Gig Economy in Thailand: Earn money and still not own a home?

Gig Economy in Thailand: Earn money and still not own a home?

The gig economy in Thailand is booming, and it can't be ignored! More and more young people are taking the step into self-employment and opting for flexible working models. According to Line Today, the proportion of self-employed people increased to an impressive 50.01% of the total 39.51 million employed in the second quarter of 2025. This not only shows the change in the world of work, but also the great interest in freelance jobs such as online retailers, delivery drivers and influencers.

Modern technology plays a central role in this change. Many freelancers work from home these days, which means not only flexibility but also independence. But for all the advantages, there are also challenges. For example, when applying for mortgages - a topic that causes headaches for many freelancers. A survey by DDproperty found that 56% of respondents see uncertain income as the main problem when applying for a mortgage.

Challenges for freelancers

While the dream of owning a home remains a worthy goal for many, reality shows that freelancers are often viewed as financially insecure. The nation reported that short-term delinquent mortgage loans fell by 2.5%, while problem debt restructuring increased by 3.9%. These developments make it clear that the demand ratio in the real estate market requires a rethink.

Tips for freelancers to improve their chances of being approved for a mortgage include stabilizing their financial foundations and gathering extensive documentation of their income. This includes maintaining a regular bank account and creating a solid portfolio to demonstrate your professional experience.

The future of the gig economy

On the other hand, the gig economy sector in Thailand is showing flourishing development. There are currently 144 companies in this space that have collectively raised $1.16 billion in venture capital and private equity. Two unicorns have emerged that are revolutionizing the freelance market with innovative solutions. Tracxn highlights that these companies not only offer freelance business management software, but also develop freelancer recruitment platforms and financial solutions.

The growth of the gig economy is in clear contradiction to the challenges in the mortgage market. The rising cost of living and stagnating incomes present additional hurdles that both buyers and sellers must overcome in the real estate business.

Although financial stability remains crucial for loan approval, the trend towards flexibility and self-employment shows that the future of work in Thailand could have many facets in the coming years. However, home ownership, long seen as a symbol of stability, could prove increasingly challenging unless decisive action is taken.