Real Estate & Investment News in Thailand from Propertyshowrooms.com

New-build market gathers pace in Thailand

Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Demand for new-build property in Thailand is pushing up prices in the country, with growth particularly strong in the north, north-east and south.

This is according to the Thai Home Construction Association, which noted prices in these areas have risen by between 15 and 20 per cent in the opening three months of 2012, Property Wire reports.

The surge is partially due to wealthier Bangkok residents looking to buy a second home outside of the capital, where growth in the first quarter of the year was marginal.

Potential buyers have to make quick decisions in order to secure a purchase and the surge in demand has also resulted in a labour shortage, with president of the association Sitiporn Suwanasut noting this is a particular concern in the Bangkok area.

Many provincial workers who had relocated to the capital went home during the floods last year and have yet to return, he observed.

Foreign investors keen to buy property in Thailand may want to look towards the south of the country and destinations such as Koh Samui and Phuket, as Property Report notes these are proving popular with tourists.

Thai developers targeting overseas buyers

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Developers operating in Thailand's most popular resorts - such as Koh Samui and Phuket - are attempting to attract foreign buyers to their schemes.

An article for Property Report pointed out build quality is a major consideration, while attractive pricing for overseas purchasers is an increasing trend.

Tourist arrivals in Thailand have improved significantly this year, the publication added, with popular destinations performing particularly well.

The Thai real estate market has received a boost from this growth, with some of the new projects under construction designed to cater for "a more sophisticated international clientele".

A recent post on The Phuket Insider highlighted the growing level of development on some of the country's lesser known islands, such as Koh Kood, Koh Chang and Koh Mak.

Many of these properties are being sold for their "investment yield and lifestyle", the news provider noted, adding the main reason why these markets have yet to grow significantly is the poor transport links from the mainland.

Bangkok apartment market 'performing well'

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The occupancy rate of apartments in Bangkok climbed in the final quarter of 2011, compared to the previous three-month period, despite the supply of this type of home increasing.

Research conducted by CB Richard Ellis (CBRE) Thailand revealed occupancy in such developments had jumped to 89.5 per cent at the end of last year, up from around 85 per cent in the third quarter.

Meanwhile, there was a 3.6 per cent year-on-year rise in the number of apartments available in the downtown area of the Thai capital.

However, the condominium market in Bangkok did not perform as well, with the vacancy rate of this sort of development increasing, while supply also rose.

Investors seeking to enter the Thai real estate market may therefore want to turn their attention towards schemes for new apartments, rather than condominiums.

A poll conducted recently by Century21 and the architecture and planning faculty at Thammasat University discovered 34 per cent of respondents will take the likelihood of flooding into account when selecting a home, following the extensive damage caused last year when parts of Bangkok were badly hit by rising water levels. As a result, demand for apartments and condominiums may increase.

Sales of Pattaya condominiums rise

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

A significant increase in the number of condominiums sold in Pattaya has been recorded.

Knight Frank Thailand noted a rise of 120 per cent in the volume of transactions completed for this kind of property in the city in 2011, compared with 2010.

However, the firm pointed out the supply of condominiums in Pattaya climbed substantially last year, which has resulted in a lower sales rate in comparison to the number of units available.

The organisation added there is a trend among developers to build more one-bedroom apartments, with the Jomtein district of the city expected to be the location of the majority of the new construction projects.

One-bedroom units are often favoured by investors, head of the residential department at the company Frank Kahn explained; adding this may be one reason why developers are focusing on this size of apartment.

Earlier this month, director of Knight Frank Phuket Nattha Kahapana highlighted the rising level of condominium developments in the Kata and Karon Beach areas of Thailand's western coastal resort, noting a lack of affordable land in sought-after districts like Patong Beach is encouraging construction firms to look elsewhere.

Tips offered for buying Thai condominiums

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Investors who are considering purchasing a condominium in Thailand have been offered some advice about how best to proceed.

An article in The Nation explained it is essential for potential buyers to view at least four or five different properties in order to get a good overview of the market.

The publication noted that, since the flooding earlier this year, demand for apartments in high-rise buildings has increased.

However, the news provider added the average cost of buying such a property in Thailand has decreased slightly, largely due to the rising number of mid-market units now on sale, as opposed to the luxury condominiums that previously dominated the sector.

Last month, executive director of CB Richard Ellis (CBRE) Research and CBRE Consulting Thailand James Pitchon wrote in the Bangkok Post that the flooding will have a "vast impact" on the real estate market.

He predicted buyers will become more conscious of the flood defences offered by the different developments, while condominiums will be favoured over houses, particularly in areas affected by the natural disaster.

