investing in Hua Hin
Hello.
My Thai wife and I bought some land in Palm Hills, just outside of the city of Hua Hin about 2 years ago.
Buying property in Thailand is tricky
1. Foreigners, for the most part, cannot own property in their name (I purchased it under my wife's name)
The current government does not look favorably on all the westerners that are moving to Thailand. The best advice is "Don't invest any money in Thailand that you can't afford to lose".
2. Foreigners can own condos
3. The real estate market in Thailand does not necessarily follow the rule of supply and demand, the highest and best use etc. Thais often overprice their property regardless of current market conditions because that's what they expect to get...not what other like properties are selling for
4. The real estate market is largely unregulated. Anyone can become a contractor, real estate agent or property manager. No licensing, no tests. There are a lot of less than honorable lawyers, real estate agents and contractors running loose in Thailand looking to make a quick buck off of unsuspecting foreigners. "Let the buyer beware" was never more true than in Thailand.
That being said, I believe that Hua Hin is quickly becoming a destination location for foreigners looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok and the seedy reputation of Pattaya. A good place for retirees and families.