In their abstract for a paper entitled “Infrastructure Development and Real Estate Values in Meru County, Kenya”, authors Mbaya Murungi and James Gatauwa describe infrastructure as an element that directly affects property value. The ease, convenience, and accessibility these infrastructural developments bring plays a key factor in how properties are sold, anywhere in the world.If this relationship is true, then this should predestine Cambodia’s future real estate growth and can suggest an increasingly positive outlook for buyers getting in the market now. As investors flock towards the nation and its growing economy, newer infrastructures also continue to quite-literally rise from the ground to help both sides of the economic spectrum, the wealthy international investor and the local populous. And while these new amenities will add costs for both purchasers and renters, it will also provide ease and comfort for people moving into different regions of the country.  Phnom Penh International Airport Expansion:Property Report, in their recent article, states their case in showing the correlation between airports and rising real estate prices. They mention a growing interest by wealthy investors with properties located nearby international bound airports, thereby increasing sales of prime developments in the area.As such, a $23 million expansion of the Phnom Penh International Airport by a Malaysian company in 2015 drew an enthusiastic reaction as it was expected to bring in more tourists and more wealthy investors. This was however short-lived as the announcement that the project was halted began to make its rounds, along with news of demonstrations that were being held by neighboring residents of the PPIA. In response to this, soon came news from the Senior Government Minister regarding plans for a totally new airport near the city outskirts. If the plans push through, the government’s target date of completion would be 2025. With this new airport, the government also seems to be considering mass transportation systems upgrades to fast track those travelling to and from the airport into the city.In line with this, new types of multiple entry tourist and business visas are set to come into effect on September 1 2016, easing entry requirements greatly for regional investors and retirees.Completion of Railway to Poipet:Hosting a Thai-Cambodian border in its area, Poipet has long been a transition town where cargo and travelers pass. But delays in this small gateway town have traditionally plagued logistics and trade inefficiencies.One solution that has been put forward and is now nearly within reach is a new railway system that will connect Phnom Penh and Poipet. This new system is expected to allow much more direct access to Bangkok from Phnom Penh and vice versa. With only 6 more kilometers of tracks needed, completion is expected at the end of 2016.In addition to this, Sihanoukville is also expected to experience a boost of trade and tourism through the reopening of the passenger railways that connect it to Phnom Penh.Sihanoukville Port Development: Other than the over-arching improvements currently being implemented in the humble beach town of Sihanoukville, a great deal of work has also been put into the expansion of its port area.Having the only deep sea port in the country, particular emphasis has been made to ensure that it is able to accommodate sufficient trade and transactions. The expansion and functionality upgrades throughout the years has brought many business owners huge benefits and is the overriding factor that is drawing new foreign direct investment into the province. The Sihanoukville Port Multi-purpose Terminal Development project alone, which Japan has helped fund, will cost around $75 million and is estimated to be completed by the end of 2017. The end goal for Sihanoukville Port is that full size cargo vessels will be able to port at Sihanoukville, making long haul import and export around the world less costly and faster. Currently, Sihanoukville can only harbor feeder vessels that would then need to travel to ports such as Hong Kong, Singapore and other regional post in order to transfer containers onto the larger long haul vessels. In the future, full size haulers will be able to travel direct to worldwide destinations.Roads and Transport:With the growing population of Cambodia and particularly Phnom Penh, accessibility and traffic definitely play a big role in the values of residential and commercial properties.So, news of Japan donating 140 new buses, valued at over $10 million, was received well by the Phnom Penh working class. These units are expected to service the citizens much more efficiently by 2020 as bus lines are set to continue to increase yearly. Currently there are 10 lines across Phnom Penh. The regional road systems of Cambodia are also expected to experience changes in the next few years. China – through the firm Henan Provincial Communications Planning, Survey, and Design Institute – will develop an expressway along National Road 4 (Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville) after the go signal was given for the China Road and Bridge Corporation to push through with a proposed highway project recently.This comes at a time when Sihanoukville is under a period of growth and developmental changes; and, as anyone that has travelled to the beach town by road will know, a wider, direct highway will benefit this growth hugely.In addition to this, National Road 5 is also expected to strengthen the efficiency of trade with Thailand through a recent grant from Japan.Learn more about Cambodia in our extensive location profiles!

Cambodia is fast becoming a world-leading destination for tourists who want to experience a new frontier on the global tourism stage. And why not? Cambodia has a rich and diverse cultural history; it is full of natural wonders and untouched beaches; and as the Kingdom’s economy grows, Cambodia is offering travelers more and more luxury options to make their stay even more special. In fact, according to TripAdvisor.com’s “Travelers Choice Awards 2015”Cambodia was the 2nd most popular tourism destination in the world.As of 2016, Cambodia has about 500 hotels of note, but only around 30 of these hotels have 100 or more rooms - and just six or seven of these venues offer international standards of hospitality services and execution. In this domain, the SOKHA Group is leading the way across the nation... SOKHA Group has a wealth of experience in tourism and hospitality in Cambodia, with their network of 5 star offerings across the Kingdom: Sokha Beach Resort – Sihanouk Ville; Sokha Angkor Resort - Siem Reap; Thansor Bokor Highland Resort – Kampot; Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel & Residence - Chroy Changvar Peninsular, Phnom Penh and Sokha Siem Reap Resort & Convention that going to open in mid of September 2016. Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel & Residence is the premier luxury residential experience in Cambodia’s Capital city. Whether you want to stay 2 days or 2 years, by selecting Sokha, you are guaranteed the best that Cambodia has to offer every day. Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel & Residence, which completed construction in 2015, consists of 18 floors with 549 units of hotel rooms and 195 units of residential suites (service apartments). Rising high above the shores of the Mekong and Bassac rivers, Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel & Residence is host to the most prestigious luxury living standard, events, business conferences or expos, and a popular choice for fine dining among the local elite.Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel & Residence offers unmatched views of the Mekong River and famous Royal Palace, and a quality of environment impossible to find in the popular inner-city districts. For those who are looking for working stays at the Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel & Residence, you are just minutes from the central business district of the city. Other perks for business guests include a meeting room for international conferences, high speed internet access and taxi services to and from the central city. All 195 residential units have classy polished timber floors and all amenities for your convenience included. The Bassac Suites (52 sqm/560 sqf) are exclusively designed as studio suites, fit for a quiet and relaxing stay. The Tonle Sap Suite (90 sqm/969 sqf) is a 1 bedroom suite with additional space, combining comfort, privacy and a place to call home. The Mekong Suite (104 sqm/1,119 sqf) has 2 bedrooms with highly customized and graceful furniture included, a premium choice of luxury living for both family and long stay business travelers. The suites feature distinctive, breathtaking views of the Great Mekong, Tonle Sap and panoramic view of Phnom Penh. Like swimming? At Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel & Residence you can get your fitness fix, with a huge 1,650 sqm/17,760 sqf outdoor swimming pool. Residents are able to access to gym, the luxurious healthy spa, steam, sauna, and jacuzzi. A comfort package is also available for residents with complimentary electricity and huge underground parking lots. Each room is connected with wireless internet access, fully furnished with full-sized fridge, washing/drying machine, modern kitchen full-equipped appliances, and multi-channel 47 inch LCD TV at the separate living room and dining area.Residents can also get complimentary usage of the hotel Business Centre at the lobby and the BBQ Pavilion Space on Surkea Rooftop (Open Space for Dining /Party /Landscape Deck). And enjoy the international restaurants that serves food from around the world (Chinese, Japanese, Asian, Western, Italian…). Like to party after work? The Wave Club on 19th Floor and Stardust Karaoke below the hotel is ready for you, any time from noon. With 5 star hospitality service, round-the-clock security surveillance, 24 hours room service, housekeeping, linen (bedding and toweling) and daily shuttle bus service from the hotel to Aeon Shopping Mall, guests are able to relax and enjoy with their stay while the Sokha staff take care of almost everything. Of course, the concierge services are ready to help with any need you might have, day or night.Find out more about Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel & Residence and make your stay in Phnom Penh unforgettable!

