Performing a Thai Property Title Search can be extremely beneficial. This search can reveal who owns the property, as well as any liens and encumbrances. Traditionally, all land in Thailand belonged to the king. In recent years, however, condominiums are becoming a popular choice in Thailand. These properties are the most convenient and easily purchased. Listed below are some benefits to conducting a title search on your Thai property.

Chanote

The highest form of land claim in Thailand is the Chanote. It is a document that grants the owner the right to lease, mortgage, and sell land. The documents contain an exact description of the property and a history of any relevant transactions. Usually, these documents are for built-up areas. However, in certain cases, a landowner can also hold a certificate of occupancy, a type of deed that enables him to occupy a plot of land.

If the owner of a Chanote is a Thai national, his/her land should have a Chanote. This type of land claim is a certificate that provides a legal guarantee for the land’s ownership. However, other forms of Chanotes are not always accurate. The Land Department treats them as equals as far as ownership transfer is concerned. Therefore, if you find a property that has a Chanote title, be sure to check it out before making a purchase.

Nor Sor 3 Kor

A legal land title can be found through a Nor Sor 3 Kor. This document, issued by the District Land Office, certifies the legal use of a land plot. This is not a possession title, but a certificate of usage, which ensures that the owner can benefit from the land. The problem with Nor Sor 3 Kor is that it is considered a floating map with no parcel points and can be difficult to determine the boundaries.

Nor Sor 3 documents do not grant full ownership or use rights to the land. The maps do not contain parcel points and are not based on Land Department surveys. If you are planning to buy a Thai property with a Nor Sor 3 Kor, make sure to contact a property lawyer and inquire about this type of title. Nor Sor 3 documents are the most basic type of Thai property titles, but can be upgraded to other kinds of titles later.

Condominium

In Thailand, the easiest way to own a piece of real estate is to buy a condominium. Unlike other types of ownership, a condominium deed includes ownership rights in a fraction of the land and common assets of a building. Each unit’s ownership deed is issued by the Land Department, the place where property ownership transfer takes place. If you wish to buy the property for a personal use, you must submit a Land Office “Tor Dor 21” form in order to do so.

A condominium is not different from an apartment. It is registered under the Condominium Act and managed by a condo juristic person. Foreigners can own condominiums in Thailand, but not apartments, which fall under the 30-year leasing regulations. As such, they cannot own the property under freehold title. In Thailand, condos are the same as apartments, and have the same fees and common-area obligations. However, a condominium has the advantage of being easier to register, and it is also a more affordable option for foreigners.