Phnom Penh - Mekong based private equity firm Belt Road Capital Management (BRCM) has made its first ever investment of AUD $2.25 million (USD $1.8 million) into Digital Classifieds Group (DCG), the online classifieds group behind Cambodia’s leading real estate website Realestate.com.kh.The recent investment from BRCM marks one of the largest tech investments in Cambodia history, with much of the funds earmarked for rapid growth in Cambodia and related Southeast Asian markets.“The company has made major investments in its technology and core human resources, which have increased the interest of investors in recent funding rounds. When we first commenced the business we undervalued the importance of our platform and bootstrapped every part of the business,” said Mathew Care, CEO of DCG. “With the benefit of hindsight, we have spent over 18 months developing a world class platform, based on proven Australian real estate portal technology, which is now delivering outstanding results.”Care added: “We are presently reviewing a range of expansion opportunities, particularly in Cambodia, where we have seen a tremendous surge in internet penetration and rapid urbanisation. We believe that our experience, platforms and committed expatriate and local teams are capable of tackling almost any new opportunities - and this additional capital gives DCG and Realestate.com.kh the ability to take on a much larger share of the Cambodian and Southeast Asian online marketplace.”“Having seen the swift growth of Realestate.com.kh, and a high level of professionalism across DCG’s local and international operations, I was more than confident to introduce the opportunity to the equity partners of BRCM. I believe this company has a strong future in both the Cambodian market and internationally, and I’m excited that BRCM will now be a part of this journey,” said Alex Odom, Chief Investment Officer of BRCM. “We’ve previously worked with Alex Odom, the Chief Investment Officer at BRCM, and have always respected his expertise. Whilst we weren’t actively seeking funding at the time, we believe Alex and his team will bring a level of experience market knowledge to DCG that is invaluable,” said Tom O’Sullivan, CEO of Realestate.com.kh.O’Sullivan added the additional funding will fuel growth in DCG’s existing market, including swift expansion into additional business verticals within Cambodia. The funding is also highly strategic given BRCM’s unique focus on countries exposed to China’s ‘One Belt, One Road’ policy, particularly Mekong based countries such as Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Myanmar and Thailand.“DCG is prioritising Cambodia and greater Southeast Asia for investment and expansion,” noted O’Sullivan. “Given BRCM’s deep experience in Cambodia and related ‘Belt Road’ markets such as Myanmar and Laos, we are excited about the benefits that their knowledge and connections will bring.”About Realestate.com.kh:Established in 2009 by Cambodian National Moek Chenda, Realestate.com.kh has grown to be the leading real estate website and marketing company in Cambodia, working with the nation's leading real estate agencies, developers and lenders. In 2015, Australian-based DCG partnered with Moek to develop the business rapidly.The platform, in Khmer, English and Chinese languages, has over 40,000 properties for sale and rent, with tens of thousands of property hunters visiting the website and app each month. Realestate.com.kh also produce a quarterly real estate magazine entitled “Cambodia Real Estate” in English and Chinese languages, and co-produce a weekly property section with The Khmer Times newspaper. Realestate.com.kh also hosts the “Cambodia Real Estate Show” series, which has facilitated over USD $30m in direct sales in 2017 alone.For more information please visit official site: http://realestate.com.khAbout Belt Road Capital Management (BRCM):Belt Road Capital Management is a private equity investment manager based in Phnom Penh, Cambodia which focuses on the Greater Mekong Sub-Region consisting of Cambodia, Myanmar, Lao PDR, Thailand and Vietnam. The company partners with promising small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) to support the achievement of strategic goals, facilitate sustainable growth and expand access to new markets.BRCM has launched its initial round of fundraising with value up to USD $50 million and has began deployment and plans to launch subsequent investment funds in the near future.Fore more information please visit BCRM official site: http://www.beltroadcap.com About Digital Classified Group (DCG): DCG has grown rapidly since its 2014 launch to create the dominant real estate portals in Cambodia (www.realestate.com.kh), Papua New Guinea (www.hausples.com.pg), and Fiji (www.property.com.fj). The group also owns the leading general classifieds websites in Laos (www.yula.la), Papua New Guinea (www.marketmeri.com), and Fiji (www.market.com.fj). DCG has taken leading positions in all of these markets through innovations such as sophisticated search technology, a localised approach to each market (languages spanning English, Khmer, French and Chinese), CRM and website solutions for real estate agents, and high-value real estate sales events.DCG believes having the right people is the single most critical factor for success in emerging markets. The business has created an environment in which any member of the team has a clear pathway toward equity participation via an employee share option plan. At board and shareholder level DCG has a huge depth of online classifieds experience, including director Tim White who spearheaded the successful expansion of Allhomes.com.au from humble beginnings to its AUD $50 million acquisition by Fairfax Media. For more information please visit DCG official site: http://digitalclassifiedsgroup.comMedia contact:1. Mathew Care, CEO of Digital Classifieds Group, mathew.care@hausples.com.pg | +61 409 598 2272. Sokunthea Hang, Investment Analyst of Belt Road Capital Management, sokunthea@beltroadcap.com  +855 12 223 458Find out the best real estate news on Realestate.com.kh

In light of the continuous economic growth of the Kingdom, Wangni Group International Exhibition Co., Ltd. has organised the Cambodia International Trade Fair, to be held on March 16 until the 18th, at the Diamond Island International Convention and Exhibition Center, Phnom Penh.The goal of this three day formal event is to further develop international trade and opportunities for economic exchange  between Cambodia and other key global regions. This will invariably have a positive impact on the sales of goods and services and -with more than 200 enterprises already signed up- increase the visibility of local businesses to the global stage.With full approval and support from Cambodia's Ministry of Commerce the event will consist of over 350 booths- with 150 soley allocated for local exhibitors. The range of products on offer are highly diverse, representing all of the Kingdom key industries.  Industrial and agricultural products will be featured as well as those in the construction and real estate category. Further to this a wide range of communication devices, garments, food and cosmetics will also feature, which demonstrates just how varied this exhibition will be.Exclusive media partners for the three day event include , Realestate.com.kh, , Beijing Ahzhong Cultural Relay Center, Cambodia's E-Link Media Co., Ltd., Angkor Times, The Commercial Daily, 58cam.com and Gold Zone Media Co., LtdApart from the product exhibition, seminars and industrial forums will be held by leading international experts. Key economic leaders from China, and Cambodia's own Ministry of Commerce will attend the opening ceremony of Marchs trade fair.With a total exhibition area of 7008 square metres and over 200 enterprises from key cities and provinces in China and other neighbouring Southeast Asian Nations already signed up for the fair- this first of its kind event is not to be missed.Find the best real estate news on Realestate.com.kh