Cambodia has seen a significant rise in its economic value throughout the past decade, but there is a potential threat that it has to watch out for. Negative interest rates are looming to enter Asian countries and are slowly creeping in from the European and Japanese economic policies and implementations from central banks.  This, Sing Capital’s Chief Executive Officer Alfred Chia, explains is a concept taken from the Swiss government when it was fending off a crisis back in 1970. This was a statement he made during the Inaugural Cambodia Property Show held in Singapore this year.What is a Negative Interest Rate?Negative would seem like an odd usage when used in combination with the term “interest rate.” But this has been a concept embraced by countries whose economies are coming into a desperate state. Chia explains the concept as something that goes against what we’ve been taught. Whereas banks are supposed to pay us an interest when we decide to put a deposit, the concept of negative interest rates works the other way around. Banks actually charge you the interest for putting money in their care.This should come as no surprise, but it is definitely an “unconventional” concept, according to Chia. Probably something that we usually take for granted is that banks are still business entities and still have to earn.Why are more countries adopting Negative Interest Rates?He continues to state that there are five main factors affecting why more and more countries are slowly adopting this unusual concept. These factors are Global GDP, China-economy affects, oil & commodities, currency, and interest rates; and these are all interconnected.Since there is a downturn in the global economy right now, we find that countries like China are slowly experiencing the effects through the apparitions of its ghost towns which were once vibrant communities for industrial workers and their families. Having said this, we also see the appreciation and depreciation of major currencies like the US dollar which serves as Cambodia’s main currency.How might this affect Cambodia?What will most likely affect the growth of Cambodia is either the strengthening or weakening of the US dollar, and the Chinese business behavior during this time since the Chinese are also one of the major investors in Cambodia.Though perceived to be signs of a struggle, the aim of negative interest rates is to force banks, businesses and individuals to be creative with how they can make their money grow. Banks seem to have found a means through lending out.And, according to Chia, banks have seemed to found a sort of reprieve through the property market. He uses Japan as an example where its people are able to loan up to 100 percent of the property value at just a 1 percent per annum interest rate. With proper valuation, lending out lessens the risk for them because even if the loan is not paid back, they still have the property itself to fall back on.Should this concept apply for Cambodia, banks may actually be able to profit more due to the booming real estate industry.Learn more about the Cambodia investment climate!

On this Saturday 27 August 2016, JCI Cambodia will hold the International Business Exhibition and JCI Entrepreneurs Forum at the Sokha Phnom Penh Hotel from 8am.Realestate.com.kh is extremely proud to be sponsor for this year's event! Alongside its business exhibition, JCI has also prepared a series of talks which will feature distinguished speakers and experts from the areas of Food & Beverage, Real Estate, and Organic Agriculture products. Although speaking about different sectors, the discussion will center on one key topic, “Key Success and Investment Opportunity in Real Estate, Food & Beverage, and Organic Products in Cambodia”. This topics will be divided into two parts, morning and afternoon. For discussing on food and drinks sector, and agriculture sector, there are 4 speakers such as: Kouch Sokly president President of Cambodia Restaurant Association, Dr. Tan Monivann – VP of Mong Reththy Group Co., Ltd. Mr. Chang Bunleang – Operations Manager and Co-founder of Brown Coffee, Mr. Neak Tharen – Board of Directors of Cambodian Organic Agriculture Association and CEO of Natural Garden and facilitated and Moderators by young entrepreneurs Ms. Dek Dary – National VP of JCI Cambodia, Managing Partner at 360 Event Management, and Mr. Khorn Chhundara– CEO of KOI Café Cambodia.Discussions in the afternoon turn to speakers from the real estate sector such as: Mr. Kim Heang – President of Cambodian Valuers and Estate Agents Association (CVEA), Mr. Harry Martin IV, the sales and marketing manager of Worldbridge Cambodia, Mr. Kenn Yeo – General Manager of Orkide Villa Condominium (Mall & Condominium Project), and coordinated by HE Sok Siphana –  President of Sok Siphana law firm and  government adviser.In 2016, we expect participants Entrepreneurs Forum, there are guest 250 to 300, with regular ticket price is $50 and $40 for members JCI YEAC, CIC, BNI, CWEA, CVEA and CRA.For interested participants, you can contact: Tel: 017 59 46 19 or email:  sothearak2510@gmail.com / jci.phnompenh@gmail.com

Even with the constant year-on-year 7 percent GDP growth of Cambodia and the boom of construction development across the nation, many investors still seem to be intimidated by the country and are hesitant when investing in Cambodia property.There is a perception that investing in Cambodia might cause certain conflicts or complications, if not immediately, but down the line. Guillaume Massin expressed a different opinion in his presentation at the Inaugural Cambodia Property Show in Singapore, organized by Realestate.com.kh and PropertyGuru Singapore. Massin is the managing director & partner of DFDL Cambodia.Massin states that Cambodia made a choice to build its legal framework before it was fully ready for implementation. Now, the country is still continuing to develop and enact the rules and regulations put in place years ago.This started in 2003 when the government developed hundreds of new laws. Thus far around two-thirds of these laws have been implemented, says Massin.This, of course, includes policies concerning civil procedure codes, criminal codes, and a court system. Although “it’s [still] getting there,” Massin states that it is now more developed and systems are now more transparent than ever before.Improvements very relevant to Singaporean investors include a double taxation treaty between Singapore and Cambodia where there will be a 10% cap on tax for foreigners investing in Cambodia. And this can be advantageous since the tax usually goes up to 14%.Another advantage that was brought about by these changes include the investors in the industrial sector being able to register their companies and seek government incentives. “Qualified” projects, with necessary licenses, will be able to get a tax holiday which can last up to 9 years.When investing in Cambodia, it is also important to note you must choose to engage with developers with a valid license for their project. This is important because when something goes wrong, your properties and assets are only protected by the law if the license is valid. Massin states that these licenses can and should be verified through registered legal counsels.Massin also says that despite some restrictions, investing in Cambodia is still a good idea because it remains a very open economy and a flexible market. You can even incorporate your company in two to three weeks, provided you show residency requirements. Massin also notes the flexibility of the strata titles.Probably the biggest restriction when investing in Cambodia is that foreign investors are not able to buy land. Although, he says that long-term leases can also be utilized as a workaround for these types of investments, and are well tested.He advises that there are two more ways by which an international investor can enter the land and landed properties market. Either purchase through a Cambodian national or through establishing a Cambodian company where the majority shareholder is a Cambodian national. Massin says to use the latter rather than the former, if given the option.The presentation closed with Massin reminding investors considering investing in Cambodia about what documents to ensure you have before proceeding with development or property investment projects.For one, you have to do a property background check. You have to have the title inspected by a lawyer as they are the only ones authorized to do that. Second is to check if the licenses are in place and valid. This includes the license of the developer. Lastly, you have to check the necessary documentations such as the letter of intent and the sale and purchase agreement.“There are still some efforts to be made, there are still some projects to be implemented in terms of legal development, but definitely, it’s on track,” concludes Massin.This is the emphasis of Massin’s presentation: While there are plenty of things that are still not in order, there is are many things to be optimistic about and opportunities that have long past in other markets.  Find out more about foreign ownership in Cambodia now!

