Showing posts with label guide to buy a house in usa. Show all posts
Showing posts with label guide to buy a house in usa. Show all posts

Monday, January 22, 2018

We Buy Houses Arizona, We Buy Houses Phoenix, Cody Buys Houses

Buy a house arizona


I have been buying houses in Arizona for the last 7+ years. I have developed a simple 4-step selling system where I do all the work.


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How To Sell Your Arizona House Fast.


Now For The Good Stuff. Below Is My 4-Step Selling Process:



  1. Initial consultation to collect data. Start by completing the form on the right.

  2. Sign a 2-page purchase contract. We can fax, email, or mail it to you.

  3. Closing takes place through a licensed title company. The title agent will come to you to close.

  4. You get your money. We can wire it or give you a check.


Selling your Arizona home has never been easier. No matter why you want to sell (divorce, death in the family, job loss / relocation, facing foreclosure) I want to talk with you. I have solutions to your housing problems and I want to make it as easy as possible for you to do business with me. I will walk you through the process and do all the work so you don't have to! Remember that I buy houses Phoenix, Arizona and throughout Maricopa County.


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FILL OUT THE FORM TO THE RIGHT AND I WILL IMMEDIATELY CONTACT YOU!


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Cody Sperber is a licensed real estate agent in the state of Arizona with SRL Group.


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Saturday, January 20, 2018

How to Buy a House in Arizona - Arizona Down Payment Assistance

Buy a house arizona



Series Introduction: HOW TO BUY A HOUSE IN ARIZONA


What you need to know about buying a house in Arizona including First Time Home Buyer Programs and how to take advantage of the best Arizona down payment assistance programs.


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Learn what you need to know to navigate the home buying process much easier, save money and limit your worry and stress.


Here is what you need to know to prepare to buy a house in Arizona:


Step 11. WHAT DO YOU HAVE TO DO TO CLOSE ON YOUR NEW HOME


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As you prepare to buy a home in Arizona, this guide will help you answer all of these important questions.


The Arizona real estate market is as strong as it has been in the last 10 years as more and more people, like you, are making the decision to stop renting and buy a home. Home ownership is still part of the American Dream. There are many financial and social benefits of home ownership.


It’s possible that buying a home will be the largest financial decision (major purchase) that you’ll ever make. Buying a home can be a complicated process. You need to understand as much as possible about how to buy a house in Arizona.


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You need the best information available to guide you through the home buying process.


This should be one of the most exciting events in your life. After all, your home will be an extension of who you are and you take pride in owning your home. Owning your home provides a feeling of comfort and stability. You gain a feeling of belonging as you plant roots and create strong ties with your family, friends and neighbors.


This home buyer series is intended to provide general information regarding the process of how to buy a house in Arizona. It is not intended to provide buyers with legal, accounting or financial advice. You are advised to seek the services of a skilled professional this those fields.


Additionally, this home buyer series does not set forth all qualification criteria for any of the loans described herein; all interested persons must successfully meet qualification criteria and complete the application process to obtain such loans.


IMPORTANT MORTGAGE DISCLOSURES:


When inquiring about a loan on this site, this is not a loan application. This is not an offer to lend and we are not affiliated with your current mortgage servicer. Upon the completion of your inquiry, we will work hard to assist you with an official loan application and provide loan product eligibility requirements for your individual situation.


When applying for a loan, we commonly require you to provide a valid social security number and submit to a credit check. Consumers who do not have the minimum acceptable credit required are unlikely to be approved. Minimum credit ratings vary according to loan product. In the event that you do not qualify based on the required minimum credit rating, we may or may not introduce you to a credit counseling service or credit improvement company who may or may not be able to assist you with improving your credit for a fee. Any loan product that we may offer you will carry fees or costs including closing costs, origination points, and/or refinancing fees. In many instances, fees or costs can amount to several thousand dollars and can be due upon the origination of the loan product.


This site is in no way affiliated with any news source or government organization and is not a government agency. Not affiliated with HUD, FHA, VA, USDA, FNMA, FHLMC or GNMA. This website and the company that owns it is not responsible for any typographical or photographic errors. If you do not agree to our terms and policies, please exit this site immediately. If you submit your mobile number on this website you agree to receive marketing based text messages. Consent is not required for purchase. You will receive up to 4 messages per month. Standard text and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to stop & HELP for help.


Starboard Financial is an Equal Housing Lender. We do not engage in business practices that discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, age (provided you have the capacity to enter into a binding contract), because all or part of your income may be derived from any public assistance program, or because you have, in good faith, exercised any right under the Consumer Credit Protection Act.


Contents of this website are copyrighted property of the owner of this website. All trademarks, logos, and service marks (collectively the "Trademarks") displayed are registered and/or unregistered Trademarks of their respective owners.


Starboard Financial, 4145 E Baseline Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85234


© 2017 Starboard Financial is not a government agency and is not affiliated with HUD, FHA, VA, USDA, FNMA, FHLMC or GNMA.


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Sunday, January 14, 2018

Buying a Villa or House in Thailand, Siam Legal International

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Buying a Villa or House


Buying a house or a villa in Thailand always requires the use of a property lawyer who can guide you through the process. Property in Thailand is complex and for the better part unregulated.


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Buying a villa or house in Thailand - 3 steps


Real Estate in Thailand has taken off in the past decade or so with more foreigners' wishing to live here or make this country their second home. While many wish to own a house in Thailand, it is important that you consider the following when purchasing a house:



  • Always make use of registered lawyers in Thailand and reputable estate agents when taking advice on real estate in Thailand.


  • Do some research. See the Thailand Real Estate Outlook, the glossary of Real Estate Terms and the Real Estate FAQs when you start your search for Real Estate in Thailand.

  • Read through the Real Estate pitfalls in Thailand when going out on your search. Ask the right questions to avoid costly litigation.



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Be aware that many of the problems that do arise when buying a house in Thailand can be avoided early on in the property search.


Once you have decided which house you are going to purchase, always consult a lawyer before signing any documents. Foreigners may not own a house in their name; however their Thai registered company may own the house. There are different forms of business entities in Thailand. The most commonly used is a Thai Limited Company. There are certain business registration criteria for the limited company. The Thailand Amity Treaty is also still in existence for Americans and there are also tax considerations so check Corporate Tax in Thailand if you are going to do more than own a house or need a Thai Work Permit.


STEP 3: Buying a House in Thailand


Once we registered your Thai Limited Company we do the following amongst other property services so consult our property lawyer today. They would do a title search and check the contracts before signing. Also note the type of Title Deeds in Thailand. If you are buying a house off plan, you would need legal advice as to buying in pre-construction projects. There is also the cost of transfer for your condominium and Thailand property taxes. Use the property transfer calculator to check your fees payable. Always consult a reputable firm of attorneys before you embark on the process of buying a house in Thailand. If you are looking at finance and obtaining a mortgage bond in Thailand then call us for more details.


