Sunday 26 December 2010

Lanna Apartments Koh Samui

Did Santa Bring You a Tropical Island Holiday Home?

If not, then why not take advantage of this special offering from one of Koh Samui's most trusted developers. Kalara Developments have previously sold out 9 developments on the island with their last one Code Samui, a luxury apartment complex selling out in just a few months and is now well underway with construction.

Within only a few weeks of the launch of their new project 'Lanna', investors have snapped up nearly half of the units, with a number of these being prior to launch. With 12% ROI expected every year we don't expect these to be around for much longer so get in while you can.

The Property

* Name: Lanna
* Type: Apartments
* Location: Bang Rack Koh Samui
* Size: 30 to 107sqm

Unit Styles & Prices

* Studio: 1,900,000 THB
* 1 Bedroom: 2,499,000 THB
* 2 Bedroom: 3,995,000 THB
* Penthouse: 5,995,000 THB

Payment and Finance Terms

* Deposit: US$1,000
* Singing of contracts 25%
* Upon completion 25%
* Remainder 50% over 10 years with developer financing

Facilities

* Fully managed 5* development
* Communal swimming pool & pool bar
* Restaurant
* Fully equiped gym & tennis court
* 24hr concierge & security
* Sauna / steam room
* BBQ area

For further pictures and details and to request floor plans and availability please respond to this email or visit Lanna Apartments on our website.

For a full list of Thailand Real Estate





Tuesday 21 December 2010

Samujana Luxury Villas Koh Samui

Samujana Luxury Villas

Choeng Mon - Koh Samui

Samujana is a luxury gated community of modern private villas, each designed by international renowned architect Gary Fell. Whilst the finishing touches are being made to the project we are offering a select number of villas from as little as US$350 per night

Samujana Villa 19

4 bedrooms - sleeps 8
US$350 - 1,200 per night



Samujana Villa 17

4 bedrooms - sleeps 8
US$350 - 1,200 per night



Samujana Villa 15

4 bedrooms - sleeps 8
US$600 - 1,200 per night



Samujana Villa 11 A/B

3/4 bedrooms - sleeps 6/8
From US$350 per night



Samujana Villa 6

4 bedrooms - sleeps 8
From US$600 per night



Complimentary Services Include
Continental Breakfast
One (1) Return Airport transfer

Additional Services
Thai Chef US$60 per day
Car Rental US$50 per day
Baby Sitter US$30 per day
Airport transfer US$20 one-way

Please note a 10% service charge is applicable on all rates

For Further details pictures and booking click here
More Koh Samui Villa Rentals
More Thailand real estate litings

Sunday 19 December 2010

Koh Pleo/Preo | Private Island For Sale Near Koh Lanta Thailand

Koh Pleo is a small private island located just off the north east coast of Koh Lanta Yai, one of the best spots for diving in the whole of Asia.

Access to Koh Pleo is just a few minutes by boat from the main pier at Koh Klang which is also the main pier to both Koh Lanta Yai and Lanta Noi Island.

Tucked away behind its neighbouring islands Koh Klang is protected from the elements and would be perfect for a high end diving destination resort or for an ultra luxurious private villa.

There is a pier on the island and a logoon within the island that could also be dredged and utilised for boats.

More private islands for sale in Thailand
More Thai real estate listings

Monday 13 December 2010

Detox In Paradise

Let Us Take Your Breath Away

Special Promotion Including

* Complimentary massage daily
* Healthy freshly squeezed juices
* Delicious low calorie cooking
* Fruit basket on arrival
* Yoga, pilates and personal trainer on request
* In villa staff to cater your every need


Choose From 3 Luxury Villas


Villa Rack Tawan

Dream tranquility - sleeps 12



3 nights @ USD 5,100 ● 5 nights @ USD 8,925 ● 7 nights @ USD 10,200
(regular rate USD 7,650 / USD 12,750 / USD 17,850)

Villa Chan Grajang

Seriously Chill Out - Sleeps 12



3 nights @ USD 6,500 ● 5 nights @ USD 11,375 ● 7 nights @ USD 13,000
(regular rate USD 9,750 / USD 16,250 / USD 22,750)


Villa Kiana


Nature Your Soul - Sleeps 8



3 nights @ USD 2,500 ● 5 nights @ USD 4,375 ● 7 nights @ USD 5,000
(regular rate USD 3,750 / USD 6,250 / USD 8,750)

Prices are based on full occupancy of rooms. If you require less bedrooms
the prices would lower, please ask for more information

Offer is subject to availability and may not be used in conjunction with any other offer. Promotion valid until the 31st January 2011, and is not available over the Christmas and New Year periods

Luxury Villas Phuket

Sunday 12 December 2010

At Sea - Sea View Condos krabi

Last remaining units at The At Sea - Sea View Condos Krabi

Since its launch early this year At Sea Condos has been well recieved by investors in the Krabi area, with very little competition for sea view condominiums in the area a gap was filled and sold very quickly.

Due for completion in February 2011 there are just a few opportunities left to invest in At Sea with just 7 units remaining. All available units are 1 bedroom with a total area of 52sqm.

Remaining Unit Prices

* A202 - 2,690,000 THB
* A203 - 2,640,000 THB
* A204 - 2,640,000 THB
* A205 - 2,690,000 THB
* C203 - 2,640,000 THB
* C204 - 2,640,000 THB
* C205 - 2,690,000 THB

Pictures and Floor Plans





Furniture Package Included

* Air Conditioning
* Fridge
* LCD TV
* Wardrobe
* TV Stand
* Hot Water Heater
* Microwave
* Bed
* Vanity Stand
* Built In Kitchen

With no other completed condominium units in the Klong Muang area these properties are sure to rise in value after completion making them a great investment. With your surrounding neighbours being high end resorts such as Nakamanda, Ritz Carlton Reserve and Sheraton Krabi, Klong Muang is a very up and coming area.

There is a show unit ready on site

Krabi Real Estate

Tuesday 7 December 2010

Samui Ridgeway Villa Resort and Spa

Samui Ridgeway Estate & Spa Retreat is designed as a 5 star luxury villa with all the facilities for you to be pampered during the whole of your stay there. Perfect for the ultimate relaxation or to treat your body to a full clean out with one of their in-house detox packages.

High Season Promotional Prices

1st December to 8th January
Standard rate: US$3,000 per night ($21,000 per week)
Stay 7 nights gets 3 nights free - ONLY $12,000 - a saving of $9,000!
Stay 14 nights gets 6 nights free - ONLY $24,000 - a saving of $18,000!

9th January to March 31st
Standard rate: US$1,995 per night ($13,965 per week)
Stay 7 nights gets 3 nights free so - ONLY $7,980 - a saving of $5,985!
Stay 14 nights gets 6 nights free so - ONLY $15,960 - a saving of $11,970!



Villa Features

* Ultimate in luxury service
* Stunning 270 degree ocean views
* 6 distinct yet interlinked luxury guest suites
* Rent part or the whole of the estate
* Infinity edge pool with swim-up pool bar
* In-pool sunken spa beds overlooking the ocean
* Fitness Room with ocean views
* Theatre/Entertainment Room
* On-site staff - maids, chef & Spa therapists
* Suitable for weddings and corporate Events

For further infomation and pictures click Samui Ridgeway Estate & Spa Retreat

Koh Samui Luxury Holiday Villas from Thai-Real.com

Saturday 4 December 2010

66% Discount Koh Samui Beach Villa

We have a great offer on a lovely holiday villa that sits directly on Big Buddha beach with a hugely reduced price to just US$250++ per night. Offer is available for bookings during the month of January.

Guests at Baan Dalah can enjoy the use of 3 en-suite bedrooms and a private beach front swimming pool whilst being looked after by 2 in-house staff.