In the Kingdom, traditionally there are three major classifications of land title which are utilized throughout the country. The ownership titles that are commonly referred to are namely, hard title, soft title, and strata title (enabling for foreign ownership within condominiums- subject to certain conditions). Each title confers different rights and securities -  see Realestate.com.kh's Cambodia Land Title Classifications Explained, Once and For All! for more information.Now there is a fourth form of title that is commonly referred to as an ‘LMAP title’. Although the term ‘LMAP’ refers to a project that was commenced by the World Bank in 2002, and the completion of the nationwide titling project has since been transferred to other agencies, the ‘LMAP’ acronym has stuck.Over the past 3 weeks, we have explored what an LMAP title is, the benefits- have taken a look at the issuing and application process, and the status of the titling project throughout the nation by Government agencies. This week in the fourth and final part of the LMAP series we will delve into commonly asked questions regarding LMAP.Do I need to spend money when applying for LMAP?Technically, you aren’t required to pay for the service fee when the Government hasn’t created the cadastral map and GPS coordinates (the LMAP titling process) in the area that you reside, as it is their duty to inform you after this ‘titling process has been completed in your area.However, if you apply for LMAP after you obtain your land title, and the process has been completed in your area, you will be charged a 4% tax fee - the same as for property transfer. This fee will apply whether you are applying for LMAP from a soft title or a hard title property.How do I know if my area has been subject to  LMAP titling process?In order to know if LMAP title is available in your area, you can go and check with the local authority such as the village or commune chief. These officials should be informed because the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction (MLMUPC)- who are the administrative body- need to have cooperation with these local officials during the LMAP titling procedures, such as the measuring of plot of land.In addition, if you are looking for more specific information you can check at the relevant Cadastral Officials office.How do I know if my LMAP title is genuine?Having obtained an LMAP title in the land transfer process does not prove that it is genuine. You are better off to check with the Cadastral Office in your district or province in order to protect yourself from any scams.Can foreigner obtain an LMAP title?Although the law does not technically allow foreigners to own land, other than in co-owned buildings and subject to certain provisions, there are other effective ways to control land in Cambodia for business or personal use. It is a perfect time now if you look for land for sale in Phnom Penh, land for sale in Siem Reap, and land for sale in Sihanoukville.Remember, that in the case of any questions regarding the LMAP process and specifics of the application or your eligibility, we strongly recommend that as a landowner you should obtain independent legal advice to ensure both certainty and clarity.Over the past four weeks, we have attempted to give a generic overview of the LMAP process, as essentially it is the most secure mechanism for land ownership. If you missed any of the other parts of this series please read them on https://www.realestate.com.kh/news/LMAP-Titles-Explained-Part-1/ Learn more how foreigners can own land in Cambodia and the land title transfer process in Cambodia on Realestate.com.kh

Phnom Penh, Cambodia- This morning, the forum and signing ceremony of the CEO KT Pacific project with renowned construction company Sichuan Huashi Group took place at the Intercontinental Hotel, Phnom Penh, with Realestate.com.kh invited as the exclusive media of this morning’s pivotal event.The recently announced international commercial housing project, located in 7 Makara district, is the result of a joint development venture between KT Pacific Group and LiXin Group.This morning’s event was named Cambodia - China “The Belt and Road” Entrepreneur Cooperation Summit Forum. This name derives from one of the key focuses of the event which is namely, the One Belt, One Road PolicyAs discussed at this morning’s forum, once this policy initiative is completed and operational, it will establish a direct economic corridor- with both land and maritime routes and will have a major positive impact on the most critical trading economies in the world. The Kingdom will be a major benefactor of this policy initiative as it lies in the heart of the One Belt, One Road.Today, Phoueng Sophean, State Secretary of the Ministry of Land Planning and Construction of Cambodia, many entrepreneurs and well-regarded market experts came to the forum to exchange ideas and discuss further strategy to strengthen the links between enterprises in Cambodia and Cambodia.After the official start of the event, Mr. Jingsi Zhang, Vice President of Sichuan Huashi Group and Mr. Kevin Hsu CEO of LiXin Group, delivered a speech of appreciation and shared their optimism regarding CEO KT Pacific project and the development of the real estate market in Cambodia.Mr. Hsu said: "Under the leadership of Prime Minister Hun Sen, Cambodia's strong relationship with China has made a more stable political environment and enabled higher economic growth than their neighboring countries.”"GDP is growing by 7% annually, making Cambodia the ‘ASEAN Star’- with policies that welcome foreign investment so that foreign-funded enterprises can own one hundred percent of the shares. Furthermore, there are no limits on foreign exchange, and trading in a stable USD economy is attracting many international investors and investment opportunities."“Due to Cambodia's development and potential and in the face of such excellent investment conditions, LiXin Group naturally wanted to be a major part of the investment in Cambodia.” "This joint venture consisting of two prominent development companies, and the new addition of Sichuan Huaxi Group to manage the construction of the CEO KT Pacific project, is the pinnacle of ingenuity and demonstrates an international vision of all the companies involved," he concluded. The CEO KT Pacific project is Southeast Asia's first landmark international business development, from the physical appearance, the interior modeling and the top floor’s three -dimensional steel cloud installation art on the top floor, creating a majestic skyline.Further to this, there will be large conference centers and conference rooms for up to 85 delegates to conduct business and ultimately CEO KT Pacific is specially designed for business people who are stationed in Phnom Penh.In addition, the top-floor leisure clubhouse offers a 360-degree view of Phnom Penh and the project hosts a top floor running track- perfect for the fitness of fast-paced business professionals.This majorly futuristic and unique addition to the present architectural landmarks- more than that of other parts of Southeast and is designed to reflect the future direction of Phnom Penh, namely by being a premier five-star business hub. Find out the latest real estate news on Realestate.com.khFind out real estate for sale or real estate for rent on Realestate.com.kh