Thailand Property




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Copyright © 2018 Siam Legal International. All rights reserved.


Interchange 21 Building, 23rd Floor, 399 Sukhumvit Road, North Klongtoey, Wattana, Bangkok 10110


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Buying a Property

Buying a Property in Costa Rica, basic steps.


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Planning to Invest in Costa Rica


Below you will find the legal ABC’s of buying property in Costa Rica. Many of our foreign clients share similar concerns when we first discuss their investment plans in Costa Rica. Almost everyone we meet wants to know about the legal requirements and possible legal pitfalls of making an investment in Costa Rica. By following just a few basic steps you can make sure your Costa Rican venture is a very successful one.


Incorporating in Costa Rica


The most efficient way to buy property in Costa Rica is to purchase in a corporation’s name. The typical limited liability company (“Sociedad Anónima” or “S.A”.) must be incorporated by at least two people before a Costa Rican Notary Public. After incorporation, the shares may be transferred, making it legally possible to have a corporation in which one person is the owner of all the shares.


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The incorporators must choose an original name that cannot be similar to any existing corporate name. They must then appoint a Board of Directors, with a minimum of three members: President, Treasurer and Secretary, and also appoint a Comptroller. A different person must occupy each of these positions. It is possible for the initial incorporators to occupy the positions.


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Other crucial issues to be decided are the capital of the corporation (the higher the capital, the more registration taxes that must be paid), the number of shares composing such capital (Shares cannot be divided according to Costa Rican law, thus it is advisable to have a number of shares that would permit future distributions of the company), and the representation of the newly formed company (there must be at least one representative of the company with powers of attorney to act on its behalf. However, at the time of incorporation, or later on, the powers of the company's representatives may be limited. For example, to specific actions or amounts).


Costa Rica has what we call a "hybrid" corporate system. The incorporation deed as well as all changes to the company’s by-laws, must be recorded in the Public Registry, where they are accessible to the public. All transfers of the company's shares, however, are recorded in the Shareholders Registry Book, which is kept by the corporation and is only available to company shareholders and officials; other parties can only review it with a court order.


When you are buying real estate, it is advisable to do it in a corporation's name. Doing so simplifies the transfer process. The corporate structure may also be more flexible for other transactions and organizational matters.


Buying Real Estate


Most properties in Costa Rica are registered in a computer system called "Folio Real." This system is centralized at the offices of the Public Registry in San JosГ©. Before buying land, or even before seriously considering an offer to buy land, a title search in Folio Real should be performed. Such a title search will show all data on the property, including area, ownership, boundaries, location, mortgages and other liens.


A few properties have not yet been incorporated to the "Folio Real" system. These properties are still registered in special books kept in the Public Register and may also be accurately title searched in the Public Registry.


When considering buying land, the first question to be asked is if you are being offered ownership rights (“derecho de propiedad”) or occupation rights (“derechos de ocupación”). In the case of occupation rights, you would be dealing with land that has not been registered, cannot be title-searched and must go through a long process in order to be registered. Ownership rights, on the other hand, are registered and are equal to the concept of land ownership in the United States or Canada.


Another situation one may encounter regarding land, especially in in relation to beaches, is the concession. In this case, the government gives a private party the right to use the land for a specific period of time. In general terms, the concession may be considered similar to a lease. The concessions registration system is different than the one for regular land, and has particular requirements regarding zoning, terms, and occupation.


Before buying, making an offer or even before seriously considering a piece of land, enquire about its status and perform a title search. These simple steps could save you a lot of money and effort, and will definitely make your Costa Rican investment worthwhile.


The following guide is a detailed description of the real estate system in Costa Rica and the purchasing process. We recommend you review this to fully understand your property rights as well as the legal requirements from the moment you’re ready to place an offer on a property to after closing.


A Detailed Guide to Understanding the Real Estate System and Buying Process


The acquisition of real estate is one of the most significant investments a person makes during his or her lifetime. It can also be one of the most stressful. In foreign countries such as Costa Rica, the normal stress of the purchasing process can be compounded with other risk factors, such as language barriers and unfamiliarity with local laws and procedures. That said, foreigners can and legally and successfully purchase property in Costa Rica. In fact, Costa Rica offers potential buyers many types of real estate products including houses, condominiums, time-shares, farms, finished lots and beachfront property. The following guide is designed to help buyers navigate their way through the real estate buying process for all types of purchases. The guide is divided into three main sections covering:


I. Property Types and Property Rights


III. Investment Protection: strategies and tools to protect your investment


I. Property Ownership and other common forms of possession


Just like in the US, Canada, and Europe, there are different types of property available to buyers. Understanding the various types that are available for purchase is critical in the evaluation process. This section highlights the property types that can be purchased in Costa Rica and the implications of each type of ownership for the buyer.


The most comprehensive form of property ownership in Costa Rica is fee simple ownership. Fortunately for foreigners, the conditions for this type of ownership are the same for foreigners as they are for Costa Rican nationals. The concept of fee simple ownership is the same in Costa Rica as in the US. Basically, fee simple ownership gives the owner of the property the absolute right to materially own the property, use it, enjoy it (i.e. usufruct), sell it, lease it, improve it (i.e. transformation), subject only to conditions outlined in Costa Rican Law. Fee simple also means that if the owner is obstructed from enjoying any of his/her rights to the property, he/she has the right to be made whole. In other words, to have the property restored in its original condition. Buyers who purchase fee simple title have the most rights under the law to enjoy and use the property as they see fit.


b. Concession Property and the Maritime Zone Law:


Concession property is more commonly known as beachfront property. In Costa Rica, 95% of beachfront property is considered concession property and is governed by the Maritime Zone Law and other specific regulations including but not limited to special dispositions stated by municipalities and the ICT (Costa Rican Institute of Tourism). These legal dispositions set forth the conditions under which foreigners and local residents can own concession property. A concession in Costa Rica is defined as the right to use and enjoy a specific property located on the maritime zone for a pre-determined period of time. The state, through its respective municipality, grants this right. Note that the first 200 meters measured horizontally from the high tide line defines the boundary of the maritime zone. This zone also includes islands, pinnacles of rock, mangroves, estuaries, small islands and any small natural formation that overcome the level of the ocean. This 200-meter zone is divided into two areas:


1. Public Area: The first 50 meters measured horizontally from the high tide line. This zone is not available for ownership of any kind. No kind of development is allowed except for constructions approved by governmental entities. Further, this area is deemed a public area and any individual wishing to utilize this area for enjoyment has the right to do so. In other words, there are no truly private beaches in the Maritime Zone.


2. Restricted/Concession Area: The next 150 meters. This area is available for Concessions to be granted. A concession is in essence a “lease” on the property granted to the lessee for a specific period of time. Normally the concession period is granted for 20 years. An owner of a concession may build on that concession, subdivide the concession and perform other acts to the property. However, appropriate permits from the local municipality must be obtained.


