The Ultimate Checklist for Viewing a Koh Phangan Villa for Sale

Viewing a villa in Koh Phangan is exciting, but it’s easy to get distracted by ocean views, infinity pools, and tropical gardens. Many buyers fall in love too quickly and overlook details that matter once the honeymoon phase ends. Whether you’re buying for personal use, long-term living, or investment, having a clear checklist can save you from costly mistakes.

This guide walks you through what to look for before committing to a property on the island.

1. Location: Look Beyond the View

A stunning view doesn’t always mean a practical location. When viewing a villa, consider daily life, not just aesthetics.

Ask yourself:

How far is the nearest grocery store or town?
Is the road access safe and usable during the rainy season?
How steep is the driveway?
Is the area noisy at night or during the day?

Spend time in the neighborhood at different hours. A peaceful midday visit can feel very different in the evening or during Full Moon periods.

2. Road Access and Drainage

This is one of the most overlooked issues on Koh Phangan. Some villas are only accessible by steep concrete roads or dirt paths that become slippery in heavy rain.

Check:

Road ownership (public or private)
Drainage systems around the property
Signs of erosion or flooding near the villa

Poor access can affect daily comfort, safety, and future resale value.

3. Water Supply and Storage

Water is not guaranteed 24/7 in all parts of the island. Always ask where the villa’s water comes from.

Key questions to ask:

Is the water from a well, government supply, or delivered by truck?
Is there a water storage tank?
Has the villa ever had water shortages?

Reliable water access is essential for both living and renting.

4. Electricity and Backup Power

Power outages still happen on the island, especially during storms. While they’re usually short, frequent outages can be frustrating.

Check:

Whether the villa has stable government electricity
If a backup generator or battery system is installed
Condition of electrical wiring

If you work remotely, this becomes even more important.

5. Internet Quality

Never assume the internet is “good” just because the agent says so. Ask for real speed test results.

Confirm:

Type of connection (fiber, cable, mobile)
Actual download and upload speeds
Stability during bad weather

For many buyers, internet reliability is non-negotiable.

6. Construction Quality

Tropical conditions are tough on buildings. Look closely at how the villa is built, not just how it looks.

Inspect:

Cracks in walls or ceilings
Signs of water damage or mold
Roof condition and overhangs
Window and door seals

If possible, bring a local professional to assess the structure.

7. Layout and Livability

A villa designed for short-term rentals may not work well for long-term living.

Consider:

Storage space
Kitchen size and functionality
Ventilation and airflow
Noise between rooms

Think about how you’ll live in the space every day, not just how it looks in photos.

8. Maintenance and Ongoing Costs

Ask about monthly and yearly costs, including:

Pool and garden maintenance
Security
Repairs and replacements
Management fees, if applicable

Owning a villa in a tropical climate requires regular upkeep. Knowing these costs upfront helps avoid surprises.

9. Legal Structure and Documentation

This is critical. Thailand has specific rules for property ownership, especially for foreigners.

Before proceeding with a Koh Phangan villa for sale, always confirm:

Land title type
Ownership structure (leasehold, company, etc.)
Building permits
Boundaries and access rights

A qualified local lawyer should review all documents before any payment is made.

10. Rental Potential (If Relevant)

If you plan to rent out the villa, ask:

Has it been rented before?
Average occupancy rates
Seasonal demand
Any restrictions on short-term rentals

Even if renting isn’t your main goal, resale buyers often care about this.

Final Thoughts

Buying a villa on Koh Phangan can be an incredible lifestyle move or investment—but only if you take the time to evaluate it properly. The island rewards careful buyers who look beyond surface beauty and focus on long-term comfort, legality, and practicality.

Using this checklist during viewings will help you make confident decisions and avoid common pitfalls, ensuring that your future villa truly fits your needs.