If you are considering living in Thailand, maybe you wish to retire in Thailand or better yet retire in Chiang Mai or Pattaya then consider leasing your property before buying. This allows you to decide where you wish to live for the long term. Once you have settled in then consider the area and then only look at buying property or buying the condo in which you are living.
A sizable percentage of foreigners decide to stay and retire in Thailand because they meet the girl (or boy) of their dreams here. If you want to marry a Thai citizen, you will need proof from your embassy that you are legally able to marry. The legal marriage registration can be performed at any district office (amphur) in Thailand.