Market SummarySen Sok district (Khan in Khmer) has experienced a rapid growth, especially in term of residential, commercial, and infrastructure developments. Thus, land prices in the whole district increased markedly within the last couple of years. By the end of 2013, average market price of land in Sen Sok was US$380 per sqm. In the first half of 2016, average market price in the district rose to US$690 per sqm, with average growth of 27 percent y-o-y from 2013 to 2015. Nevertheless, land market prices across Sen Sok district have stagnated since the beginning of 2016, making Q1-to-Q2 2016 list price ratio to drop to 99 percent, though minimally, as property sellers were testing the market at which a reasonable market price should be met.Tuol Kouk district, on the other hand, experienced a slight rise in land price within the same period, from average market price of US$2,150 per sqm in 2013 to US$ 2,530 per sqm in early 2016, growing at 6 percent y-o-y within the tracked period. However, across Tuol Kouk district, Q1-to-Q2 2016 list price ratio dropped to 99 percent due to real estate market stagnancy since the start of this year.In sum, these two districts both of which lie northwest of the central Phnom Penh have enjoyed a rapid growth in term of residential and commercial developments. The suburban Sen Sok district, for example, has witnessed a noticeable pace of developments, especially mixed-use landed housing and infrastructure, which gives rise to a change in the skyline and rapid surge in land prices over the course of the previous three years. This growth will continue its pace as developers foresee market optimism over the next coming years.Land Market PricingTuol Kouk DistrictOver the last preceding decade, Northern fringes of Tuol Kouk district was the first main destination for residential relocation because of its available large portions of vacant land and a neighborhood of the central parts of the capital.  Land prices across the district, therefore, started to surge ever since. In 2005, average market price across the district was about US$1,100 per sqm, with a threshold of US$450 per sqm along secondary streets to US$1,900 per sqm along primary streetsEarly this year, average land market price across Toul Kouk rose to US$2,530 per sqm, while some of the prime commercial streets could fetch a market price as high as US$5,750 per sqm. Over a decade, average growth rate of land prices in the district was about 10 percent y-o-y, and during the last three years the growth was about 6 percent.Remarkable land price surge was seen in Boeng Kak Ti Muoy and Boeng Kak Ti Pir, both of which are Tuol Kouk’s northern communes adjacent to emerging Phnom Penh Thmey of Sen Sok and densely-populated Tuol Sangkae of Ruessei Kaev district. The former grew at 17 percent y-o-y within the period from 2013 to 2015, and the latter, 13 percent. The two communes’ higher growth in land market prices, if compared to that of other communes in Tuol Kouk, was pushed by two key factors. First, because of their relatively small market price base (from a minimum of US$650 per sqm in the last three years), a small price jump could see an enormous growth in y-o-y rate. Second, their attractive, emerging locations have been ideal for residential towns, high-rise developments, and commercial establishments, all of which pushed market demand to rise. As a result, buyers were willing to accept the offers and through this, the market prices started to increase relatively more quickly over the last three years.On the other hand, many parts of the Tuol Kouk seemed almost to reach their price caps, as many available development and establishment opportunities have now appeared elsewhere throughout many of the peripheral parts of the district and its neighborhoods, offering much lower prices and promising opportunities. Such parts almost reaching land price caps are Phsar Depou, as high as US$5,750 per sqm and Tuek L’ak, as high as US$5,200 per sqm.Sen Sok DistrictOver the previous three years, property market prices across Sen Sok witnessed a double digit growth, with 27% y-o-y from 2013 to 2015. Back to 2013, average land price across the district was US$380 per sqm, and it grew to US$690 per sqm in the first half 2016.Khmuonh, one of the four fastest growing communes (sangkat in Khmer) of Sen Sok district, enjoyed a relative quick pace of residential town (such as Grand Phnom Penh International) and infrastructure developments, with main streets such as Hanoi (St. 1019) almost finished this year and Tumnup Kop Srov Road (the capital’s ring road) due to completion sometime soon. As a result, average growth for land price in Khnuonh commune was 35 percent y-o-y, from US$230 per sqm in 2013 to US$480 per sqm in the first half of 2016, with market prices along main streets ranging from US$300 per sqm to US$710 per sqm.Krang Thnong, adjacent to Phnom Penh Thmey commune and a quick access to the prominent Russian Boulevard, also witnessed a double-digit growth in land prices, with an average of 29 percent y-o-y, from an average of US$110 per sqm in 2013 to US$210 per sqm in the first half of 2016 across the commune. The enormous growth in land prices was driven mainly by residential potentials thanks to many available parcels of vacant land, including residential plot land movements and ongoing town development such as Borey Maha Sen Sok by Japanese developer Creed Group.Phnom Penh Thmey, adjacent to Boeng Kak Ti Muoy and Boeng Kak Ti Pir, the two prominent communes among 10 of Tuol Kouk district, also experienced a double-digit growth, having stood high thanks to its development potentials and strategic market position where several remarkable development projects such as borey New World (La Sen Sok), second project of AEON Mall, and borey Chip Mong Land, to name a few, have already been pinned up on the map. Thus, land prices grew at average 19 percent y-o-y within 2013-2015 period, from an average of US$530 per sqm in 2013 to US$830 per sqm in the first half of 2016. Remarkable potentials in Phnom Penh Thmey commune have been also seen after the completion of main infrastructure, for example, Oknha Mong Reththy and Hanoi Street.Market Performance Tuol Kouk DistrictA central zone of the capital, Tuol Kouk district has experienced a tremendous change in its skyline and infrastructure, which led to an increase of property demand as well as prices across the district over the last three years. Yet, average SP-to-LP ratio across property market in Tuol Kouk was 95 percent in 2015, while average original-to-last list price ratio dropped slightly to 99 percent Q1-on-Q2 2016.Low pricing ratios were noticeable in Phsar Depou Ti Muoy commune, where SP-to-LP ratio went down to 90 percent, lower than those in any other communes across Tuol Kouk district. The low pricing ratios in the two communes could be dragged down by the disruption of Techno Flyover construction process that affected on profitability of prime business spots along Russian Boulevard and its surroundings, thus resulting in less-commercial options for buyers to seriously consider the properties over there.Sen Sok DistrictDespite enjoying a significant growth in most parts of the districts over the course of the previous three years, Sen Sok’s property market heat has been slightly cooled down since early 2016 due to overall slowdown in property transactions. Given that average sale-to-list price ratio (SP-to-LP) was 93 percent in 2015, average achieved sale rate across the district was 7 percent below the original list prices, although H1-on-H2 2015 list price ratio (LP) rose to 101 percent. However, during the first half of 2016, average original-to-last list price ratio was 99 percent Q1-on-Q2.The fact that pricing ratios, typically sale price, went down to 93 percent across property market in Sen Sok district means there were many available properties, especially numerous unoccupied homes and vacant parcels of land, and therefore buyers have more power to negotiate for a lower price. Nevertheless, that average original-to-last list price ratio went down to 99 percent was a sign that many of sellers were adapting their asking prices to cope with less aggressive market demand during the first half of 2016.Outlooks and TrendsWith an organic trend of relocation from the central city to suburban and peripheral areas of the capital in a bid to cope with rapid land price growth, accelerating traffic pressure, and increasingly overcrowded city dwellers, a number of people have started to move out to several suburban parts where they form new towns and communities, remarkably since the five years, and Sen Sok district is no exception.Major development trends have been noticeable across Sen Sok, especially its Phnom Penh Thmey commune, which is situated northwest of its neighboring Boeng Kak Ti Muoy and Boeng Kak Ti Pir of Tuol Kouk district. Today, throughout many parts of Phnom Penh Thmey are situated many of finished housing projects such as (1) two of Borey Peng Hout projects the Star Emerald and the Star Quarteria, all of which are along Oknha Mong Reththy Street (1928 St.), (2) two of Borey New World projects, one of which is located a hundred meters off Mong Reththy Street and another is on Oknha Try Heng Street (2011 St.).Another ongoing Borey New World (La Sen Sok) on Oknha Mong Reththy Street has been almost finished, whereas only its community shopping mall remains under construction. Further, Borey Park Land (Sen Sok) along the same street is due to completion sometime next year.More importantly, the second project of AEON Mall by Japanese developers has been pinned on the map in the most promising zone, immediately adjacent to Borey New World (La Sen Sok) and less than 800-meter-radius ring of Camko City (southeast), Borey Angkor Phnom Penh (north), Borey Park Land (southwest), and Borey Peng Huot (south). These factors have brought about more demand for the area, including housing unitsand parcels of land, thus pushing prices to hike rapidly.Phnom Penh Thmey is a popular location for buying a first home,being voted by 20 percent of the surveyed prospective buyers (conducted by VTrust Appraisal), ahead of other areas such asChrouy Changva (16 percent), Stueng Meanchey (11 percent),Toul Kouk (11 percent), unspecified areas (17 percent), and otherareas combined (25 percent).This research report was a production of V Trust Appraisal.