Ownership Limitations: Unlike fee simple property, foreigners do not have the same rights as citizens when it comes to purchasing concession property. The law establishes that foreigners cannot be majority owners of a concession property. A foreigner can, however, enter into a partnership with a Costa Rican citizen where the ownership is divided 49% / 51% between the foreigner and Costa Rican respectively. One exception is if a foreigner has resided in Costa Rica for at least five years. In such a case they may be majority owners of a concession. Both foreigners and Costa Ricans alike are required to purchase all Maritime Zone property through concession.


c. Properties in Condominium:


When US citizens think of Condominiums, they normally think of large apartments or townhouses. In Costa Rica, however, there is a specific law called “Condominium Law” that provides certain benefits to developers of many different types of properties, including single family residence projects, finished lot projects, condos, etc. This set of laws allows a developer to restrict and regulate certain aspects of the development. Each Condominium development has its own by-laws containing all of the restrictions, limitations and privileges that can be enjoyed by individuals who purchase property in such a development. Ownership of property “in condominium” is fee simple ownership, but usually carries with it a few additional restrictions set forth by the developer. It is advised that you require the owner of the property to give you a copy of the by-laws to check for architectural guidelines, land use restrictions, and other limitations that may be placed on your property. Most often, developers use the condominium laws to allow them to build private roads in a development and set architectural guidelines. For the most part, condominium laws are designed to protect the integrity of a development and maintain the “look and feel” of the project.


There are properties in Costa Rica that are not recorded at the Public Registry of Properties. Families have inhabited some properties of this type for generations while others have never been occupied. In either case, it is possible that someone claims “ownership” of the property and may put it up for sale. They may even have fence lines or other boundary markers that separate “their” property from a neighbor’s. Regardless of the time that an inhabitant has lived on the property or to what extent they have demonstrated ownership, unless that property is registered at the Public Registry, there is no official owner. i.e. the title is unclear. It is strongly recommended that this type of property be avoided at all costs because there is no way to prove that the “owner” has the right to transfer the property, or even worse, what the dimensions of the property really are.


This option allows an owner the right to use a property for certain weeks of the year. In most cases the time-share ownership grants similar rights as implied in the condominium regulation except that in the time-share it is limited to certain weeks during the year. In this manner one single unit is subdivided into parts and sold individually. Time-share resorts are not common in Costa Rica.


II. The Purchase Process


A. Basic Terminology


Feeling comfortable with the purchase process starts with understanding the most common terminology. While the purchase process may seem very simple, there are some keys ideas with which a buyer should be familiar. The following defines the most common vocabulary used in real estate transactions in Costa Rica.


a) Folio Real: This is the “social security” number of properties. It is the unique number assigned to each property to identify it and distinguish it from other properties. This number is comprised of three parts: the first number indicates the province, the second group of six numbers is the number of the property itself and the last group of numbers indicates how many co-owners the property has. All titled properties MUST have this number in order for clear title to be obtained.


b) Transfer or Conveyance Deed: (escritura de traspaso): This document contains all of the stipulations regarding the transfer of real estate including basic information about the buyer, seller, the property, and any special terms of sale, such as easements or mortgages. An attorney who is also a Public Notary must prepare this document and the deed must be recorded in his/her Notary Book as well as at the Public Registry of Property. Once the deed has been prepared and signed at the closing, it is the attorney’s responsibility to record the deed immediately at the Public Registry. The recording process consists of two phases. In the first phase, the notary presents the deed to the public registry for its annotation; from this moment the property is protected against any third party interest. After the registry verifies the deed is structurally correct, the second phase of registration begins and the property is recorded in the name of the new owner. Because Costa Rica operates on a “first in time, first in right” system, registering the deed immediately is critical to ensuring that the new buyer’s rights to the property are ahead of any other claims by third parties.


c) Public Registry of Properties


d) Notary Public: Attorney licensed by law to perform legal acts with public faith. All transactions performed by a notary are recorded in his/her notary book. A public notary is necessary in order to purchase a property. Most attorneys in Costa Rica are also public notaries.


(1) This document authorizes a person to act on behalf of another to perform specific actions such as the purchase of a property. This tool is especially useful for clients that wish to close on their property without returning to Costa Rica. It is best to sign the power of attorney before leaving the country because the law requires that the power of attorney be signed in the presence of a Costa Rican notary. Thus, a visit to a Costa Rican consulate in the US is necessary. One exception to this rule, however, is if the property is being purchased through a corporation. In this case, a signed proxy letter will suffice and there is no need to visit a consulate.


(2) Powers of Attorney come in two forms, general and special. General power of attorney allows a representative to sign on behalf of an individual for multiple transactions and must be recorded at the Public Registry. A specific or special power of attorney allows the representative to sign ONLY for the item specified in the power of attorney contract and under the conditions specified there. It is highly recommended that only a specific power of attorney be granted for property purchases to limit the rights of the representative to sign only for the property in question and nothing else. Additionally, The specific power of attorney does not have to be recorded at the Public Registry, however it should be granted before a Notary Public.


f) Survey Plan (Cadastral Department): In addition to the Public Registry of Properties, which holds all property deeds, Costa Rica also has a Cadastral Office that holds all of the property surveys. In order to transfer, mortgage or acquire a property, a survey must be recorded at the Public Registry. When dealing with property segregations, a municipality authorization is also required on the survey. The official drawing of the property is validated through an approval process by the Public Registry of Properties as well as by the municipality in which the property is located. Because the Public Registry and Cadastral Office are separate entities, it is not uncommon for old property surveys to be on file at the Cadastral Office. If this is the case, it is recommended that a new survey plan be registered with the Cadastral Office so that there can be no dispute over boundary lines.


B. Purchasing Methodologies


1. Acquiring Properties through direct transfer: A purchase process whereby one or more physical individuals acquire a property in their personal name.


2. Acquiring Properties through corporations: A common practice in Costa Rica is to acquire properties through a new corporation or through an existing corporation that currently owns the property of interest. The process of setting up a corporation is not complicated, but does require a knowledgeable attorney who understands the exact protocols and procedures necessary to properly set up the corporation. The advantage of this system is that it allows a buyer to protect their asset anonymously. Further, if a purchaser acquires a property through an existing corporation that already owns the property, there are no government transfer taxes and stamps to pay. The reason is that transfer taxes and stamps must be paid anytime there is a change in the ownership of the property. If a buyer acquires the shares of an existing corporation, technically there is no change in the recorded owner of the property (the corporation still owns the property). However, if a property is acquired through forming a new corporation to buy the property, the transfer taxes and stamps must be paid because the name of the property owner has changed. The risk for the buyer in acquiring an existing corporation is that the corporation might have other liabilities and there is no way to verify 100% that the corporation is clean. When buying a Costa Rican corporation, it is important to keep in mind that there are other obligations and responsibilities that must be addressed. Examples include yearly tax declarations (even if the corporation is inactive), payment of income taxes if any, and keeping the legal books of the corporation up to date and in order.