Flooding 'will affect Bangkok property market'

Thu, 3 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The recent floods that have hit Bangkok and other parts of Thailand will have an impact on the real estate sector in affected areas, it has been claimed.

According to CB Richard Ellis (CBRE) Thailand, there will be changes to the demand among those looking for residential properties in Bangkok.

High-rise condominiums are likely to see increased demand, the organisation noted, while districts such as Lumpini, Silom, Sathorn and parts of Sukhumvit will be the top targets for buyers.

In addition, CBRE suggested that investors will be more savvy when it comes to building design, looking for flood prevention features on the Thai properties they are considering buying, for example.

Meanwhile, the firm also predicted that destinations such as Pattaya, Hua-Hin and Chonburi will benefit as more people turn to housing outside the capital.

Last month, CBRE revealed that demand for rented apartments in Bangkok remains strong, particularly among foreigners.

The organisation cited a lack of supply of such properties, coupled with the rising popularity of apartments over condominiums, as the main factors driving forward this sector of the market.

Thailand's luxury property market 'remains static'

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The luxury property market in Bangkok was broadly static during the second quarter of the year, new figures show.

Research published by CB Richard Ellis (CBRE) showed that this sector of the Thai real estate industry has seen a slight fall in capital values in this period, in part due to a reduction in the number of buy-to-let investors entering the sector.

CBRE has predicted that this weakening in demand among investors is likely to "exert further downward pressure on prices in the third quarter".

However, the firm noted that average rents rose marginally, due to tenant demand for higher-quality accommodation.

But the number of transactions of residential property in Bangkok increased by over 1,500 during the second quarter, compared to the first three months of the year.

Earlier this month, chairman of Jones Lang LaSalle Thailand Longlom Bunnag told Property Report South East Asia that the peaceful elections in the country have helped encourage investors to come back to its real estate market.

Property developer 'sees promise' in Thai real estate

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT

A Singapore property development company has decided to invest in a series of condominium projects in Thailand over the coming year.

Speaking to Property Report, business development manager at Dalvey Developments Noel Goh described the Thai real estate sector as "a very attractive market with high growth potential".

"Moreover, property prices remain low when compared to neighbouring countries," Mr Goh added.

Currently, one billion Thai baht (£20.77 million) has been allocated for the schemes by Dalvey Developments, with the potential for further investment in the condominium market.

According to one Asian real estate expert, buyers from Hong Kong are increasingly being drawn to high-end properties in the Thai capital.

Executive director for investment and project marketing at CB Richard Ellis Rebecca Shum told the Bangkok Post that the city is a "top-two destination for lifestyle" from the point of view of Hong Kong investors.

She added that a rise in optimism about Thailand's political and economic conditions is helping boost the luxury property market in the nation.

Positive outlook for Thai commercial real estate

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Commercial real estate in Thailand appears to have a positive future, according to the latest research from Business Monitor International.

The organisation's Thailand Real Estate Report revealed that more than 200 new projects to build condominiums and other apartments are due to start in Bangkok during 2011-12.

According to the study, attempts by the Thai government to restrict access to credit for buyers of such residences have had a minimal effect on the market.

In addition, it noted that vacancy rates in the city's offices have improved compared to 2010, while new infrastructure schemes are also expected to boost the appeal of Bangkok.

Managing director of Jones Lang Lasalle Suphin Mechuchep recently commented that political stability is required if real growth in the property sector is to be realised.

She stated: "It is clear that confidence in Thailand's real estate market relies a lot on the country's political situation." Ms Mechuchep added that the slow pace of recovery for the industry compared to the nation's strong economic growth is a case in point.

Thailand property market to benefit from recent political turmoil

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The recent political turmoil in Thailand may have resulted in a more favourable climate for foreign property investors looking at the Asian destination.

Property Abroad has claimed that the problems within the country have led to the formation of a low-cost environment which is likely to appeal to savvy buyers.

Now that prices have fallen again due to the financial crisis and the political crisis, Thailand is undoubtedly likely to bring some high yielding property investments over the next four to five years," the website claimed.

"Though, with the political situation as tinder-dry as it is, it will be an investment not for the faint hearted."

Meanwhile, a leading tour operator has recently stated that bookings to the country are beginning to increase following the political troubles.

Hayes and Jarvis explained that many holidaymakers were looking to take advantage of good deals now available in the long-haul market.

In addition, the Tourism Authority of Thailand announced that it would be running a range of promotional strategies to tempt visitors back.

Official figures show that there was a 6.8 per cent decline in visitor numbers in June compared to last year.

Interest in Thailand is picking up

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The property market in Thailand is beginning to attract an increasing amount of overseas investors, it has been reported.