Being the first residential project of the HLH Group in the country that is outside the realm of agriculture, D’Seaview project by the company’s residential project entity – Camhomes – has embraced great success since its introduction last year. Currently, more than 51 percent of the 737 residential units in the D'Seaview mixed-use development had been sold and the piling work has already achieved a hundred percent completion since the 18th of July, 2016. Deferred Payment Scheme: You will now be able to pay for a unit by giving 30 percent down payment first, then deferring the other 70 percent to only at the completion of the unit. This entails an absorbed fit out cost of approximately 5 percent of the purchase price and a guaranteed rental return of 30 percent over 3 years at 10 percent per year. Initially, a down payment of 5 percent is required. This is then followed by a 25 percent payment which is due upon signing the sales and purchase agreement, along with the guaranteed rental return side letter. The remaining 70 percent will be given once the unit is handed over. Installment Scheme:  To further enhance the choices to interest buyers, one can also purchase a unit from D’Seaview through the new revolutionary way, via a 5 years installment plan. This gives buyer the added benefits of having 0 percent interest, 100 percent installment for 60 months, and has 0$ down payment. Only a selected limited number of residential units in D’Seaview qualifies for this type of payment scheme, therefore it is while stock last basis. Getting a residential unit with high-class amenities and a beautiful view of the beach has never been easier. See the full listing and Inquire today!

Phnom Penh is a relatively small area that is marked with varying subcultures. This is one of the things that gives the capital city its unique spirit and dynamic lifestyle.And according to Chairman of Cambodian Investment Management, Anthony Galliano, the merging of ideologies, structures, and tradition is best observed through the properties along the Phnom Penh Riverside.There are a number of things you can see and do in this area, and Galliano lists a few of them during his recent interview on Realestate.com.khTV.Stunning Scenery:Imagine the reflection of the sun in the river as it sets, all the little boats just passing by your view from the window. That is exactly the picture Galliano paints for the Riverside area.Living here means that you will be able to bask in the rays of the golden sun and just absorb all the beautiful sights around you - which includes the rivers of Mekong, Tonle Sap, and Bassac rivers. You can also see diverse architecture and a landscape that had been influenced by different time periods.But wherever in the Riverside area you go, you are guaranteed to see something eye-catching.Festive Occasions:People say that you can tell a lot about a place and its people through the types of festivals they celebrate. And Phnom Penh’s Riverside surely does not have a shortage of festivities.Galliano explains that you have a pretty good vantage point you can utilize if you live in the area because you’re right in the middle of all the celebrations. But probably one of the best festivals in Cambodia you will be able to attend is the Water and Moon Festival, otherwise known as Bonn Om Touk, which ushers in and welcomes the fishing season. During this time, you can also opt to watch the annual boat race which is the festival’s main attraction.Convenient Location:The Phnom Penh Riverside area is conveniently located near the central business district of the capital city. This makes it relatively easy for workers and even families to move around Phnom Penh without having to worry about the increasingly congested traffic situation there. It is also close to facilities such as hospitals, schools, and grocery stores. Residents can testify that once you move into this part of Cambodia, there is little that you need to ask for. Everything you might need is there.Scrumptious Food:Because this area is also home to a growing number of expatriates, there are also plenty of restaurants to serve dishes which originated or are derived from Germany, Italy, France, Canada, America, Korea, China, Japan, and even Australia. So, choosing food will no longer be a problem as there is a wide range available.  The Phnom Penh Riverside area is definitely one of the best places to live in Phnom Penh. Having been well-developed throughout the years, you’re assured all you need to live comfortably here alone or with your family. Learn more about the perks of living Phnom Penh Riverside in another in depth Realestate.com .khTV report!

On August 20th from 8:00am to 5:00pm, the Cambodian Valuers  and Estate Agents Association (CVEA) will organize a forum to update and inform the property industry across the country. It will be held at the Sofitel Hotel, Phnom Penh.Providing false information in the real estate sector can cause various problems, and certainly poses a great risk for the real estate sector. For that reason, the CVEA intend to create a open forum whereby all industry stakeholders can share information and find common understandings.The real estate sector in Cambodia is still very young with no real education institutions supporting it. Hence, the upcoming forum will be a place to learn more, for all the people of Cambodia: for novices who just started their career, and stakeholders in the real estate sector generally. In this public forum, we will discuss about: - Challenges and opportunities in Plotting Land and Sale - Challenges and opportunities in Housing Development - Challenges and opportunities in Condominium - Challenges and opportunities of Cambodia in ASEAN Globalization - Legal procedures for sale permit and construction permit for Condo - Type of Land title, property transferring, soft title ownership regulationsSIGN UP TODAY - contact the CVEA

