How to Check Secondary Property Before Buying

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How to Check Secondary Property Before Buying — Complete Checklist

A step-by-step expert checklist for inspecting secondary property in Phuket: documents, technical condition, legal risks, payments, and recommendations. Learn how to safely purchase a property.

Contents

Buying secondary property in Phuket is an excellent way to acquire a ready-to-use property without waiting for construction to finish. However, such transactions require thorough verification. Here is an expert checklist to help you avoid hidden problems and buy safely.

Legal Due Diligence

1. Check Land and Property Documents

All properties in Phuket must have one of the recognized land titles (most commonly Chanote).
Request from the seller:

Copy of Chanote (land ownership certificate)
Copy of House Registration Book (for villas/houses)
Condominium documents — Condo Unit Title Deed
Passport or company documents of the seller

Important to know:

Some properties in Thailand may have resale restrictions, debts, encumbrances, or ongoing legal disputes. All of this should be verified by a lawyer.

2. Check for Encumbrances and Debts

Ensure the property has no:

Mortgage
Arrests or liens
Court restrictions
Unpaid taxes
Debts to the management company

Request an official certificate confirming no encumbrances (for the property and the owner company if the seller is a legal entity).

Technical Inspection of the Property

What to inspect on-site:

Walls and ceilings (cracks, stains, signs of leaks)
Electrical system (panel, outlets, switches)
Air conditioners (working condition, age, maintenance)
Plumbing and pipes (pressure, leaks, water heater)
Windows and doors (seals, hardware, tightness)
Furniture and appliances condition
Noise and odors
Ventilation — especially important in Phuket

Key point:

Due to high humidity in Phuket, mold, hidden leaks, and condensation damage are common. Even if the property looks good, a professional technical inspection is recommended.

Checking the Management Company and Infrastructure

1. Assess the Financial Health of the Condo or Housing Project

Ask about:

Size and regularity of maintenance payments
Any debts among residents (affects property maintenance)
Planned repairs for common areas
Reserve fund (sinking fund) status

2. Inspect the Property’s Infrastructure

Check:

Swimming pool
Gym
Grounds and parking
Elevators
Security
Reception

Expert tip:

Even if the unit is perfect, a weak management company will result in poor quality of maintenance and services.

Location and Surroundings Check

Important factors:

Noise level (road traffic, nearby construction)
Internet speed
Ease of access
Proximity to shops and beaches
Upcoming construction projects nearby

Ask your agent for information about future developments in the area — this can affect property value and comfort.

Leave a request, and an expert will select verified properties for you

Do you want to buy property without risks?

Transaction and Property History Verification

Request:

When the property was purchased
Who the previous owner was
Reason for selling
Whether the property was rented out (if yes — check rental income reports)
Any disputes between residents and the management company

Important:

If the property was rented out for a long time, furniture, appliances, air conditioners, and utilities may show accelerated wear.

Cost and Mandatory Payments Verification

Check in advance:

Who pays income tax (if the seller is a foreign company)
Transfer Fee (usually 2%, often split 50/50)
Withholding Tax (for individuals — depends on ownership duration)
Special Business Tax (if owned less than 5 years)
Agent commission (usually paid by the seller, but exceptions exist)

Final Expert Checklist

Documents:

✓ Chanote or Condo Title Deed
✓ Passport/company documents
✓ Certificate of no encumbrances
✓ Management company agreement
✓ Receipts for service fees