According to Overseas Property Professional (OPP), the new year has brought with it a change in fortune for the Asian destination, which has seen dwindling interest from abroad since the boom of 2007.

The growth in market activity has led to one developer deciding to re-launch its luxury resort in an attempt to tempt investors.

Richard Shearer, managing director of Prism Estates, explained that the project, in Phuket, will be supported by an increase in marketing expenditures to drive sales.

"We saw a marked shift in attitude at the turn of 2010 and this has continued with an increased amount of interest over the past few months," he told OPP.

Investors in the region will be pleased to hear that prime real estate in the country managed to resist the global economic crisis well, with Knight Frank's Wealth Report claiming that prices have risen by five per cent over that period.

In addition, the report predicted that 2010 will see further growth of between five and ten per cent.

Last year, ReportBuyer.com claimed that tourism in Thailand would also rise by five per cent year-on-year.

Land prices in Thai capital on an 'upward spiral'

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Investors looking to bolster their property portfolio in the Asian market may be interested in news that land prices in the Thai capital of Bangkok have increased by 88 per cent in the last three years.

According to data released by Biswanger Brooker, the cost of land in prime locations in the centre of the city has spiralled upwards since 2007 and is predicted to continue doing so in the future.

Nigel Cornick, chief executive of the company, revealed that limited supply coupled with high demand were driving factors behind the increases.

In addition, recent activity in the market has been bolstered by the Thai government's decision to postpone the transfer fee, stamp duty and business tax on purchases until May 31st.

Mr Cornick said: "There is very strong demand for compact but high-end residential condominiums in downtown locations from the domestic market which is boosting land values.

"Some of the developers also plan to construct hotels on the prime plots, which further demonstrates that this is an asset class that local investors still have confidence in."

ReportBuyer.com predicted that last year Thailand would see a five per cent year-on-year growth in its tourism market.

New guidelines to increase transparency in Thai property market

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Property investors in Thailand are set to benefit from the introduction of new guidance which aims to make the market more transparent.

The new guidance was issued by the International Valuation Standards Council and has been welcomed by property developers within the region.

Simon Landy, executive chairman of Colliers International Thailand, believes that it is a step in the right direction and will bring clarity to house valuation.

He explained: "This new guideline will provide an internationally-recognised benchmark which will assist in bringing transparency and clarity to valuations of incomplete property assets.

"With the anticipated level of merger and acquisition activity in international markets over the next few years, more certainty is required in the way these values are established."

Last year, Patima Jeerapaet, of Colliers Thailand, said during an interview with ScandAsia that he was lobbying the country's government to increase the length of leases overseas investors can take out.

If successful it could act to encourage individuals looking to buy overseas homes in the country.

Bid to give Thailand investors more rights

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Overseas property investors in Thailand should enjoy more rights, it has been argued.

In an interview with ScandAsia, managing director of Colliers International Thailand Patima Jeerapaet said he is helping to lobby the country's government to increase the length of leases overseas investors can take out.

"Right now, foreigners can only lease 30 years and we have proposed to extend it since we think it is too short a period," he stated, adding that other Asian countries allow 70-90 years.

Mr Jeerapaet is pursuing this cause in his role as chairman for the joint foreign chamber of commerce of the property committee.

Such a move could encourage those looking to buy overseas homes and thinking of choosing Thailand.

The country's property market is set to see a full recovery in 2010, according to Industrial Buildings Corporation.

It is expecting the improved sentiment of recent months to manifest itself in tangible terms next year, Property Report Asia notes.

Luxury property 'defies Thai slowdown'

Fri, 4 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The luxury end of Thailand's villa market has remained buoyant, a new report has stated.

A study by consultants C9 Hotelworks has found that the value of luxury villas in the resort of Phuket has reached BT3.5 billion (GBP6.3 million) in the first half of 2009.

This upturn has seen the top end of the market defy the downturn that has left the wider property sector in the country still in the doldrums, C9 said.

Managing director of the firm Bill Barnett stated: "While market recovery prospects are being set back to 2011, there has continued to be a gradual upswing in activity."

He said this was due to "financial source markets" improving sooner than expected in countries where overseas buyers of Thai property are from.

Thailand and the south-east Asia area is set to see its prices stabilise and recover in the year ahead, The Star Business noted last week.

CLSA Asia-Pacific research suggested Thai homes would either be stable or see slight increases next year, the paper noted.

Thai developers 'adjusting to the economic downturn'

Fri, 7 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The economic downturn has resulted in developers in Thailand making changes to the types of properties they have available.