Recently, Borey Maha Sensok, the biggest landed housing development by a Japanese company in Cambodia, has received massive interest from local customers.Only 4 months after soft launch, Borey Maha Sensok has been sold out around 80% for its first phase. This sales success is due to the affordable prices, starting from $49,500 per unit, flexible payment terms and home loan/financing options. Presently, the project is under construction, along with road construction and sewerage facilities development.This latest project of the Creed Group, Borey Maha Sensok, is located just 3km from the Phnom Penh International Airport, in Krang Thnong District, Sen Sok Commune, a fast developing area near the upcoming Lion Mall project and AEON Mall 2.Borey Maha Sensok covers a total area of 120,684 square meters and consists of 683 units, including one floor flats (E0), two floors flats (E0E1), and land lots for villas. Common amenities include solar power street lights throughout, beautiful flower gardens and landscaping, a children’s playground, and an exterior gym. Japanese elements are brought into the design also, such as a foot massage path and tree trunk path, and a full equipped garden cabana.According to Mrs. Cheng Sokha, assistant to the Sales and Marketing Director at Creed Group, the project has had high interest from clients because of the trust for the development company: “our project offers concise and fully legal documents for buyers, and the construction quality is strictly controlled by Japanese engineers.”Borey Maha Sensok is the second project of the Japanese investor, Creed group, who has already invested in Cambodia with their first project, Bodaiju Residences, located on Russian Boulevard in front of the Phnom Penh International Airport. Creed Group’s main office is in Japan and has been investing in projects throughout Asia, including Cambodia, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Japan and Singapore.Looking for a new landed borey home? See the full listing for BOREY MAHA SENSOK now!Or want to buy a modern condo? See the full listing for BODAIJU now!

Many Cambodians are faced with the question of whether it makes most financial sense to buy or rent a property, whether it be an apartment or condominium in downtown Phnom Penh, or a villa or shop house around the border city limits.Others are looking for purely business purposes, and some want a piece of property fit for both living and commerce.Realestate.com.kh spoke with real estate industry insiders and a range of buyers and renters to get their opinions on what is the best option for those seeking a property now, but not sure whether they need to buy or rent a property…Buy or rent a home for living?Home ownership is very common in Cambodia, and most local families aspire to owning their own home and having total control over that property. Yet, despite this desire to have a place that is truly yours, for some purposes renting may make more sense in terms of you and your families long term financial health.Advisor of VTrust Appraisal, Mr In Setha comments that, “buying a house to live in is better than renting one.” The reason being, as the price of property continues to rise in the Cambodian market currently, your purchase now should become a more valuable asset in the future.“As the population grows in Cambodia, through both local increases and immigration, more businesses will start. This will lead to more demand in the market overall, and the price of property will generally increase too. When the home buyer of today wants to sell that home in a few years, they will come out with a profit,” says Setha.He continued to say, “if renting a house, you need to pay the rental price and other operational costs every month, and these costs can become quite expensive. If you can afford to purchase a home outright, instead of paying your landlord, why don’t you choose to buy a home and pay part of your own money and some via a home loan paid back in affordable installments.”That way, “Ten to fifteen years later you possess a residential asset.”Mr. Va Vireak, chairman of Century 21 Fortuna Investment, agrees that if you need a house to live in, buying is a good choice, whether or not you have enough money to buy now.“You can manage the costs with a bank loan and then you have your own asset on 10-15 years,” says Vireak.He adds one warning, however, “you must make sure you have a safe income every month to pay the installments for the bank loan, or else it is very risky to take a home loan. Only borrow what you can afford to pay in installments and don’t be greedy.”Mr. La Sithol, a recent homebuyer in Phnom Penh, said that, “When asked if I should buy or rent a home, I prefered to buy a house. Buying a house is good because in the future the price of this property will only increase. Even if it puts you in debt now, you can profit in the future.”“Personally, i believe by buying a home you are investing in the future,” said La.La also mentioned that “if you don’t have enough cash to buy upfront now, or are unable to borrow from a bank, rent an affordable house for the time being, and save your extra money to invest down the track. Don’t waste your money renting the perfect house - instead, live cheap now and save for your perfect home in the future.” However, Mr. Ky Sophoeun, a teacher in Phnom Penh said that, “I think that renting a house is a better option for those in business, because by not committing to a home loan or large upfront payment, we have more capital to inject into our growing business.Sopheourn continues, “It is even better if you can use that rental house for dual purposes, living and running a business: If you can lease a house at the right place and the right location, it is not only a convenient place for you to live with your family, it is concurrently available for doing business to generate more money. This will soon legitimise your rental rates.”Sopheourn says, “Renting a house allows us to have some extra capital to operate the business. If we spend all our savings purchasing a house outright, all money saved will flow into that payment or into supplementing the home loan, and there will be no money left for trading, and that means no money coming back either!”However, Sopheourn does say, “But, if we have enough money for a house, let’s buy - but always make sure we still have money do business!”What about when purchasing a business property?Mr. Chhim Saolim, staff of a financial institution in Phnom Penh said, “The situation is different depending on what you need the property for: if it is the place to live, buying a home is better. But if it is for commercial uses, renting is always better.”He explained that, “for business purposes, renting is always the best option. Why? Because a business is always changing… When you are just renting, you are able to be flexible to this natural change when it occurs. If your business grows, you can change your property - and the same if it shrinks or changes its purpose.”However, Va notes that, “While renting a place is generally the best option for a business, for an established business buying may be the right choice. For example - your company has a very good brand and everybody knows where it is, and it is perfectly set up for your business operations; If you are renting and then the contract for your office ends and you cannot renew, nobody knows where you are anymore and you lose the setup you have. Meanwhile, someone else can use your business property if they take the rent, which is already perfectly set up for your kind of business, and start to do the same business. What happens for your business then?”Want to learn more about investing your money in property? Get in touch with the leading real estate agents in Cambodia today!

Jum reap sour! And welcome to another Realestate.com.kh property review. On this week’s show, we’re live at Apennines Condominium showroom in Phnom Penh with Ms. Vatey, sales manager at the Apennines Condominium project.See the full listing and inquire today!Tell us about the location of Apennines Condominium:Apennines is a modern condominium strategically located in one of the fastest-appreciating districts of Phnom Penh city - Toul Kork. More specifically, the location of our project is at house 40, Street 604, Sangkat Boeung Kak 2, Khan Toul Kork, Phnom Penh - just right behind Pannasastra University Toul Kork Branch. Apennines condominium is located just 10 minutes drive from Phnom Penh International Airport, and is also surrounded by schools, restaurants, supermarkets, sports clubs, coffee shops and entertainment centers.Tell us more about the developer:Apennines condominium is developed by KHSI INVESTMENT PTE LTD, an award winning architecture & engineering company with a wealth of experience in both Malaysia & Singapore. KHSI is uniquely committed to optimizing best standards and creating modern and quality lifestyle living through innovative and creative means.What sort of features does this condo have?Standing a total of 17 storeys tall, 1, 2 & 3 bedroom condos are available in a variety of sizes. All units’ interior has been uniquely designed by Singaporean experts, and fully equipped with high quality fittings. Shared condo facilities include a swimming pool, pool deck, gym; and the unique perfect car parking system, a car parking elevator.What does KHSI offer to buyers?Home loan is available through RHB and Phillip Bank.Freehold ownership titles, for locals and foreigners. Full security (CCTV, security guard 24/7).Great common facilities such as swimming pool, fitness center, gardening and minibar.Full property management and maintenance of the building (interior and exterior). An enticing GRR package of 6% annually.The first Car elevator parking system ever to be used in Cambodia, which is efficient, secure and convenient - and maximising space. How does Apennines Condominium stand out above the rest of the condos coming online in the market?Our architectural design (interior and exterior) is from award winning architect, EDP Architect Malaysia. Our engineering structure has been designed by LSW Consulting Engineer Singapore. The structure of the building includes reinforced Concrete walls and transferred floor technology, a feature unique to other projects currently in Cambodia.And our project is located in a residential area that is a hotspot for potential investment returns.  What types of Units are available?Type A: 89.72m2; Type B: 132.62m2; Type C:  67.74m2; Type D: 110.22m2 - with prices starting from $150,000.If you want to find out more, come and take a full showroom tour with Ms. Vatey today in Toul Kork; and while you are there, check out the construction progress of the project, located just down the street!See the full listing and inquire today!

