The visa lasts for 6 months from the day he enters Thailand. So if for example he enters 5th May his visa lasts until 4th November. If he enters Thailand on 4th November he will get stamped in no problem for another period (60 days i think)
Opening a bank account is the very best time to use an agent.... If in Chiang Mai i used Thai Visa Assist and it was so easy. I was on a tourist visa at the time living week by week in serviced rooms with no contract.
I think this will be the route I will take and get a new Visa this coming winter which will then need extending each year when i plan to be present in Thailand. Thanks everyone for your replies 👍