suitable properties.LocationAn experienced real estate agent such as ourselves can tell you the best areas to buy a condo in Pattaya from an investment potential, but we can't tell you which areas will be most suitable for you to live in. For that, you will need to do your homework, both online and on the ground if possible.The BuildersWhen evaluating each condo for sale in Pattaya that you visit or find online, don’t forget to make a note of the development company responsible for building and finishing them. You can research these companies afterward and identify the ones with the best reputations.Maintenance FeesWhen trying to compare Pattaya luxury condos for sale and decide which one suits your wallet best, it's tempting to focus solely on the sale price. However, don't forget to consider the annual maintenance fees too. These will have to be paid every year that you own the property, and if a little on the high side, they could become onerous over time.Apart from the above factors, you should also consider the legal ramifications of making an offer on a condo for sale on Pattaya Beach Road or elsewhere in the city. Certain documentation requirements must be fulfilled: a task that’s easier to complete with a reliable real estate agent to help you.How to Find the Right Condo for Your NeedsIn our experience, the best way to find the right condo for sale in Pattaya - a property that meets all your needs at the right price is to spend some time on the ground here, talking to local property agents, visiting new and existing developments, checking out local amenities and talking to other expats who live here.Ready to find your dream condo in Pattaya? Explore the latest listings and get expert advice today!” As leading Pattaya property agents, we can show you the best luxury property for sale in Thailand at the best prices. All you need to do is get in touch to tell us what type of condo for sale in Pattaya you’re looking for.

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How to Avoid Common Pitfalls When Buying Property in Pattaya

Feb 12, 2025

If you’re in Thailand looking to buy property, Pattaya is sure to be on your radar. It’s a very well-established coastal resort in the Gulf of Thailand, which means it has pretty much everything you could want in a second home and more besides. There's sun, sea, and sand aplenty and, crucially, a good supply of high-quality housing. But before you buy property in Pattaya, there are a few common pitfalls you need to be aware of.Understanding Legal Requirements and Ownership Laws in ThailandIt is, of course, possible for foreigners to buy property in Pattaya legally and live in it afterwards. However, there are rules and regulations governing foreign property ownership that you need to be familiar with before venturing into the local real estate market. Not all properties in Thailand can be directly owned by a citizen of another country, so it's important to do your research before transferring money into the country and making a serious offer on any property for sale in Pattaya, Thailand.Condos - As long as the foreign ownership quota (49% in each development) hasn't been exceeded, you can buy a condo in any development in Pattaya. Certain documentation requirements must be met, but with the right real estate agents helping you, once you're in the country, it's a relatively straightforward process to buy property. Pattaya is home to numerous property agents, but not many can boast our unique combination of local knowledge, real estate expertise, and passion for customer service. With us on your side, you can look forward to an enjoyable buying experience from start to finish.Land and Houses - At the time of writing, it’s not possible for foreign individuals to directly own land in Thailand. However, there are some legal workarounds that can be employed if you wish to buy a home with land in Pattaya or elsewhere in the country. For clients interested in Pattaya property for sale with land, there are several ownership options that can be explored. These include Thai company ownership, leasehold agreements, and marriage to a Thai national. For more information, please call or message us.If you research Thai real estate laws before you buy property, Pattaya is one of the best places in the world to acquire a retirement home or second residence. On the other hand, if you fail to do your homework, you could make a very expensive mistake. Team up with a reputable real estate agent to ensure that you’re not caught unawares.Choosing the Right Location and Property Type for Your InvestmentIf you can successfully negotiate the legal system when you buy property in Pattaya, you’re halfway to achieving your goal. However, there are other pitfalls waiting to catch you out if you take your eye off the ball, such as poor locations and the wrong property types. Before you start visiting Pattaya property agents and asking to see the best homes in the area, you must know what you’re looking for and where you would like to focus your search.Location - We always recommend visiting properties before making an offer. Even when buying off-plan, it’s crucial to visit the site before you buy property. Pattaya boasts many beautiful residential developments in fantastic locations, but there are a few lemons too. Visiting each site and familiarizing yourself with the area as a whole will help you avoid locations that are clearly not up to scratch.Property Type - The type of property you buy has legal implications, as discussed earlier. However, there are lifestyle implications that you also need to consider before embarking on a serious search for property to buy in Pattaya, Thailand. A condo by the beach may be the perfect investment for a solo traveler or couple, but for a large family, a luxury property with a garden could be a much better proposition. Take some time to think about what you really need.Avoiding Overpriced Deals and Ensuring Proper Due DiligenceHaving found the perfect property in the perfect location, you need to ensure you’re getting a good deal before making an offer. It’s always crucial to research the local real estate market thoroughly before you buy property. Pattaya boasts many condos and houses at good prices, but there are always overpriced properties on the market as well. By researching Pattaya property prices first, you can avoid making a bad investment.The easiest way to avoid common pitfalls when buying property here is to contact the best real estate property agents in Pattaya. Whatever you’re looking for, we’d be delighted to help.