As with established markets all over the world, the Cambodian real estate market right now is an outcome of an evolutionary process that involved many things. And much of what it will become is part of that evolutionary process.This is what the Chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia (AMCHAM) and the International Business Chamber (IBC), Mr. Bretton Sciaroni, believes.In an exclusive interview with Realestate.com.kh, Sciaroni discussed the many factors that have played into shaping the laws, policies and environment of the Cambodian real estate sphere as we now know it.Cambodian Real Estate in the Past:As one of the first foreign lawyers in the country, Sciaroni has had vast experience in business dealings and law in the Kingdom. In fact, he negotiated the first foreign investment deal in 1993 for a $60 million brewery venture.Sciaroni recalls that it wasn’t always smooth sailing for the real estate market. He says that after Pol Pot was kicked out, the communist constitution made it difficult for the citizens to go back to their former land because all the land title documents had been destroyed. But around 1988 or 1989, a proper land titling system was put into place.Another key event that shaped how Cambodia real estate transactions are made nowadays was the National Elections in 2008. According to Sciaroni, it was normal for activity in the real estate market to slow down months to a year before elections. However, the international financial crisis added another layer of issues that the government needed to address. Sciaroni adds that at this time it was a “superheated real estate market environment.”Cambodian Real Estate Now:The country has since recovered from those tough times.When asked about why he stayed despite having to go through those hurdles, Sciaronii says that “the growth rates have been unbelievable.” A contributing factor to this is that the government is now very open to foreign investment and the citizens are more confident in the electoral process.As evidence of this growth, new developments like the Exchange Square building and the prestigious Shangri La are already underway.Sciaroni notes though, “So much needs to be done and so much can be done”.He says that the current challenges that Cambodia faces are only stepping stones to a more dynamic future for the Cambodian real estate industry, and the society as a whole.Cambodia’s Bright Future:The past has proven to be the perfect testing ground for Cambodia’s potential.And with many changes, such as having His Excellency Chea Sophara take over as the new minister for the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction, it can only get better, says Sciaroni.Now we have an improved communication system where industry professionals and the government can have an open dialogue. Sciaroni believes that the past is not bound to repeat itself in these new times with new approaches.But he adds that there are still many more things that need to be set in their proper place. He says, “So, what we need to do: we need to encourage the government to continue to work towards getting the laws and policies in place. We really need these laws and policies in place to help the growth continue.”Cambodia is one of the new lands of milk and honey. It’s a land of opportunity, but it definitely will not come without a little bit of work.Learn more about investing in Cambodia today!

When you talk about an improved economic standing on any scale, it is inevitable to also discuss the taxation system that enables the government the luxury of its own stability and consistent growth.And one of the many sectors or industries that have undergone and is still undergoing various changes in taxation is the property market in Cambodia. According to the CEO of Cambodian Investment Management, Mr. Anthony Galliano, this has been causing both problems and solutions in the system.Tax for Businesses:Generally, Galliano says, it’s been more difficult for businesses who have not been following best practices over the years and have either been evading or unintentionally neglecting tax obligations.This is because businesses who are renting out office spaces are required to present property tax receipts which should come from the property owners. If the owners of these properties have not been paying tax, this causes an issue with the ability of the companies to register with the Ministry.He says, “we can see it from those that are registering businesses that perhaps the owners of those buildings have not paid tax in the past. And there are some of those that are seeking to rent property and needing those tax receipts to register their business, they’re unable to get it because the owner hadn’t paid it in the past.”Personal Tax:Galliano continues to say that the trouble with taxation with renters may be because of an “apathetic” view of taxation in Cambodia, which may be perceived as personal tax.But since there is a stricter implementation now, he says that apathy doesn’t really get them far enough. They are forced to educate themselves about the laws of taxation and to actually pay their due diligences.Galliano says, “If you’re a person that just owns a property, then you’re responsible for paying that tax as the owner.” He continues to say, “For sure, if you’re owning property, you’re responsible for registering that property and paying the tax.” And now that there is an urgent call for compliance, owners really do not have much of a choice than to pay the tax or else risk paying penalties and other forms of consequences that may result from their resistance.Tax Change Perception:These issues can now be viewed in two ways. You can look at it as a form of inconvenience or you can look at it as a form of straightening out the system and developing better ways of doing transactions in the country. This provides protection for the investors as well because they now have a standard of which to base the legality of their investments.But Galliano adds that, moving forward it may get easier for investors as developers now provide property management services for the owners. This means that there will be a more streamlined process of paying and collecting tax which would then help the economy sustain the growth.Whatever the case, what is important is to make sure what types of tax you should be paying and actually paying them - so as to avoid any conflict with the law enforcement agents and entities.Learn more about Cambodian property tax law!

Realestate.com.kh was extremely proud to welcome over 500 VIP guests to the official launch party of the first “Cambodia Real Estate" Magazine on 8/5/2016 Friday 6-9pm, D22 Bar/Tama Hotel, 22nd Floor, Phnom Penh Tower, Phnom Penh.Realestate.com.kh welcomed His Excellency Khieu Kanharith, The Minister of Information, as our Guest of Honor on Friday night.Realestate.com.kh thank everyone that supported us in making the Cambodia Real Estate magazine, and the evening’s party sponsors: Kilat Events, Bose, Voolim, Sino Plaza and The Piano Shop. A lot of people may be surprised by Realestate.com.kh’s decision to publish a magazine, considering Realestate.com.kh operate a real estate portal website and beileve strongly that ‘online’ and ‘digital’ marketing is the future of real estate marketing - which we still believe it is…Realestate.com.kh know how important it is to market real estate online in Cambodia and overseas, to attract foreign investors, and online/digital is the most effective and the CHEAPEST way to do so…But we also understand that our clients want to attract the local market and expats living in Cambodia.And even though Realestate.com.kh is experiencing rapid growth in internet penetration, there are still local buyers and renters that are primarily print-focused consumers. And if we can provide more value to our clients by creating a print publication/magazine we will - and now we have.And Realestate.com.kh prides ourselves on playing our part in educating the Cambodian real estate market, and the magazine is another way we can achieve and communicate this. On the magazine itself, firstly we are extremely proud especially of our team at Realestate.com.kh. And extremely proud that we have printed over 10,000 copies and have already distributed it to over 500 venues across Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville. Realestate.com.kh will print 20,000 copies for our next issue and even more in future. We will print 4 issues every year, and the next issue will release in October 2016. Realestate.com.kh want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported Realestate.com.kh in the last 12 months. Within the last 12 months, Realestate.com.kh has grown to 38,000 listings, over 400 active agents and over 100,000 users per month. This usership is generating 1000’s of inquiries from serious buyers inside and outside of Cambodia every month. Realestate.com.kh also want to officially announce the launch of two great products that we have set up here tonight: 1) “Realestate.com.kh 360 Degree Intreractive Tours” and 2) “Realestate.com.kh Walkthrough Videos.”Realestate.com.kh 360 Degree Interactive ToursThe first product is the “Realestate.com.kh 360 Degree Interactive Tours” - which are primarily designed for new developments, boreys or high-end existing properties. These 360 degree tours allow customers to experience your show-flat, or property in a fully immersive experience from anywhere!  You can use it at AEON mall, in your real estate agent’s office in Singapore or in the lounge room of your best customer. “Realestate.com.kh Virtual Tours” allows this freedom. Best of all we do all of the work for you and we can build these tours within 72 hours (or even 24 hours if it’s a rush). Pricing for this products starts at just $500 per video and the experience is amazingly lifelike. We encourage you to try this product soon.Realestate.com.kh Video Walkthrough ToursOur second product, the “Realestate.com.kh Video Walkthrough Tours”, are specially designed to make your property listings jump out and grab potential buyers or renters attention with a cinema like walkthrough tour, whether on your own real estate website or on Realestate.com.kh. This product makes old-style photo listings look very out-dated. With a 30 - 60 second cinema-style video, the customer can instantly get a true sense of the benefits and size of the property. We have used the latest technology to quickly, easily and cheaply create a stunning tour of any property in just a few minutes. Realestate.com.kh can create these tours anywhere in Phnom Penh within 48 hours, and the cost per “Walk Through Tour” is just $13! We believe this product is unbelievable value.Finally, Realestate.com.kh would like to thank you all for coming and for your support over the last 12 months. We are currently planning our second magazine due to come out in October 2016 and we hope you all advertise in it again. We will see you all at the next Realestate.com.kh party!   For more info on our products, services and upcoming events - please get in touch today!