C. Step-by-Step through the purchase process:


1. Once a buyer has seen a property of interest, the next step is to understand what the process of acquiring the property may entail. The following are the basic steps that a purchaser follows when buying a property.



  • Step 1: Sign an Option to Purchase/Sale with seller.

  • Step 2: Deposit funds into escrow (if available).

  • Step 3: Title research performed by the Notary Public / Lawyer (review if property is free and clear of defects)

  • Step 4: Closing – Execution of Transfer Deed, Endorsement of Shares and/or Mortgage Deed and disburse funds

  • Step 5: Register new owner with Public Registry



D. Fee Structure


1. Transfer taxes, stamps and other charges: In order to record the transfer of the property, the government charges 1.5% of the purchase price. An additional 1% is charged for other stamps at the Public Registry.


2. Notary Fees: Notaries are required by law to charge 1.25% as their legal fees.


3. Survey fees: If you require or demand a new survey for your property, there are qualified surveyors available to perform this function. Pricing depends on the location and size of the property.


4. Mortgage registration fees: The government charges 0.6% of the mortgage value to register the mortgage deed on the property.


5. Escrow Fees: Fees are dependent on the escrow provider.


6. Incorporation: Fees for purchasing a corporation typically run between $500-$1000 or more.


III. Protecting the real estate investment:


One of the greatest concerns of foreigners purchasing real estate in a foreign country is to ensure that the transaction will be executed legally and that the system can ensure a lifetime of enjoyment of the property. The Costa Rican legal system, if followed correctly, does give ample protection to investors, but if the transaction is not executed properly, loss can and does occur. To guarantee the security of any real estate investment, there are three things that should be present in any real estate transaction.


a. Adequate legal representation and experienced Notary - While a notary’s primary duty is to provide Public Faith to a transaction, his/her job is also to act as the legal representative of the buyer, providing legal advice and representation throughout the process.


b. Escrow - Most buyers from the US understand Escrow service to include not only the managing of funds for a property purchase, but all of the administrative work required to execute a closing. In fact, in states where an attorney is not required for a real estate purchase, the escrow agent becomes the central party responsible for ensuring that all documentation is in order before the close. In Costa Rica, the escrow agent performs many of the same duties. The primary function is as a financial service to prevent manipulation or mishandling of funds prior to closing. The escrow agent is a neutral third party responsible for issuing checks and executing payments. This system provides confidence and security to all interested parties (e.g. attorneys, brokers, seller, buyer) that funds are protected during the buying process and that all funds will be disbursed appropriately to all parties at closing.


c. Title Guaranty: Why a Title Guaranty?


When you decide to buy a property, you must be certain that after the sale has been completed you will be the true owner of the property. You need to be confident that no liens, encumbrances or other impediments will prevent your free use and enjoyment of the property.


Guaranty for the property owner


The same way you purchase life insurance to protect your interests, a Title Guaranty should be purchased to protect your property title interests. Your real estate investment will probably be the biggest investment you will ever make and loss of this investment can be financially devastating. You need to be certain that you are financially protected from potential losses.


What does a title guaranty provide?



  • Protection against monetary losses, brought about by hidden ownership claims that may be made against the property title;



  • Payment of legal expenses if the company must defend your property title against a claim covered by the Title Guaranty in the local courts;



  • Payment of valid claims against your property title, up to the amount of the Title Guaranty.


Some of the risks covered by a Title Guaranty



  • Invalid documents executed under expired or non- existent power

  • False assumption of identity of legitimate property owner

  • Falsification of documents, legal power, and other papers related to the transfer of property title.

  • Liens or other financial burdens charged to the previous property owner.

  • Non-registered property easements

  • Hidden heirs of previous property owners

  • Documents executed by minors of age

  • Invalid Documents delivered after death of previous owner


Peace of mind


Once acquired, a Title Guaranty remains in place as long as you own the property, giving you a lifetime of security and peace of mind backed not by a promise but by a company with financial stability. Because only one payment is required, a Title Guaranty is a cost-effective method of protecting your real estate investment and enhancing the value of your property.


Conclusion


The real estate buying process in Costa Rica need not be intimidating or confusing. By understanding the steps in the process and the pitfalls to avoid, a buyer can confidently invest in and enjoy their property for years to come.


4. Calculation table for transfer of real estate


Example value - US$100,000.00


Treasury Department C.R.*


plus fixed costs above**


** Over the first ¢ 100,000.00 a fixed rate of ¢ 75.00 has to be cancelled.


* According to specific table rates, shown maximum payment in colones.


Up to ¢1,000,000.00 you pay 1.50% in legal fees, and 1.25% above that.


If you have more questions, feel free to send us an e-mail: Law@propertiesincostarica.com


We hope this information has been helpful by providing a clear basic understanding of the steps to be taken when purchasing Real Estate in Costa Rica. We will help you find your dreamed property in Costa Rica and we will make sure you go through a smooth, 100% secure, and easy purchasing process. Relax you are working with professionals!(*)


(*)Note: Working with professionals will save you time and money ! Contact Properties in Costa Rica the real Costa Rican professionals.


CONTACT US


Properties in Costa Rica


Toll free USA and CANADA: +1 888-607-6772


* from the US & Canada dial 011 first


MAIN OFFICE LOCATION:


Office Location: FORUM I Business Park, Building C, First Floor, Suite 3, Santa Ana, San Jose, Costa Rica. Click Here to See Map


COSTA RICA REAL ESTATE LISTINGS


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Propiedades de Costa Rica SA (PCR) unless otherwise noted.


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Saturday, January 13, 2018

Buying a Home in the Tucson Area

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Allow Us to Represent You



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Dedication to Service



  • We protect your interests while helping you find the best property in the market for your family's needs.

  • We work around your schedule.

  • We never pressure you into a quick sale just to earn a fast commission. Our goal is to find the best fit for you, not the fastest one.

  • We regularly voice our opinion if we think a property will not work for your family's goals. Making sure you understand a home's positive features as well as its negative ones is one of our critical functions while representing you.

  • Honesty and hard work are our priorities.

  • We are problem solvers. We are skilled at coming up with solutions that protect your interests and hold the other parties accountable if they are not performing as needed.


