What are some essential tips for relocating to Thailand as retirees in 2026?

@Tamie ********

Hin Lek Fai is where I am now and I'm happy with it. Last place I was in had gaps in doors and windows and my first electric bill was around 6,000 baht. The person renting me the place spoke no English but later found that she spoke good English just didn't want to deal with Tennant. Avoid Fazwaz as they never respond to requests so check out Facebook Marketplace for homes to rent. It will be difficult find a rental property that will accept pets as well. Good luck.

@John *******

well strange sense of humour?? Someone may understand it!

@Tamie ********

get an international drivers license in the states so you can convert it to a Thai drivers license without having to take the test. You’ll just have to take the eye test and reaction test.

@Don ********

I recall hearing people say there are problems with trying to set that up as a non-us resident

@Don ********

not sure, but I have both types of accounts.

@Simon *******

watch the YouTube videos. When you’re a foreigner, the price on the condo automatically goes up a lot. So you lose money right off the bat and then you never know about the condo association.

@Tamie ********

carry out plenty of due diligence ie. Check the place out on a Fri or sat night, to see what the neighbours are like, loud music, drinking , kids running around after midnight, lots of dogs barking etc

Check the Soi/immediate area is not a usual flooding area during the rainy season.

Definitely need to check these things if you want a peaceful place, especially if it’s a Soi with many locals living, otherwise. Alternative look at upmarket gated small estates, with security guard.

Don’t rush, foreigners are often shown properties that they can’t rent for various reasons, ensure the owner is the owner of the property ID card matches name on house registration document, if using a letting agent ensure you see proof. Also the letting agent is registered and accredited to rent/sell property.

Always buyer/renter beware, in all Countries, so many scams around, foreigners are easy targets. Keep your wealth abroad absolutely private, to avoid being targeted.

There is no rush, plenty of foreigners find nice places to live GL