Flowing credit from banks in Cambodia have been increasing the rise of buildings and property in the last decades. The chief of purchasing and marketing of Borey Vimean Phnom Penh, Mrs. Chhay Sina, said banks have important roles to support construction and property in Cambodia. 90 percent of building buyers need lending money from the banks with the low interest around 8 percent a year. She added some buyers pay for building step by step and some need lending money with home loans from the banks. Most of young building buyers need lending money from the banks, especially, new couples but old building buyers don’t need home loans from the banks. They use cash to buy it for their self or for the children. Executive director of credit of ACLEDA, In Siphan, said home loans are not the first step of ACLEDA because its credit for property is only 7 percent and credit for repairing building is only 1 percent but buildings or property in Cambodia are increasing every year with 7000 credits from the banks with around 160 million dollars. He said the credit of the bank is important for new couples to buy a house or flat so buildings are increasing every year. After economic crisis 2008, the bank of Cambodia allow all banks in Cambodia give only 15 percent of its total money to the lenders to buy property on home loans. But after that the bank of Cambodia allow all banks to gives lenders buying property over 15 percent. In Siphan added that to be avoid of losing money or crisis, the bank is always careful for customers but sometimes the bank is wrong also for giving money to the home loans customers. So family and characteristic of customers are important. Consultant of national economic council, Dr. Mey Kalyan said if we buy food, we can eat immediately, but if we buy house or property, we can keep it for a long time and it isn’t easy to buy it and spend so much to buy it also. But we can sell and rent to get money easily. Dr. Mey Kalyan added that the banks should be careful with customers but credit of the banks are important to increase building or property. The buildings or property projects always need money from the banks so banks are important for this field. Director of finance industrial department of economic and finance ministry , Excellency Mey Vann said until now, he’s never seen crisis of buildings or property field but ministry is watching data project or planning of building or property to be avoid crisis. Excellency Mey Van added that it’s very important to control data, project or planning of building or property of the banks or companies in Cambodia. Realestate.com.kh is proud to support the CVEA's Property View publication. Click here to get your copy, or if you are interested to join the CVEA today.

It is no accident when foreign investors enter Cambodia and spend millions on highrise condo projects. Why do foreign investors invest in Cambodian condos? The answer relates to political stability, strong economic growth, and the free use of the US dollar.The Cambodian economy has increased so fast since the civil war’s end, and relative stability has been achieved in only two decades. Cambodia maintained a 7.8 percentage GDP increase every year since, which makes it the sixth fastest growing economy in the world.CEO of Eastland HK Development, Sam Yang, who has been building Cambodian condos and high office buildings in Phnom Penh, said that his latest project, East Commercial Center (ECC), will finish at the end of 2017. This building is 38 floors on Norodom Boulevard - with small, adjustable office spaces for sale and rent, with reason prices and a good location.​ He went on to say, “I think that 2018 will be ok. There isn’t any market which is unaffected by politics. You have to remember that Myanmar and Thailand will also have elections, and it will be the same type of situation we predict in Cambodia”. He added that there three main points in this market which make it very attractive. Firstly, we are sure that the next major international economic boom will occur in an Asean country. Secondly, Cambodia is the third country in Asean to have achieved relative political stability. Thirdly, investors can rely of the US dollar in Cambodia, and this is very attractive.” Yang also sees Chinese investment continuing to increase in the next few years, citing plans for a regional Chinese railway in the coming years.He added that thus far the Cambodian real estate market has only attracted relatively small investment pools, in comparison to international standards of major investments. Generally, new real estate investments in Cambodia are valued at around 5 to 10 million dollars only. The larger real estate investment funds of 200 to 600 million dollars have not yet come to Cambodia - but they will soon.  “The Cambodian condos market will continue to improve and Chinese investors plan to construct more roads and railway lines in 2018 to link the Asian markets together.” Mr. Sam Yang asserted “Even though the investment in Cambodia is growing fast, we should still think about the correct supply while this country is developing. This is why ECC is focusing on affordable office space.” The director of JS Land Limited, Koy Lesan, said that even though there are many condo projects being built recently, some of condos don’t respond to needs of customers and are too expensive. Prices per unit of around 80 to 100 thousand hundred dollars do not reflect Cambodian incomes. He went on to say that the needs for more housing for locals and foreigners is increasing, but most condo projects are still overpriced. This understanding has inspired JS Land’s new project. The Cambodian condos project is 19 storeys high and has 212 units. Each unit is priced at just $38,000. The important thing is that it will be easy for the customers to cooperate with Maybank, who has offered financing for the project. They can install payments on long terms from 20 to 25 years, allowing buyers to manage their investment alongside a low average income across the population. KH NIRON Investment’s executive director, Ms Lok Sovanna, invests in many condominium projects in order to resell the units. She said  “there is some risk but we observe that Cambodian people and foreigners demanding more and more condos and apartments and understanding the benefits of investment. She went on that KH NIRON INVESTMENT has spent a hundred million dollars investing in big projects. For example; units in Bodaiju Residences, DI Riviera, The Peak, The Bridge, and East One.    General Director of Century 21, Kevin Goos, said that the Kingdom is the most attractive market among Asean countries. The biggest real estate markets of Singapore, Hong Kong, and Taiwan are decreasing in investment by around thirty percent. Hence, we can expect increased investment in Cambodia in the next 2 years.    He went on to say that the real estate market in Phnom Penh has affordable prices, if we compare to other countries in Asean. Cambodia is still growing fast across economic sectors, as it has been since 2001. If we compare the real estate market in Cambodia, it is the same as other countries such as Singapore, Taipei and Hong Kong during decades of the 1980s and 90s. Phnom Penh is growing fast and we also seeing some successful construction projects, such as the North Park Condominium project, which sold around 40 percent in the first phase of its inauguration last week. ​He went on to say that Cambodia granted a good opportunity for business expansion and the stand of the government on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is very attractive if we compare to other Asean member state policies. He added that the creation of the new construction law, and development in the country generally, will open the door for investors to invest more heavily in real estate,  and aid foreigners buying condos with greater transparency and consistency. Realestate.com.kh is proud to support the CVEA's Property View publication. Click here to get your copy, or if you are interested to join the CVEA today.

