The banks in Thailand aren’t targeting investors for growth. It’s for service. Thais invest in real estate. So for growth I suggest keeping your western account.
for the LTR I did not use an attorney. Only an agent. For my non-O I used a lawyer. It was helpful in so much as I was able to focus on other things (in that case it was chartering a boat for my birthday). I agree with other commenters that you don’t need anybody to apply for an LTR.
yes about 120-150K. It makes sense if time is money. Usually pensioners need no help whereas those living off investment income appreciate it. For instance I needed to supply proof of real estate investments and let my agent work with my lawyer back home while I was traveling. Super convenient.
I am on the LTR and used Star which is one of the five agents authorized by BOI. I was their first client to obtain the LTR and we learned together. For lawyer I use Sam at ILO who did my original visa and my 30 lease as well as my other leases. He is solid in my experience.