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Journal · New Developments & Off-Plan Units

Payment stages when buying new developments in Thailand

Central City Property · 1 August 2025 · 2 min read
Payment stages when buying new developments in Thailand

Buying property in a new development — especially off-plan — involves several payment stages. These payments are typically scheduled around construction milestones and legal steps. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:


📊 Typical Payment Timeline (Off-Plan or Under Construction)

StageDescription% of Total PriceWhen It’s Paid
1. Reservation DepositSecures the unit฿50,000–฿200,000 (fixed)Immediately
2. Contract SigningSign Sales & Purchase Agreement (SPA)10–30%Within 14–30 days of reservation
3. Construction MilestonesPayments aligned with build stages (optional)20–60%Over 6–18 months
4. Completion / HandoverFinal payment + transfer feesBalance (20–50%)Upon project completion and title transfer
5. Ownership Transfer FeesPaid at Land OfficeUsually split 50/50 or as agreedOn transfer day

🏗️ Example: Condo Project Payment Breakdown

Stage% of PriceNotes
ReservationFixed amountRefundability depends on contract
Down Payment (SPA signing)20%Often negotiable
During Construction3–5 payments of 10%Based on floors, structure, roof, etc.
Completion / Transfer30–50%Final payment before keys are released

🧾 Other Costs at Completion

Fee TypeWho PaysEstimated Cost
Transfer FeeBuyer/Seller or 50/502% of property value
Withholding TaxSeller1% of appraised or contract price
Business Tax / Stamp DutySeller3.3% or 0.5% depending on ownership duration
Maintenance FeeBuyerPaid yearly or monthly in advance
Sinking FundBuyerOne-time fund for building upkeep

📌 Key Tips Before Making Payments

Always sign a formal contract (SPA)
Use escrow or milestone payments to reduce risk
Keep records and receipts for each payment
Consult a Thai property lawyer before signing anything
Ask for a developer’s license and construction permit


⚠️ Risks to Watch Out For

Want to understand exactly what you’ll be paying — and when — before you commit?

Payment schedules vary between developers and projects, and knowing what to expect at each stage can make a big difference to your planning and cash flow. We’re happy to walk you through the full cost picture for any project you’re considering, including transfer fees, sinking funds, and what’s negotiable. Just reach out and we’ll take it from there.

📧 Email:
💬 WhatsApp: +66 95 992 0345
🔵 Line: https://lin.ee/NNRglgs

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Imported from centralcityproperty.com · 1 August 2025