This is the view of Marcus Burtenshaw, director at Knight Frank Chartered Thailand, who told Property Report Asia that many are carrying out more market research to ascertain trends among those looking to purchase real estate in the country.

Noting that the high-end market in the country has suffered of late, he told the news source: "Developers might find that projects directed to the mid-range or budget end will be more successful."

Mr Burtenshaw added that construction is still continuing despite the financial crisis, with lower commodity prices meaning that developers are "pushing ahead with carefully considered projects".

Elsewhere in Asia, the Global Property Guide for 2009 recently stated that the effects of the global economic downturn on the property market in Malaysia have been minor.

It ranked the country as ninth out of a total of 91 territories.

"Great potential" for Thailand property

Wed, 4 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Thailand offers "great potential" to overseas property buyers, one real estate expert has claimed.

Nick Marr, chief executive officer of Homesgofast.com, stated that the country has attracted the interest of developers, airlines and holidaymakers and that those looking to purchase homes abroad should also consider the location.

Noting that Thailand has not been immune from the global economic downturn, Mr Marr said that "the groundwork for recovery is being laid for a healthy property market", stating that he expects the sector to recover during 2010.

"The property market in Bangkok has a large unsold inventory of condos that offer very low prices," he explained, adding that demand for these properties is likely to increase when investors discover the selection of cheap investment opportunities that are available.

According to a recent study by CB Richard Ellis, demand for houses in Thailand's capital, Bangkok, fell during the third quarter of 2008, with supply of apartments in the city totalling over 10,000 in December of last year.

Soi Thonglor 'defying Thailand property turndown'

Mon, 2 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Soi Thonglor area of Bangkok has defied the falling demand for property in Thailand by seeing continued development of luxury properties, it has been claimed.

According to the Nation, seven luxury developments are currently under construction in the area.

A survey by the news source revealed that Soi Thonglor is the most popular of a number of luxury locations in the country that are bucking the growing trend for developers to build quick to construct low-rise homes that are able to deliver short-term rental returns.

Srettha Thavisin, president of construction firm Sansiri, said that the company has seen continued strong demand since the turn of the year, a fact that may interest property developers looking to move into Thailand's high-end rental market.

Another potential property location seeing an upturn amid the current economic crisis is the Western Cape region of South Africa, which has experienced a rise in the average price of property.

Property sector benefits included in Thai government bailout

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The government in Thailand has unveiled a new financial aid package that could benefit helping homeowners and property investors in the country.

In a bid to buoy the nation through the global financial crisis, THB40 billion (GBP0.8 billion) will be injected into the economy via tax relief measures, Reuters reports.

The tax allowance of THB100,000 a year for mortgage interest payments is to be extended under the new measures, it was revealed.

And the government added that purchasers of new property in 2009 will now be entitled to a tax allowance of up to THB300,000 a year.

According to finance minister Korn Chatikavanij, the measures will help the country record growth of two per cent in 2009 - the lowest level since 2.1 per cent was achieved in 2001.

The implications of new tax laws were recently outlined to British investors seeking a property investment opportunity in Europe.

Director of personal tax at accountancy firm PFK Matt Coward stated that investors need to aware of the financial consequences of selling a home in euro zone in the current climate.

Thai unrest could affect millions of pounds of property deals

Thu, 27 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Political protests in Thailand and the shutdown of the country's international airport in Bangkok is scaring away potential foreign property investors...

Property developers move to small Thai islands to cope with privacy demand

Sun, 27 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Property development in Phuket is expanding to four small nearby islands because of the demand for privacy...

Revisiting the Investment Property Market in Thailand

Tue, 1 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

After the bloodless political turmoil that Thailand has encountered of late and which is hopefully resolved now that a democratically elected government has been returned to power, there are those who are coming out strongly in favour of property investment in Thailand. So, we thought we’d revisit the investment property market in Thailand for our readers because we feel the picture is far more complicated than simply a political one! After all, the entire globe is on the cusp of a financial squeeze thanks to the adverse credit situation that probably really arose because of ignorant lending behaviour among banks that should’ve known better. You know we’re right!

Thailand proving to be a strong property market, experts agree

Sun, 15 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Thailand property market is still making good returns for investors despite worries about inflation, according to experts...

Thailand offers affordable properties

Thu, 1 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Overseas property investors have been told that good-value properties can be found outside Europe.

According to Rupert Bates of Homes Overseas magazine, property in Thailand is very affordable for British buyers.

Furthermore, he praised Thai residences for offering the building standards that people from the UK would expect and require.

Commenting on the location, Mr Bates said: "Thailand is a beautiful and thrilling location for overseas property investors."

He added that properties are currently up for sale all over the country.

