Koh Samui – FAQ for Buying Property
What are average property prices in Koh Samui?
Based on our own analysis, the average and median listing price for villas and houses in Koh Samui is 30.5M THB and 17.2M THB respectively. For apartments and condominiums, the average listing price is 6.5M THB, with a median price of 6.6M THB.
For a detailed breakdown of Koh Samui property prices by type and price band, view our Koh Samui Property Types by Price Band page.
What are the options for buying freehold property in Koh Samui?
Freehold property for sale on Koh Samui falls into two categories: freehold villas, where the land title is included in the sale, and freehold condominiums. Read our latest article on freehold property in Koh Samui in 2026 , which breaks the market down by villas - accounting for around 85% of listings - and freehold condominiums.
How common are leasehold villas in Koh Samui?
Going back to 2023, the vast majority of villa projects for sale on Koh Samui, even at entry-level price points, were offered freehold.
Over the last few years, however, there has been a significant shift, and today most cheaper villa developments are sold on a leasehold basis. In practice, villas priced from around 4–5 million THB up to approximately 15 million THB are typically offered either solely leasehold or with a choice between leasehold and freehold via a company structure.
How much are leasehold villas in Koh Samui?
The cheapest leasehold villas in Koh Samui are available from around 4–5 million THB. These are typically compact one- or two-bedroom villas, most commonly found within new development projects.
The 5–10 million THB price range offers considerably more choice. At these levels, buyers find a wide selection of decent-sized garden villas, many with private pools, and in some cases offered on renewable lease terms rather than a single 30-year lease.
Projects offering villas exclusively on a leasehold basis, with no alternative option to purchase freehold, generally top out at around 15 million THB. Above this level, villas are more commonly offered freehold, although leasehold villas at higher price points are becoming increasingly common.
For a full breakdown of leasehold villas by price band and location, see our detailed guide to leasehold villas for sale in Koh Samui.
Is buying property in Koh Samui a good investment?
Yes, but only if buyers do their research and choose carefully. Koh Samui’s property market is less regulated and less mature than those in many buyers’ home countries, which makes due diligence essential.
Investors should focus on location, build quality, developer track record, and how well a property aligns with their intended use. For suitable villas in prime locations, particularly those with sea views or strong holiday rental appeal, net rental yields of around 6 to 8 percent are achievable from short-term lets.
Capital appreciation is also possible, particularly when buying off-plan in well-located developments. In strong projects, resale values upon completion can be 15 to 25 percent higher, with larger gains achievable over longer holding periods.
Who pays the commission for property sales in Koh Samui?
In Koh Samui, the seller – whether a private individual or a developer – pays the property sales commission. Standard commission fees are typically around 5% of the sale price. For luxury properties, generally priced at 30 million THB or more, the commission rate may be lower, although in practice a minimum of around 3% is usually payable.
What are the key risks when buying property in Koh Samui?
Compared with more mature markets such as Phuket, Koh Samui has fewer proven developers and branded projects, which increases the importance of careful due diligence when buying property.
Legal and ownership risk is one of the most significant considerations. Foreigners cannot legally own land in Thailand. Since 2024, enforcement against nominee company structures has tightened, making many traditional Thai company arrangements non-compliant. For most foreign buyers, villas are now purchased on a leasehold basis or through carefully structured arrangements involving Thai parties, which introduces reliance on third parties.
Off-plan and developer risk is also relevant. Koh Samui has a high proportion of smaller or newer developers, and many projects rely on presales to fund construction. If sales slow, delays are common, and in some cases projects fail to complete, particularly in larger developments.
Regulatory and planning risk should not be underestimated. Building regulations vary depending on elevation, slope, and proximity to the sea. Some developments do not fully comply with their original permits, which can create issues at resale or transfer.
Investment mismatch risk is common. Properties that suit personal taste do not always perform well as investments. High-end villas may generate strong nightly rates but often come with high running and maintenance costs that reduce net returns.
Finally, because a large portion of stock is sold off-plan or under construction, there is a risk that the finished property does not fully match expectations. Buyers should assess specifications carefully and review completed projects by the same developer where possible.
What are the best locations in Koh Samui to buy property?
This depends on lifestyle preferences and investment goals. Please read our concise guide: Best Locations to Buy Property in Koh Samui .
Are properties in Koh Samui cheaper than in Phuket?
Entry-level pricing is similar in both destinations, with studio apartments starting from around 2 million THB and compact villas from approximately 5 million THB. However, Koh Samui becomes significantly cheaper as budgets increase.
Sea view villas on Samui can still be found for 15 to 20 million THB, whereas comparable properties in Phuket often start closer to 30 million THB. At the top end, Samui’s most expensive villas reach around 8 million USD, compared to 20 million USD or more in Phuket.
The price gap reflects cheaper land, a less mature market, and fewer branded developments on Samui. For a full breakdown, see our Koh Samui property market page .
Can foreigners still buy villas in Koh Samui?
Yes, but not through direct land ownership. Villas are typically purchased on a leasehold basis or through carefully structured corporate arrangements that comply with Thai law. Since 2024, enforcement against nominee shareholders has increased significantly.
Leasehold has therefore become the most common route, particularly at lower price points. For full legal context, see our page on property ownership in Thailand .
Why are there so few freehold condos in Koh Samui?
Koh Samui has traditionally been a villa-led market, driven by lifestyle buyers seeking privacy and outdoor living. In addition, there is limited land that meets the zoning requirements for condominium licences.
This contrasts with Phuket, where zoning allows for a much larger supply of freehold condominium developments.
Are most buyers in Koh Samui cash buyers?
Yes. Foreign buyers cannot obtain Thai bank mortgages for villas, and financing options are extremely limited. As a result, the market is predominantly cash-based.
Low leverage helps insulate the market from interest rate volatility and short-term financial shocks.
What are the building regulations in Koh Samui?
Building rules vary depending on altitude, slope, and distance from the beach. Restrictions apply to height, footprint, roof style, and green space. For full details, see our page on Koh Samui building regulations .