The Annual Cost of Owning Property in Phuket: CAM, Fees, Taxes and Upkeep

The purchase price is only the start. Owning a condo or villa in Phuket carries predictable annual costs that smart investors budget for from day one. Here is what to expect. Figures are orientation ranges — confirm the exact rates for your specific project.

Common-area maintenance (CAM) fees

Condos and managed villa estates charge a monthly common-area maintenance (CAM) fee per square metre, covering security, pools, gardens, lifts and shared facilities. Premium and branded projects sit at the higher end. For most owners this is the single biggest recurring cost.

Sinking fund

A one-time sinking fund (charged at handover, per square metre) builds a reserve for major repairs and replacements. It is separate from monthly CAM.

Utilities

Electricity is the main variable — air-conditioning drives the bill, especially for villas with pools. Water is cheap, and internet is fast and inexpensive. Some projects apply a slightly higher electricity tariff to certain units.

Property tax

Thailand's Land and Building Tax applies to owners at modest residential rates, depending on appraised value and use. It is typically far lower than property taxes in many Western countries.

Management and rental costs

If you let the property, a management or rental company usually takes a percentage of rental income, plus cleaning and linen. A pool villa also needs pool and garden upkeep, often on a monthly contract.

Insurance

Building insurance is usually included in CAM for condos; villa owners arrange their own. Contents insurance is optional and inexpensive.

A simple budgeting rule

Set aside an annual reserve for CAM, utilities, tax and upkeep, then add management fees only if you rent. Get the exact CAM rate and sinking fund in writing before you buy — they vary widely between projects.

FAQ

Q: What are CAM fees in Phuket? A: Common-area maintenance fees are a monthly per-square-metre charge for security, pools, gardens and shared facilities in condos and managed estates. They are the main recurring ownership cost.

Q: What is a sinking fund? A: A one-time reserve fund charged at handover (per square metre) for major future repairs, separate from monthly CAM.

Q: Is there an annual property tax in Thailand? A: Yes — the Land and Building Tax applies at modest residential rates based on appraised value, and is typically much lower than in Western countries.

Q: How much should I budget to own a Phuket condo per year? A: Plan for CAM, electricity, property tax and minor upkeep, and add a management fee if you rent. Always confirm the exact CAM and sinking-fund rates for your specific project before buying.

Planning your numbers? See the full costs of buying or talk to us about management.