Demand for affordable residential housing within Phnom Penh and its surrounding urban areas has already proven to be a swiftly developing trend in the real estate market in 2017, anticipated by market experts to continue to prosper throughout 2018.Already, many developers have responded to this shift in demand by proposing and constructing more modestly priced housing projects throughout the capital’s suburbs.One of the areas demonstrating significant potential for the development of low-cost residential housing projects is Prek Pnov- situated Northwest, and approximately 15 kilometers away from central Phnom Penh. This area (Khan) is divided into five key districts (Sangkats) namely, Ponhea Pon, Prek Pnov, Samraong, Kouk Roka and Ponsang.Market experts have voiced their views on the seemingly untapped potential of this area, voicing that Prek Pnov is an area that developers and investors alike should seriously take into consideration when looking at where to construct their upcoming projects.Mr. Oung Mean, a local independent plot land agent, said: “Prek Pnov is an economic and tourism area. Among all land surrounding the city, Prek Pnov is relatively cheaper.“Compared to areas such as Chamkar Doun where one piece of plot land averages $15,000 dollars an amicable plot land investment in Prek Pnov averages at approximately  $7,000 dollars,” he continued.Ultimately with similar land to that of Koh Pich, Mr. Oung believes: “Prek Pnov will be likely to become the second Diamond Island after it reaches its full development potential”.Dr. Kim Heang, President of the Cambodian Valuers and Estate Agents Association, (CVEA) agreed with the positive outlook of the area: "Compared to all suburbs around the city, Prek Pnov is the most attractive location for low-cost housing projects, thanks to its relatively low land price."At present, low-cost or affordable housing projects are in high demand among lower-middle and middle-income family and Prek Pnov- being within a distance from the Phnom Penh that still allows ease of accessibility,  is the best location for developers to build projects of this kind,” he continued.Dr. Kim added: "Over the past few years, developers have built Borey projects within the $80,000 to $100,000 price bracket, and those who could afford this price have already bought them."He believes that projects that are within the $30,000, to $40,000 bracket are reflective of what the majority share of the local market can afford, based on income, and therefore Prek Pnov offers potential in this respect.Although demand for affordable residential housing is indisputably rising, so too is the demand for plot land that enables investors and developers alike to find inexpensive land to either solely invest in- or host their development projects.Commenting on the plot land potential of Prek Pnov, Dr. Kim said:“If you are looking to buy plot land for investment or development, you should purchase in Prek Pnov, given that the city’s development trend has proven to be focussed on the Northern areas of the capital".However, Dr. Kim also expressed the paramount importance of having secure ownership rights,warning:"If the land in Prek Pnov has no hard title- do not purchase it."This advice is a general consensus amongst market experts, as in absence of hard title ownership, the purchaser does not have any legally enforceable rights to their land and therefore no security in their investment should any dispute arise.Looking further at the investment potential of plot land in general, Mr. Cheng Kheng, Chairman of Cambodia Properties Limited (CPL), said: “Plot land is a prime investment opportunity- as long as sellers have a clear plan for their projects."Sellers of plot land should ensure they provide basic facilities such as sewage and electricity systems, as well as ease of road access and other necessary infrastructure if they want to ensure the successful sale of their project to customers.”However, Mr. Cheng explained that in reality, many developers will promise buyers that these infrastructure frameworks will be built, but in many cases, this does not take place.He continued: "For example, they [developers] will promise to build 200-meter roads when announcing to sell their projects to buyers, but after they sell their projects, they end up only building only 50-meter roads,” he said.Mr. Cheng urges developers to perform their due-diligence and keep their promise with regard to their projects, adding that plot land can significantly help lower-income families to obtain a permanent residence when they can not afford more expensive residential Borey projects in central Phnom Penh. Ostensibly, demand for plot land in Prek Pnov is rising remarkably at the moment.Mr. Mann Chandy, CEO of Premium Housing Co., Ltd, invested in four plot land projects in Prek Pnov. Speaking of his investment, Mr. Mann said: “With the rising demand for plot land in this area, 70 percent of my project has already sold."Mr. Mann stated that his plot land project- with a starting price of $2,700 dollars for the size of 5 square metres by 20 square meters of plot land, is the most popular among low and middle-income purchasers.According to the latest Housing Market & Outlook Report 2017 by Vtrust Appraisal, Prek Pnov, since 2001 has only seen the commencement of 9 major landed house projects and 12 sub-projects, amounting to just over 6,000 units.There were only two completed projects when the report was released at the end of 2017, totaling 304 units. However, another 3,720 units are expected to finish by the end of the first half of 2018, which exemplifies a significant increase over a short period of time- aligning with the projections of other market experts.Although there are presently very few projects in the area, Mr. Mann amongst other industry insiders is optimistic that Prek Pnov, as an emerging suburb, will experience expeditious development over the coming years, due to the affordability of land, accessibility to central Phnom Penh, and - as Dr. Kim also alluded to- the undeniable trend of the capital’s rapid expansion towards the North.Interested in investing in plot land? Search our current plot land for sale in Cambodia on  Realestate.com.kh!

