I'm living in Thailand for several years so far (student "ED" visa).

It's well-known that Thai laws are pretty much restrictive regarding non-local citizens buying out real estate in the country. E.g., in the condo non-Thai citizens can't buy more than 49%; you can't buy a separate house unless you have a Thai partner (or a spouse) who would own 51%, etc.  
Some expats open companies first and then make the real estate owned by these companies.

I'm living alone in rented apartments but I'd like to make a step forward towards buying.

Obviously, I don't like "cheating the system" by a false marriage, false company or so.

So, the question is, **what are the key factors I should take into consideration before actually buying a real estate in Thailand** (or deciding that renting is better)?