Thai luxury property sector rises with regional interest

Phuket, Pattaya, and Bangkok lead the charge as foreign buyers return

The Thai real estate market is capturing renewed global attention, especially across the luxury and holiday home segments. As international buyers seek second homes or investment properties in Asia, Thailand’s blend of lifestyle, location, and legal accessibility is proving attractive once more. 

Luxury real estate finds a stronghold in Thailand 

Thailand has positioned itself as one of Southeast Asia’s dominant players in the luxury property sector, revealed Thailand Business News. From seaside villas in Phuket to upscale condominiums in Bangkok, the kingdom’s offerings are gaining traction among both returning foreign investors and a younger domestic demographic. 

According to Paul D. Volodarsky, Partner, Head of Regional Real Estate Practice, and Head of Hospitality Sector at DFDL Legal and Tax, as well as a member of the PropertyGuru Thailand Property Awards judging panel, there are multiple drivers that would help sustain the luxury property market in the country. 

“From ensuring that foreign investors have clear rights to reside in the property through visa incentives like the Long Term Resident visa system; to expanding the accessibility of luxury real estate through financing options for foreign investors, particularly those working or residing in Thailand; to continuing to push the boundaries on luxury development and progress on improving quality standards and services; and to building the community for the residents of luxury real estate, such as high end commercial space, schools, wellness facilities and other community facilities.” 

He added, “These potential drivers should be considered in the context of attracting high-net-worth individuals in the region, particularly in places like China and Singapore, to relocate to Thailand as their primary residence. 

In addition, there should be continued efforts to market to the high net worth Thai investors looking for luxury facilities and services to go along with the luxury real estate. In particular, I think luxury real estate developers will need to continue developing high end services to support the luxury real estate, such as hotel-like services and concierge services.” 

Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket see heightened demand 

While Bangkok remains a magnet for investment, peripheral hotspots like Pattaya and Phuket have also gained momentum. These areas are now integrated hubs offering hospitality, wellness, and premium living environments, as reported by The Nation Thailand. 

Meanwhile, Khaosod English noted that demand for luxury second homes in Phuket and Pattaya has surged. Thai and foreign buyers alike are purchasing vacation homes with long-term value, lifestyle appeal, and rental income potential. 

Chinese investors keep their eye on Thailand 

Interest from Chinese investors remains resilient despite broader market slowdowns. Affluent Chinese buyers continue to target properties in prime Thai locations—particularly those near international schools, airports, and medical facilities—according to the Bangkok Post. 

Recognition at the regional stage 

At the 19th PropertyGuru Thailand Property Awards, the Kingdom’s top developers and projects stood out, gaining local recognition: 

• Best Developer (Thailand): Sansiri Public Company Limited 
• Best Developer (Phuket): Sansiri Public Company Limited 
• Best Condo Developer (Phuket): Rhom Bho Property Public Company Limited 
• Best Boutique Developer (Phuket): Yadalong Property 
• Best Boutique Developer (Eastern Seaboard): Ess Developments 
• Best Breakthrough Developer (Phuket): Villa Carte Group 

These awards highlight the nation’s exceptional performance in the region’s property market, particularly in resort destinations like Phuket and the Eastern Seaboard, where lifestyle-driven projects continue to flourish. 

Thailand’s outlook remains positive 

While macroeconomic uncertainty and currency fluctuations remain external challenges, Thailand’s premium property sector continues to benefit from resilient demand, favourable tax structures, and expanding transport links. 

Volodarsky noted: “The overall risk for the market for the remainder of 2025 will continue to be external pressures around current global economic uncertainty and competition from regional real estate markets such as Philippines, Vietnam, and Malaysia. While this is unlikely to preliminarily impact the luxury real estate market, developers should be considering how to work with the Thai government to create additional investment incentives into the luxury real estate market as part of a shift towards high-net-worth travellers.” 

With a renewed spotlight on its regional and global competitiveness, the Thai property sector—especially luxury and resort-driven segments—is well positioned to thrive into 2025 and beyond. 

This article was originally published on asiapropertyawards.com. Write to our editors at [email protected].