Land plots in Bangkok’s prime locations are in high demand from property developers and non-property developer investors. Land prices in the city are climbing by 15 percent per year on average, reported the Bangkok Post.

Demand is high because buyers want to develop condominiums, offices and private homes, according to Kulwadee Sawangsri, executive director for investment and land services at property consultancy firm CBRE Thailand.

“Land investment generates the highest yield among all property categories,” said Kulwadee.

Many people who have the funds prefer investing in land, as the year-on-year yield is approximately 15 percent, whereas income producing property yields 4-5 percent per year on average.

More non-developer investors are buying land each year, according to Kulwadee. Many buyers are second-generation children of business owners who already conduct projects professionally.

The greatest increase in land prices in the last decade has been in the vicinity of Sukhumvit, between Phloenchit Road and Soi Thong Lor (Sukhumvit Soi 55). Demand in these areas is very high according to Kulwadee.

Land prices in the area increased by 340 percent on average from 2003, to the average price of THB1.35 million (US$45,195) per square wah in 2012.

The next greatest price increases of land were in the Silom and Sathon area, were prices have risen by 330 percent to THB1.2 million (US$40,201) per square wah since 2003.

According to Kulwadee, the purchase of the British Embassy plot in 2006 was a turning point as it sold for THB900,000 (US$30,154) per square wah, while average market prices at the time ranged from THB600,000 (US$20,103) to THB700,000 (US$23,454).

In the outskirts of Bangkok land prices have also soared by 40 to 50 percent as a result of construction progress of mass transit lines.

Prime location, main roads and this year’s new city plan are top priorities for those investing in land, according to Kulwadee.

CBRE recorded THB8 billion (US$268 million) from 30 transactions in 2012, up from 15 transactions worth THB 3 billion (US$100.4 million) in 2011.

CBRE expects the value of land and the number of property transactions to grow by 30 percent in 2013.

Despite soaring land prices in Bangkok, last year CBRE registered even greater price increases of up to 50 percent in Khao Yai, Nakhon Ratchasima province.

A record THB480million (US$16.1million) has been paid for a Thai condo – a 1,500 square metre penthouse at the Ritz Carlton Residences in Bangkok.

The new owner is a retired Indian property investor who lives in Dubai and the deal for the apartment in what will be the city’s tallest building was completed in January, says leading Thai property website, DDproperty.com.

The record price helped Pace Development, which constructed the MahaNakhon mixed-use project, achieve sales worth a record THB836 million in just one week.

Chief Executive Officer, Sorapoj Techakraisri, says, “It has been a very strong start to the year and we are seeing a surge in interest in super luxury property in Bangkok. In three days, we sold seven residences at around THB36 million each at a road show in Hong Kong.”

A resurgence of confidence in Thailand and a belief in Pace Development’s quality of construction after it had  no defects in units at its sold out Saladaeng Residences are behind the increased sales, he says.

Mr Techakraisri revealed that more than 2,500 square metres of residences were sold in January. Thai buyers bought two penthouses, plus three-bedroom and two-bedroom homes, while most Hong Kong investors preferred two-bedroom properties, each valued at around THB36 million.

Pace Development is set to increase its prices by five per cent on 1 March. It is planning roadshows in the Middle East over the next few months.

An increase in tourist figures is being taken as a signal that Thailand is set to see a rise in demand from overseas buyers for the condo property market, particularly in popular spots such as Phuket.

When the final figures are released they are expected to show that almost 22 million people visited the country in 2012 and tourism officials say they expect 24.5 in 2013.

Overall Thai tourism is up 15% in numbers and 24% in income compared with 2011 with visitors coming from China, Malaysia, Japan, Russia, South Korea, India, Laos, Australia, the UK and Singapore.

Asians are now considered one of the big spenders in relation to overseas properties and as well as looking at London they are also looking nearer home in places like Thailand.

Phuket is emerging as the favourite island destination in South East Asia with its international airport seeing a record 9.5 million arrivals and departures in 2012, up 13% on the previous year, and outstripping other popular locations such as Patty, Koh Samui and Chang Mai.

The emphasis is now on wealth rather than the mass market and with it comes a new source of property buyers keen on condo style resorts in particular. One European developer, Beach Projects, has relocated its headquarter to Thailand to benefit from the trend and is building luxury investment grade beach properties in Phuket.

‘Tourists quickly convert to property investors as they fall in love with the year round 30 degree sunshine and legendary scenery. Also living costs are a third of those in Europe and HSBC ranks Thailand number two in its Expat Explorer Survey, especially praising its quality of life,’ said Roy Hanif, partner in Beach Projects.

‘There is a new wave of demand from overseas and from Phuket’s local middle class population for luxurious, spacious condo resorts with establishments such as the Banyan Tree booking out way in advance, so we’re building Silver Beach in Phuket to go some way to satisfying this,’ he explained.

He pointed out that whilst capital appreciation is currently minimal on land and villas, according to the Bank of Thailand condos have increased on average in value by 10% over the past five years.