At the Cambodia Real Estate Show 2, Mr. Li Min, a well regarded expert with over 20 years experience in the real estate industry shared his views regarding the strengthening of China and Cambodia’s diplomatic and economic relations, the impact that One Belt One Road Policy will have on the Kingdom and his optimism and predictions regarding Cambodia’s economy going forward.In regards to the relationship between China and Cambodia, Mr. Li said “China and Cambodia have a long history of friendship. According to statistics, the friendship has a history of more than 1,000 years.” In particular, Mr. Li believes that with the support of King Norodom Sihanouk after President Xi proposed the "One Belt, One Road Policy” in 2013, the friendship between the two nations has reached an all-time high.Mr. Li further believes that with the "One Belt, One Road Policy", China's political, economic and cultural ties with the Kingdom will become closer which will have a positive diplomatic and economic effect on Cambodia in the years to come.2018 will be another key demonstration of the positive condition of relations between the two nations as there will be many domestic and international events happening in Cambodia according to Mr. Li. Further to this, next year will mark the official establishment of the two nations diplomatic relations- which will be a major event.Mr. Li, is also the CEO of Prince Real Estate Group (Cambodia) which is a large-scale enterprise, that has brought the experience, technologies, talents, and capital from China's real estate sector over the past 20 years, to Cambodia.The developers have made a proactive effort since establishment in the Kingdom in 2015  to understand the demands of the local market and have adapted their projects accordingly, integrating affordability into their host of successful projects.In terms of Cambodia’s economic development as a whole, Mr. Li said that “Cambodia has shown a swift and overwhelming level of growth from the year 2000.”2010, especially has been a catalyst in that respect as the overall economic structure in Cambodia is experiencing a full range of improvements- especially in the real estate market according to Mr. Li. With the introduction of the 2010 Law on Providing Foreigners with Ownership Rights in Private Units in Co-owned Buildings- which was the first move to giving foreigners any ownership rights in the Kingdom, namely in the second floor or higher units in condominiums, Mr. Li. believes this law change has been a very positive move.“From 2011 until now, this policy has attracted a large number of foreign investors, playing a significant role in real estate market." Mr. Li said. He further elaborated that Cambodia's construction ánd cultural environment has been continuously improving with growth in tourism from China and all across the world, and he expects that to increase in the coming yearsUltimately Mr. Li believes the real estate market in Cambodia is currently the best among the entire ASEAN countries. "We are very optimistic about the future development of the real estate industry in Cambodia."To learn more about Mr. Li's expert views regarding the Kingdom's economic growth, “One Belt One Road Policy” and other projects in the pipeline, please watch the full video above.Interested in learning more about the One Belt, One Road Policy? Listen to what other market insiders have to say about the initiative.

New York Times has released their starter kit for escaping into the world, namely, through releasing their renowned list of the ‘52 places to go in the world’. The beaches of Sihanoukville ranked at number 13 on the list amongst other top destinations such as New Orleans in Louisiana taking the top spot, followed by Colombia, and  Basilicata in Italy. - see Realestate.com.kh's The Ultimate Guide To Sihanoukville for a complete overview of Sihanoukville.As the list eluded to, Cambodia has been notoriously famous for it's Angkor Wat Temples in Siem Reap - which still remain as the biggest tourist attraction in Cambodia. In 2015 Angkor Wat was labeled by Lonely Planet as the number one tourist destination in the world.However, adorned with white sand beaches, accessible islands, a host of developments and new infrastructure initiatives in play- allowing for ease of access to the seaside province- it seems that Sihanoukville's tourism potential is garnering well deserved global attention.Sihanoukville International Airport has been undergoing major renovations, whilst the construction of a new terminal promises to increase capacity to 500,000 passengers per year. Once completed, Sihanoukville Airport is set to be the kingdom's largest airport. Already new flight routes have been added, with ongoing international flights from China, Vietnam, and Malaysia.Further to this, Grand Union Group, the developer of Dara Sakor Seashore Resort Casino in Koh Kong received permission in 2017 to build another airport. Although Koh Kong is not directly in the province, it still represents another key point of access which is within a few hours driving distance to Sihanoukville.Construction is anticipated to commence on this airport in early 2018 and will involve a total investment of 500 million USD.In terms of the hotel scene- both on the shoreline and the multitude of surrounding islands, including the popular Koh Rong, Koh Rong Sanloem, Koh Russey and Krabey Island- this has exploded over the last few years.Of special note is Six Senses on Krabey Island, a mere 20-minute boat transfer south of Sihanoukville, and Alila Villas on Koh Russey, with both resorts opening in 2018. Both will offer the full island experience, with snorkeling, diving, and all other beach amenities for tourists to enjoy.  Besides hotels, the potential for mixed-use and residential developments has caught the eye of major international developers. D’Seaview, Blue Bay, The SeaGate Suite, Royal Bayview and Sunshine Bay are amongst the major projects which are currently under construction- and will bring luxury facilities, and a new skyline to the province.In addition, infrastructure initiatives such as a direct highway between Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville improved internal roads, port expansions and Cambodia's largest Special Economic Zone (SEZ) are all factors contributing to Sihanoukville's status as a 'boomtown’ for attracting both tourists and investors alike.   Search properties for sale in Sihanoukville and current properties for rent in Sihanoukville!