The construction sector has become the most dynamic engine of growth, partly due to the return of political stability and a revival in consumption, according to a recent report by the World Bank. Economic growth here is still led by construction, garment exports and tourism, the World Bank said in its report “World Bank East Asia and Pacific Economic Update – Staying the Course.” Construction investment increased nearly 3 billion US Dollar in the first 11 months 2015 if compared with the same period last year, according to the data from the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning, and Construction.According to Im Chhunlim, senior minister of the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning, and Construction, said construction investment capital reached about 2.9 billion US Dollars in the first 11 months in 2015 if compared with the same period last year, increased 27 per cent. A group of local real estate expert said the construction sector helps invigorate the economy as well as GDP growth. Kim Heang, CEO of Khmer Real Estate and president of Cambodian Valuers and Estate Agents Association (CVEA), said the construction sector took the biggest part in Cambodia’s GDP because most wealthy people gain benefit from the land and construction. He warned, “We don’t have to concentrate only on the construction sector because the prices can increase or decline depending on the situation as there are many sectors we have to focus on such as tourism, agriculture, as well as garment.” “People’s income does not meet the current residential, and number of tenants saw an increase, so the government must take action to make middle income people to be able to afford housing,” he said. In order to become a developed country with strong GDP, we have to depend on human resource. It is a long-term investment and the education system has to be improved,” Mr. Heang said. Chrek Soknim, CEO of Century21 Mekong, stressed the vital role of the construction sector in the Cambodian economy. “The economy talks about money. Currently as we can see, construction sector in Cambodia injected a lot of money into the economy. That’s the reason the construction sector took a big part in the GDP growth,” Mr. Soknim said. However, he said, “even though the Cambodia property sector is younger if compared with other countries, the Kingdom gains advantages from the sector.” “With people’s stable income bank sector in Cambodia also plays a vital role in boosting the property sector, and cash flow can help the economy,” he added. “To make the construction sector consistency, the government has to take care of investors by issuing laws to projects both investors and buyers,” Mr. Soknim said. In Sitha, vice-president of World Trust Estate, said currently there have been many construction sites popping up in Phnom Penh, and this creates many jobs for people as well as experts in the sector: “It means workers and experts in the construction sector earn more income from the construction, and many constructions boost the GDP growth and according to the current data from the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction, the construction saw an increase, and this means it took a part in the GDP as well,” Mr. Sitha said. “Bank sector plays an important role in providing loan for people to have enough ability to afford home as many middle-income people use the loan to buy their own home,” he added. Return On Investment of condo investment in Cambodia is around 7.5 per year if compared to the same Asian markets, Cambodia’s investment provide more benefit as Thailand and Japan at 6.3 and 5.5 per cent respectively, China and Hong Kong are offering rent yields of only 2.7 and 3.3 per cent respectively, and Philippine at 7.1 per cent annually, according to a recent study of Century 21 Mekong. According to a report of real estate agency Century21 condominium development increased by 20 per cent annually from 2008 to 2014 with 13 projects successfully completed, which translates to 3,090 available units as of today. With another 17 projects currently underway, the report predicted that by 2018, when many of the current projects are slated for completion, the number will have more than tripled to over 10,000 available units across Phnom Penh. Cambodia’s per capita GDP is forecast to reach $1,220 this year, up from $1,123 last year, according to official data. This places the country near lower-middle income status. Its new forecast comes just a few weeks after the Asian Development Bank revised its March forecast for economic growth this year from 7.3 per cent to 7 percent. The construction sector has become the most dynamic engine of growth, partly due to the return of political stability and a revival in consumption; however, the tourism sector is underperforming, despite the initial recovery in tourist arrivals to Thailand. Tourist arrivals during the first six months grew by only 4.6 percent (reaching 2.3 million visitors), compared to 6.9 percent during the same period last year, the report from the World Bank said. Realestate.com.kh is proud to support the CVEA's Property View publication. Click here to get your copy, or if you are interested to join the CVEA today.