Facilities at the villa include

* FREE WIFI Broadband access
* Direct access to white sand year round swimming beach
* Secure walled compound
* Walking distance (via beach or road) to many varied restaurants
* Private swimming pool
* TV Satellite TV, DVD/CD players, Hi-Fi system
* Fully furnished to high standards inc. linens/towels
* Fully equipped kitchen
* Private safe
* All bedrooms are air conditioned; all rooms with ceiling fans

In Villa Services

* The resident villa staff attend twice daily to clean and tidy the villa
* The English-speaking Manageress available to attend to your needs
* Shopping list on request and and Thai Chef service on availability
* Bed linen and towels are changed as necessary
* Pool/beach towels are provided and replenished as required
* Baby sitting service on request and availability
* In-Villa wine selection
* Concierge service for all tours and activities; private tours can also be arranged
* In-villa spa treatment with extended men

For further description and photos of this property please click
Baan Dalah Luxury Beach Villa Koh Samui

Full list of Koh Samui Holiday Villas

Friday 3 December 2010

Goodbye Snow - Hello Sun



Thai-Real.com would like to extend an invitation to all of you in Europe who are currently driving to work each day in the snow to come and join us on our sunny beaches.

Get together with a group of family and/or friends and rent one of our luxury villas to experience the ultimate in exclusive holidays. All the services are included that you would expect from a five star hotel but with the added benefit of enjoying the whole place to yourself.

The next few months are peak season and the villas are filling up very quickly so please take a look at our properties and let us find the one that works perfectly for you. I guarantee you will not be disappointed.

Click Location: Koh Samui | Phuket

A word of warning though, sometimes it gets a little too warm out here, but we have learnt to deal with this with the aid of infinity edged swimming pools and ice cold beer.

I look forward to seeing you all on the beach soon.

Wednesday 1 December 2010

X2 Residences Koh Samui & Koh Kood Island

We are please to offer the latest 2 residences from one of Thailands most trusted boutique developers, Astudo set upon the shores of Koh Kood and Koh Samui Island.



Payment Terms

10% upon signing
10% after 3 months
10% after 6 months
70% finance begins upon completion in 2012

For more pictures and details please visit the following

X2 Koh Samui | X2 Koh Kood

Thailand Real Estate

Monday 15 November 2010

Beach Land For Sale Thailand

19.4 Rai Phang Nga Phuket

31,976 square meters of flat coconut plantation beach front land divided into two plots on separate Chanote Titles.This land is surrounded by luxury villas and resorts and has been reduced in price from 9m THB per rai to just 7.5m THB per rai. For full details click here

Two beach front plots in Maenam Koh Samui

Each of these plots lie either side of the world famous Santiburi Resort and open onto what is considered by many to be one of the finest beaches in the world. These plots are offered as either a freehold sale, leasehold or a joint venture with the right investors. Prices are available to serious parties.

Plot 1 is 19 rai (30,400sqm) with 195 metres of water frontage

Plots 2 is 32 rai (51,200sqm) with a large water frontage

As always, please feel free to contact us at any time should you require any further information regarding any of these properties or any other property or services offered by Thai-Real.com. We also have a number of 'off market' land parcels so let us know if you require something specific.

Monday 1 November 2010

Prime Land For Sale Phuket

Dear Thai-Real.com Clients

Please find a selection of our latest quality land listings for offer on the island of Phuket

Plot 1

Offerings like this don't come along too often on Phuket, located at the edge of Nai Yang beach it benefits from 1,200 metres of ocean frontage and has its own private beach. Surrounded by high end villa developments and resorts this 93 rai is offered for sale at 18m THB per rai. The owner would also consider a joint venture with the right parties. For full details and pictures Click Here

Plot 2

Conveniently located close to the Laguna area this plot is neighbour to a number of high end resorts. The total of 40 rai offered for sale at 5.5m and 6m THB per rai. For full details and pictures Click Here

Plot 3

This next parcel of land lies along the fairway of the Loch Palm golf course in Phuket. Masterplan is included in the sale. 15 rai is offered for sale at 8.8m THB per rai. For full details and pictures Click Here

Plot 4

Sitting right in the centre of Kamala town this land is just off the main high street. The land come with permission and plans for a condominium project. This 1 rai is offered at 10m THB. For full details and pictures Click Here

Tuesday 19 October 2010

More Russians Arrive in Phuket

The Russians are coming. Although many of them are already here, or have been and gone, the announcement that Aeroflot, the Russian national carrier, will start a three times a week high season service to Phuket is good for tourism and property. In the first quarter of 2010 Russian visitors were first, followed by the United Kingdom, Germany, Switzerland and China in the top five. Russians are interested in freehold condominium units, according to the Phuket Real Estate Association.

Russians like to purchase large, expensive villas and there are a number of local real estate agents who specialize in this Russian market. Laguna Phuket is a favourite although most of the units are not used or even in rental pools; they are mainly there for investment only. Russians tend to not like other people using their units. There are Russians working on Phuket for tour companies and there is even a Russian language magazine, a Russian version of the established Phuket Magazine.

In addition to Aeroflot, Transaero, a Russian charter airline, flies direct to Phuket and in July this year Pegas Touristik, a Russian tour operator, announced it would increase flights to Bangkok and Phuket from eight Russians cities. In January-June 2010 Russian visitors to Thailand totaled 305,415, a 10.28 percent increase on the previous year, with a large proportion of visitors traveling on to Phuket.

Russian tourists are not everyone’s cup of tea. Some hotel properties in Phuket are reluctant to have them as guests. but there is no denying the Russians’ determination to come here for a holiday, and, maybe, investment. The shortest airline flight from Moscow to Phuket via Vienna, Austria, is 29 hours.

Sunday 10 October 2010

Thailands luxury Property Market

With the recent sale of Beyond Villa the world is starting to sit up and take notice of the luxury property market in Thailand. Beyond Villa was sold to an anonymous Russian business man for a rumoured figure of US$24,000,000. The villa sits on Natai Beach just north of Phuket Island with 6,000sqm of constructed area spread over a huge 16,000sqm ocean front plot.

With rental returns on luxury villas in Thailand generating between US$500-5,500 per night (depending on season) they can also turn out to be a great money earner as well as a special place to come and spend your holidays. Here is just a small selection of completed luxury properties available from Thai-Real.com

Villa Chan Grajan

Location: Surin Beach, Phuket
Rental Returns: US$1,400 - $5,500 per night
Guide Price: US$8,000,000

Villas Yin & Yang

Location: Kamala Beach, Phuket
Rental Returns: US$1,000 - $4,250 per night (Yin) US$950 - $3,495 per night (Yang)
Guide Price: US$7,250,000 (Yin) US$4,250,000 (Yang)

Liberty (as featured in the Asia Property Magazine, Oct. page 92)

Location: Kamala Headland, Phuket
Guide Price: US$7,000,000

Satis House

Location: Natai Beach, Phang Nga
Rental Returns: US$500 - $2,500 per night
Guide Price: US$4,500,000

The Estates Samui (Managed by The Four Seasons Resort Group)

Location: Bang Ma Kham, Koh Samui
Rental Returns: US$3,000 - $4,500 per night
Guide Price: From US$3,000,000

Samui Ridgeway

Location: Tong Krut, Koh Samui
Rental Returns: US$950 - $3,000 per night
Guide Price: POA

If you would like any further details on any of these properties or any other services offered by Thai-Real.com then please feel free to contact us at any time.

Tuesday 28 September 2010

Thai Mortgages For Foreigners

Thai institutional group MBK PLC is now offering financing to foreigners on freehold condominiums through its subsidiary MBK Guarantee Ltd.

This appears to be an extremely notable development in Thailand, where previously financing was nearly impossible to obtain for foreigners.

Loans from THB2 million to THB20 million (US$63,431-634,313) are being offered with monthly payments from 2-10 years for all foreigners – including non-residents. Interest is set at a minimum lending rate (MLR) of Thanachart plus 2% (roughly 8.375 per cent floating), and there is an option for a balloon payment at the end of term of 50 per cent.