In the Kingdom, traditionally there are three major classifications of land title which are utilized throughout the country. The ownership titles that are commonly referred to are namely, hard title, soft title, and strata title (enabling for foreign ownership within condominiums- subject to certain conditions). Each title confers different rights and securities.Now there is a fourth form of title that is commonly referred to as an ‘LMAP title’. Although the term ‘LMAP’ refers to a project that was commenced by the World Bank in 2002, and the completion of the nationwide titling project has since been transferred to other agencies, the ‘LMAP’ acronym has stuck.Over the past two weeks, we have explored what an LMAP title is, the benefits and have taken a look at the issuing of LMAP, associated fees and the status of the titling project throughout the nation by government agencies. This week in part 3 we will explore an overview of the application process thanks to Realestate.com.kh. The LMAP Application Process OverviewApplying for an LMAP title involves directly communicating with the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction (MLMUPC) and the relevant cadastral officials. This is due to the fact that this title will be registered and recognized at a national level. An LMAP process takes around 12 weeks to process for land that has already been indexed on a cadastral map - see Realestate.com.kh's Land Title Transfer Process in Cambodia for more information.Further to this, the application process involves your own input, as a landowner, to submit the correct documentation and application form to the MLMUPC office.These necessary documents include; any receipts or letters, or agreements that prove ownership for land that does not already have a title, or certificates of ownership, title, and the sale and purchase agreement- for land that has already received a form of title.Additional documents such as an; identity card, family book, birth certificate, and marriage certificate (if this is applicable) are also necessary during the application process.Once submitted the application will be checked by the MLMUPC and designated land official will examine all the documents to check the legitimacy and legality of them.During the application, the MLMUPC will determine whether the actual land is private property. In case that there are conflicts amongst landowners, the relevant land official can raise it to the relevant local committees to settle the conflicts in place, without bringing their case to the court.However, in this case, you will be eligible to pay a stamp duty tax- which we will explore further in the fourth and final part of the LMAP series- where we will also delve into commonly asked questions.Remember, that in the case of any dispute or questions regarding the LMAP process and specifics of the application, we strongly recommend that as a landowner you should obtain independent legal advice to ensure both certainty and clarity. If you missed the part 1 or part 2, of this article, we invite you to please read them now!

Toul Kork is reaching the point of being a fully developed area, in terms of residential and commercial real estate development, whereas Sen Sok has enjoyed a rapid series of growth in the same aspects. The two districts lie in Northwest of central Phnom Penh and have attracted a range of residents and families in middle to high-income brackets.Improved infrastructure has given rise to the development changes in Toul Kork and a rapid surge in land prices over the preceding years. This growth has also contributed to neighboring areas- such as Sen Sok.Due to this fact, residential growth can be seen in  Sen Sok which has attracted a host of new residential developments. According to the 2017 report on the housing market from VTrust Appraisal,  Sen Sok stands second to Pou Senchey district in term of landed housing supply. Although Sen Sok is on the face of it, is a relatively small district, it has a very large housing supply -one of the key reasons being the flow-on effect from neighboring Toul Kork's boom.  Mr. Sorn Seap, CEO of Key Real Estate, said: “Toul Kork and Sen Sok can be considered as 'two brothers' especially Sangkat Boeng Kak 1 & Boeng Kak 2 in Toul Kork and Sangkat Phnom Penh Thmey in Sen Sok which share one border and have very strong development potential.This potential significantly drives the growth to Sangkat Khmuonh where there are many developments such as the Camko City project and Borey projects including; Borey Piphup Thmey, Borey Vimean Phnom Penh, and Borey Angkor Phnom Penh. Further to this, the Sangkat is within close proximity to key amenity developments such as Aeon Mall 2, Makro Mall, international schools, and also large-scale condominium projects.Mr. Sorn added that Toul Kork- an area transforming itself from a majorly residential area to a hub hosting mixed-use developments, needs Sen Sok in order to keep growing. This need is reciprocated by Sen Sok, as the developing area, needs Toul Kork to better connect itself to the city center so the area can continue to grow. Ultimately, both areas will need to rely on each other to solidify future development at a continuous pace.Commenting on the suburbs co-dependence, Mr. Touch Bin Beakna, Valuation Manager at Key Real Estate, said: "Both districts are potential areas for investment. However, the fact is that Toul Kork is more developed, more populated, and the value of the property is more expensive compared to Sen Sok. This is due to the suburb being a new developing area, with more vacancy for construction, more plot land, and a price that is more affordable for families.”Mr. Touch, further believes the well-connected infrastructure between Toul Kork and Sen Sok is one of the major factors in garnering more investment opportunities for both local and international investors. He further explained that Sen Sok has developed a few years slower than Toul Kork, but in regards to in-demand areas in the suburb, the property prices can be comparable to that of central Phnom Penh areas; for example, Aeon Mall 2. However, in general, both land price and availability of land in Sen Sok are more affordable and available compared to Toul Kork.If you are interested in the investment potential of Sen Sok, Please read our article: Investing in land in the Sen Sok District For those who aim to invest in houses or land in Toul Kork or invest in a new home in Sen Sok, in the immediate future, Mr. Sorn urges that they need to keep track on the recent market and especially their own budget plan. At present Key Real Estate is working within Toul Kork and Sen Sok and the company aims at helping both local and international buyers to be fully aware of the value of each type of property- in particular locations, and offer them exactly what they need within their individual budget plan.Key Real Estate aims to sell the companies confidence and knowledge first to the clients in order to give them better and more reliable quality service provided by the agency.  With all the staff fully trained, Key Real Estate is one hundred percent sure they can utilize their knowledge and experience- especially regarding the suburb brothers to serve their clients with the highest quality service.Ultimately Key Real estate has the vision to provide the best quality services when it comes to property valuation in Cambodia and also aims to contribute to Cambodia’s ever-growing real estate sector.Looking to learn more about investment potential in Toul Kork, please read our article Toul Kork, the new Chamkarmon?Click here for current real estate for sale in Toul Kork and current real estate for sale in Sen Sok.