Realestate.com.kh spoke with talented freelance architect & accomplished artist Sothea Thang about innovative architectural design and how to add value to your property.Sothea Thang is a self-taught Cambodian artist born in 1983. He graduated from Norton University in Phnom Penh with a degree in architecture and urban planning, and he worked at an architectural agency from 2007 to 2010. In September 2009, Sothea took a leave from his architectural position and turned to painting for a break from his office job. This soon became his vocation when he developed “Happy Together”, his first collection of paintings. The series was commissioned by a Siem Reap hotel and was exhibited later that year, and its success pushed Sothea to explore his skills across visual media, even as he continued to work as a freelance architect. In 2011, he opened his own studio-gallery in Phnom Penh, Top Art Gallery.What made you decide to be an architect?Sothea Thang: As a child with a wild imagination, I always enjoyed all kinds of creative activities. When I finished high school, I looked around at the art scene in Cambodia. The scene was small and there were not many opportunities for local artists at that time. I thought about what I could do for my studies that was still connected with creative activities and thus decided to try architecture. I found I really enjoyed studying the subject at university and that led to my continued work in the field. What trends do you feel are important in architecture/design?Sothea Thang: I appreciate naturalistic aspects that emphasize space, functionality, and light. Green space is important too. Architecture is about merging elements in designing a structure, and I feel it's necessary to bring these things all together into the building as well. What is your design philosophy?Sothea Thang: Simplicity and strength through purity. Less is more. Practical yet beautiful. I like to bring about something that is unexpected; creating new forms within older structures and merging them together. This can be challenging but has often led to my most unexpected and novel successes.What key aspects are essential for innovative design?Sothea Thang: Space: the feeling when you walk in, that it's an open space with light, air and with green/natural elements. You feel like you can breathe. Also need to study and consider what's around the building. The result is needs to fit well. The materials inside and outside also need to fit with a vision and belong with those naturalistic elements informing the design.  Some businessmen today, they build without thinking about the space itself or about the surroundings, they just build and want to sell. But this omits any thought about the people living, working, or passing time in that space.What's happening in Cambodia in terms of "green" or sustainable design?Sothea Thang: In Cambodia, we don't really see this a lot right now. Past architects have paid more attention to the light, the air, the rain, but today we see buildings going up quickly with focus on maximizing profit. For example, they make housing developments, and they divide the land plots as much as they can to maximize the number of units available for sale. This minimizes space for greenery, it blocks out light and air, and it actually leads to increased energy and water costs. From one unit to another, the space is not enough. No attention to trees or nature, and not enough focus on the space within the units they build. How do you know if a building is well designed?Sothea Thang: There is more attention to the way the elements flow in and around the structure, better technical connections such as water pipes, drains, and electricity. I look at the details and the quality of the chosen materials. These signal the quality of the construction work. I also look at how the space is arranged to determine what kind of concept there was in the design. The finishing on the walls or the way a floor is polished, signal to me the intentions and the techniques behind the designs.Regarding renovation, what elements add the most value to a property?Sothea Thang: When I'm renovating an old building, it's important for me to determine the existing elements of the space. Then I try to retain key features of the building while merging my own contemporary additions into the structure. Often, the key step is opening up the blocked interiors of the property. I select higher quality materials, open up the space to more light and air, add green features, and maybe create some aesthetic flourishes. My clients have appreciated when the spaces are opened up to more light and air. This also requires thoughtful consideration of the overall floor plan and the way people actually walk through the rooms and use the space. Modernizing the appliances and updating the materials with higher-quality detailing are also key. This is the same for every part of the house: living room, kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, and terrace/garden. This interview has been edited for length and clarity purposes.

On the Thursday 24th March 2016, The River Premium Developments (Cambodia) proudly announced the groundbreaking of their latest project, Center City Ta Khmao, onsite at the showroom complex the Ta Khmao riverside area.SEE THE FULL LISTINGThe ceremony was graced by the presence of most honorable guests H.E. Hun Manet, Lieutenant General of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces, and H.E. Mao Pherun, Governor of Ta Khmao. Over 500 guests from the public and media were present for the groundbreaking ceremony. As stated by H.E. Hun Manet at yesterday's groundbreaking ceremony, “Center City Ta Khmao is a true landmark of development in Cambodia, which the Royal Government of Cambodia considers as the leader in economic growth, increasing the employment rate and GDP. I highly appreciate the effort of the Tang Kung Group and other investors that have made this significant investment in Cambodia.” As announced yesterday, Phase I construction of the Center City Ta Khmao project is now underway. The River Premium Developments are accordingly currently pre-selling the commercial shop houses of the mixed-use development. Phase II details will be revealed in the coming months. Center City Ta Khmao is a joint venture between Tang Kung Group and a Malaysian investor who also developed the Riverside Group in Melbourne, Australia. The Tang Kung Group brings over 16 years in the real estate industry. Center City Ta Khmao will be the pioneering development of Ta Khmao City, the complex being centrally located along Tonle Bassac riverfront in Ta Khmao. As noted by The River’s Chairman, Oknah Tang Kung, “Ta Khmao was our firm’s natural choice for development as we firmly believe residential development will grow toward Ta Khmao primarily because this area is highly flood resistant.”“We see Ta Khmao as the most sustainable region for development in the near future. Phnom Penh central city will soon face overcrowding, infrastructural limitations and traffic congestion, and also higher risks of flooding. Thus, Center City Ta Khmao is a smart investment moving forward into the future of this great city.” The City Center Ta Khmao project incorporates residential, commercial (with office and retail space) and leisure amenities all in a single complex. Center City Ta Khmao will cover 15,463 square meters with a modern architectural design of two 27-story towers totaling 484 condominium units, surrounded by a 68 unit commercial complex, 2-story shopping mall, 3-story car park and one level dedicated entirely to leisure amenities. Residential units will range from studio to 3 bedrooms. SEE THE FULL LISTING

