Foreign Buyers Shift Focus to Long-Term Thailand Property Holdings
Foreign buyers are increasingly purchasing Thai property for long-term residence and lifestyle rather than rental returns, with growing interest from South Asian, Middle Eastern, and ASEAN investors attracted by affordable living costs and
Sansiri reveals key shifts in Thailand's foreign real estate buyer landscape, signaling the country as a major global destination for residents and investors alike.
Sripimpa Rattanamyur, Marketing Executive President of Sansiri PCL, reports that Thailand's real estate market during the first half of 2025 remains attractive to foreign buyers despite global economic fluctuations. The market is entering a critical turning point driven by structural changes in purchase motivations, buyer nationalities, and how different locations serve varying lifestyle needs.
Foreign investors are increasingly pursuing long-term asset holding strategies rather than seeking rental returns alone. They now view Thailand as a destination for second homes, retirement planning, and future long-term residence. Chinese buyers are becoming more cautious and measured in their purchasing decisions according to global economic conditions, while Hong Kong investors are spreading investments across multiple countries. Thailand nonetheless remains a top destination due to affordable living costs, internationally recognized healthcare, continuous infrastructure development, and its potential as a regional hub.
Sansiri identifies significant growth from emerging markets in South Asia, the Middle East, and ASEAN—particularly affluent groups preferring residential ownership for family living. Buyers from Singapore and Japan are also increasing their market presence, viewing Thailand as both an investment destination and second home location. The government's long-term residence promotion policies, such as the LTR visa, further strengthen confidence among retirees and those planning extended stays in Thailand.
The pivotal market trend is that lifestyle has become as important as location itself in buyer decisions. Each area offers distinct advantages for different buyer profiles.
Bangkok remains the primary market for foreign workers, investors, and executives, particularly for mid-range to luxury condominiums in central business districts and near mass transit systems. Phuket holds its position as the regional luxury lifestyle and second home destination, offering premium villas and residences appealing to privacy-seeking buyers, digital nomads, and high-net-worth individuals worldwide. Pattaya attracts holiday home seekers and retirees with convenient Bangkok connectivity and development incentives from the Eastern Economic Corridor. Hua Hin appeals to families and those seeking spacious residential properties in tranquil settings for long-term living.
Secondary cities also gain increasing popularity based on specific buyer needs. Chiang Mai attracts health and wellness-focused buyers and remote workers seeking nature-immersed lifestyles, while Koh Samui draws luxury second-home buyers seeking privacy, sea views, and premium quality of life.
Another significant trend is the rental market's evolution as an additional consideration in the overall investment landscape.
