Koh Samui offers a diverse range of residential properties, including apartments, condominiums, villas, detached houses, semi-detached homes, and townhouses. Architectural styles vary from contemporary to traditional Asian influences, with properties available at different price points, from garden-view residences to high-end beachfront villas. The market includes off-plan, under-construction, and completed properties, catering to a variety of buyer preferences.
For those looking to invest in Koh Samui property, the island offers a variety of options across different price ranges. For condominiums, villas, or land, buyers can explore the available opportunities on our Koh Samui property sales page.
Villas, Houses, and Townhouses in Koh Samui
In Koh Samui, the terms villa and house are often used interchangeably. However, houses generally fall within lower price ranges, while the term villa can be applied to properties across a broader spectrum. These residences are situated on individual land plots and may be detached or semi-detached, with or without private pools. Townhouses, on the other hand, are multi-level properties built in rows as part of a larger development.
For foreign investors, property acquisition in Koh Samui requires compliance with Thai property ownership laws.
Foreigners cannot directly own land in Thailand but are allowed to own the structures built on it. There are two main ownership structures when it comes to the land beneath a house or villa.
- Thai limited company ownership involves setting up a company to hold the land on a freehold basis. The company must be a functioning business with annual financial reports, and Thai shareholders must have a genuine interest in the company, receiving dividends if the business is profitable.
- Leasehold ownership allows foreigners to lease land for a 30-year term, which is the maximum lease period under Thai law. Developers often include renewal clauses in contracts, extending the lease for an additional 30 or 60 years, resulting in a total leasehold period of 60 or 90 years. Some leasehold arrangements include protected structures, where investors are given shares in the company that owns the land’s freehold, adding an extra layer of security for lease renewals.
Condominiums vs. Apartments
In Thailand, condominiums and apartments are legally distinct.
A condominium is a unit within a registered condo development, where foreigners can own up to 49 percent of the total saleable area on a freehold basis. The remaining units fall under the Thai Quota.
Apartments, however, are typically sold on a leasehold basis, with maximum lease terms of 30 years, often with renewal options. While leasehold is the most common arrangement, some apartments are sold through Thai company ownership structures, where foreign buyers are given shares in the holding company.
Koh Samui has a scarcity of freehold condominium developments due to zoning regulations that limit the availability of land eligible for condo licenses. As a result, the island offers only a handful of freehold condo projects. One of the more recent additions to this market is Anava Condominiums, located on Bang Rak Beach.
Off-Plan Investments: Condominiums, Apartments, and Villas
Off-plan properties, those purchased before construction is complete, are common in Koh Samui, particularly in condominium and apartment developments. Due to their commoditised nature, with standardised unit designs and layouts, these property types are particularly well-suited for off-plan sales. This allows developers to offer pre-construction pricing that may result in capital appreciation for early buyers. Investors also have limited opportunities to customise their units during the building phase, depending on the development.
This also applies to villas when they are part of larger developments with predefined, standardised designs. In such cases, off-plan villa projects benefit from the same advantages as condominiums—lower pre-construction pricing and potential for capital growth upon completion.
Koh Samui Property Price Ranges
- Condos and apartments – Entry-level units start at $50,000, while mid-range and luxury options typically range between $450,000 and $600,000.
- Villas and houses – Detached villas and townhouses start at around $180,000. Garden pool villas are generally priced from $300,000, while sea-view villas typically start at $450,000. Prime beachfront or oceanfront luxury properties can reach up to $8 million.
Facilities and Maintenance Fees
Condominium and apartment developments generally include communal facilities such as swimming pools, fitness centres, and 24-hour security. Higher-end properties may offer additional luxury amenities, including concierge services, rooftop lounges, and shared recreational spaces. Maintenance fees cover the upkeep of these communal areas and vary depending on the development and the services provided.
Villas, on the other hand, typically provide more privacy and space, often featuring private pools and landscaped gardens. Some villa developments offer shared facilities, such as security, gyms, or clubhouses, but these are far less common than in condominium complexes. Standalone villas offer complete independence, allowing owners full control over their property, but this also means taking on maintenance responsibilities that would otherwise be covered in a condominium setting. While this setup appeals to those who value privacy, it may lack the convenience of on-site services and communal amenities found in managed developments.
Property Resale Considerations
When comparing like-for-like properties, freehold condominiums generally have better resale value than leasehold apartments due to their permanent ownership status. While some leasehold apartments come with renewable leases, buyers must ensure the renewal clauses are secure and legally sound.
For villa sales, company-owned structures allow for perpetual ownership and are typically sold through company takeovers or by forming a new entity for the investor. Leasehold villas follow similar considerations as leasehold apartments, with the remaining lease term and the security of lease renewals being key factors in resale value.
Final Thoughts
Koh Samui’s property market offers a range of ownership structures, price points, and investment opportunities. Whether purchasing a villa, apartment, or condominium, buyers must consider legal aspects, resale potential, and maintenance costs before making a decision. Understanding the different property types and ownership structures ensures a smooth and secure investment in one of Thailand’s most sought-after island destinations.
Article by Sunshine Solari