Year after year Phnom Penh is changing very quickly. New infrastructure, business centers and modern-style residences are spreading across the capital, and it seems the ideal lifestyle sought by Phnom Penhers may be transforming too. Realestate.com.kh takes a look at the changes in consumer trends in the Phnom Penh Residential Market as of 2016.The standard of living in Phnom Penh increasingly includes high standard amenities, privacy, security and a lifestyle that revolves fore-mostly around convenience. This is quite a change from the landed wooden bungalows that used to define the riverside city.Many new residential projects being launched in Phnom Penh are importing international standards of urban living with a key focus on the project site locations and livability in design. If new development projects don’t rise to these new standards, it is becoming increasingly hard to compete in the Phnom Penh residential market. Check out the latest new development projects now!The residential projects in Cambodia encompass all kinds of property; villas, flathouse, link house, penthouses, colonial mansions, condos and apartments. This gives Phnom Penhers a lot of choice... But as the city grows, along with congestion and a lack of affordable land, apartments and condos are becoming the natural choice for inner-city Cambodians with work demands and budget constraints. And clearly developers feel the market will move this way in the next few years, based on the hundreds of new condo projects underway in and around the Capital...But is this really the new lifestyle choice for people living in Phnom Penh? And if it is, why?“Customers requesting a home loan to buy a condo or apartment are growing, including both locals and foreigners. Local people want to test this new lifestyle - they think this type of residence is comfortable and very convenient, especially if the price is acceptable for local buyers’ incomes. The most important feature for a condo or apartment for new buyers is that it is well located in the downtown areas, close to places of work and entertainment venues,” says Ms. Heng Sreyneang, home loan officer at Canadia Bank. Ms.  Sambath Chanpisey, sale consultant at the Diamond One project said that, “Cambodian people are very interested in modern residences, and especially condos or apartments. They want to live like city dwellers in more developed countries. Meanwhile, foreign buyers, namely Malaysian, Japanese, Singaporean and Chinese buyers, buy condos and apartments in Phnom Penh for investment purposes and, sometimes, living.”Mr. Pen Pisey, a local Phnom Penher and real estate investor, says that, “I’ve owned an apartment for 2 years near SanSomKosal pagoda. I bought it with a loan from the bank. I never bought it for investment purposes or rental returns - I just want to live in the apartment because I feel secure and it offers great privacy.” Mr. Rosdra Thipadey, who works in a private company in Phnom Penh, said that, “I have lived in Rose Condo for 2 years already; it is so convenient, secure and located in the heart of the business district. Especially good, is that I have privacy and we can find all the services I need right here in the residence - such as a supermarket, gym, swimming pool, and many more things that make my life easier. I am so glad and feeling cool to live in Rose Condo.”The new face of Phnom Penh is defined by modern developments. The vision of investors is that one day this will become the accepted and preferred type of housing in the central city, as it is in other regional business hub cities. 38.9% of the Cambodian population falls within the middle age bracket - the perfect demographic to accept this new vision of a modern lifestyle and a high standard of living. People in Phnom Penh seem to be adjusting themselves to living the modern city life very quickly, despite high-rise life being a very new concept in Cambodia.NEED A CONDO?

Realestate.com.kh is proud to be the “OFFICIAL PROPERTY PORTAL” of the 2016 Cambodia Property Expo, in association with AMB Tarsus Events Group.The Cambodia Property Expo is an annual, international expo that brings together a host of the nation’s finest construction and property related companies under one roof. It is hosted by the Cambodia Constructors Association and the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction, Cambodia.  The Cambodia Property Expo allows industry leaders to share knowledge and experience with each other, and show the public their latest projects and accomplishments. A wide variety of property developers also attend the event to showcase their latest projects and offer expo-only discounts to new buyers. By attending the Cambodia Property Expo, all exhibitors will also get an opportunity to build business relationships and network with all attendees. Meanwhile, guests from the general public will get a unique and comprehensive insight into the Cambodian construction and property industry. The Cambodia Property Expo proudly unites property owners and buyers, key shareholders and decision makers, builders, contractors, architects and real estate agents and consultants all in the same place. This expo is is not to be missed. CAMBODIA PROPERTY EXPO '16Venue: Diamond Island Convention & Exhibition Center Chamkarmon, Phnom Penh, Cambodia Phnom Penh, Cambodia Date: 8-10 September 2016Contact Information for Exhibitors, Sponsors and Guests:AMB TARSUS EVENTS GROUPM: +855 16525142 E: veasna@ambtarsus.com DOWNLOAD THE FULL EVENT BROCHURE

BNG Legal Cambodia has released their latest version of the Guide to Doing Business in Cambodia which contains extensive information about Cambodian real estate law and property regulations.This extremely comprehensive Guide to Doing Business in Cambodia gives valuable information for investors and Cambodian-based business people on Banking and Finance, Corporate & Commercial Law, Dispute Resolution in Cambodia, Intellectual Property Laws, Labor Law, Mining Law and Regulations, Marriage and Family Law - and last, but certainly not least, a comprehensive overview of Cambodian law related to Land and Construction.In regards to Real Estate Law and Regulation, the BNG Legal Guide to Doing Business in Cambodia duly covers Legal Ownership of Land in Cambodia, Acquisition of Property in Cambodia, Potential Risks, Enforcement of Property Rights, Establishing Control over Land, Perpetual Leases, Land Concessions, Construction, Encumbrances on Immovable Property and Recently Issued Regulations and New Procedural Rules.This is a great guide for those trying to get their head around Cambodian Property Law.BNG Legal Cambodia our a unique law firm in the Kingdom, able to offer a deep understanding of the local business environment while simultaneously supported by international professionalism and integrity. BNG Legal facilitate business, investment and trade between Cambodia, Myanmar and the rest of the world through innovative and cost-effective legal services. BNG Legal offer all range of real estate related legal services, including residential, commercial and industrial property transactions, Lease negotiation and agreement drafting, title search and due diligence, land registration and titling, agricultural land concessions, financing, mortgages and other securities, construction contracting, permitting, and financing, environmental compliance consulting, advice on Special Economic Zones and tax-optimization.Contact BNG Legal today at: cambodia@bnglegal.com / hhn@bnglegal.comDOWNLOAD THE GUIDE TO DOING BUSINESS IN CAMBODIA EBOOK NOWCheck out articles, news, and views related to real estate law on Realestate.com.kh today!

CBRE Research Southeast Asia has released the results of the 7th edition of the “How Active are Retailers report”. Within this report, statistics suggest that 26 percent of all global retailers surveyed identified Southeast Asian countries as primary target markets for 2016.CHECK OUT THE FULL INFOGRAPHICRetailers primary interests in the Southeast Asian region appear to focus on Mid-range Fashion and Luxury & Business retail sectors.