‘The investment potential is massive. Clients can realise that 10% anticipated return if they buy off plan and sell on completion or take advantage of rental income of between 8% and 12% net per annum thanks to a 250 day high season,’ explained Hanif.

He believes that with starting prices of £117,000, Silver Beach is affordable for professionals. Building work is underway and expected to be finished by the summer of 2014.

Reports suggest that the condo market in Phuket has grown by 20% in the past two years. Phuket has seen an increase in Asian buyers. The Russians and Chinese lead the way with 30% of buyers on the island coming from Russia alone and the number of Indian buyers also increasing. Properties with sea views are the most popular yet the hardest plots to come.

Designed by Bangkok based Harvard educated architect Bill Bensley, Silver Beach Phuket is next to the Laem Hin nature reserve on the Thai island’s sough after east coast. It has the Andaman Sea on one side and mangrove forest on the other.

The project consists of five star luxury gated properties on private beaches with resort quality facilities including swimming pools, bars, restaurants, a clubhouse and a concierge service.

Within the resort there will be eco-friendly golf carts to use for getting around and boats for island hopping. Nearby are spas, boutiques, restaurants, bars and sports facilities, including seven golf clubs and various marinas.

The nearest down is a 3.7 kilometer drive and the International Airport within half an hour with direct flights to all major European, Asian and Australasian cities including London, Munich, Moscow, Shanghai, Singapore and Sydney.

Payment terms are 35% down with the rest payable in stages according to project milestones. Silver Beach offers no rental guarantees but will install its own on site management company with rental returns pitched at a minimum of 10% per annum, net.

Freehold and leasehold ownership schemes are in operation, devised by global law brand Baker & McKenzie. Under Thai condo laws 51% of the total saleable area of units must be owned by Thai nationals, while 49% can be owned by non Thai nationals.
Therefore, approximately 49% of the total saleable area of the units in Silver Beach will be sold freehold with the remaining 51% transferred to Thai SPVs and leased to buyers under the continuously renewing three times 30 year full ownership leasehold scheme.

Overview of Property Investment in Pattaya
Pattaya is a crown jewel when it comes to not only Thailand’s tourism industry but also the property market. With new developments coming up to meet the ever increasing demand for accommodation, pattaya property investment is really booming. Both locals and foreign investors are looking to tap into the lucrative Pattaya property, and this huge demand has seen a record number of new state of the art condominiums coming up. Another thing worth noting is that the region’s international airport is only an hour away; hence the property market has proven to be the next boom in this lucrative market.

Many eyes are today set in the Pattaya region as well as in neighboring districts. Such areas include south of Pattaya which is fast gaining popularity, Jomtien, etc. If the current statistics are anything to go by, then the property investment market is set to grow even more especially because of the ever increasing demand for urbane and modern facilities and amenities, which are visibly lacking in old apartments and condos. This just explains where the City Garden Pratumnak is coming from.

Overview of the City Garden Pratumnak
This is a foreign form of ownership investment project for one bedroomed apartment units in the region. It is a pre-launch project that is set for completion in June of 2015. While the construction is on-going, the project is already well laid out and basically provides a modern boutique style of living on the cozy and irresistible beach Pratumnak. The goal of the project is to provide distinctive standards of living thanks to superior quality design properties that are sure to meet the needs of modern day citizens. The City Garden Pratumnak project consists of 2 buildings each being a low-rise 8 storeys high.

There are over 157 units in total with building A having 79 and B having 78 units. While it offers no seaview, you can rest assured there are panoramic views of the city of Pattaya that one can enjoy while inside these buildings. Standing stately and adorning the beautiful landscape of Pattaya, all eyes are on this project that is sure to set the benchmark a notch higher for future apartment and condominiums projects to follow.

Some of the notable features of this project include:
• Bathrooms – 1
• Furnishing – semi-furnished
• A/C number – 2
• Internet – WI-FI
• European Kitchen
• Hot/cold water
• Balcony
• Ensuite

Communal amenities include:
• 24Hr Security
• Close to nearby Hospital
• Close To Shopping Centers
• Close to nearby schools
• Close to the City Centre
• There is a Communal Garden Off road parking
• Communal pool
• Parking
• Fitness centre
• Jacuzzi and sauna

Conclusion
These are just some of the notable features and amenities of the ground breaking project. The cost of the units is depended on the apartment’s location and the floor that an investor selects. Wise investors have already started making their bookings on time to avoid last minute rush and to secure a unit in this lucrative region. Of course you want to be part of history in the making hence you should ensure you get your acts in order to secure a unit, or several, in the groundbreaking project that is sure to rock the city of Pattaya and its environs.

Overview of Jomtien – Pattaya

Thailand is the leading country in South East Asia that draws the largest number of visitors each year. This huge crowd is largely attributed to the breathtaking and awe-inspiring natural beauty, great tourist attractions in the region, rich cultural and architectural heritage, and the most irresistible beaches in the whole of Thailand. Jomtien and Pattaya beaches are loved by many and are considered twin fun paradises.