However, Mr Bates stated that prices tend to vary in different areas, as demand is higher in the most popular resorts.

Meanwhile, BuyAssociation has highlighted south-east Asia as one of the most popular emerging locations for British buyers.

Paul Collins, property editor at the website, said this region is set to attract more foreign property investors during the next few years.

South-east Asia property boosted by new flights

Fri, 24 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

A growing number of investors are taking advantage of greater access to property markets in south-east Asia, one expert has claimed.

Jason Killingback, sales advisor at David Stanley Redfern, said that it has become a "lot easier" for people to invest in countries such as Thailand due to the availability of new flights.

"They can fly direct or it's one stop, so it is a lot better now for people to invest; it does help a lot," Mr Killingback stated.

However, investors looking to buy properties in far-flung locations ought to ensure they undertake "proper checks" on developers and their due diligence is carried out correctly, he advised.

Commenting on the south-east Asian property market, Marsha Lu, head of the legal, diligence and compliance department at Property Frontiers, recently said that Malaysia was the "best place to invest".

According to Ms Lu, the country has recovered from the economic crisis of the 1990s better than most other states in the region.

Thailand attracting an "array" of investors

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Thailand is proving popular with a wide variety of buyers looking for different types of property and investment opportunities, according to one expert.

Jason Killingback, sales adviser at David Stanley Redfern, said that although Thai buying laws can be "quite complicated", steps are being taken to make things easier for investors.

While some of the most popular areas to invest in include Bangkok, Koh Samui and Phuket, Mr Killingback suggested that the market is attracting people with different investment strategies and requirements.

"We get people looking for investment, people looking for a holiday home, people looking to use [a property] for a couple of months' work; it's a whole mixture for that sort of market," he remarked.

Figures published by the Tourism Authority of Thailand recently showed that more than 850,000 tourists from the UK visited the country between January and December last year.

Investors 'cautious' over Thai property market

Wed, 22 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Many people considering purchasing property in Thailand remain cautious, despite the fact that the risk to investment is "not large", according to one expert.

Commenting on the Thai market, Marsha Lu, head of the legal, diligence and compliance department at Property Frontiers, said that media reports on the recent military coup has prompted some investors to be wary of buying property there.

"No market is a bad market … It's just what the expectations of investors are," Ms Lu argued.

To invest in freehold property, foreign buyers currently have to go through a company scheme, Ms Lu stated, suggesting that this can raises concerns over how secure an investment is likely to be.

Earlier in the month, the Bank of Thailand said that conditions within the US housing market were unlikely to have a negative impact upon the Thai economy, Thomson Financial reports.

Suchada Kirakul, the bank's assistant governor, said the property market had not "over-expanded", so it was "certain" the problems faced by the US housing market would not happen in Thailand.

Thailand 'unaffected by US housing market problems'

Thu, 2 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The recent housing market decline in the USA is unlikely to impact upon the economy in Thailand, according to one expert.

Suchada Kirakul, assistant governor of the Bank of Thailand, said that investors are losing confidence in the US dollar and choosing to look to other markets instead, Thomson Financial reports.

"But in Thailand we have several measures to monitor capital flows, while the property market has not over-expanded," Ms Kirakul said.

Although the news provider reports that concerns have been raised that the US mortgage market may have had a negative impact upon Asian stocks, the problems faced by investors in the US are "certain" not to happen in Thailand, Ms Kirakul stated.

Last month, James Pitchon, executive director of CB Richard Ellis Thailand, said that the country is in a "very strong" position to attract foreign retirees and second home buyers, the Bangkok Post reports.

Thailand popular with expats

Thu, 19 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Retirees and others looking to invest in property are keeping the south-east Asian country of Thailand top for second homes, according to local reports.

While the kingdom presents some problems for property investors, such as restrictions on property ownership, financial facilitation and visa regulations, its climate, environment and its people are helping maintain its popularity, wrote the Bangkok Post.

Thailand has traditionally courted the mature property investor, granting more than 12,000 retirement visas in the first seven months of last year, James Pitchon of CB Richard Ellis Thailand told the newspaper.

Increased political stability will help its popularity further and stave off competition from other Asian countries, his colleague Aliwassa Pathnadabutr suggested in a separate interview with Property Report.

Ms Pathnadabutr added foreign buyers of high-end residential property had doubled in a decade and the company's most recent figures showed that more than 40 per cent of buyers were foreign.

The Bank of Thailand said that tourism generated nine per cent of Thai gross domestic product in 2005, according to Easier.