Here is what a recent buyer client had to say: "I would like to recommend Michael Oliver to anyone who needs an excellent knowledgeable service-oriented realtor. [ Read More ]


I retired and sold my house in California this year and moved to Tucson, so I had tight timing requirements. I was able to use his user-friendly and extensive website beforehand to locate houses that I was interested in. When my California house sold in 5 days, I was able to fly to Tucson the next weekend and Michael was able to immediately show me the houses I had picked out plus others that seemed to fit my requirements. I was able to see all the houses on my list in 2 days and decided to buy a brand new house that was not yet built, negotiated the price and arrangements with his help and expertise, and flew back to California. He knew that the builders were some of the best in Tucson, which gave me reassurance. I then moved to Tucson into a 1 bedroom apartment until my house was finished being built. When it was finished 7 months later and I was ready to close, Michael came to the final walkthrough and the closing, and tracked a few minor details on the house for me that were not yet completed. He also gave me recommendations on various services I needed, like a handyman and a housecleaner. I was very happy with his help and expertise. His website made it a lot easier for an out-of-town buyer to check out properties beforehand. He was very responsive in addressing any questions and/or concerns I had along the way. If I ever need the services of a realtor again (hopefully, not soon), I will definitely go back to him." -- Karen Kalinski (Read more comments from clients.)


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  • Over 18 years combined experience and over 400 closed sales.

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Friday, January 12, 2018

Buying A Home With Bad Credit - Trulia Blog

How to Buy a Home Even if You Have Bad Credit



Protect your credit score by reviewing it for mistakes, so you'll be ready to start the home buying process when you find a place you love.


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Experts Answer Your Top Questions About Buying a Home With Bad Credit


Your credit score is one of the crucial determining factors in whether you can qualify for a mortgage. “The higher your score, the less risky you appear on paper,” says Staci Titsworth, a regional manager at PNC Mortgage in Pittsburgh, PA. If that sends shivers up your spine, keep reading. We’re here to help.


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The reality is that the average U.S. household has over $15,000 in credit card debt. You’re not alone if you’re wondering: Can I even try buying a home with bad credit? The answer is yes, but for a smooth home-buying journey, you’ll want to take care of any financial blips on your report now. Here we share expert answers to your questions, including exactly what a credit report is and how to raise your score to get ready to buy a house.


What exactly is a credit score?


It’s common practice for mortgage lenders to check your credit score, which is calculated based on the information that appears on your credit report. Five aspects impact your score, each varying in importance: payment history (35%), debt-to-credit utilization (30%), length of credit history (15%), credit mix (10%), and new credit (10%). A quick primer:


Payment history. You need to make payments on time, since one late payment can significantly ding your score. One example: A 30-day delinquency can cause as much as a 90- to 110-point drop on a score of 780 for a consumer who has never missed a payment before, according to Equifax.


Debt-to-credit utilization ratio. This is how much debt you’ve accumulated on your credit cards divided by the credit limit on the sum of your accounts. Credit experts recommend keeping this ratio around 30%. If you’re maxing out your credit cards each month, you could be damaging your credit score in the process.


Length of credit history. Having a longer credit history raises your score. Since credit agencies look at the age of your oldest account, the age of your newest account, and the average age of all your accounts, you should keep all of your accounts open—even those with zero balances, says credit expert Bill Hardekopf.


Credit mix. It helps your score to have a combination of different types of credit accounts, including credit cards, retail accounts, installment loans, car loans, and mortgage loans. (You’re on your way to getting the last one.)


New credit. Each time you apply for a new credit account, you trigger a “hard inquiry” on your credit, which dings your score (typically by five points). Therefore, avoid opening multiple credit accounts at the same time, says Hardekopf. Doing so will lower the average age of your credit accounts and hurt the length of your credit history.


Caveat: Your credit report doesn’t contain your actual credit score. However, your credit card company can most likely provide your score to you for free, or you can contact a nonprofit credit counselor to find out your score.


What is an ideal credit score?


A perfect credit score is 850, but only about 0.5% of consumers reach that number, according to Fair Isaac Corporation, creator of the widely used FICO credit scores. Once you’re over 740, you’re considered to be in the best range for mortgages and should be able to qualify for the best interest rates, says Chris Hauber, a mortgage loan originator with Hallmark Home Mortgage in Denver, CO.


If your score is in the 700s, you should still be able to qualify for an attractive interest rate. For conventional loans, most lenders look for a credit score of at least 620, says Hauber. At a minimum, applicants should have at least a 660 credit score to land a decent interest rate and avoid jumping through additional hoops to qualify for a loan.


Can I get a mortgage if I don’t have a credit history?


Ideally, you opened a credit card account by age 20—or at least started to build credit by becoming an authorized user on your parents’ card when you were a teenager. (Remember, the length of your credit history plays a major role in how your score is calculated.) But if you don’t have any credit established, there are other ways to qualify for a mortgage and establish a credit history. “Many lenders will look at monthly payment obligations that don’t necessarily show up on a person’s credit report,” says Titsworth. If you have a good track record of making your car loan payments and paying rent on time, that will help, say experts. Those habits are usually indicative of a responsible credit user.


Is bad credit worse than no credit?


No one’s perfect and mistakes happen. Maybe you forgot to pay the minimum balance on your credit card bill once or twice—or you recently met with a mortgage lender to discuss your financing options and discovered errors on your credit report. Whatever the case may be, you can always take steps to heal your credit. “Poor credit can be managed,” Titsworth points out.


Moreover, there are loan programs designed to help people with mediocre credit buy a home. Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans have some of the lowest credit-score requirements at 580 with a 3.5% down payment. Loans backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs let military veterans put as little as 0% down on a property without having to pay private mortgage insurance.


How can I boost my credit score before I buy a home?


To get your three-digit number up to snuff, start by addressing the financial habits that damaged your score in the first place.


Pay all of your bills on time each month. Sounds tough, but it is the easiest way to boost your score, says Hardekopf. If you need help adjusting your spending habits and designing a budget that makes sense for you, consider meeting with a financial planner (you can find one at NAPFA.org).


Pay down your credit card debt. Since credit scores are often the result of having a high debt-to-credit utilization ratio, one of the best ways to improve your score is to get rid of existing debt, says Hauber. Many experts use the 30% rule of thumb: Charges to your credit cards shouldn’t exceed one-third of your total available credit limit. You may also be able to raise your score by requesting a credit line increase from your credit card issuer; this would effectively reduce your debt-to-credit utilization ratio. It typically involves just making a phone call or submitting a request online.


Get Help with Your Home Loan


Have more questions about buying a home? Find a local lender who can help.


What if I notice errors on my credit report?


Carefully review your credit reports for errors. You’re entitled to a free copy of your credit report every 12 months from each of the three major credit-reporting agencies (Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian). One in four Americans said they spotted errors on their reports, according to a 2013 Federal Trade Commission survey. The mistake may be something as simple as someone else sharing the same name as you and your bank mixing up your accounts, says Sylvia Gutierrez, a loan officer in South Florida and author of Mortgage Matters: Demystifying the Loan Approval Maze.