Jomtien is a region in Pattaya that is growing at a very rapid rate. It’s cosmopolitan savor justifies the present of expatriates from all corners of the world who have either retired or settled there, or those who have just invested in the region for beautiful holiday homes where they can relax and unwind when the pressure seem too much to bear. Demand for property in Jomtien Pattaya is ever increasing, not just because of the expatriates and rich local investors but also because of the ever growing need for contemporary living suites that would accommodate the cosmopolitan life that most people have come to appreciate of the region.

A decade or so ago, expatriates and foreign investors could only dream of investing in a house or condo in the beautiful region, overlooking the oceans and waking up to scenic sea breezes. Today, this has been made a reality thanks to property development projects such as Aba Talay.

Overview of the Abay Talay Development Project
Abay Talay is an apartment project that starts in December 2013 and is projected to end in 2015. It is located in the fast-growing and popular destination Jomtien, known for its easy accessibility, beautiful sandy beaches, low cost of living and very hospitable locales. It is a 9-storey project that has 220.1m2 spacious studio apartments. Apartments in upper floors of the 9-storey building provide scenic panoramic views of the ocean and the beautiful city of Pattaya. Also worth mentioning is that one can invest in multiple units to make 46.2m2 1 bedroom and 69.3m2 2-bedroom units respectively.

This is a perfect investment opportunity for holidaymakers, full time residents, and foreign investors who do not even have to be there all the time. Its strategic location provides easy access to Bangok and Pattaya and the fact that is in close proximity to nearby schools, hospitals and shopping malls means that it is the most convenient condominium the region has ever experienced.

Some of the notable amenities and features that have many talking about the Abay Talay condominium are:-

• 24 hr security
• CCTV
• Parking
• Car parking
• Cooking hoods
• Fully Furnished
• Air conditioning
• Ceramic tiles
• Private Balcony
• Built-in wardrobes
• Covered car ports
• Kitchen facilities
• Kitchen cabinets
• Light fittings
• Sunken ceiling lights
• Pre-installed water heater
• Laundry
• Solid wood entry doors
• Complimentary furniture
• Euro style kitchen
• Restaurant
• Key card access
• Sea View
• Pool View
• Communal gardens

Conclusion
With all the above-mentioned amenities and facilities, and the fact that the project is strategically located in close proximity to the beach, restaurants, shopping malls, convenience store, and public transport, no doubt this is an opportunity of a lifetime to make a wise investment decision.

Overview of Pattaya property investment
Real estate investment in Pattaya is not a new phenomenon really. All key players in international hotel industry have been channeling billions of dollars each year in Pattaya, yet there is still a significant shortage of accommodation during the high season. Foreign investors have partnered with local investors in Thailand to seize the opportunity at hand to boost their ever increasing capital. World renowned supermarket chains have made their remarkable presence in Pattaya.

The Thai tourist industry accounts for over 7million visitors in Pattaya alone annually. Add to this the huge number of expatriates working for multinational companies that have well established offices in the region. If all these are not an indication that quality accommodation is required in Pattaya, whether it is rented or otherwise, then nothing is. It does not take a rocket scientist or a real estate guru really to see that pattaya the property boom is now or never. The real estate market in the region is buoyant and this is the best time to start investing in real estate.

Thailand economic statistics
Thailand at large is a region that enjoys rapid upward moving economy of over $130 billion racking in $13 billion each year. Needless to mention, this is one of the highest growth rates among all Asian countries. Due to high demands placed on Thailand, demand is growing at a very large rate in Pattaya more than any other destination in the region, because of its attractive tourist attractions, as well as its strategic location that is loved by thousands of foreigner’s year in year out. It is for this reason that investors are trying to establish some ground in a rapidly growing market.

What this means is that the prices of land will continue to soar up high, as high as the many beautiful condominiums and apartments being set up in the region. Official statistics show that land prices in Thailand increase at an average rate of 27% per annum. As expected of such a lucrative market, there is no decrease or stagnation in the rates, only a steady growth moving upwards.

What this, therefore, means is that if there ever was a time to invest in Pattaya, the time is now. You should seize the opportunity and take advantage of Pattaya the property boom to enjoy great investment opportunities. A quick research on the internet will reveal to you the many amazing investment opportunities available at your disposal.

Pattaya Legal System
Another thing you should know is that buying property or land in Thailand is arguably the easiest and most straightforward of processes you could ever find anywhere else in a foreign country. This is because foreign property investment is supported and promoted by a very flexible and transparent legal system. Besides, there are several reputable real estate agencies that provide real estate investment advice and services.

Conclusion
By investing your hard-earned cash in real estate in Pattaya, you can rest assured of a very attractive return on investment since the prospects of property investment in the region look very promising. Take your time to find reliable Pattaya dom real estate gurus and you are sure to find an opportunity of a lifetime that you can rely on for constant streams of income.