I used to do the 200 plus day annual thing on a mixture of visa exempt and tourist visas. Had a few IOs who asked me a lot of questions, but never got taken aside or denied entry. Still, I do know a handful of people who did the same thing but got denied. I think it's pretty rare to get turned back and you'll likely get a warning first but if you're eligible for a long term visa, I recommend getting one.

You may be able to find a Thai style studio for that much but it'll likely not be in the best condition and/or location with zero amenities. If your daughter is Thai, this might be okay, if she's a foreigner she'll likely be pretty miserable.

Since you're going back and forth I would look into the DTV for now. When you decide to stay here long term after your son turns 18, you can get a retirement visa.

I did it at the airport before I flew out, it's really quick n simple. Surprisingly (or maybe not), a lot of people flying into BKK did not do it and had to wait in a horrendously long line while it took me just a few minutes to go through immigration.

Use an agent

If you're in Bangkok the expenses should be fine, but you're going to need a lot more than 500 for the other things.

You probably want to ask your local immigration office directly.

Why not the DTV, you're set for 5 years pretty much.

@Jeff ******

I honestly don't think it'll happen or they'll figure out some exception. The real estate market is a huge money maker and this would alienate so many potential and actual buyers like the Chinese. It's like tripping over dollars to pick up pennies.

So every foreigner who brought a large amount of money into Thailand to buy property and who has been here at least 180 days for the year has a freakin tax liability?! Oh this is going to get good. 555