The company says no income or work permit is required to obtain a loan, but the property must be in prime locations of Bangkok, Hua Hin, Cha Am, Pattaya, or Samui, according to Sakchai Suthipipat Vice President, Investment Department, MBK PLC and Head of Credit Department, MBK Guarantee Ltd.

MBK Guarantee is also offering mortgages in order to refinance properties. With the mortgage financing, credit is based on the value of the property not cash flow from a business. All types of properties will be accepted, including land banks, SDH, villas, and leasehold properties will be eligible. Interest rate will be set at the MLR from Thanachart Bank plus 5.625 per cent, or roughly 12 per cent floating. Tenor is up to three years and principal payment is not required during loan period.

Conditions apply to both of these financial services that have yet to be revealed.

Sunday 29 August 2010

Thailand Information

Before planning your trip to Thailand, take a look at our information pages to see where the best places to see are.

Click these links

Thailand | Bangkok | Chiang Mai | Hua Hin | Koh Samui | Krabi | Pattaya | Phuket

Thursday 26 August 2010

Luxury Villa Sells For US$24,000,000 in Thailand

What is widely regarded as Asia's most luxurious home has been sold, Asia Property Report understands.

Beyond Villa, located Natai Beach in Thailand's southern Phang Nga province, has been sold for around US$24 million, according to a number of industry watchers who declined to be named. The 6,500 sqm property, which was previously owned by California Fitness founder Eric Levine, has been purchased by an unidentified Russian buyer, according to several sources familiar with the transaction.

The ocean front property has been on the market for several years and was initially listed at around US$27.5 million.

Located on a 10 rai (4 acre) beach front estate on quiet Natai Beach in Phang Nga, the four bedroom villa has one of the best home gyms in the world, thanks to its former owner. It incorporates glass, steel and granite into its ultra modern and light filled design which was created by Hong Kong architect Branko Pahor.

Outside its doors Villa Beyond has a 2 hole golf course, 37 metre infinity swimming pool, barbecue terrace and covered outdoor massage and dining areas. Notable inside amenities include a 24 seat cinema, hidden kitchen, meditation room and a spa. The master bedroom is 500 sqm in size and boasts its own private swimming pool.

The home gym, with more than 80 pieces of equipment, is located in a separate pavilion on the property, as is a 750 sqm games room complete with bowling alley and karaoke room.

The property was being marketed extensively by local and international agents, and had been featured in the pages of global newspapers and magazines, including The New York Times.

Thailand Real Estate

Thursday 8 July 2010

Koh Pom Island - Land For Sale

Thai-Real.com is happy to offer a very special piece of Thai real estate. A lovely parcel of land on a small island just off the south east of Koh Lanta Yai which is currently one of the busiest tourist islands in the area.

The land covers around 20% of the island and has beaches on both the east and west side.

The area around Koh Lanta is very popular with divers having some of the best dive spots in Thailandand easily accessible from Krabi

The land consists of a number of land titles that are Nor Sor 3 and Nor Sor 3 Gor.

Wednesday 7 July 2010

Aonamao Beach Land For Sale 9 Rai

9 rai of beach land with a very long water frontage in the centre of Aonamao beach.

Aonamao is just round the corner from the famous Railay Bay which is the most popular tourist spot in the area. Regular boats leave from Aonamao pier to Railay and dozens of local islands.

Just a few hundred metres up from this parcel of land is Amatapura which is almost sold out now and has recently fully opened as a villa resort.

With the unique shape of the land a quality development of 9-20 villas could be achieved.

There are currently no properties of this kind for this area available on the Krabi real estate market

Thursday 10 June 2010

Krabi Real Estate agent Krabi-Real.com Opens

Interview for Property Report Magazine

1) When did you start your operations in Krabi? How long had you been looking at the area?

I have been visiting Krabi for a few years now but have just recently started to see things step up a gear, so decided to come and set up office here a couple of months ago. I really feel the Krabi real estate market is about too start!

2) Why do you think now is the right time to open?

I have been working in the Koh Samui market over the past 6 years and have seen how much growth people can achieve on their investment in a new market and Krabi is the only remaining destination in Thailand that has not really experienced much development yet.

After speaking with a number of resort developers over the past year a lot of their attention is now being focused on the Krabi & Phang Nga area. Most of the major brands are already established in the other main tourist spots of Thailand so Krabi was the next obvious move. A few resort brands have already been tempted here, like Centara, Sofitel, Anantara, The Sheraton, Amari and the recently opened 6 star Ritz Carlton Reserve. The next to open in 2011 will be a new property under the Mercure brand.

3) What kind of developments are you expecting to see in the area over the course of the next 12 months?

I am expecting a number of land plots being bought up by the resort developers which with their new style to incorporate villas for sale within the project will also bring some quality properties available to investors. Also a few interesting projects are planned to start construction over the next 12 months, including a new marina project south of Krabi town at Haad Yao (Long Beach) where there is already a handful of beachfront projects that have been selling steadily over the past few years.

One of the most successful projects in the area has been the At Sea condos at Klong Muang beach which has sold the majority of its condos before construction has been completed, so I expect to see more similar condo projects arriving in the area.

Krabi Land

Friday 28 May 2010

Koh Mudsum Island land For Sale

Koh Mudsum lies just off the south coast of Koh Samui with views to Koh Mudsum, Koh Rap and mainland Thailand.

It is a long island with a sandy beach running all along one side and deep water on the other side, making this ideal for both swimming and yet deep enough to bring boats in.

Koh Mudsum is currently uninhabited except for a small working pearl farm at the southern end.

This parcel of land sits at the northern tip of the island with a huge amount of quality sand and ocean frontage, available for 8m baht per rai.

The water off this island is not too deep for a few hundred metres out and the sand is soft like silk when you walk through the water

With the Koh Samui Real Estate Market running out of good quality resort land the obvious alternative is to venture onto the smaller local islands

Private Islands For Sale
Thailand Real Estate

Andman Resort, Krabi For Sale

A presently closed resort but kept well requiring refurbishment set amongst several high end resorts on Klong Muang Beach.

Neighbour to the luxurious five star Nakamanda Resort, the Andaman Holiday Resort lies right at the end of the beach giving complete privacy.

More quality neighbours are the Grand Sheraton and the new Ritz Carlton Reserve.

Development in this area is limited as a large percentage of the beach being controlled by the Royal family who have a nearby residence.

The land size is 27 rai and the asking price is 550,000,000 Thai Baht

Krabi Land
Krabi Property

Tuesday 25 May 2010

Land for sale Ao Nang 5.5 rai

A well located parcel of land right on the Aonang ring road only a few hundred metres from the petrol station turning to Aonang.



The front of the land has a large 65m of road frontage and at the rear is a beautiful mountain which Krabi is famous for.



Only a five minute drive from Aonang beach and Ao Namao this is the ideal location for a small housing project.

Krabi Land
Thai Real Estate

Saturday 22 May 2010

Sala Talay Resort and Spa Ao Nang Krabi

The delightful contemporary Sala Talay Resort & Spa is the latest boutique resort in Krabi. Located directly on the beach, with their very own fine dining restaurant, exocticly named Pakarang, one of the most attractive beach front venues around. Sala Talay is only a short walk from the all the boutiques, shops, restaurants and nightlife of Ao Nang and Krabi, with public busses and transport to Krabi stopping right outside our door.



Set in a protected forest area, and with the beach and beach-front right on your doorstep, you are surrounded by nature. The lush tropical boutique gardens and breathtaking ocean views are gently calmed by the soft breezes drifting in from the sea and the beach. Add to this their first class service and accommodation, the largest swimming pool in both Ao Nang and Krabi, then when you stay at Sala Talay Resort & Spa, you'll have a holiday you'll remember for years to come!

Thai Real Estate

Friday 21 May 2010

Beach Land Haad Yao Krabi, 6.5 Rai

A small plot of land set amongst a number of quality developments on the Southern Haad Yao Beach around 30 minutes from Krabi town. Beautiful views of the sunset and local islands.