If you spot an error, alert your creditor immediately. Once your creditor confirms the error, the company will submit a letter to Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian individually to get the error removed. If the error is just on one bureau’s report (like a misspelled last name), contact that agency specifically to rectify the problem. Hopefully, you spotted it early in the home-buying process, since “it can take time to get errors removed from your report,” says Titsworth. If you’re already in the process of purchasing a home, ask your loan officer to help you speed up the error removal.


Can I get black marks removed from my report?


If you’re the one responsible for blemishes on your report, such as a missed payment, contact your creditor and ask for a deletion. While this likely won’t work for a serial late payer, it might be granted if you’re a one-time offender; it also helps if you’ve been a loyal customer. If the creditor agrees to the deletion, they’ll send letters to the credit bureaus (the same way they do for errors) requesting that the negative information is removed from your report. Then the onus is on you to gather documents proving that changes that have been made—such as a new credit card statement or letter of deletion—and then have your lender request an updated score from the credit bureaus. This process is often referred to as a “rapid rescore” and can lead to an updated credit score in days instead of months, which can make all the difference when you’re trying to get preapproved for a home loan in a competitive market.


Should I get help from a credit-counseling agency?


First, you need to understand the difference between a credit-counseling agency and a debt-management company. If you’ve fallen behind on credit card payments, a credit counselor can help you create a plan to pay back your creditors and better manage your money for a relatively low cost. A debt-management company, meanwhile, will negotiate with your creditors to try to reduce the amount of debt you owe—but many debt-management companies charge a large fee for their services.


Unless you’re seriously in the hole, a debt-management company probably isn’t the way to go. Whether you should meet with a credit counselor, meanwhile, depends on how complicated your financial situation is and what kind of guidance you want. If you have debt on only one credit card and simply have to pay off the balance, you already know what you have to do to mend your credit score. If the situation is more complicated (e.g., you owe money on several credit accounts and don’t know which to pay off first), a session with a credit counselor may help you devise a payoff plan. Some nonprofits, like the Consumer Credit Counseling Service, offer free consultations.


What interest rate will I get with my low credit score?


Of course you can talk to a lender to see what rate you may qualify for. But if you’re not quite ready to talk to a lender, you can use Trulia’s mortgage rates tool to get free rate quotes and compare rates from multiple lenders, anonymously. Simply enter your credit score along with zip code, purchase price and down payment, and you’ll get the latest rate quotes from up to 100+ lenders, instantly. You can even estimate much savings you’ll get by boosting your credit score. Simply update the credit score to get updated rate quotes for that scenario. Remember, the interest rate you’ll get depends on many different factors, not just your credit score.


Originally published June 13, 2016. Updated December 13, 2017.


Have you recently gotten a copy of your credit report? Share your experience in the comments.



Denise Brodey


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Thursday, January 11, 2018

Buying a Home - House - How To Buy - Arizona AZ - Long Realty, a Berkshire Hathaway Affiliate

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The Home Buying Process


Buying real estate can be a rewarding yet complex experience. Understanding the current market, finding the ideal property, negotiating the best price and navigating through transaction complexities can seem overwhelming. Long Realty can help make it easy.AAR Buyer Advisory



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Understanding your financing options and getting pre-approved by a lender like our affiliated lender, Long Mortgage Company, is an important part of the home buying process. Find out what programs are available to you, access calculators to help you determine what you can afford and get your financing questions answered.


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Property Search


Long Realty makes it easy to search for properties that meet your needs. Search over 62,420 active listings across Arizona, save favorites and register to receive email alerts on new and changed listings. We've also made it convenient to search listings on the go with TextLong and our mobile website.


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Monday, January 8, 2018

How a foreigner can buy real estate in Thailand, Neil Mcdonough, Teaching English in Thailand

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How a foreigner can buy real estate in Thailand


Yes indeed, foreigners can certainly invest in the Thai property market


In my last blog I discussed how now is possibly one of the most opportune times to buy real estate in Bangkok in recent history. With the opening up of the ASEAN economies as the AEC due in 2015 and the ongoing and relatively enthusiastic expansion of both the MRT and BTS train systems around Bangkok, these two factors combined should lead to not only a boom in the Bangkok economy, but also an increase in property prices in Bangkok and also in other areas of Thailand.


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However to take advantage of this, expats have to buy into the Thai real estate market. Therefore this blog reviews how foreigners have been investing in real estate in Bangkok - and many expat teachers have already started.


After posting the previous blog I had a few expats new to Thailand asking me how they can go about purchasing real estate in Thailand, so in order to answer those questions and to cover potential questions from other readers, I thought it best to write a blog devoted to the topic.


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Buying a condominium in Thailand as a foreigner is the easiest and most straightforward method to invest in real estate. Due to the 1979 Thailand Condominium Act, foreigners can own condominiums anywhere in Thailand 100% outright, as long as the building has not already sold its 49% foreign quota. Each condominium in Thailand when registering with the land department designates 49% of its units for sale for potential purchase by a non-Thai buyer.


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This way at least 51% of the building always remains in the hands of local Thai people, however individual units that make up the other 49% can be sold to foreigners outright. Therefore it is legal for a non-Thai, non-resident foreigner to own 100% of a freehold condominium in Thailand. And in fact 17% of condominiums owned in Bangkok are owned by foreign investors.


There are of course stipulations and these mainly concern finance. Thai banks in general will not want to lend to foreigners. In fact even foreigners with a history in Thailand i.e. employment history, work permits and marriage certificates can struggle to get financing from a Thai bank in order to purchase property, however it is not impossible and with perseverance some foreigners do succeed. If however you do not have history of the above then it would be more practical to borrow from a bank in your own country with which you have a record.


Whichever way you obtain financing, and whether it be for a townhouse, detached house or condo, if it is going to be in a foreigner's name the money needs to be brought in from overseas. Even if a mortgage can be obtained from a Thai bank, they will bring the money in from overseas and end up lending the money in a foreign currency such as US Dollars or Singapore Dollars. For more details on purchasing a condo in Thailand please read this info.


Some expat teachers however have already got married, settled down and started a small family, and often therefore require something larger than a condominium. By possibly sacrificing the communal swimming pool and other facilities such as a fitness area - often found in mid to high level condominiums in Thailand occupied by expats - some expat teachers opt to buy townhouses or detached houses. Of course these provide the buyer with often not only two or more levels, but more rooms and space. And in some cases the chance to have a garden or yard, suitable for young children and/or a pet. However this comes at a price.


Unlike condominiums, which of course are covered by the Thailand Condominium Act of 1979, townhouses and detached houses are ‘landed', they essentially contain an area of Thai land underneath them or around them. As it is not possible for foreigners to own Thai land, then an expat wishing to buy a townhouse or detached house has two options. And split across teachers I know that have bought a townhouse or detached house in Thailand, both options are appealing given individual circumstances.


