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Buyer questions

How much are service charges and maintenance fees in Phuket condominiums?

In Phuket, condominium maintenance fees vary widely depending on the development's luxury level and facilities, typically paid annually based on your property's square meterage.

When purchasing a condominium in Phuket, you will encounter ongoing costs known as common area maintenance (CAM) fees. These charges are typically calculated per square metre of your unit's total area and are billed annually or bi-annually. They cover the day-to-day running of the estate, including 24-hour security, swimming pool maintenance, landscaping, gym upkeep, and reception services. Generally, developments with extensive resort-style facilities or luxury concierge services will command higher fees to maintain these premium standards.

In addition to regular CAM fees, buyers must contribute to a sinking fund. This is a one-off payment made upon completion, designed to cover major, long-term capital repairs and structural maintenance, such as repainting the building or replacing lifts. It acts as an emergency reserve to ensure the development does not fall into disrepair. As an introducer, we always advise buyers to review the health of this fund during the purchasing process to avoid unexpected future levies.

Maintenance costs vary significantly across Phuket, depending on the location, age, and management company of the building. While lower fees might initially seem attractive, they can sometimes lead to neglected facilities, which ultimately damages your property's long-term capital appreciation. We discuss specific fee structures privately with clients based on their chosen developments. It is vital to understand that these fees can rise over time as voted upon by the co-owners' association at annual general meetings.

While we connect you with vetted developers and help navigate the initial selection, "The Expat Investor" acts solely as an introducer. We do not provide formal legal, financial, or tax advice. Before committing to any purchase, we strongly recommend appointing an independent legal adviser in Thailand. They will thoroughly review the condominium's regulations, verify the exact maintenance fee structure, and ensure the juristic office is financially sound, protecting your investment for the years ahead.

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