Almost square with the following dimensions

Beach Frontage - 96 metres
Road Frontage - 108 metres
Distance from road to beach - 102 metres



Krabi Land
Krabi Real Estate

Sunday 9 May 2010

Coral Beach, Lotus Villas Krabi

Lotus Villas sit a mere 70 meters back from Haad Yao (Long Beach), south of Krabi city within the Coral Beach project by Krabi Sunset Developments.

Lotus villas consist of two bedrooms, three bathrooms, open plan dining, kitchen and living room wrapped around a private swimming pool.

Lotus Villas benefit from enviable ocean views with some of the finest sunsets in Asia disappearing amongst all the local islands right in front of your home.

An optional management programme is available with Lotus Villas if you wish to visit part time.

Real Estate Krabi

Friday 7 May 2010

Chuanchom Villa's Long Beach Krabi

Chuanchom Villa's lie in the second row back from the sand inside the Coral Beach project in Haad Yao (Long Beach), Krabi.

All villas consists of two floors and the architects designed these homes as an L-shape around a private swimming pool. Ocean and island views can be enjoyed from the top floors and access to beach is just a quick walk.

Each villa has 3 beds, 3 baths and a large open plan area consiting of living room and a western styled fitted kitchen with all brand name electrical appliances.

Krabi Property

Thursday 6 May 2010

At Sea Condominiums Krabi

At Sea Condominiums, Krabi are right amongst all the five star resorts on the pristine Klong Muang Beach. Your neighbours include such names as Nakamanda and The new Ritz Carlton reserve making this area sure to grow.

At Sea Condominiums have been designed in a U-shape with each unit overlooking the large communal pool and benefitting from spectacular sunset views.

With 3 different styles to choose from,including studio, 1 bedroom and 2 bedroom condos and with prices starting from as low as 1.69m THB these are sure to move quick.

Construction is now well under way and and they expect completion early next year. There is a completed show unit for you to see the style and typical furnishings.

Krabi Property

Monday 26 April 2010

Krabi's Real Estate Market Potential

With the more established resort property hotspots of Koh Samui, Phuket and Pattaya receiving so much attention from property investors in recent years, it's no surprise that prices are heading for the sky and beach front land is becoming more and more scarce. As the tried, tested, and true formula witnessed by global real estate markets dictates, this means that there will always be planty of savvy investors looking to get an early start on the next big thing.

But the key to developing in emerging markets is that there has to be some degree of facilities already in place.

The tourists have to pave the way to the destination". "For these emerging markets, accessibility is the key because the kind of buyers that can afford the more expensive properties are already travelling a great distance to get to Thailand. The last thing they want to do is get into a taxi or bus at the airport in Bangkok and travel another four or five hours to get to a resort and get a ferry ride and another taxi. Developers need to bear in mind how people are going to get to that resort. People will make the effort but it has to be priced accordingly."

For those in the know, Krabi is certainly not a new destination on the travel and property trail. But only in recent years have they started to make a name for themselves on a more international scale, as astute investors move away from the pricier traditional hotspot areas.

And, notably, the big name property management firms have yet to move in to Krabi, a sign they still fit under the up-and-coming banner.

Friday 23 April 2010

Coral Beach Condo's Krabi

Coral Beach Condominiums, Krabi complete the final stage of the Coral Beach development consisting of four luxury beach front villas, then four 2 story sea view villas sat behind and then finally the condos.

Set just 100 metres back from Haad Yao (Long Beach) purchasers of Coral Beach condominiums can enjoy the spectacular 180 degree back drop of the sun disappearing behind all the local small islands and the larger islands of Koh Yao and Phuket. This sunset can be enjoyed from all points of the long Krabi coastline

Coral Beach Condominiums have been designed to suit all budgets, with starting prices as low as 2,920,000 all the way up to 9.750.000 for the Thai Baht for the 2 bedroom ocean view penthouse suite.

After you have purchased your condo you may live in it or enter it back into the rental programme so you can recieve an income off your investment while you are in your home country.

Thursday 22 April 2010

Exclusive Villas by Krabi Sunset

Krabi Sunset Exclusive villas are offering only 8 villas set neatly round a communal pool. The first phase of the project, 2 large ocean front villas have already purchased and fully constructed. There is a walking pathway down to the beach from the villas so you can enjoy the amazing sunset.

All the villas have been made available and designed at a more achieveable price than the bigger villas on the beach and are perfect as holiday homes. Vacation rentals on similar properties are becoming increasingly more popular over recent years with families enjoying staying together in the one home.

Each villa enjoys a total combined space of 95sqm, including two bedrooms, two bathrooms, dining room, living room, laundry, store, foyer, pond and terrace. All villas face directly out to the communal pool.

Cars are parked on the road away from the project making your home safe for your children to run free giving you peace of mind.

Haad Yao beach is becoming popular with developers and investors into the Krabi property market being just a short 15 minute drive from Krabi itself and 20 minutes from the airport. There is also a large marina planned for the area which will bring high end investors to the area.

Friday 16 April 2010

Koh Yao Noi Private Bay For Sale

Koh Yao Noi has possibly the finest parcels of land available in the Thailand real estate market today. A complete private headland with its own private beach of 860 metres and views to die for out to the numerous surrounding islands.

This land parcel is held on 7 deeds which make up the 112 rai and to use the full benefit of the land should be bought together.

Koh Yao Noi sits in the centre of Phang Nga Bay and is protected from the elements from land on most sides. Koh Yao Noi has very little development and your only nearby neighbours are The Paradise Koh Yao Hotel and the ultra exclusive and luxurious Six Senses Resort.

Koh Yao Noi sits directly between Krabi and Phuket and is a popular destination for travellers to the area.

Monday 12 April 2010

W Residence Samui To Open Summer 2010

International luxury brand W hotels worldwide, has announced that W Retreat Koh Samui, the first W Retreat in Southeast Asia, will open in 1 August, 2010.

An all-villa beachfront resort that will be a sublime architectural tribute to Maenam Beach on Samui Island's pristine northern coastline, W Koh Samui will offer an "escape within an escape."

W Retreat-Koh Samui will feature 75 private villas, offering a range of options from panoramic views high atop the Samui hillside to direct beach access on the shoreline below. It also comes with myriad amenities that include private plunge pools, daybeds, and an outdoor shower. In addition, W Koh Samui will also offer W's signature Whatever/Whenever(R) concierge service, tending to guests' and residents' personal needs.

Located adjacent to W Koh Samui will be The Residences at W Retreat-Koh Samui, featuring 17 secluded beachfront villas ranging from three to five bedrooms and from 1,000 to 2,752 square metres. Each residence will offer a modern, cool style with local touches and full access to the benefits, services and amenities of W Retreat-Koh Samui.

"W Koh Samui will redefine the way we live and play," commented Miguel Ko, chairman and president of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Asia Pacific. "After a fantastic and successful introduction of the first-ever W Retreat in the Maldives, we are delighted to bring W to Koh Samui, one of the coolest islands in Southeast Asia."

Capitalising on Thailand's long history of festivals and lunar ceremonies, W Koh Samui will be the destination where daytime is dedicated to individual moments and relaxation, while the night brings energy and celebration.

Koh Samui Real Estate
Thailand Property

Friday 9 April 2010

Krabi's Three New marinas

The Krabi Marina project will include a Bt500-million marina that will be developed by the Krabi Provincial Administration Organisation and foreign investors. It will occupy 130 rai on the Krabi River at Thara public park, and have the capacity to serve 150-200 yachts. The Marine Department will handle the construction and the municipality will manage the marina.

Krabi Municipality and private investors will also build a Bt300 million marina to serve 50 yachts, and other private investors are planning to build a Bt200 million marina.

It is hoped that Krabi will become a major destination for high-end travellers within one to two years. This type of traveller tends to stay at one destination for a long time and spends more than other groups.

Phuket is currently a favourite destination for yacht-owners.

Krabi Real Estate
Krabi Land

Tuesday 30 March 2010

Europe´s oldest luxury hotel brand has announced plans for the opening the Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok in June.