It is undisputed that Cambodia has experienced a period of rapid economic and real estate growth over the preceding years. With foreign direct investment (FDI) pouring into the country- promoting the swift development of core industries such as tourism, real estate, and construction, Cambodia has been seen by many as the development frontier of Southeast Asia.This potential has been realized- in particular by international developers and investors alike who have considered neighboring members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) such as Thailand and Vietnam before making the investment plunge into Cambodia’s real estate market.Dr. Sopon Pornchokchai, President of AREA Agency for Real Estate Affairs in Bangkok and who has worked in international real estate research and valuation since 1982, voiced his views regarding the investment preference saying: “Cambodia is still a relatively new market and therefore has the potential for an attractive return on investment compared to the likes of Thailand and Vietnam.”“For investors, it is a good idea to invest in less developed markets- like Cambodia for high returns on investment, even though it may seem less secure due to the market still developing. "In more developed markets such as Thailand and Vietnam, return on investment is lower than that which is seen in Cambodia,” he said.However, although Cambodia’s market is still developing, steady economic growth can offer security to potential investors.Elaborating on this point, Mr. Rami Sharaf, Member of the International Advisory Council, APCO Worldwide said: “The major attraction for foreign investors when considering whether they should invest in Cambodia is the ASEAN-member nation’s phenomenally steady economic growth.” Although official statistics on Cambodia's total economic growth in 2017 have not been released yet, according to Asian Development Bank's updated annual economic publication, Asian Development Outlook (ADO) 2017 released in late September, predictions denoted slightly higher economic growth of 7.1% for both 2017 and 2018 respectively.This is in comparison to a 6.9% total economic growth in 2016- which exemplifies the point made by Mr. Sharaf.Looking at the views of current international developers in the Kingdom, Mr. Kevin Hsu, CEO of LiXin Group, who have launched their first major mixed-use development- CEO KT Pacific, in conjunction with fellow developers KT Pacific, said: “Cambodia is a financially liberal country and therefore the restrictions on foreign exchange are also less limited than the neighboring countries."With the close relationship between China and Cambodia, Cambodia proves to have much more stable economic development than Vietnam and Thailand,” Mr. Hsu added.Looking at the three nation’s respective capital cities Hanoi and Bangkok have all reached a more mature stage with very limited return on investment."However, Phnom Penh is still in the earlier stages of development, therefore investors can reap the benefits of return on their investment, ”Mr. Hsu said. He further believes that taking into account critical considerations such as construction, building materials costs and housing prices, pricing in Phnom Penh is about one-third of Bangkok and half of Hanoi.Delving further into Phnom Penh’s investment potential in comparison to other major cities within the Kingdom, Mr. Hsu highlighted that when comparing real estate in Siem Reap and Sihanoukville, Phnom Penh trumps as it is Cambodia's administrative and commercial center, where all major state agencies are located.This, he believes, is a critical factor when deciding where to invest.“There are also 31 embassies here in Phnom Penh and the capital is rich in resources. Throughout history, the most successful real estate developments are all centered in the capital, therefore the risk of investing in the capital city is smaller," Mr. Hsu concluded.Mr. Li Min, CEO of Prince Real Estate Group (Cambodia) believes the introduction of 2010: “Law on Providing Foreigner’s Ownership Rights in Co-owned Buildings" has attracted a vast amount of foreign investors and played a significant role in the real estate market’s growth."The overall economic development in Cambodia has shown a swift and dramatic upward trend from the year 2000. Especially since 2010, the overall economic structure in Cambodia is undergoing a full range of adjustments, especially in the real estate market,” Mr. Li said. "At the same time, Cambodia's basic construction and cultural environment have been continuously improving. The real estate situation in Cambodia is currently the best amongst all ASEAN countries,” he added. In terms of the future development of Cambodia as a whole, Mr. Li believes this will be primarily driven by the real estate industry- which will have a major flow-on effect to enhance the quality of infrastructure and construction sectors nationwide.2018 has officially opened its doors- after another major year for Cambodia’s real estate market, and with future optimism expressed by both market experts and major developers, it is likely that the nation's investment potential will remain superior compared to its closest ASEAN neighbors.Favourable and welcoming foreign investment laws, stable predicted economic growth and the potential for higher return on investment in a still-developing market are all factors which will continue to navigate the Kingdom’s real estate growth through the upcoming years. Click here for current real estate for sale in Phnom Penh and current real estate for rent in Phnom Penh Interested in learning more about foreign land ownership mechanisms? Read our sneak preview extract from our Realestate.com.kh Cambodia Real Estate Investment Guide 2018 in Issue 5 of our Cambodia Real Estate Magazine from page 42- just click below!

In the Kingdom, traditionally there are three major classifications of land titling namely hard title, soft title, and strata title.  Each different title confers different rights and securities to landowners. Now there is another land title known as the LMAP title- which is the strongest form of land title in Cambodia.Last week in part 1 we examined what an LMAP title is and the benefits for landowners in obtaining one. This week in part 2 we will take a brief look at the issuing of LMAP, associated fees and the status of the LMAP titling throughout the nation thanks to Realestate.com.kh.Issuing LMAP titles and associated fees:In general, the issuing of LMAP title is the responsibility of the Ministry of Land Management Urban Planning and Construction (MLMUPC) with no specific service fee to be charged for the LMAP title itself. However, if you apply for LMAP, you will still have to pay the transfer tax which is generally around 4%, that is applied when obtaining a property title.If you are interested in learning more about land titles and how they subsequently work, please check out our article: land title transfer process in CambodiaIn addition, if you are required to pay property tax, or other taxes (which is dependent on the area your land is in), for example- annual property tax, you need to pay all those taxes before the LMAP title can be issued.LMAP title availability:Another major factor to consider is that the LMAP titling process is yet to be completed throughout the entire country by the MLMUPC. This process involves GPS coordinates being ascribed to every land plot in the country, with the result being a cadastral index map showing land boundaries and land registration data.  At present, it is estimated that 80% of LMAP titling of land plots has been completed.This gives rise to three possible scenarios;-    Firstly, if the MLMUPC is presently undergoing the necessary LMAP titling process in your village or area where you live in, this means you only need to follow what your local authority informs you to do once the project is completed. It is their obligation to communicate with you.-    Secondly, if LMAP titling has already been completed in the area that your land resides in, and you have not applied for the title- do not worry, this can always be applied for a later date.-    Finally, if the area your land resides in hasn't been subject to the LMAP titling process by the government, unfortunately, you cannot apply for an LMAP title. However, you can apply for a hard title in the meantime. This is the strongest form of land title, after LMAP and will still give you legally enforceable rights over your land.Look out for part 3 next week where we take a step by step breakdown of the actual application process for the obtaining your LMAP title and all the documents you will  need.If you missed part 1, make sure to check it out on Realestate.com.kh/news.

