Start you non 0 in USA, whatever consulate in your area, get the 90 day approved, get with Thai Visa in BKK and get the one year extension multiple entry retirement,
At some point you will need to establish a lease agreement and certificate of residency, From my resent experience the banks will want to see that as well a cell phone in your name only, I recommend using an agent unless you have a lot of free time on your hands.