Europe's oldest luxury hotel brand has announced plans for the opening the Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok in June.

The five-star luxury city resort, located adjacent to the Siam Paragon complex in the heart of the Thai capital, boasts 303 rooms and suites in addition to 98 serviced apartments.

General Manager Thomas Klippstein said that the property will combine Kempinski's trademark European sophistication and refinement with the finest of Thai hospitality standards. He said: "We aim to bring together the best of East and West and create an opulent sanctuary in the heart of the city. The Siam Kempinski will deliver a superlative hotel experience for leisure and business guests."

The Siam Kempinski is a THB4 billion project which is owned by Kempin Siam Co. The hotel will initially target Asian travellers but is also expecting business from Europe, the Middle East and further afield.

Jee Hoong Tan, Director of Sales and Marketing, added the hotel also expects to attract business from the local market through weddings and the MICE industry. Room rates will start at THB7,900 plus tax.

The hotel will showcase its standards and traditions in outlets such as the Brasserie Europa, for European fine cuisine, the Sra Bua Thai restaurant, the T Lounge, serving the finest teas from around the world as well as cocktails and champagne, and the 1897 bar, named after the year that Kempinski first started business in Berlin.

Bangkok Property
Thai Real Estate

Saturday 27 March 2010

Private Jet & Helicopter Charters Thailand

 
 
 
 
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Le Kiri Luxury Beach Villas Krabi

 
 
 
 
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Thailand Furniture Packages

 
 
 
 
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Thailand Furniture Packages

Thailand Furniture Packages. Balinese, Teak, Rattan, Import, Export

Thai-Real.com has teamed up with the only country wide Thailand furniture package supplier to offer you the perfect package to compliment your property or development.

With Years of experience of using only the finest local products and quality impoted Balinese furniture we can offer a package to compliment your property investment.

Use our inhouse interior design specialists to put together the exact set out for you to feel a Western Style living with an exotic oriental twist.

We can supply all furniture anywhere in Thailand and can export anywhere around the world so please contact us for a free consultation or to get a copy of our e-brochures.

Thailand Real estate
Krabi Real Estate

Thai-Real.com private jet and helicopter charters

Thai-Real.com private jet and helicopter charters can carry you efficiently from places 1,000's of miles away or just a short hop from Koh Samui out to a private island of your choice.

If you need to get there quickly for business or simply just 'because you can', then you enjoy the service and style offered by chartering your own private jet.

For longer trips we can offer you the quickest business charter jet in the world with a top speed of 973 km/hr that can carry upto 10 passengers.

Please contact us with your details and we will organise your ultimate travel experience for you.

Thai Real Estate

Friday 26 March 2010

Situated on a private headland overlooking the clear waters of the Andaman Sea and Kamala Bay, Kamala Beach Estate is the perfect location for holiday makers in search of relaxation, autonomy, privacy and security.

The Oceanfront Villas, Beachfront Villas and Oceanfront Apartments offer panoramic views across Kamala Bay to the rolling mountains surrounding the village of Kamala. The white sandy beach of Kamala is only a short walk along the ocean front.

The fully serviced Oceanfront Villas and Oceanfront Apartments are set amongst lush tropical gardens and swimming pools. Short and long-term guests are afforded the perfect holiday location allowing for self sufficiency within the spacious surroundings of the Estate while Broadband keeps you in touch with the outside world. Alternatively, sample the many local eateries, sporting and beach activities, or day trip destinations that Phuket has to offer.

Rockfish Restaurant located on the Estate offers Thai and International cuisine served on the terrace overlooking Kamala Beach, or delivered to your villa "room service" style. The Estate's friendly staff are available to arrange your day trip, sporting, child-minding and transport requirements.

Phuket Real Estate
Phuket Villa Rentals

Wednesday 24 March 2010

Luxury Beach Villa between Koh Chang and Koh Samed

This one of a kind villa sits on mainland Thailand directly between Koh Chang and Koh Samed just a shrt drive from Pattaya. Designed by the current owners who both work as architects as a minimalistic property.

Set on a huge 3 rai private plot owners of this villa will enjoy a huge landscaped garden which leads down to your own private beach, perfect for both complete privacy or proudly hosting for a number of guests.

Built around 3 years ago this property has a total of 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, complete in built western kitchen and 4x11m infinity pool. There are also staff quarters and a large double garage.

Large beach villa near Pattaya
pattaya Real Estate
Thailand Real Estate

Donald Trump Joint Venture in Bangkok

The American property billionaire Donald Trump will join in the investment and development of a new luxury retail plaza with Gaysorn Group on the four-rai plot that used to house the Narai Phand handicraft centre in central Bangkok.

An industry source said Mr Trump flew to Bangkok last month to talk with a Gaysorn executive about the site while Charn Srivikorn, director of Gaysorn Holdings, just returned from the United States last week.

''It's likely that Mr Trump will co-invest in this project. He will also co-design this new luxury shopping mall,'' said the source, asking not to be named.

The project at the Ratchaprasong intersection, Bangkok's prime retail site, is intended to compete with two direct rivals nearby, CentralWorld and Siam Paragon.

Mr Trump may buy shares in Gaysorn Land Asset Management Co Ltd (Glam), a joint venture between Gaysorn Group and the Hong Kong property firm Hong Kong Land, by buying stakes from the Hong Kong side.

In July 2008, Mr Trump's eldest son Donald Trump Jr told the Dubai-based daily English-language newspaper Gulf News that ''the Middle East and Asia will provide opportunities for growth in future''.

The executive vice-president of the Trump Organisation viewed Bangkok as one of the emerging markets, saying ''We're looking at a lot of the Pacific rim area. [In] Thailand, we've spent a lot of time looking in Bangkok.''

The portfolio of the Trump Organisation, renowned as an international developer of deluxe properties, includes office buildings, hotels, condominiums, casinos, golf courses and country clubs, mainly in major cities in the US.

It is developing Trump International Hotel & Tower at The Palm Jumeirah in Dubai, launched last year with an average price of US$2,450, equivalent to 905,000 baht per square metre.

According to the property consultant Colliers International Thailand, Gaysorn Group this year bought the Narai Phand site from Phahonyothin Group for a 30-year leasehold.

The company plans to develop three components: retail, serviced apartment with 178 six-star units managed by Starwood, and high-end residences with 30-year leasehold contracts.

Colliers managing director Patima Jeerapaet said the project was expected to be completed in 2010.

In the future, there would be an extension from Gaysorn to Amarin and CentralWorld to provide convenience for shoppers, who are equally divided between Thais and foreigners.

Late last year Gaysorn bought back Amarin Plaza, which had 7.5 years remaining on its leasehold, from Erawan Ratchaprasong Co Ltd at 300 million baht. The saleable area at Amarin Plaza is approximately 26,000 square metres with about 400 shops.

''Gaysorn wants to renovate Amarin Plaza and upgrade it to be a luxury complex,'' Mr Patima said. ''Unfortunately 40% of the tenants still have the remaining lease of 7.5 years so the plan is still pending until the leases expire.''

Besides 26,000 sq m at Amarin Plaza, Gaysorn Group has Gaysorn Plaza, managed by a joint venture with Hong Kong Land, with 12,600 sq m, compared to lettable space of 400,000 sq m at CentralWorld and 250,000 sq m at Siam Paragon.

Gaysorn also plans to develop luxury villas for sale at Cape Paradise on Patong Beach in Phuket, comprising 20 villas priced at around 100 million baht each. The show unit will be finished by the end of the year.

Thai Real Estate
Bangkok Property

Tuesday 23 March 2010

private Villa In Gated Estate Ao Nang

This private Krabi villa is set within a private gated community of just 4 villas just 100 metres back from the pristine Ao Namao beach. This is a very peaceful area yet just a 5 minute drive to the main tourist spot of Ao Nang.