The first option I will cover quickly and briefly as it is not really relevant to this article, but realistically it would be inappropriate not to mention it. This option is often taken up when the expat or foreign investor knows that he has a stable and solid relationship with their spouse or partner that they can trust. And therefore the property is bought 100% in the Thai person's name and of course this also opens up the options for finance from a Thai bank.


Option 2 however is the method chosen by foreign investors that feel they do not have the above luxury. They are open to start a company in Thailand in which they can own 49% of the shares. This may sound unappealing, but with the other shares split over 7 or more locals and more than often none of them having any voting rights or knowledge of each other, most foreign investors realize that the company is controlled by them. This means that the property purchased can be placed under the umbrella of the company and therefore controlled by the foreign director.


As unusual as a lot of the above sounds to the first time reader, and as ‘fishy' some of the details come across on the initial read, the systems do in fact work and the savvy expat or foreign investor can and regularly does successfully buy and sell real estate in Thailand. Foreigners have been buying real estate in Thailand regularly for the last three decades and more and more invest in Thai real estate each year. This would not be possible if foreigners were being consistently ‘cheated' out of their money by the laws of the land.


For more information on investing in real estate in Thailand please feel free to contact me by e-mail, or read the following blog covering many of the topics mentioned above in more detail


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I guess that would be a Usufruct. The big problem with it is that the usufract ends with the life of the holder. You cant leave it to your kids. another problem is that it depends on the Land Office Official as to whether he will allow it to be registered if he thinks it is designed to bypass the foreign ownership laws.


This is what Thai law says -


By Shina, Bangkok (1 month ago)


Is it possible to purchase a property in a development where the land is own by a real state company and you own the home itself? Simular to townhouse communities in the US where you own the house, but the land is own by a company and you pay HOA fees for the upkeep of the land.


Hi BBWe, I'm an agent base in Bangkok with HQ in Hong Kong.


To answer your question, the monthly rental will directly deposit into your thai acc(if you have one), and if you don't have one we can always assist to set it up.


There is no limitation to transfer to money out however you would have to make sure that you have a FETC when you purchase.


You can also transfer the titled deed to your child, there a inheritance tax of 10% but for property value over THB 100 million(majority propertied wouldn't hit that amount)


By Catherine, Bangkok (4 months ago)


Hi, I am planning to invest a resident property in Bangkok, can the agent transfer the monthly rental fee easily back to HK? If I sell the property in one day, is there any limitation to transfer the fund back to HK? or is it possible to transfer my property to my child?


By BBWe, Hong Kong (8 months ago)


I am interested in buying a small hotel in Phuket area with my own money after forming a company /Can I buy it legall ?


By RPS Kohli , India (8 months ago)


There is a retired foreigner from Natherland, who is currently interested in my property (a house) in Thailand. Is he allow to own the property for relocation purposes? If not, what are the other options available for him?


Thank you in advance


By Mint, Samutprakarn, Thailand (9 months ago)


All very good points and you seam to be talking from a place of personal experience.


Perhaps in my case much -much further investigation is required as I haven't done my due-diligence and I'm a very cautious investor in all things I do simply as I cant afford any loses due simply due to my own ignorance.


Due -Diligence to the extreme necessary in Thailand I feel!


By George S, Sydney Australia (11 months ago)


The simple truth is that a Non Thai citizen can not own land in Thailand. Yes you can set up a company to try to get around the law but when you do it is not legal.


It is a simple principle of law in any country in the world that a system that is set up in order to circumvent a law is by definition illegal. So setting up a company to try to own land is NOT LEGAL. Certainly many have done this and many have had no problem but that does not mean that it is legal. It simply means that they were lucky. When one of these arrangements is tested in court the foreigner will lose because it was simply a construct designed to skirt the intention of the law.


Do you want to take the risk?


The other side of this coin is that it is now illegal in Thailand to set up a company so that the majority shareholders are only nominees with out any controlling power. A minority share holder is and always will be a minority.


Do you want to test this in court?


By Shina, Bangkok (11 months ago)


Also some good points , "who is a reputable solicitor/Lawyer" in Thailand?


That I don't know as I haven't transacted any business there yet but will next year 2017, I hope?


Can you trust a local Thai law firm? . don't know?


Can you trust an expat law firm. again don't know?


But I will have my BS detector on full power when doing so !


Real-estate agents the world over I have found come in two categories the first I tell before we start "Don't F&%$# be about! " and the second "Stop F%$#@ me about! , I don't know what it is with agents but I guess when you have a bet each way you loose all your credibility!


I guess its a matter of acknowledging you are going to be gouged and having a limit you feel is an acceptable gouge , sorry to say but its beginning to sound like a simple realisation of doing business in Thailand!


Although my inherent DNA wont accept anything but 100% fair and open negotiations I am prepared to see what amount of BS and shenanigans I can bear if I think the deal is still acceptable .


Time will tell and I will post details of solicitors/Lawyers I find who I consider fair and working in my best interest as they should when I'm paying them.


And as far as Kick-backs , Rebates , Referrals or whatever people wish to call them , It has become the norm in most Industries today accept it or not I'm sure it happens more than we care to believe.


Good luck to all transacting a real-estate deal in Thailand in the future!


By George, Sydney Australia (1 year ago)


To all you would be property tycoons , STOP!


Would you buy a property in your own country without first seeking proper and qualified legal advise ?


I guess yes it appears !


"Get your self a lawyer son , better make sure his a good one!" Spend a few $$$ and get the right advice.


I too have a thai GF and travel back and forth a few times a year and want to buy but sure as hell I'm not blowing my hard earned money on some shonky deal when a lawyer/solicitor is a few hundred baht for the right advice!


By George, Sydney Australia (1 year ago)


Laods of bullshit!


You can write as much as you want, Thailand WILL loose out more, and more, and more.


Because we don't suck up, we tell the truth!


As unusual as a lot of the above sounds to the first time reader, and as ‘fishy' some of the details come across on the initial read, the systems do in fact work and the savvy expat or foreign investor can and regularly does successfully buy and sell real estate in Thailand. Foreigners have been buying real estate in Thailand regularly for the last three decades and more and more invest in Thai real estate each year. This would not be possible if foreigners were being consistently ‘cheated' out of their money by the laws of the land.


Don't belive a wo d you read in this article. Many of the expat land purchase agreements are illegal under current Thai law and you will find out that you never owned the land you "purchased" when you try to sell or die and your wife, husband, partner are shocked when they discover they don't own the land.


Does anyone know MIDA Property development? We are considering to buy an appartment/condo in a new development taking 2.5 year to complete and would like to know more about their reputation.


By Willem, Rotterdam (1 year ago)


i have recently found out if you are married to a thai then you can obtain a management document 50 baht from the council office to manage the land untill you die


By brian david, thailand (1 year ago)


Nice to stumble across this piece!! For all you foreigners with the big bucks I suggest you think twice and do not be too trusting when it comes to buying properties. You are safe if it's a room in a condominium but outside that use your initiative and better judgement. Events unfolding in Phuket shoud be enough lesson for anyone.


