🏡 KAN HOMES BUYER’S GLOSSARY

10 Thai Real Estate Terms You Need to Know

Before you sign anything in Thailand, know exactly what you’re signing. Save this.

1️⃣ 📜

Chanote (โฉนด)

The gold-standard land title deed. Full, absolute ownership — verifiable by GPS via the Smart Land portal.

2️⃣ 📋

Nor Sor 3 Gor (น.ส. 3 ก.)

A step below Chanote. Confirms your right to use the land, not full ownership.

3️⃣ 🔑

Freehold (กรรมสิทธิ์)

Complete, outright ownership of the property and land. The gold standard for buyers.

4️⃣ ⏳

Leasehold (สัญญาเช่า)

You lease the right to use the land, typically 30 years with renewal options (30+30+30).

5️⃣ 🤝

Usufruct (สิทธิ์ผู้ใช้)

The legal right to use and enjoy someone else’s property. Distinct from ownership or leasehold.

6️⃣ 🌏

Foreign Quota (โควต้าชาวต่างประเทศ)

Foreigners can own max 49% of a condo building’s total floor area. Always check this first.

7️⃣ 🏗️

Off-Plan (ออฟแพลน)

Buying before construction is complete. Better pricing, more risk — check the developer carefully.

8️⃣ 🔍

Title Search (ค้นหาสิทธิ์ที่ดิน)

The investigation confirming a property’s legal status. Never skip this, no matter how trustworthy the seller seems.

9️⃣ 💰

Common Area Fee (ค่าใช้จ่ายส่วนกลาง)

Your monthly contribution to shared condo facilities. Factor it into your real cost of ownership.

🔟 🧾

Land and House Tax (ภาษีที่ดินฯ)

Thailand’s annual property tax, based on land and building value. Applies to foreign owners too.

Buying in Thailand? Talk to someone who speaks this language fluently.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional real estate advice. Property laws and terminology may vary by region and are subject to change. Always consult a qualified Thai lawyer or licensed real estate professional before making any property-related decisions.