The owner has watched this home grow from the ground following construction all the way through to ensure it was finished just the way they liked it. Set on 950sqm of land, you can enjoy 430sqm of living space wrapped around your own private swimming pool.

We are able to market this property at under the market value due to the current strength of the Thai Baht and the owner relocating back to the UK.

Krabi Real Estate
Thailand Property

Istana Luxury Villas Phuket, Thailand

In coming up with the design for the Istana project the developers came up with a new term 'FOO' which means 'Feeling Of Oppulance'. Throughout the architectural process each minute detail was considered making sure it passed the new 'FOO' standard.

Following such strict criteria has resulted in one of the finest developments seen in the Thai real estate market today. With just 19 villas set on a huge 24 acre site you are guaranteed to feel like royalty when staying in any ofthe villas.

Care has been taken to ensure maximum privacy from any neighbours and that your villa fits perfectly into the contour of the plot that it lives in.

Only the finest products have been used to finish these homes so contact us today to find out how you can become an owner while there are still some available

Monday 22 March 2010

While the residents of Chiang Mai are breathing a sigh of relief that the Ratchaphruek Royal Flora festival is now over, developers have enthusiaticly noted the windfall some made from the city's biggest influx of tourists ever. With 3,000,000 visitors in 3 months it demonstrated the very real future of this northern tourist centre, as well as the possible effect it's likely to have on the property market.

Construction of a 22 storey Le Meridien hotel that has been changing the face of Chiang Mai's Night Market area. When it's complete in 2008 this enormous high-rise will join big names such as Shangri-La, Mandarin Oriental, Sofitel, GHM (Chedi) and Pan Pacific, along with the Dusit Group's new D2 concept and the long-established Four Seasons.

Both the Hyatt and Banyan Tree are rumoured to also have future plans in this city, once regarded as a quaint guesthouse venue in the north of Thailand. Yet just three years ago only one of these existed. The question on the minds of many in the hospitality industry is whether this sudden flood of luxury rooms will be sustainable? The question on the minds of realtors is: how much is it going to inflate property values?

But these are big names with big money and they certainly would have done their homework before moving in. The fact that several have simultaneously gone ahead sends out a very strong signal that Chiang Mai's tourism is not only set to increase but go markedly upmarket as well. As we have seen in other tourist centres, it tends to set off a buying and development spree in the adjacent areas, and this has already become evident.

According to several opinion leaders we spoke to, the single biggest catalyst has been the announcement by the ousted Thaksin government to develop a large convention centre as part of the deposed prime minister's grand tourism design for his hometown. Although those plans may now be on hold, the current tourism minister assured a local hotel manager recently that it would still go ahead. But even without it, the improvements to infrastructure and tourist profile are having an effect. The completion of an international air terminal and the publicity from the Flora Expo have raised the city's profile. The hospitality industry seems bullish, and this has been demonstrated none more clearly than the creation of the Dhara Dhevi in San Khampeng. This 60 rai Lanna and Burmese-themed masterpiece under the Mandarin Oriental banner is an extraordinary work of art featuring purpose-built temples and palaces from long gone kingdoms. It ranks as one of Thailand's most ambitious hotel projects and is aimed firmly at the super rich. Even if the city has yet to attract that kind of tourist numbers, it's an excellent confidence booster for Chiang Mai as a destination, attracting gob-smacked travel journalists and TV crews.

Another bold move is that of the uber-trendy D2 boutique hotel in the heart of the Night Bazaar area. Developed as a pilot project, it signals a new direction for the Dusit Group which specifically chose Chiang Mai as a more accurate litmus test for its funky new hotels. It's targeted at urban hipsters, and is a counter move to the usual Lanna style and soft-adventure sales pitch. The attention to stylised detail is refreshing and it detracts from the hotel's position among street-side vendors and girlie bars. But the decision to develop a renovated hotel in this bustling area was a shrewd one considering the recent hike in property prices since the TCC Group snapped up a clutch of properties here. Their recent acquisitions include the Kalare Centre, Chang Klan Plaza, Anusarn Market and Panthip Plaza, as well as building the new Le Meridien which will occupy one of the city's prime corners.

Nearby is another chic new hotel, the Chedi, and we spoke to GM Eleanor Hardy about her impressions of Chiang Mai's outlook. A relative newcomer to the North, Hardy feels confident of the city's appeal, provided it doesn't try to copy Phuket, and lose its charm in the process. The Chedi itself is an interesting property case study, for it incorporates the former British Consulate building � a grand colonial edifice that occupies an enviable position besides the Ping River. Other new hotels, such as the popular Tamarind Village, have incorporated historic or neo-Lanna buildings into their development to retain the character of this 700-year-old city.

But the coveted riverfront position also proved disastrous when unprecedented floods in 2005 wrecked the hotel's ground floor and basement installations, six weeks after it opened. The deluge might have had a profound effect on property in the area but the enormous Shangri La going up further down Chang Klan road has buoyed confidence, and the recent opening of a Lacoste outlet is evidence that posh retailers rate this street's potential. Hardy sees the floods as a freak one-off and is confident in their future. "When the big marketing machines of the Sofitel and Le Meridien kick in, it is hoped all of Chiang Mai will benefit," she says.

The most famous of Chiang Mai's luxury hotels is undoubtedly the Four Seasons, out in Mae Rim. Frequently mentioned as one of Asia's best hotels in travel magazines, the hotel was a pioneer in the luxury concept more than 10 years earlier. It's set around rice terraces and offers a complete hideaway experience that has attracted the likes of Hilary Clinton, among others. It also offers an interesting benchmark on what happens to property in the area. A serene lakeside housing project was subsequently developed across the road and trendy galleries and coffee shops gradually filled the pretty rural road adjacent to the hotel. A little further down, a futuristic luxury development named Baan Azaya is marketing itself as a "unique investment opportunity."

Four Seasons general manager Andrew Harrison, is cautious about the expansion. "We need the airflow, particularly from cities in China and India," he says. He also shares the cynicism of many about Chiang Mai's ability to step up to the challenge the boom is creating. For instance, guests staying at the Dhara Dhevi's US$500 a night rooms first have to be limosined past a shambolic road construction debacle that has been mired in incompetence and graft for the past two years. "If Chiang Mai goes upmarket," Harrison says, "it cannot exist with screwed up pavements and the Night Market the way it is now."

"We have to be careful this five star tourism is matched by city services, otherwise we won't survive at this level if we don't keep up."

But even if the public sector displays a typically lackadaisical northerner's approach, the private sector isn't waiting around. Sunday Night's walking street has breathed new life into the property along Ratchadamoen street. The opening of the smart new Kad Klang Wieng "cultural arcade" is evidence of the gentrification going on in these areas. In February last year, Property Report documented the emergence of Nimminhemin street and since then parts of this "avenues" suburb have become barely recognisable with trendy new arcades and modernist coffee shop facades. Property prices on this street have become almost unaffordable for residential use, but it wasn't always like this. The Amari Rincome, Chiang Mai's oldest surviving luxury hotel, occupied the corner with Huay Kaew road at a time when cow pastures comprised much of the adjacent land. Former GM, Marc Dumar, who has witnessed 19 years of changing Chiang Mai, was responsible for managing their property on the adjacent soi 1 with its humble shop houses. Today it is one of the most exclusive retail streets in the city, thanks to the annual Nimminhemin Arts and Crafts Festival which has turned the entire area into a home decor Mecca.

Dumar is now overseeing the opening of the city's newest luxury hotel, the Sofitel. Set to open in March, it too has a riverside location and meets all the expectations of modern upmarket Asia travellers. He has one major advantage too, the hotel is owned by the progressive mayor Boonlert Buranuprakorn. There was a previous wave of hotel development in the eighties, he explained. Big names have come and gone but he believes this time around the development is more genuine. "We need more sports and cultural events to keep the momentum going."

"The Royal Flora expo proved we can handle three million tourists, it was mostly well organised and it filled up the lower-end hotels, which pushing more foreign tourists to us." Indeed, numerous opportunist developers completed condos in time to rent them out for short stays during the unprecedented flood of tourists.