By Posterboy, Bangkok, Thailand (2 years ago)


Seriously I foreigner can buy property in Thailand. Well if it’s true than today only I am going to buy a property there. I have not heard yet if any country over globe will allow foreigner to buy property at its place. Thank you so much for this useful post.


By Jason Statham, Thailand (2 years ago)


Dear Ajarn Athiraj,


My German friend who is in Germany wants to buy a second hand town home (price 2.6 m thb), he and his family will relocate in Bangkok. Is it allowed him to own a property by his name, not the owner of the home who wants to sell the house to him? If so how? If not so how it would be so both sides would have equal advantage. I dont know if my friend have cash to buy or he's going to ask for a loan with a bank in Thailand.


By Chanapa, Bangkok (2 years ago)


Hi, I'm looking to move to Thailand and would love to invest my money into an accomodation business of some sort (hotel, hostel or guest house). What are the best ways to do this as I do not have nor plan on getting a Thai wife ( happily married to Aussie lady)?


Great pointers. Now im learning some percentage that is allowed by a foreigner.


By john lee, United States (2 years ago)


i am looking at buying a new home in krabi from a private seller or owner of the property i would like to put the house in my name i know i cannot own the land just lease it for that period of time .is it possible to buy the house in my name .thankyou


By Ross Dorling, krabi (3 years ago)


Yes u can buy condo unit by cash. But u have to show evidence to transfer money to Thailand acc. And on the trasfer registration date, basically, we use cheque to pay for the condo unit price due to bring a lot of cash is too risks.


Can I buy a condominium in Bangkok by cash ? I also have an international bank account (such as HSBC or Citibank). Can I do the transation via bank transfer in Thailand?


My friends and I are interested in buying a condo in Bangkok. I have a couple American friends and I am Thai. We all have a full time job but we cannot purchase with cash. Is it possible to put 20-25% down payment and look for a bank to give us a loan (Condo is > 5M)? Please advise.


By Kate Suwannahong, United States (3 years ago)


I'm an American looking to buy land and build a house in Buriram. Can anyone please advise me on this works?


By Mike A, Work in SW Asia, but travel to Buriram often (3 years ago)


Hi . How can I transfer my condo to my son name . Please advise . Thank you .


By Eric, Singapore (3 years ago)


Hi all, I am a corporate legal practice lawyer including the transaction in relation to properties in Thailand.


I would give you a preliminary advice as set out below:


By Athiraj, Bangkok (3 years ago)


Hi, I'm thinking to buy a land to run motel in Bangkok . But I'm not sure about the laws of Thailand. Is it possible for me to buy land in Thailand.


I need some advice.. my husband died and left a property in thailand in which he owned 49 % .. there are 2 heirs myself and a daughter. . We both live in the uk and dont know the protocol for this and to be honest we thought he owned the whole house but have just found out he only owned 49 % . a thai lawyer told me I must go to thailand and stake my claim in a thai court.. is this correct


By vicki kerr, uk (4 years ago)


Hi, I’m looking at buying a piece of land to build a house on, on an island in Thailand. If I set up a company & the value of the property goes up over say 10 years, and I decide to sell, do the other 51% shareholders benefit from the increase? Do I have to share half my gains with them? And is there tax to pay on the gains even if I’m just living on the land?


Upon sale there is a tax to pay at the land office. Its a group of tax's which all equal about five percent. One of them is reduced the longer you have owned the property. You can also lease land or buy it in a nationals name and use a superficies or a usufruct.


By Mark, Thailand (4 years ago)


This situation where Thais want their land to be owned by Thais reminds me of my home country. I remember 20 years ago when my country got free from russian occupation and all the land and businesses were sold to foreigners. Everybody was very angry that foreigners own our land. But i must say today Estonia is one of the most developed countries of the area with many rich estonians. I would gladly invest here (have my eye on this hotel http://phuketpropertyshop.com/property/a-great-business-opportunity/ ) but there is just too much shady business.


Hi what would happen to one of these foreign owned apartments in the advent of the building being knocked down / redeveloped etc?


Hi, I'm looking at buying a piece of land to build a house on, on an island in Thailand. If I set up a company & the value of the property goes up over say 10 years, and I decide to sell, do the other 51% shareholders benefit from the increase? Do I have to share half my gains with them? And is there tax to pay on the gains even if I'm just living on the land?


By Chris, London/ Koh Payam (4 years ago)


Kieran, in response to your question, the unfortunate answer is yes! The Thai authorities need to see money transferred in already ear-marked for a certain property if you are buying it in a foreigners name. Therefore if the money is already here you need to transfer it out and back in.


As someone working here, lets say I have a million thai baht in my bank a/c, what would I have to do to buy a condominium, do I have to transfer it out of the country and in again and suffer multiple fees exchanges to comply with the rules?


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South African, 37 years old. Currently living in South Africa



Filipino, 25 years old. Currently living in Philippines



American, 45 years old. Currently living in Thailand



British, 51 years old. Currently living in Thailand



Filipino, 32 years old. Currently living in Thailand



Filipino, 31 years old. Currently living in Philippines



Filipino, 26 years old. Currently living in Philippines



American, 47 years old. Currently living in Thailand



Tiffany Jane


Filipino, 24 years old. Currently living in Philippines


South African, 30 years old. Currently living in Thailand



Top TEFL job placement provider with competitive benefits and an unforgettable experience.



To be internationally recognized as the leader in quality English language training.



Vacancies for in-house and corporate teachers at the finest schools in Suphanburi City



We get you a job! Options for school placements all over Thailand



Brokers for ajarn health insurance and for all your Thailand insurance needs.



Competitive teacher packages with benefits and bonus incentives



First bilingual school in Phuket. Vacancies for kindergarten, primary and secondary teachers.



Progressive English program school near Bangkok employing NES and Filipino teachers



Premier language school with many branches and corporate training.



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The Hot Spot



Teacher mistakes


What are the most common mistakes that teachers make when they are about to embark on a teaching career in Thailand? We've got them all covered.



Air your views


Got something to say on the topic of teaching, working or living in Thailand? The Ajarn Postbox is the place. Send us your letters!



Can you hear me OK?


In today's modern world, the on-line interview is becoming more and more popular. How do you prepare for it?



Will I find work in Thailand?


It's one of the most common questions we get e-mailed to us. So find out exactly where you stand.



Contributions welcome


If you like visiting ajarn.com and reading the content, why not get involved yourself and keep us up to date?



The dreaded demo


Many schools ask for demo lessons before they hire. What should you the teacher be aware of?



Renting an apartment?


Before you go pounding the streets, check out our guide and know what to look out for.


Work less. Earn more. Real estate agents earn referral fees at Referz.com.