Following an announcement by Borey Peng Huoth Group in July 2017 regarding the development of a mall, namely PH Diamond Mal,  which is to be constructed in the Chak Angre Krom commune in 2019, the developers have officially announced a second, larger-scale mall project- PH Eco Mall estimated to be completed in 2021.In comparison to PH Diamond Mall, which will span over 2.4 hectares, PH Eco Mall will span over 6 hectares of land. The new project will be built in the Grand Star Platinum Project within the Boeung Snor Area of Borey Peng Huoth along National Road Number No. 1, 2 kilometers from Preah Monivong Bridge. The project is worth an estimated total of $200 million.Oknha Thai Mengly, CEO of Borey Peng Huoth Group, said that the PH Eco Mall project will be a groundbreaking project and will provide both national and international customers with a premium shopping experience- especially considering the shopping mall is prioritizing creating an eco-friendly and fresh environment for shoppers.In addition, this shopping complex will incorporate the traditional Khmer style by integrating Khmer culture through popular and modern lifestyle amenities.The mall itself will cover 26,800 square meters of land, solely dedicated to the mall building, and a further 90,000 square meters available for rent- as well as an abundance of parking space, which can hold up to 5,000 cars and motorcycles.The PH Eco Mall will make the developer’s existing Grand Platinum Project become a more modern and enriching hub, adding to international schools that have operated since the mid-2017. Find out property for sale in Cambodia on Realestate.com.kh

In the Kingdom, traditionally there are three major classifications of land title which are utilized throughout the country. The ownership titles are namely, hard title, soft title, and strata title (enabling for foreign ownership within condominiums- subject to certain conditions). Each title confers different rights and securities. Now there is another land title, known as an LMAP title available and can be classified as a form of issuance of land title for property purchasers and owners.In order for you to understand the relatively new concept of the LMAP title, this week in part 1 we explore what an LMAP title actually is, the benefits and will begin to explore how these will apply to you, thanks to Realestate.com.khWhat is an LMAP title?A titling system, called LMAP (Land Management and Administration Project), is a certificate of land title. It is a project that was first introduced in Cambodia in 2002 by the World Bank after government approval, with the goals of improving land tenure security through registration and issuing titles- particularly for vulnerable property owners. The Ministry of Land Management Urban Planning and Construction (MLMUPC) is the implementing agency in the Kingdom for this process.What are the benefits of an LMAP title?LMAP is the strongest, safest and most updated type of land title- due to the face that GPS coordinates are in the process of being registered for all land plots in the country.Prior to the LMAP title establishment, the MLMUPC had a major need for dispute resolution processes for land titling, due to lack of clarity regarding the boundaries and other contentious areas of land ownership. Ultimately the goal of the MLMUPC is to establish a land administration system which is both efficient and honest.For landowners who now possess an LMAP title, this means their plot of land has been clearly measured by the relevant cadastral officials, the borders of their land are agreed upon and thumbprinting has taken place- which adds a layer of security to property ownership.The LMAP title can effectively give the property owner certainty regarding all aspects of their property and is a tool for preventing conflicts such as boundary dispute and between property owners in the future. Further to this, LMAP is a 100% legal title for hard title owners to obtain.Look out for part 2 next week where we take a step by step breakdown on how to apply for LMAP title, relevant fees, and answers to answer some key questions on the LMAP titling process.Looking to learn more about how land titling system works in Cambodia? Check out our complete Cambodia title  overviewInterested in investing in land, take a look at ourland for sale in Phnom Penh available

Amid rising property prices in central Phnom Penh, many developers have sought new options for hosting their residential development projects. Por Sen Chey - the largest emerging district - has, therefore, become an attractive choice for developers to build low to mid-end residential projects, due to the area's comparatively low land prices - see Realestate.com.kh's How to invest in land for sale and maximize your profit for more information.Covering the majority of the western part of Phnom Penh and located approximately 10 km southwest of the city, Por Sen Chey district is the largest of all 12 districts of Phnom Penh and home to an estimated 184,000 residents.Por Sen Chey is administratively subdivided into 11 communes (Sangkats) namely; Chaom Chao, Kakab, Kantork, Snao, Trapeang Krasang, Kambol, Phleung Chheh Roteh, Samraong Kraom, Boeung Thum, Krang Thnong and Ovlork..According to the latest Housing Market and Outlook Report 2017 by Vtrust Appraisal, Por Sen Chey has seen a remarkable increase in borey and other residential projects since 2001. The area has 94 major developments and 111 smaller- scale projects currently being constructed, with 58 of these already completed. These projects, once completed, will amount to a combined total of approximately 30,000 available units. However, so far there are 16,000 units already completed- while more than 3,500 units are expected to reach completion within the first half of 2018.Mr. Hoem Seiha, the author of the report, said: “Por Sen Chey has experienced rapid growth over the preceding years in terms of both residential and industrial projects. With such a high population density, the area has more factories and residential projects than any other districts in Phnom Penh."Mr. Hoem continued: "Many low to mid-end residential projects have moved to the area thanks to the multitude of available large land sections that can be used for new development."