And herein lies the real secret for smaller investors and developers. A surprising fact to emerge was the lack of luxury serviced apartments in the city. Twin Peaks, developed by Siam Zokie and aimed at the Japanese ex-pat crowd, is one of the few luxury modern condos in the city. Not surprisingly it sits right beside the new Shangri-La, and hasn't had trouble selling despite the 'luxury price tags'. While many small boutique hotels are opening up on quiet sois, more and more visitors are coming back to Chiang Mai to spend months, not weeks here during the winter months. One of the hotel GMs we interviewed expressed frustration over the shortage of high-end condos in the city, and pointed out that several of the hotel's guests had since returned and settled here. If they can afford five star rooms, they'll certainly be looking for new, comfortable, luxury-priced serviced apartments. We had difficulty finding suitable suggestions other than the newly opened Frangipangi, tucked away quietly behind the historic Wat Chiang Man. Competitively priced compared to the hotels, yet offering a similar level of comfort, it seemed an ideal answer for the upmarket guests that Chiang Mai is forecasted to attract.

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Sunday 21 March 2010

Krabi Province has the distinction of being home to Thailand's oldest human settlement. Even in prehistoric times people were attracted to this region's diverse real estate offerings.

In the 13th century Krabi became a thriving sea port that saw traders from India, the Middle East and China, many who were so enamored with the area's natural beauty and fertile soil they made it their home.

Today foreign investors and home buyers are starting to discover the charm of this dramatic and unique 4,709 square kilometer province located on the south western Andaman Sea coast, surrounded by provinces Phang Nga to the north, Nakhon Si Thammarat and Surat Thani to the east and Trang to the south.

The region's appeal is easy to understand: Krabi is one of the most geographically stunning and ecologically diverse places on the earth with breathtaking, 1000-feet limestone karsts jutting from pristine rainforests and ancient mangroves. The province also boasts one of Southeast Asia's best marine-related activity areas with 132 tropical islands dispersed among some of the world's top-rated dive sites and year-around safe anchorages.

Krabi government officials understand it is only a matter of time before the world discovers their province. They've been gearing up for the arrival of new homebuyers for the past five years, beefing up roads, electrical grids and telephone, water and sewage systems.

The 2004 opening of The Krabi International Airport and the nearly completed super-highway, widening road access from Phuket, through Krabi, to the Malaysian boarder shows that government at all levels consider Krabi to be Thailand's hottest new tourism and long-stay destination.

However, according to local experts, the evolution of Krabi's property market from a 80's backpacker haunt into a true real estate market that compares and competes against Phuket, is still several years away.

"The main issue is transport and infrastructure, this is thought about by not only tourists, but short and long term visitors who have property which they should like to use", says Desmond R L Hughes of Belmont Limcharoen, which has started to represent more clients in regions outside of Koh Samui and Phuket such as the Krabi. "An additional few hours can create a barrier to investment".

Property agents in Krabi province also point to the lack of standard amenities that foreigners typically demand when choosing a second home location such as quick access to world-class beaches, international hospitals, schools, golf courses and shopping centers.

A good example of this is Koh Lanta where you'll find the province's highest concentration of foreign-targeted developments. The Island is wonderland of white sand beaches and turquoise seas but getting onto the island is difficult. Currently passage onto Koh Lanta Yai involves two car ferries (or a passenger ferry in high season) which means the journey between the Krabi International Airport and Koh Lanta can take up to 4 hours - definitely a hard sell to travel-weary Europeans and Asian expatriates wanting instant, tropical gratification. Despite these growing pains, demand from foreign buyers is strong according to Krabi's real estate community. However, finding worthy projects to recommend to potential buyers is proving to be difficult.

"There are very few quality 'developments' to buy in Krabi at this date," says Pierre-Yves Loriers, from Ton Company, who created and built Baan Oriental Villa, Krabi's first luxury Pool Villa project in Ao Nang Beach six years ago. "For this reason people tend to develop their own project. It is more work but the return on the investment is much higher."

But there's no shortage of small, local developers looking for off-plan investors in Krabi province. Locals recommend that buyers proceed with caution.

"Don't be fooled by the large number of new developers selling 'off-plan'", says Jules Gore, Sales Manager of Exotiq Real Estate Krabi who is opening offices in Krabi Town and Koh Lanta later this year. "Many of these projects are being developed by individuals with no development background. Most never break ground."

PROPERTY AREAS OF KRABI PROVINCE

The property areas shown below start in the north of the province (closest to Phuket) on the Phang Na border, heading south down the coast past Klong Muang, Ao Nang, Krabi Town, the Krabi Airport and Koh Lanta (closest to Trang).

Klong Muang, located on the coast in Phang Na Bay this area is currently Krabi's most exclusive spots. The Sheraton Krabi Resort and some higher-end private homes are located here but there are few property options in this area.

Ao Nang / Nopparat Thara Beach / Nammao Beach Ao Nang is the most developed tourist beach area in Krabi. The 3 km Nopparat Thara Beach is just around the corner with less tourism and development. Nammao Beach, a short drive away, has several high profile projects under construction.

Krabi Town, the main Thai commerce area of the province now has several new, inexpensive home projects being built primarily for Thais, although some foreigners are taking advantage of the 2-4 million Baht prices for new homes on the town�s fringes.

Hat Yao Beach, long Beach is 13km of untouched coastline located outside of Krabi Town, past the airport. This new development area is where most new beachfront and sea view residential projects will be launched in the future.

Lanta Island and Smaller Islands.
Koh Lanta has ten sandy beaches and a mountain range that runs down the center of island, creating a haven for new (mostly Swedish) developers. Very few projects are available on the smaller islands but land is still available at pre-electricity prices.

Thailand Resorts Set to Boom?

With the traditional resort property hotspots of Samui, Phuket and Pattaya receiving so much attention from investors in recent years, it's not surprising that prices are skyrocketing and beach front land is becoming scarce.

This means that - as the tried-tested-and-true formula witnessed in global real estate markets dictates - there will always be savvy investors looking to get an early start on the next big thing.

The key to developing in emerging markets is that there has to be some degree of facilities already in place, says Robert Collins, managing director of Savills Thailand.

"The tourists have to pave the way to the destination," he said. "For these emerging markets, accessibility is the key because the kind of buyers than can afford the more expensive properties are already travelling a great distance to get to Thailand. The last thing they want to do is get into a taxi or bus at the airport in Bangkok and travel another four or five hours to get to a resort and get a ferry ride and another taxi. Developers need to bear in mind how people are going to get to that resort. People will make the effort but it has to be priced accordingly.�"

Property Report took an in-depth look at three destinations that have indeed already laid the groundwork and are now starting to attract major interest from buyers: Koh Pha Ngan, Krabi and Koh Chang.

For those in the know, these resorts are certainly not new destinations on the travel or property trail. But it's only been in recent years that they've been starting to make a name for themselves on a more international scale, as intrepid investors shy away from the pricier traditional hotspot areas. And, notably, the big name property management firms have yet to move in, a sign they still fit under the up-and-coming banner.

Koh Chang development limited With its mountainous jungles, waterfalls, unspoilt beaches and relatively quiet atmosphere, Koh Chang is an eco-lover's dream. Located in the eastern part of the country in the Gulf of Thailand, over 80% of this island is part of the Koh Chang National Marine Park, a fact some say will prevent it from being over-developed with hotels and residences.

The island's western region is where most development is taking place, due mainly because that's where the more picturesque beaches lie.

Siam Royal View was one of the first developers to build a large-scale project on the island; a high-end 360-rai villa and bungalow development north of the popular White Sand Beach. Prices start from as low as Bt2.8 million for a one-suite bungalow up to Bt17.1 million for a 732sqm villa. David Walton, sales and marketing director of Siam Royal View, says the first phase of the project sold out during the high season last year and construction has already begun. One key to the company's success is the accessibility of Koh Chang, he says.