On the 3rd of August, 2016, Emerald+ Property Management Services signed an exclusive agreement with the committee ownership and development company Chroychangva.This is in conjunction with the property management services that they will be providing for the Borey Grand Chroychongva project. These properties will include 4 types of residential properties. Namely, the grand villas, single villas, twin villas and flats.In this agreement, Emerald+ asserts that they will only offer management services that are of high standards and quality.Chen Yuxian, the general manager of Grandvision International Development Co.,Ltd and the representative of Borey Grand Chroychangva, said that “Property management services are significantly important for borey projects. These include security protection, social order, and environmental protection so that the borey space will remain aesthetically pleasing and clean at all times.He added that Emerald+ offers the best suited partnership for the relatively new industry of property management in Cambodia because of the professional standards of their work and the qualifications of their human resources.Meanwhile, Ms. Sou Monipich, the general manager of Emerald+, said of the agreement that “offering property management services that are flawless and oriented towards a great customer experience is the stance of the company because of its long term vision for being in this business. Emerald+ sees itself as a company that will adhere to both national and international standards of quality into the future.Grandvision International Development is very busy with the next property development project which is named the Borey Moon Town. It will have 5 types of residential properties and will strategically be located along Oknha Duong Ngeap road, Sangkat Teuk Thla, Khan Sen Sok, Phnom Penh.Emerald+ Property Management Service is a big real estate management company that is licensed by the ministry of commerce. It will open its operation with various partners like UEMS and Nature Landscape who are both huge and famous companies in Singapore, They are known for their expertise in property management and developing natural gardens (landscaping), respectively.For more information, you can contact EMERALD+  today.

Everyone needs a warm environment where they can live with their loved ones. So before you decide to buy a residential property, carefully consider a few things first such as its atmosphere, it's construction quality, and its potential for future investment. These are just some of the things that shouldn't be overlooked in the buying process. The Borey Villa Toul Sangke development project has gained popularity mainly due to its success in selling its past projects. It is strategically located in the Russey Keo district in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. They offer residential units such as landed homes and condominiums.The Borey Villa Toul Sangke project includes a variety of villas and condominiums that come in different sizes that you can choose from. Each and every home has been designed by construction professionals with quality and beauty in mind. Attention to detail is obvious. Some of the villas that are available are the Single Villa, Link House, Twins Villa, and Flat houses. Families will  also have the flexiblity to choose the City Sangkeo villa type too, as they see fit.Check out full listing on realestate.com.kh"We think about the quality and the best standard of living for families. The Borey has been completed. For all projects, the Borey is almost sold out. The condo project started construction and is at around 20 percent completion. And an estimated 30  percent had already been booked. We also have a special offer for customers which is a 10 percent discount for owners who have paid off their residential condominiums. At the meantime, the developer also provides ultimate offer that only require customers to pay $ 660 in per month with no interest and no deposit. The Borey Villa Toul Sangke condo project concept is focused on helping locals change their standard of living and pursing a more modern life. It also aims to make you feel comfortable. This residential property is exactly that. It brings a high standard of living, which is fully furnished like a 5-star hotel." This is according to Mr. Andy Kong , the general manager of the Borey Villa Sangke company. Ky Kosal, an employee of a private company, says, "After I saw the showroom of the different projects from Borey Villa Toul sangke and researched about it, I think that this is a good projects because the investment location is just near the new Aeon Mall and because it also has a great future investment potentials."Living in the Borey Villa Toul Sangke project offers a more modern, stylish, and luxurious way of living for you the people you live with, whether it's your friends or your family. The Borey Villa Toul Sangke project also has an extremely competitively-priced condominium development located in Russey Keo. It is situated in the business district, which is really close to the main road, government institutions, shopping malls, riverside, sports clubs, banks, hospitals, schools, and entertainment. More importantly, it's also very near the toul Sangke market.The Borey Villa Toul Sangke project consists of around 174 residential units with various designs, all of which were made with the vision of providing spacious, and comfortable homes for individuals and for families. There are also a range of amenities which include swimming pools, a sauna, a gym, a small market, and a golfing club. So, families are sure they will never run out of things to do and places to go to. Check out full listing on realestate.com.kh

It is easy to talk about the many ongoing and successfully completed projects in Cambodia right now because there is an abundance of them. But what is rarely talked about are the factors that contribute to the increasing opportunities in the country for both local citizens and foreign nationals that will support the sustainable development of the real estate industry as a whole, and create a strong secondary resale and rentals market into the future. Two of those factors are the country’s gross national income and the income status of its citizens. The growth of these two factors has a significant influence on the growth of the real estate industry.These two factors have been a recurring indicator in research and reports lately, such as the World Bank’s statement that Cambodia has now moved to a lower-middle income status, contributing to a gross national income per capita higher than $1,026 per year. The World Bank classes lower-middle-income countries as those with average yearly incomes between $1,026 and $4,035. Cambodia has just entered this bracket. The Implications of Higher Income Status:There is great trust placed by investors on a country with a growing economy. And part of that growth in trust will always include lower unemployment rates and a higher income status for the entire country. This ultimately leads to a higher sustainable GDP, which is also good for businesses. But what does this specifically mean for the real estate market? Simply put, this means that people inside the country are now able to afford a wider range of properties that have been previously hard to purchase due to low incomes. Local buyers are also more like to be applicable for home loans and finance for their next property purchase. So, for investors, your potential rental returns and resales prices are strengthened. In fact, land prices in Phnom Penh alone increased by 15 percent in the year 2013. And has only continued to rise since then.Also, with higher amounts of income tax being collected, the government will have more scope for policies to assist in the country’s progress, such as infrastructure and affordable housing projects.Income in Emerging Markets:Emerging markets like Cambodia are one of the best places to invest in because the GNI and GDP are just beginning to rise. This means that there is much more progress to be made and much more opportunities yet to come for those who commit to the market early. Placing your money in a country with a promising future will potentially give you much higher returns than you are likely to get in more developed economies. Yes - emerging markets do come with higher risk, but in countries like Cambodia, the political stability is a standout case in the region, and so it the economic growth rates. This helps to give investors the assurance they need to put money down. For investors, now is the time to seriously consider Cambodia as a destination for a property investment with the potential to sky rocket returns. If you wait too long, the opportunity may be lost. Learn more about the charm of Cambodia for property investors.