Thailand to provide new services for foreign buyers

Tue, 10 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

A range of new services are to be made available to foreign buyers in Thailand via a new services centre, designed to offer advice and guidance for overseas property investors in the Thai property market.

Due for launch in October the centre has been formed partly in response to strong growth in Hua Hin's property market, which continues to attract foreign investors.

The centre will offer visitors a link to the relevant government services, spanning a diverse range of issues including commercial and business operations, labour, social welfare and policing.

Sanit Boonkorsakul, the deputy governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan, estimates that the Hua Hin property market has seen somewhere in the region of five billion baht (£79 billion) during the past three years alone, indicative of considerable foreign interest.

"The province has gained interest among businesspeople and investors from both Thailand and overseas," he explained to the Bangkok Post.

"The centre would help them run businesses legally."

Recent reports from RREEF highlight the Asian property sector as the strongest performing in the world, according to IPE Real Estate.

Economic growth boosts Thai property market

Mon, 2 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Ongoing economic growth in Thailand has led to a significant boost in the country's property market, creating fresh opportunities for investors and signalling continued growth in the future.

With annual capital growth of between ten and 15 per cent, the market offers profitable investment opportunities and is subsequently seeing an influx of buyers looking for attractive property investment opportunities.

Swift economic growth underpins this property boom and is likely to have an accumulative effect as property growth leads to increased tourism.

Figures from Aston Lloyd & Partners show an increase in sales during the past three months, coupled with a steady increase in property prices in desirable locations.

It is thought that these conditions are conducive to increased activity among private buyers and buy-to-let investors alike, in line with increased demand for housing and accommodation.

Meanwhile, reports from Obelisk International highlight a strong economic recovery in Thailand following the Tsunami in 2004, with strong tourism, inward foreign investment and sustained interest from foreign investors.

Chai Mai to become "good investment choice"

Mon, 18 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

New developments and value for money has led Thailand to become an attractive prospect for investors, it is claimed.

The country's second city of Chai Mai is tipped by experts to become a popular investment choice thanks to the construction of a new highway that will connect the city to Kunming, southwest China.

According to BuyAssociation, the property market has "sprung out of nowhere", attracting interest from overseas buyers who take advantage of the country's lure as a "luxury holiday location".

Investors are also pointed toward the city of Bangkok or southern beach resorts in order to "get a foot" on the property ladder.

Thai law prevents foreigners from owning land meaning "apartments are the more common choice" for property investors.

After the tsunami of 2004 caused severe damage in 2004 and with health risks such as avian flue posing a risk to south-east Asian countries, investors are advised to take comprehensive legal advice before buying in the country.

The Thai government's latest Board of Investment survey revealed that foreign investors from Japan, Taiwan, Singapore and the US currently make up the majority of foreign investors.

Asian property market sees investment increase

Thu, 14 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Conditions within the Asian property market are set to see investment in the region increase, according to one expert.

Research by Fidelity International found that investment in the Asia Pacific region reached $94 billion (£47.75 billion) in 2006, with the market experiencing a 50 per cent increase in the amount of cross-border investment, Easier reports.

Polly Kwan, manager of the Fidelity Asian Property Fund, said that the market is "extremely diverse" and that the region benefits from both mature and emerging economies.

According to the firm, both Thailand and Malaysia have experienced high levels of urbanisation and industrialisation and have benefited from greater demand for commercial space.

Ms Kwan also stated that house prices within the region's residential property markets have the potential to rise further, despite recent concerns about affordability.

Speaking to the Malaysia Star recently, Lai Voon Hon, executive director of development firm Ireka, said that if the country can continue to attract foreign investment, the market for high-end homes and apartments will grow.

Thai property offering good opportunities

Thu, 7 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Thailand's uncertain political situation is causing prices to remain low and foreign investors to move in ahead of an expected upsurge in growth next year, it has been advised.

Investment levels could reach GBP230 million if current deals are finalised, Colliers officials have advised.

Joint partnerships with local businesses are also thought to be popular, with a Thai villa rental firm confirming the trend.

"There's a bit of a slow-down this year, because of the recovery of Phuket. The first quarter has been difficult but the rest of the year looks much better. The offerings are increasing but demand is the same. So basically the competition is increasing," commented Samui Villas and Homes head Marc Ribal, according to the Thailand Property Guide.

Meanwhile foreign investment in the country has risen by 18 per cent year-on-year so far in 2007, the state Board of Investment noted earlier this week.

Check out Thailand's Krabi province, says expert

Wed, 23 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The most popular investments in Thailand are long-lease villas in the Krabi province, according to a leading property firm.

Robert Collins, managing director of the Thailand branch of Savills, said that prices in Krabi are around 50 per cent cheaper than in Phuket.

