Beyond the purchase price of a condominium, buyers should budget for a number of additional costs associated with the purchase and ongoing ownership. Understanding these upfront avoids surprises and ensures accurate financial planning.
Transfer Fee
The transfer fee is 2% of the appraised value of the property as assessed by the Land Department (which is typically lower than the market price). This fee is customarily split 50/50 between buyer and seller, though this is negotiable and varies by developer. Confirm the arrangement with your developer before signing the SPA.
Specific Business Tax (SBT)
If the seller has owned the property for less than 5 years, a Specific Business Tax of 3.3% of the appraised or sale value (whichever is higher) applies. This is generally a seller's cost, but in practice some developers factor it into the overall pricing. For resale properties, confirm who bears this cost.
Stamp Duty
Stamp duty of 0.5% of the appraised or sale value applies when Specific Business Tax is not applicable (i.e., when the seller has owned the property for more than 5 years). Stamp duty and SBT are mutually exclusive — only one applies.
Withholding Tax
The seller is also subject to withholding tax, calculated based on the appraised value and the length of ownership. For individual sellers, this is calculated on a progressive scale. For corporate sellers, it is a flat 1% of the appraised or sale value. Again, this is technically the seller's cost but may be negotiated as part of the deal.
Sinking Fund
Most new condominium developments require a one-time sinking fund contribution at the time of transfer. This is a reserve fund for major building repairs and capital expenditures. The amount varies by project but typically ranges from ฿400 to ฿700 per square metre.
Common Area Management Fee
An advance payment of common area management fees (CAM fees) is usually required at transfer — typically 1 to 2 years paid upfront. Ongoing CAM fees vary by project but generally range from ฿35 to ฿80 per square metre per month, covering building maintenance, security, cleaning, and amenities.
Furniture and Fit-Out
If you plan to rent out your unit, budget for furnishing. A well-furnished unit commands significantly higher rents and attracts better tenants. Selling Bangkok offers a complete furnishing service — contact us for a quote.
Summary Table
| Cost | Rate | Who Pays |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer Fee | 2% of appraised value | Split buyer/seller |
| Specific Business Tax | 3.3% of appraised/sale value | Seller (if owned under 5 years) |
| Stamp Duty | 0.5% of appraised/sale value | Seller (if owned over 5 years) |
| Withholding Tax | Progressive / 1% corporate | Seller |
| Sinking Fund | ฿400–700/sqm (one-time) | Buyer |
| CAM Fees (advance) | 1–2 years upfront | Buyer |