AXIS RESIDENCES is proud to be the First Cambodia Development by a Singaporean Developer to receive the 'Highly Commended Award' for the “Best Condo Development (greater Phnom Penh)” at the inaugural Cambodia Property Awards 2016, part of the Asia Property Awards series.And why not? Axis Residences is proving to be a trailblazer in the Cambodian developments market - setting the benchmark with a host of innovative design, finance and quality features.Axis Residences is the pioneering condominium in Phnom Penh to adopt sustainable solar PV technology (Solar Panels) into the development.By doing so, Axis Residences will be the first and the only condominium in Cambodia that incorporates this innovative green feature that benefits the buyers with both a stable electrical supply and a reduced utility and maintenance bill. It is also nice to know that your home is supporting the reduction of carbon footprint for our mother earth and elevating a cleaner Cambodia into the new century.By utilizing clean renewable energy from the sun, all residents at Axis Residences benefit from cheaper maintenance rates and likewise reduce the carbon footprint of the condo in its entirety. The green energy generated from the rooftops of Axis Residences reduces CO2 emissions equivalent to that of 3222 trees every year. Axis Residences is the forerunner for new quality condo developments in Cambodia – and firmly believes that innovation as such will pave the way for future condo and commercial developments in considering the incorporation of clean sustainable energy sources in their design.The sleek and contemporary design of Axis Residences is also impressing Cambodian celebrities and film makers. Recently, the renowned film production company, Hong Meas HD TV, has been using the Axis Residences showroom to film various drama series and movies.The directors and producers of these productions are well-aware that the younger generation of Khmer are craving a higher standard of living, and a taste in design style that the market currently sorely lacks. Because the Axis showroom epitomizes the style and quality that the new generation of home buyers are craving, and feature brand name appliances and fixtures throughout, it is only natural that Axis Residences should be the ideal location to film these popular films and drama series.Spring CJW, the renowned Singaporean development company behind Axis Residences, however, is well-aware that many younger Khmer interested in purchasing their first condo home currently lack access to sufficient finance to make such a dream a reality…With that in mind, Spring CJW has created a very attractive 15 year end-financing package in partnership with Phillip Bank, uniquely designed for their customers. As the payment schedule for this loan is based on each construction stage, off-plan buyers will only have to pay as each stage of the development is completed.The Partnership between Axis Residences and Philip BankThe Phillip Bank loan package, available to Axis Residences buyers, only charges interest for the amount that is supposed to be paid. For example, if the sub-structural phase of construction is competed, just 10% has to be paid to the developer by the end-buyer. This means that customers who purchase via the Phillip Bank loan will only need to incur interest for that initial 10%.This is not a common practice at all in Cambodia, as most projects will charge the loan interest on the full sum owing, and few banks are willing to support condo buyers. Not only that but, again uniquely, the principle sum for the Phillip Bank loan will only be payable at the completion of the Axis Residences project in its entirety, which is around 2 years later. Customers who use the Phillip Bank loan option will thus be looking at only around a $90 installment payment per month for the first year.This is not only affordable for young buyers, but acts as a guarantee that the project is completed to the promised standards, in the promised timeframe. Although this is Spring CJW’s first condo project in Cambodia, they have entered the market to stay – and customer-friendly initiatives such as this are a testament to that!At Axis Residences, younger buyers are offered a chance to secure a state-of-the-art home on finance terms that they can genuinely afford. This is a golden opportunity for young couples to own a new home with a lifestyle that will be the envy of their peers for many years to come.If you would like to learn more about Axis Residences, click HERE to check out the full listing on Realestate.com.kh today.Inquire directly with Spring CJW and join their friendly and knowledgable property consultants right here in Phnom Penh for a tour of the famous Axis Residences showroom.Click HERE to request an information pack today!

Century 21 Cambodia, in association with Century 21 University, brings you the Cambodian Property Law seminar - in April 2016.About the Trainer:Mr. PORCHHAY PHOUNG: Legal Advisor of Sciaroni & Associates:Mr. Porchhay Phoung is a Legal Advisor of Sciaroni & Associates, a leading law firm in Cambodia. He has been advising global real estate investors and developers , Cambodian real estate companies in laws governing real estate development, land lease laws, construction contracts, and ownership titles for foreigners among other matters pertaining to real estate. He has more than ten years’ experience and earned his Master degree in commercial Laws from University of Melbourne in 2015.Who Should Attend: • Property Owners • Property Managers • Property Developers • Real Estate Agents • Agency OwnersWhat You Will Learn: • Land Title Issues • Constitution Vs. Investment • Local Vs. Foreigner • Landholding Structures • Sellers Vs. Buyers • Developers Vs. Buyers • Construction Limitation • Associated TaxesDate : 02nd April 2016 Time : 9am to 5:30pm Place : Century 21 UniversityLimited seats, Call now: 095 666 297 / 095 666 298 / 076 222 0080 / 076 222 0404 / 076 222 0505Only $95 per ticket, includes 2 coffee breaks and lunch.

As HLH Group’s maiden housing development D’Seaview gears up for Phase 2 of its development – after having had all 300 of its residential units fully subscribed in Phase 1 since its launch in September 2015 – it will simultaneously be introducing Sihanoukville’s largest shopping mall.SEE THE FULL LISTING The shopping mall, comprising a colossal 20,000 square metres of retail space, will be situated right next to D’Seaview. Slated to be the trendy uptown area of Sihanoukville, with D’Seaview being a mixed-use development that encompasses 737 residential units and numerous commercial units suitable for an array of businesses, the shopping mall will be an enticing complex to complete both residents’ and non-residents’ entertainment and shopping needs. The mall will hold such amenities as food courts, bars, health and wellness centres, beauty salons, mini-marts and financial institutions. The development will also incorporate an integrated hotel to capture Sihanoukville’s growing popularity as Cambodia’s premier beach town.