However, because Krabi is very popular and cheap, investors need to act now because this situation "won't last forever", he told the Bangkok Post.

Mr Collins also said that there are a number of five-star hotels in Krabi, which will probably sell off residential space.

''It's a very significant trend taking place across all resort markets in Thailand for new developments to be branded by five-star hotel groups."

He told the newspaper that the trend for these kinds of developments will create a new pricing structure for projects branded by desirable hotel groups.

"While these hotel-linked residential developments are not necessarily better than those that are not, they do give the assurance of good service and management control," he added.

Located 814 km from Bangkok, Krabi has been described by Thailand tourist board as "one of most attractive destinations" in the southern part of the country.

It is home to two "world-class" beaches ? Ao Nang and Hat Rai Le, which offer diving trips restaurants, shops and rock-climbing opportunities.

Investors 'remain confident' in Thailand

Wed, 16 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Foreign investors have remained focussed on Thailand despite political and economic uncertainties, a leading real estate services firm has said.

According to Jones Lange LaSalle, although internal changes in Thailand ? such as revised investment laws ? had shaken the confidence of outsiders, investors are confident that conditions will improve.

Longlom Bunnag, the company's chairman, said that investors believe Thailand's troubles are temporary and are hoping that the economic conditions will improve around the time of the general election in December, reports the Thai News Agency.

"Although the property market in Bangkok is likely to slow down this year, the market fundamental remains strong," said Mr Bunnag.

"A slow demand in the market stemmed from a lack of confidence among consumers and investors rather than lower purchasing power."

He went on to say that high investment returns in Bangkok would continue to attract foreign and local investors.

An Israeli property firm recently signed a letter of intent to buy a high-rise development in Bangkok ? a sign that investors have not lost hope in Thailand, according to Thailand Real Estate & Property Guide.

Explore high-end condos in Thailand 'before they vanish'

Thu, 3 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Despite political and economic uncertainties in Thailand, long-term investors are increasingly interested in buying up condominium units, an international property consultancy, has said.

According to a study by CB Richard Ellis (CBRE), while the stock of existing condominiums in Bangkok has increased, the luxury-end of the market has declined, which means supply is now limited.

This has prompted CBRE to recommend that investors take action now and enquire about a high-end condo before they all disappear.

CBRE Thailand managing director Aliwassa Pathnadabutr said that luxury condo units in prime locations like Saladaeng continue to generate "good" sell-out prices.

And according to client feedback, investment returns in the form of rental yields and capital appreciation is between five and seven per cent.

Furthermore, she said that luxury condominium projects in Bangkok continue to be much cheaper than in neighbouring nations, which makes it more likely that investors will be keen to snap up available property.

According to Thailand Real Estate & Property Guide, overseas and Thai investors are pushing up land and property prices on the island of Phuket as the tourism sector starts to improve after the devastating tsunami on Boxing Day 2004.

Phuket property market 'is recovering well'

Mon, 30 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Despite the damage caused by the Boxing Day Tsunami in 2004, the real estate market on the Thai island of Phuket is pulling in foreign investors, a property website has said.

According to Thailand Real Estate & Property Guide, overseas and Thai investors are pushing up land and property prices as the tourism sector starts to improve

Real-estate consultants have said that investment from foreigners is continuing to outpace local interest, while at the same time, tourists flock to the island's beaches and are staying for longer than did before the tsunami disaster.

However, buyers often find themselves up against legal barriers, such as Thailand's land restrictions, meaning foreign investors are forbidden to own land.

The good news, according to the website, is that investors are allowed to construct and build on land, which can be leased for 30 years.

Peter Conradi, editor of the Sunday Times property section, recently said that long-haul destinations such as Thailand are particularly attractive to UK investors because they offer cheap property prices, a long rental season and affordable flight access.

Thailand an 'attractive long-haul investment prospect'

Tue, 3 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

British property investors should seriously consider expanding their horizons and choose a more far-flung destination to enhance their portfolio, an expert has said.

Peter Conradi, editor of the Sunday Times property section, has said that long-haul destinations such as Thailand are particularly attractive because they offer cheap property prices, a long rental season and affordable flight access.

He also asserted that Egypt and Morocco are other long-haul countries places to consider, reports property news blog Nubricks.com.

"Many of these places have very healthy rental markets and so could be worth comparing with short-haul destinations if you are just focussed on the pure rental return," Mr Conradi remarked.

He added: "It does all come down to research and understanding exactly what your potential renters will want and having realistic expectations about the kind of returns that you can make."

According to Property Frontiers, foreign buyers are increasingly looking to the likes of Thailand, which is dependant on the Chinese economy, but is not as restricted when it comes to foreign investment.

