Phuket Self-build Property
The advantages of building on your own are that you can design, build and fit out a house exactly as you require. You can also choose the location that best suits you, as long as there is land available.
Real estate agents will have databases of current land for sale on the island. Going through a reputable agent will also help you avoid the pitfalls which you may come across as a foreigner buying land in Thailand.
Theoretically, you should be able to build on your own cheaper than buying from a property development. However, building on your own does not always guarantee that you will get what you want at the price that you planned. Costs will more than likely overrun initial estimates and you will need to keep a close eye on proceedings.
The most important thing is to obtain the services of a reputable builder. This is absolutely vital as builders in Thailand do not offer the same kind of assurances available in the West. Performance bonds, rententions and warranties generally do not exist. Even if you have waranties and bonds written into the contract, in practice you would have a hard time enforcing them. If you are dealing with a real estate agent, they should be able to refer you to reputable builders.
Land title deeds can be confusing and difficult as the majority of land in Phuket does not have true title deeds (chanote). There may be legal issues and contention over land boundaries which may need to be re-surveyed. However, a good lawyer should be able to take care of these issues for you.
Another important point to bear in mind is that if you are going it alone, you have very little protection from excessive development by your neighbours. Make sure you check the zoning restrictions very carefully. You don't want someone building a factory next to your house!