To cope with the city’s expansion and rapid growth in vehicles, more infrastructure projects are expected to be completed in Phnom Penh before 2020.At the grand opening of the 5-January Overpass (Techno Overpass), Prime Minister Samdech Hun Sen approved several more projects for the capital. After acknowledging the ongoing congestion at the Kbal Thnal Sky Bridge, construction will start soon on an additional curved overpass and underground road near the existing bridge. The US$10 million project will see an 810 metre overpass and a 606 metre underground built by the Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation (OCIC). This is a great boost for Phnom Penh infrastructure! An underpass at the junction of Russian Federation Blvd and Preah Monivong Blvd (PKC stop) will also be constructed by OCIC to ease traffic in the vicinity. The plan features a 340 metre long, 15 metre wide road running through a 5 metre high tunnel. Following a successful soil analysis conducted on January 8, construction will commence later this year.Another overpass will be erected at the congested intersection between Russian Federation Blvd and Hanoi Street reflecting the significance of Russian Federation Blvd as the main artery connecting the city centre and the airport. The bridge is to be 611 metre long and 16.5 metres wide and will be built by Chinese Shanghai Construction and financed by the Chinese government.Phnom Penh will see also its first elevated expressway that will stretch 13km above the existing rail line connecting Preah Monivong Blvd and the international airport. The toll road will help ensure air passengers do not miss their flights due to congestion. While City Hall previously announced that the project is being developed by a Chinese investor, it appears that OCIC is also negotiating with City Hall to win the bid for this project. Muhibbah Engineering (Cambodia) Ltd has also claimed to have won the bid to build a $200-million expressway connecting Phnom Penh’s downtown to National Road 4 and the capital’s airport. Stretching over 14km, the 24 metre wide, 4 lane highway will also run parallel with the current rail track that connects Toul Kork Roundabout to National Road 4. The Phnom Penh infrastructure project will commence soon once compensation to affected households has been completed this year.A 220km highway linking Phnom Penh and Ho Chi Minh City worth around US$2.2 billion proposed by the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has also been announced with completion hoped for by 2030.The capital will also see construction of a second ring road that will run 16.67km across two lanes from Russian Federation Blvd to National Road 2 across the districts of Dangkor, Sen Sok, Meanchey heading south to Takmao town, another boost for Phnom Penh infrastructure. The road will be built by Chinese Shanghai Construction via Chinese government financing. Built with 20-cm thick concrete it will be 23 metres wide with a 1.5 metre drainage system on both sides. The exact starting and completion dates for all these projects are not yet known.While the government is pinning its hopes on more infrastructure solving congestion, urban planning expert Dr. Van Vat told the Phnom Penh Post that infrastructure projects alone can’t mitigate the jams.  “To avoid this problem, we need to have a detailed plan for each district as to which roads need to be expanded in the next five or ten years, and which roads will have overpasses,” he stressed, adding that, “If we don’t do that, the congestion issue will continue.” Dr. Vat also requested the government to limit vehicle imports and design and implement appropriate traffic light systems.This article was submitted by: Tim Vutha, Construction and Property Magazine

Century 21 Cambodia through its Global Strategic Business Development Team seeks to strengthen the Real Estate Investment Opportunities with Century 21 Taiwan. As the Cambodian market continues to grow both in demand, developers and investors are seeking to diversify their options and target options that offer lucrative long-term success. This week, Century 21 Cambodia, along with Local Franchise Office Century 21- Dream Property, is scheduled to travel to Taiwan to meet with their Franchise counterparts to discuss ways of networking clients from both countries to increase investment and sales through the Global Sales Structure Century 21 franchises has to offer, both in Cambodia as well as Taiwan.Taiwan’s interest in this region has been noted with purchases into projects such as Bali, Suncity Bassac, and others continue to extend its desire for investment returns that are not so easily presented in a traditional real estate investment market.As the real estate industry in Taiwan remains at a fixed level of real estate investment returns, the need to find new and better return on investment for clients has become a part of their office’s interest to reach out and find investments around Cambodia. According to China Post, offices in Taiwan continue to be set up in search Condominium investment growth in Cambodia.This trip for Century 21 Cambodia will be another one of several recent visits to neighboring countries. These visits add to this year’s goal of finding ways to create opportunities for Century 21 franchises to cater to clients buying or selling around Cambodia. With the rare opportunity of Phnom Penh growing at its current rate, Century 21 Cambodia seeks to support its franchise offices, by networking with Century 21 global offices and fill the need to find clients for these development units.

4 March 2016, Singapore – Knight Frank, the independent global property consultancy, today releases the Prime Asia Development Land Index for H2 2015. The index derives the price of prime residential (apartment or condominium) and commercial (office) development land in 13 major cities across Asia.Knight Frank Prime Asia Development Land Index shows prices of residential sites in the region appreciating 3.0% in H2 2015, up from the 1.2% seen in the previous six months. On the other hand, the price growth of office land slowed to 1.5% from 3.6%Report highlights:H2 2015 witnessed development land investment volumes in Asia rise by 14.1% year-on-year.Cross-border volumes increased by 55.3%, driven by intra-Asian investment flows.China bought almost two times more land in the rest of Asia.While the average price of a piece of development land has been climbing steadily since mid-2012, the average land size has been shrinking. In Indonesia, the government’s efforts to tackle tax evasion is discouraging big-ticket purchases.Mr Nicholas Holt, Head of Research for Asia Pacific, says, “The confluence of easing construction costs and rising residential prices and office rents propelled Phnom Penh’s prime land prices upwards. Although the growth rates in H2 2015 moderated slightly from the previous six months, they nonetheless were among the fastest in the region.“Tokyo’s prime residential land index recorded the fastest growth among the cities tracked in H2 2015 – it is also the only market that outperformed Phnom Penh. With Japan joining the negative interest rate club, there could be more yield compression and price appreciation.”Download the full report!