Look to south-east Asia for new markets, buyers told

Thu, 29 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Overcrowding in China's property market has prompted overseas buyers to look to other countries in south-east Asia, according to Property Frontiers.

Foreign buyers are increasingly looking to the likes of Thailand and Malaysia, which are dependant on the Chinese economy, but are not as restricted in terms of foreign investment.

Spokeswoman Marsha Lu said that China was a very successful destination for overseas investors last year, but economic and political manoeuvres effectively shut down the market.

"China's currency value was increasing, so the central bank had lots of pressure on maintaining the value of Chinese currency," she said.

"Therefore, they actually issued seven regulations last year to try to slow down foreign investment."

However, buyers interested in Thailand or Malaysia need to be "quite cautious" and make efforts to understand the political situation in these countries before making a long-term commitment.

Earlier this month, Thailand scrapped the majority of capital controls that were imposed in December. However, investors have been asked to take hedging measures to avoid profiting from fluctuations in the currency.

'Thailand proving a hit with investors'

Mon, 12 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Thailand is continuing to attract "shrewd investors", despite the havoc of the tsunami in December 2004, a property firm has said.

In particular, the resort of Pattaya, southeast of Bangkok, is drawing in foreign buyers, because of its reputation as Asia's premier all-year-round beach resort, according to Principal International.

Its sub-tropical climate and the popularity of its beaches, amusement parks, museums and botanical gardens means that Pattaya is attracting a growing number of travellers, who all need somewhere to stay.

Pattaya "caters with equal appeal to the relaxing tropical ambience you would expect from an exotic Asian resort, and is synonymous with every ingredient for a memorable holiday", the firm stated.

It added: "With 49 per cent of the $461 million (£238 million) spent on beachfront apartments last year coming from Pattaya, it's no wonder it's fast becoming one of Asia's most popular investment locations."

According to consultancy firm Globalysis, Thailand is set to enjoy eight per cent year-over-year growth in international visitor arrivals this year.

Thailand Property Still Buoyant

Tue, 3 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Despite last month's coup in Thailand, many investment analysts, amongst them Colliers CRE, are confirming there has not been a fall in property demand in Thailand. In fact the property market still looks sound, and the Thai interim government is intent on keeping the property sector buoyant.

Fund managers are reinforcing general views of economic stability, good exports and the fact that the coup was merely a result of short-term volatility. Banluesak Pussarangsri, director of Bangkok Bank’s Macro-economy Analysis Centre, draws attention to the fact that the currency and economy have actually stood up well in the face of recent events and states the Thai economy is expected to continue growth at approx. 4.5% this year. Meanwhile, many shrewd property investors are using the aftermath as an opportunity to buy in at better prices.

Thailand's new Suvarnabhumi Airport is preparing to open soon and it is expected this will transform Pattaya and its surroundings into a family resort area. Developers are buying up land to build quality hotels and shopping malls etc. and it is believed Pattaya will transform over the next five to 10 years. Other hotspots are currently in areas near the airport at Hua Hin, and Phuket, where tourism remains strong and well able to keep the property sector buoyant.

Thailand’s New Airport Soon to Open

Wed, 9 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

With the imminent opening of Bangkok’s new Suvarnabhumi Airport in September 2006, Thailand is set to offer international investors an even more advanced transport infrastructure than at present.

The new airport will initially cope with some 30 million passengers per year when it first opens. This figure will be increased to 45 million within a short space of time and, with the opening of two additional runways, the airport will be able to cater for over 100 million passengers per year and operate some 76 flights per hour.

Named Suvarnabhumi (meaning “Golden Land”) by His Majesty the King, the airport is expected to be the most modern in Asia. The Thai government has prioritized it as part of the “national agenda” of strategic importance to Thailand’s future economic and transport development.

The entire airport will occupy a total area of 8,000 acres, making it five times larger than the present airport at Don Muang. At an astounding 563,000 square metres, the passenger terminal will be the world’s largest single building structure.

Meanwhile, in addition to Suvarnabhumi Airport, a 28-km overhead rail link between it and downtown Bangkok is now under construction which will cut travelling time between the airport and the city centre to only 15 minutes.

In addition, thanks to a number of new roads also under construction, the distance from Bangkok is expected to be only 30 minutes. These roads will boost accessibility from various parts of the city as well as to nearby provinces like Chonburi, in which the resort of Pattaya is located.

Property purchasers and investors are encouraged by the government’s firm resolve to facilitate new economic activity in Thailand. As an emerging market, these key infrastructure developments look set to create a solid foundation for a success story of the future.