The recently released H1 2016 Market report by the independent global property consultancy Knight Frank details both the data gathered by the company from the real estate market’s activities during the first half of the year, in combination with an exciting preview of what is to come in the near future.According to Ross Wheble, country manager of Knight Frank, the outstanding turnout of new construction projects has ultimately led to a stage of moderation as a means to address the short-term risks in the market. If all goes well after that, the report indicates that Cambodia has the potential to climb the ranks and outperform Southeast Asia through the process of diversification, a state in which “robust growth is expected to continue.”Phnom Penh Office Sector:Starting the year with the completion of three large office buildings that totaled to a net lettable space of 5,000 square meters, the second half of the year for the office sector may see a slight difference in trends as companies start to take interest in higher end commercial space and transfer to Grade A and Grade B office buildings. This is due to the difficulties of the Grade C units to keep up with changes in regulations and standards.The demand for higher grade buildings has also been apparent with several projects seeing higher amounts of inquiries, like in the case of the Vattanac Tower where the occupancy rate is now almost at 50%. This may be the reason why most of the supply coming in the next few years is Grade A buildings. These include the units that will come with the completion of projects like the Exchange Square, Diamond Twin Tower, and Olympia City.The report by Knight Frank indicates that for the medium term, the country is expected to capture more foreign investments for the prime office space sector where prices may continue to rise from the current rate of $4,900 per square meter. This indicates bigger names moving in to do business in the country.Retail Sector:If there is anything that the data from the retail market sector is indicating, it’s that there is growing interest from international brands to acquire retail space in the country. Although currently moving at a lower pace in terms of occupancy, the percentage remains constant for malls in strategic locations like the Aeon mall - which still enjoys their steady 95.8 percent occupancy rate.  But this reprieve may not last long as newer retail space projects are expected to hit completion by 2020. The report indicates a projected total increase in retail area of around 209 per cent by that time.   But this may not necessarily be a bad thing, at least for businesses. Because along with the increase in the number of retail spaces available, rental prices will become even more competitive in contrast to the current range of $10 to $70 per square meter.Hotel Sector:The hotel sector had its fair share of both troubles and successes during the first half of 2016. While boutique hotels garnered a significant amount of tourists, international five-star hotels like the Marriott struggled to increase their occupancy rate due to the competition with the local accommodations.Despite this, another 175 keys will come into play with the completion of Rosewood Hotel, in addition to the 259 that was already added earlier this year. But according to Knight Frank, the struggle of international hotel chains is going to end soon as more international hotel giants have expressed great interest in expanding their business into the Cambodian market. Should these plans push through, the estimated 2,732 rooms that are awaiting their completion by the end of the year may just be the start of the growth that is projected to happen by 2019.This is also to address the anticipated influx of business tourists, especially by 2017 when the World Economic Forum will be held in the capital city, Phnom Penh.                      Serviced Apartment Sector:Though most of the serviced apartments are locally owned, the market heavily relies on expatriates to rent and occupy the properties. Currently at around 4,017 monitored units, there are around 1,730 more units that should be completed by 2018. This is expected to cause a significant decrease in rental price which currently ranges from $667 to $4,000 per month, depending if it’s in the high end market or not. The construction of more modern condominiums and small scale serviced apartments will also contribute to the decrease of the current value in the collection of serviced apartments.Condominium Sector:The condo market saw a 4.9 percent increase during the first few months this year. This comes up to a total of 2,797 units added in the supply which includes developments like The 240, Galaxy residences, and 9 East. 929 of these units were sold during the first half of 2016. This represents a decrease of about 26.7 percent since last year. these units were sold during the first half of 2016. This represents a decrease of about 26.7 percent since last year.More and more projects of this type have been slated in the coming years, and 74 projects are noted to reach completion by 2020. 72 percent of these will be made up of high-end or prime condominium projects. For completed, central condominium rental rates, prices remain relatively high at a maximum of $4,000 per month. This is why it would be wise to disperse and move to the outskirts of the capital where land prices are less expensive and concepts much more fluid.Stricter enforcement of the law will also be a factor in drawing the interest of foreign developers and investors who had initial fears of losing money because of unenforced and vague policies. Much friendlier financing schemes for both locals and foreigners also make it more convenient to invest.Download the full H12016 Knight Frank Market Highlights Report

In the process of selecting residential properties, more so than the price, it is important to make sure that it will provide the best standards of living with high quality construction materials to make it ripe for long-term appreciation and future resale or rental value.It is also helpful to consider living with your family in a home that has good environment, and is comfortable and modern. This is what The Penthouse Residence is offering in the heart Phnom Penh. It is an upcoming world-class condominium project that will suit the needs of people who are looking for a more modern flare in their lives.The Penthouse Residence is strategically located in the most desired residential area of Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia. It is the majestic and luxurious condominium project that stands along Sothearos Boulevard, right in front of landmark establishments such as Aeon Mall and the five-star Sofitel Phnom Penh Phukeethra Hotel, and close to many other useful institutions such as embassies and international schools. In addition, this 36-floor tower (about 130m high) is also located close to the Chaktomuk riverside and the fast developing district of Koh Pich (Diamond Island).The developers and contractors have been working hard day and night since the groundbreaking last March 12th, 2016, to ensure that The Penthouse Residence is built according to the highest standards, especially in its foundation work. In a span of just 4 months, the pile boring and foundation work are almost completed. And with the construction going at this rate, it is safe to assume that this project will be finished even before the proposed deadline at the end of 2018.The Penthouse Residence will not only be built with highest quality, lavish decorations, and the safe environment in mind, it will also be built in partnership with many other well recognized construction suppliers includes CPAC by SCG Thailand.The interior designs will be done by Sangiorgio from Italy; the bathroom equipment will be supplied by world class brands such as Grohe and Hafele from Germany, Cotto from Thailand, ToTo from Japan as well as American Standards, which will provide nothing but the best functional and long-lasting products. This helps ensure the project’s safety and build the trust of our customers, now and in the future.According to Mr. Imsouchivy Suos, the assistant project director of The Penthouse Residence, “The Penthouse Residence will offer both great quality and value in real estate market. The project has sold over 50 percent of the units already and has been one of the best-selling condominium projects in Phnom Penh so far due to its prime location, best quality, and reasonable price. We expect to increase our sales to over 70 percent by the end of the year. At the moment, we also offer 5 percent discount and an iPhone 6s for those who decide to book our condominium unit today. Guaranteed Returns of Renting (GRR) will also be offered at 6 percent per year or 18 percent for first 3 years.”For more information please check out the full listing on realestate.com.kh today!