Jum reap sour! And welcome to another weekly Real Estate News Report brought to you by RealEstate.com.kh. The leader in real estate news in the Kingdom and the best place to find your new home. Missed Part 1 or Part 2?On this week’s show, we’re going to be speaking with Mr. In Sitha, Director of Business Development at VTrust Appraisal, about where to buy development land in Phnom Penh. Sitha has over 20 years experience in the real estate business in Cambodia and he now specializes in property development consultancy and real estate business development. He's also a renowned real estate teacher in real estate law and real estate practice. In this 6 Part series, we're going to get some tips for property developers and real estate businesses seeking to gain an edge when entering the Cambodian real estate market.PART 3: WHAT ARE BEST AREAS TO BUY DEVELOPMENT LAND IN PHNOM PENH?Realestate.com.kh: What districts are the best to buy in in Phnom Penh for developers?  Say if you got a new developer client seeking consultation, which areas would you recommend buying land in now for a new development project?In Sitha: I think right now Chamkarmon District is one of the four districts of Phnom Penh that I would consider as the good place to invest at the moment and into the future. I think that's where to buy development land in Phnom Penh. Realestate.com.kh: Land's expensive right?In Sitha: Yeah, the land is little bit expensive but it's still good to invest. As you see, Chamkarmon District is the place with the most expats, restaurants and the prime hotel area of approximately 1,073.72 hectares. In this district, I consider two communes, BKK1 and Tonle Bassac, to be best to invest in.Realestate.com.kh: Which ones?In Sitha: Number one is Boeung Keng Kang 1 and number two is Tonle Bassac. You see, they are in the central area, so the southeast of Independent monument, and this district has a lot of wealthy residents, NGO, corporates, etc. And the landscape is very nice, very beautiful and wide, leafy streets. Realestate.com.kh: Will developers who choose to build in BKK1 increase their chance of higher rental returns?In Sitha: That's correct.Realestate.com.kh: Because of all the expats and lots of money in this area?In Sitha: In Boeung Keng Kang 1 and Tonle Bassac, there are many rich people. One unit of a serviced apartment with two bedrooms can be priced from 800 US to over 1800. Yet, ultimately, it is based on the quality and the design of the construction.Realestate.com.kh: Much, much higher than the rest of the country?In Sitha: Yeah, it makes it a good investment opportunity if for a one bedroom unit you can get almost 1000 to 1500 in rental returns. These areas offer easy access to all sorts of entertainment and food venues, and also the government institutions, hospitals, international schools and universities. This is a centralized area. Market price increases yearly so this is a very good place to invest in these two sangkats/communes.Loving it? Then you should watch part 4 now:WHY PHNOM PENH BOREYS ARE PROVING SUCH A POPULAR MARKET FOR DEVELOPERS AND HOMEBUYERS coming soon

The Cambodia Constructors Association (CCA) will host its 5th CCA Summit and Cambodia Construction Industry Expo on December, 1-3, 2015 at Diamond Island Exhibition and Convention Center where hundreds of local and international exhibiting companies and visitors will attend. CCA is now also a member of ASEAN Constructors Federation, China-ASEAN Building Materials Committee, and International Federation of Asian & Western Pacific Contractors ‘Association (IFAWPCA). This will bring huge benefits to the Cambodia Construction Summit & Expo 2016.Unlike previous time, this time at the Cambodia Construction Summit & Expo 2016 there will be many exhibitors from the three above international associations as well. Besides, we will have some excited events like CCA networking party with exhibitors at the second day of the event (evening) with free foods and drink where you and possibly your members can network with our potential CCA members and other exhibitors to match your business with them. Once there was 250 booths last year, we aims for 300 booths a this year's Cambodia Construction Summit & Expo 2016.CCA is a private-run constructors group that was established in 2012. Currently, we have over 100 member companies that are companies related to construction and property sectors. For more info about CCA, please kindly go to www.cca.org.kh

After receiving complaints from commuters regarding toll fees along Veng Sreng Road, the prime minister cancelled the road investment contract in late December 2015 and placed it under state management and abolished the collection of fees from commuters. “I am giving the Veng Sreng road back to the people to use free of charge as a New Year present. I am grateful to our citizens who brought this news on Facebook about their problems regarding the Veng Sreng road to my attention,” the Prime Minister Hun Sen said.Chinese firm BOTT WAYS invested in the Veng Sreng - Chom Chao road which runs for 6.5km and is 22 metres wide. Built with 20-cm concrete, the road is divided by 2.5-metre wide garden. When contract was cancelled, the road has almost been completed. The remaining works have subsequently been transferred to the capital department of public works and transport.   As with Veng Sreng Road, Prime Minister Samdech Hun Sen also decided to cease charges for commuters on National Road 4 from 13 January after receiving complaints from people via Facebook. The decision was made just a few days after he removed toll fees for people who own vehicles and reside along National Road 4 that have to pay daily. The 230-km National Road 4 has been operated and maintained by AZ Group under a 34-year concession since 2000. This main artery to the coast is currently being expanded from 2 lanes to 4 lanes with an unspecified completion date.   This article was submitted by: Tim Vutha, Construction and Property Magazine