"We'll be offering secure parking for residents on the mainland and a taxi service with our own speedboats specifically for residents. So literally they can be door-to-door from Trat airport to their homes in 30 minutes."

This keeps in line with Savills' Collins comments that high-end buyers aren't interested in lengthy commutes to their holiday homes. Bangkok Airways offers a three flight a day service from Bangkok to Trat. So for Bangkokians, the 45-minute flight makes for an ideal weekend.

"We're very pleased by the fact we've had a very consistent level of inquiry from Thai nationals, a lot of them coming from Bangkok. As a guestimate I'd think that over 50% of sales has gone to Thais, which is very encouraging for us," says Walton.

Other notable developments taking shape on the island include Tranquillity Bay, an exclusive residence comprising 74 one, two and three bedroom condominiums, all of which will be fully furnished. Additionally there will be 10 luxury pool villas.

Siam Royal View's Walton says it's doubtful other large developments will follow in their footsteps, due mainly to the tight restrictions placed on the island.

"If you look at the current projects and current developments already in place on the island, you'd have to say pretty much 10% of the island is already developed or under development. I believe what we'll continue to see are one-off small developments where something effectively has been taken down and replaced. But nothing on a big scale."

Walton says Koh Chang's geography is quite peculiar in that all the developments lie directly on the coast. Because the island slopes to a high point of about 743 meters above sea level very quickly, it doesn't give developers a lot to play with.

"You're not going to get highways built on Koh Chang. It would be impossible in engineering terms and even if it were it would be prohibitively expensive. I think the island is pretty much going to remain what it is, which in my view is a good thing."

Other governmental restrictions will keep the island from becoming too developed. The maximum height allowed for buildings is three stories and anything built directly on the beach front in terms of residential property is limited to one storey only, meaning it sits under the palm fringe.

Also, the island isn't home to rows of nightclubs and bars or the amenities that attract the truly wealthy such as luxury shopping or high-end restaurants. This means that those looking for wild nights in the fast lane would be better off taking their cash west to Pattay. But for those looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway, few destinations in Thailand can offer a more suitable setting.

High-rollers beginning to eye Krabi Of our three featured destinations, Krabi is perhaps the best known on the global travel circuit, thanks to its international airport and the presence of a few five-star resorts. But it's only been in the past two years that property development in this province has really followed suit � albeit in limited numbers.

Bordering the Andaman Sea, this coastal resort province attracts countless visitors thanks to its natural attractions such as white sandy beaches, coral reefs, caves, waterfalls and giant limestone cliffs. A number of carriers offer direct flights from Bangkok daily, and there are also direct flights from Singapore.

And for property investors, it has the infrastructure to support its growing popularity. "Krabi really benefits from having the best of the resort airports in the country. It's a new airport that's way ahead anything else," says Savills' Collins. "The road network is practically new throughout the entire area and is way ahead of other locations. This is where Krabi really is ahead of the game. It has the infrastructure in place, what it lacks, if anything, is there isn't enough supply in Krabi."

There are only about seven notable developments being built in Krabi at the moment. Of those, the really high-end ones are Amatapura (represented by Savills), The Cove, LeKiri and Phulay Heights. "It is a coincidence that Lekiri, Krabi Sunset, The Cove and Amatapura launched at almost the same time , says Ekaraj Intravisit, managing director of Le Kiri. "Maybe everyone can see it is time to reveal the charm and beauty of this Emerald to the world's eyes. For me, deciding to buy this land took me a very short amount of time."

Le Kiri features eight spacious villas ranging in size from 606-808sqm. The project is located on the beachfront at Nammao Bay. Prices range from Bt15 to 18 million for villas and Bt7.5 million for Triplex apartments with private swimming pool. Phulay Heights' 52 villas lookout over Phang Nga Bay In Klong Muang.

Krabi's largest project is The Cove, at Haad Yao. More than 1,000 rai is being developed into more than 1,200 residential condos and villas, branded hotels and an 18-hole golf course.

Collins says more development for Krabi is eminent, but there are restrictions in place that will limit the quantity and volume of the developments that can go ahead. "Everyone's looking at Krabi now. In terms of property you can buy, Amatapura is without a doubt the top development. I think Amatapura has the potential to become the role model for krabi in years to come."

This project on Laem Pho features 29 beachfront villas and is 60% sold. It received a lot of attention from Hong Kong buyers following its launch last year and prices range from Bt25-40 million baht.

"We're seeing a strong trend towards Krabi in preference to Phuket these days, and definitely the sales rates for Krabi seem to be slightly better than Phuket," says Collins. "As much as anything the environment is less developed so far and the pricing is reflective of the fact it's a relatively new market and can't match the Phuket market. And I think that's possibly a reflection that Phuket and Samui are overpriced rather than Krabi is cheap."

Koh Pha Ngan learns from Samui The name "Koh Pha Ngan" is by no means foreign to world travellers, but until recently, it was spoken primarily among the backpacker set, drawn to its rowdy all-night Full Moon Parties held every month.

Today, the hippies still come, but the island is opening itself up to high-end property development as well, as more people look to escape the crowds of Samui for Koh Pha Ngan's less crowded beaches and laid-back atmosphere.

Companies such as WOW Properties, KP Properties and Sage Land and House offer a number of residential property development projects and land, most of them situated in exclusive and secluded headland locations with spectacular views and remote locations that certainly rival what many see as the overdevelopment on Samui.

Land prices on Koh Pha Ngan are still comparatively low, and beachfront land is by no means scarce. Prices vary greatly depending on the location, with the average price for hill plots going for about Bt1.5 million while beachfront land goes for an average of Bt4 or Bt5 million, depending on the quality of the land, of course. Land plots with prime views obviously command much steeper prices. There aren't any notable large-scale developments going up as of yet, but many of the island's residents say it's only a matter of time.

"Things are moving but the developers are cautious, waiting to see what happens in the next few months,"said one surveyor who asked not to be named."Compared to Koh Samui our infrastructure is actually a lot better. Koh Pha Ngan has learned an awful lot from Koh Samui. The people in power are quite proud of the fact that we built our roads wide already and with big drains so we don't have to dig up the sides of people's houses to put in the storm drains. Once you get to Koh Pha Ngan, the only place you can really land is Tong Sala, so there's no need for a massive highway network."

Tuesday 16 March 2010

Buying an Island in Thailand

Thai Real Estate - Ownership of a Thai Island

Ownership Structure

Option 1: Freehold as a Thai National
Option 2: Freehold via a Thai limited company with minimal Thai shareholders
Option 3: Leasehold. The maximum lease that can be registered at the local land offices is 30 years so a contract has to be drawn up with automatic renewals every 30 years.
Option 4: If a large development is going to take place with a large investment then a BOI can be applied for from the government (Board of Overseas Investment). This is headed up by the prime minister to encourage overseas investment. It is quite common in the tourist sector.

Land titles – all titles are transferable

Chanote: This title is fully buildable and measured exactly via GPS
Nor Sor 3 Gor: As above but measured with a tape measure rather than GPS
Nor Sor 3: An old title as above measured roughly
Sor Kor 1: Farmland that is owned by an individual
Por Bor Tor 5: Farmland that is owned by the government with the right to use if taxes are paid against the land.
Government land or green zone: It is common to find a percentage of this on most islands and it works well as it keeps a lot of the island natural. You can build non permanent wooden walkways and salas through this land.

Land Measurements

1 rai = 1,600 sqm
1 nang = 400 sqm (4 to a rai)
1 talang wah = 4 sqm (400 to a rai)

Building Regulations

Within 10 metres of the front of the land no permanent structure can be built
Between 10 metres and 50 metres all buildings must be a maximum of 75sqm in size and 6 metres high.
From 50 metres back all buildings must be a maximum of 2,000sqm in size and no more than 12 metres in height.

The same applies to all Thailand Real Estate with the exception of licensed condominium developments where foreigners have the option to own a freehold in their own name.