Plans have been submitted for a super skyscraper to be built in Phnom Penh which would make it home to the tallest building in Southeast Asia (ASEAN) in 2019 should it be completed. The Thai Boon Roong Twin Tower Trade Center is being jointly developed by local firm Thai Boon Roong Co., Ltd and Chinese giant contractor Kia Nip Group. The development has been revised upwards from a proposal submitted to City Hall in June 2015 of 111 floors worth $3 billion to a new design of 133 floors worth over $1 billion.The capital’s Land Management Urban Planning and Construction department and the Phnom Penh municipality consecutively endorsed the revised master plan in mid-February. The plan has already been submitted to the Ministry of Land Management Urban Planning and Construction for a final study that is expected to take at least 45 working days before a final decision is released.  If final permission is granted, construction is planned to kick off later in 2016 with completion scheduled for 2019. The project is expected to become ASEAN’s Tallest TowerThe Thai Boon Roong Twin Tower Trade Center is to be situated on the five-hectare Dream Land plot in Tonle Bassac commune and will feature commercial office space, a cultural centre, hotel, retail and shopping centres and many more entertainment facilities.  If completed, the structure will be ASEAN’s Tallest Tower ahead of Malaysia’s Petronas Twin Towers (452 metres with 88 floors), Vietnam’s Keangnam Hanoi Landmark Tower (345 metres and 77 floors), Malaysia’s Menara Telekom Towers (310 metres and 55 floors) and the 304-metre Baiyoke Tower II in Thailand with 84 floors.  It will also be the 5th tallest high-rise in Asia as well as in the world following the UAE’s Burj Khalifa (828 meters), China’s Shanghai Tower (632 meters), Saudi Arabia’s Makkah Royal Clock Tower Hotel (601 meters) and Taiwan’s Taipei 101 (509 meters). However, if the 555-metre Diamond Tower proposed by Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation (OCIC) in 2010 is successfully built on Diamond Island, the tower will rank only second in Phnom Penh.  While such high-rises are usually welcomed by the public, building safety systems - especially related to fire prevention - are usually the main concerns due to the fact that the Cambodian authorities still have limited capacity and legal regulation in dealing with safety issues on tall buildings, let alone super-skyscrapers. Prof. Tous Saphouen, Secretary General of Board of Architects Cambodia and also the Dean of Pannasastra University of Cambodia’s Architecture Faculty was involved in the architectural design of this project. He told local media that the development was the result of a very detail architectural study done by experienced Cambodian and Chinese architects. According to Prof. Tous, giant Chinese constructor and main contractor Kia Nip Group has developed many high structures especially in China. Since it is the first super-tall building in Cambodia, the developer it is not sure whether local firms can be sub-contracted to parts of the building works. According to data from the Ministry of Land Management Urban Planning and Construction, 628 buildings ranging between 5 and 40+ floors have been erected in Cambodia so far. Among them, 407 buildings are between 5 and 9 floors, 187 buildings are between 10 and 19 floors, and 22 are between 20 and 29 floors. Only four towers surpass 40 floors. Phnom Penh Governor Pa Socheatevong has indicated that Phnom Penh will attract more high-rises in the next few years, especially in the area surrounding Diamond Island, and in Chamkar Morn and Daun Pinh districts. Despite general industry enthusiasm for the project, questions continue to be raised about not only the viability of the project for the Cambodian market but also about whether due diligence will be followed in the approval, investment and construction of the project. This article was submitted by: Tim Vutha, Construction and Property Magazine

2018 will see Ta Khmao city transformed into a real estate development hub thanks to the construction of the first large-scale residential and commercial development project called Center City Ta Khmao.SEE THE FULL LISTINGLocated just south of Phnom Penh along the Tonle Bassac riverfront, the Center City Ta Khmao complex is to be built on a 15,463 square metre plot with 10,668 square metres of beautiful landscaped surroundings and will feature a range of luxury freehold-based property units. Two 27-storey condominium towers totalling 484 units will be surrounded by 60 commercial shophouses, 8 commercial buildings, a 2-storey shopping mall, and 3-storey car park. One floor of the building will be dedicated to leisure amenities including a health and fitness centre, swimming pools, jogging paths and a children’s playground.The complex is being developed by Tang Kung Group under the brand The River Premium Developments via a joint venture between local conglomerate Tang Kung Group and a Malaysian investor also owner of Australia-based Riverside Group. Tang Kung Group has almost 20 years of experience in the real estate industry. Thanks to the extensive background of the developer, The River Premium Developments prides itself on premium quality mixed-use developments, incorporating residential, commercial and leisure amenities. To ensure premium quality, it integrates modern design and architecture into all of its prime location projects to cater to the Cambodian market. First-class quality is key to the culture and commitment of the company and is guaranteed by using only branded construction materials to maintain international standards. “Situated in the heart of Ta Khmao overlooking the grand Tonle Bassac, Center City Ta Khmao will be the finest in world-class living,” said Okhna Tang Kung, Chairman/CEO of The River. He added that Center City differentiates itself from other developments by being located, “In a tranquil and picturesque setting in front of the majestic Tonle Bassac and offering unparalleled convenience. It offers customers the choice of owning spacious shophouses perfect for any business, thanks to its proximity to premium condominium units and a luxurious shopping mall that offers world-class amenities within the same complex.” The target market for the developer is both local and foreign high-end buyers. According to Okhna Tang Kung, his firm has a different strategic view on the future property hub, saying that Ta Khmao will be the next landmark in the kingdom.SEE THE FULL LISTING“As predicted by Cambodia’s most-celebrated architect and urban planner, H.E. Vann Molyvann, Phnom Penh city will continue to grow toward Ta Khmao as this area is highly flood resistant, and will remain so for the future. The developer behind Center City Ta Khmao thus views Ta Khmao as the most sustainable region for residential development, with H.E. Vann Molyvann’s expert understanding in mind,” he stressed. Construction on the development kicked off last year and will ensue in 3 phases. Phase 1 will be the shophouses and is now in the pre-selling stage. Unit prices for the mall and all condominium units are expected to be revealed during phase 2 and 3 in the coming months.