“However, with the influx of residential projects, land prices in the area have increased sharply. In general, land for sale in Por Sen Chey grew 31 percent year on year between 2013 and 2015, whilst, the two bustling communes of Chaom Chao and Kakab grew approximately 10 percent or less each year," Mr. Hoem added. He further believes that the lower annual increase of price in these two key communes was due to the fact that prices were already high compared to the rest of Por Sen Chey.In addition, Mr. Hoem explained that in terms of land values and major business prospects, Kakab and Chaom Chao stand out due to their strategic locations- such as their coverage of prime streets which are ideal locations for businesses to establish.Kakab commune is immediately adjacent to Teuk Thla, part of the immensely popular Sen Sok district, while Chaom Chao is in the direct path of Phnom Penh International Airport and covers some parts of the capital’s arterial roads, namely Russian Boulevard, National Highway 3, and National Highway 4.Although Kakab shares a similar market value as Chaom Chao, the commune’s close proximity to central business hubs in the capital makes Kakab stand out comparatively in terms of land prices and commercial demand.Land prices in Kakab commune continue to grow at approximately 10 percent annually, with prices ranging from an average of $380 dollars per square meter in 2013 to $490 per square meter in 2016. However, in undeveloped areas, low prices such as $70 per square meter can be found-  but can peak up to $2,080 per square meter along prime streets and in bustling commercial hubs, according to Mr. Hoem's report.Commenting on Por Sen Chey’s residential project growth, Dr. Kim Heang, President of the Cambodian Valuers and Estate Agents Association (CVEA), said: “Por Sen Chey is an area sandwiched between both Phnom Penh's center city and suburbs and many developers have selected to build residential projects priced between $30,000 and $70,000 dollars. This price range is most suitable for lower-middle income families, among whom are [for example] company staff and civil servants with a suitable salary.”Dr. Kim added: “Por Sen Chey's target market and residents differs from that of Sen Sok, which is predominately for middle-income families, while areas such as Toul Kork, Prampi Makara, and Chamkarmon are for families that sit within a higher income bracket".One development underway in the Kakab commune is Borey Suncity, a project launched in November 2017 and is expected to complete construction by mid-2020. Mr. Xu, General Manager of Borey Suncity, said: “The reason we chose Por Sen Chey to host our development is that the area is in close proximity to Phnom Penh International Airport- therefore more easily connected to the world and residents will have ease of accessibility with the metro line opening in next April.”Mr. Xu added: “Our project will be a great success, thanks to its’ location in an area with perfect infrastructure- suitable for long-term living. Cable burial has been completed and roads are in good condition. Nearby are surrounding facilities including Korean international schools, healthcare centers, and Parkson shopping mall. Mr. Xu added that he is looking to target mainly local investors for his project.Por Sen Chey district invariably is rapidly developing which can be in part due to the influx of newcomers in search of job opportunities within Phnom Penh. With developer interest in the area rapidly rising, and relatively inexpensive plot-land still available in many of the communes, it is likely that this district will continue to flourish at a rapid rate in 2018.Looking for  property for sale in Por Sen Chey or property for rent in Por Sen Chey on Realestate.com.kh!

The development of high-end residential projects has been a priority of both local and international developers alike over the preceding years, with a host of condominium and big-budget Borey projects concentrated within prominent central areas of Phnom Penh.However, according to local real estate experts, 2017 as a whole has seen a major shift in demand- from luxury residential developments, towards housing that is more affordable for those in lower-middle income brackets and in particular the local market - see Realestate.com.kh's Government’s low-Cost Housing Policy for more information.Meanwhile, these experts are optimistic that this shift in demand that has risen drastically in 2017 will continue to flourish in 2018 and proceeding years. Therefore, developers who have already recognized and responded by constructing more affordable projects are more likely to achieve success in their developments.Hoem Seiha, Director of Research of VTrust Appraisal, has recently released The Housing Market & Outlook Report 2017. The report states that the Kingdom's property market in 2017 performed well- especially low-price housing projects- while the higher-priced developments decreased in both launches and sales.Discussing his report further, Mr. Hoem said: “Due to slow demand for luxury housing, developers have shown interest in the local market and responded by supplying housing priced between $30,000 and $60,000. For example, Borey “New World” is only priced in the $40,000 to $60,000 price bracket. This price range is the most popular among middle-income families- especially those who have recently married.”He continued: “Every year there are many new couples who need housing to work and live in Phnom Penh. These [recently] married couples cannot afford housing priced more than $60,000 dollars.” Therefore Mr. Hoem believes that housing options that are under this price threshold are the only options for these newly established families.Echoing Mr. Hoem’s view, Mr. Cheng Keng, Chairman of Cambodia Properties Limited (CPL), said: “Over the past few years, developers have focused on luxury housing priced over $80,000, but now demand for this type of housing has slowed. Mr. Cheng believes that the majority of the Cambodian people sit in the middle-income bracket and believes that now is the right time for developers across the board to focus on affordable housing developments. “By doing so, they will stand a high chance of a success for their projects,” Mr. Cheng added. In the “Consumer Sentiment Survey” conducted by Realestate.com.kh, which was the largest real estate survey to be conducted in the Kingdom, responses from over 5000 international and local respondents regarding buying power and affordability, reinforced the views of Mr. Hoem and Mr. Cheng. One particular example is that in terms of buying power, more than half of the survey respondents (67%) had less than $70,000 dollars to spend on a property.Further to this, when individuals were asked “How affordable is housing in Cambodia?” 34% of respondents referred to the local property available as "moderately unaffordable”. and 28% stated “affordable”-’ with the remaining respondents believing the housing markets to be moderate to very affordable.The inference made from these survey results and further analysis is that property in Cambodia is generally affordable for international residents and investors whereas it is still seemingly unaffordable for Khmer nationals.In light of this shift in demand, many developers have already begun constructing more affordable developments to adapt to the needs of the local market. One example of this is Borey Maha Sen Sok, one of Creed Group’s biggest residential development projects in Cambodia, which is among one of the most successful projects targeting middle-income families.Ms.Cheng Sokha, Deputy Sales and Marketing Director of Creed Group, said: “Borey Maha Sen Sok started in early 2016 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2018. Our project starts with $49,500 dollars and has proven very successful with 95 percent of the project being sold out”. Ms. Sokha believes the Creed Group has seen the demand for affordable housing amongst middle-income families, which was the purpose of the developer's launch of the project.Cambodia’s total population is expected to increase from 15 to 19 million between now and  2030 and in Phnom Penh and its urban areas from 4 to 7 million- with 800,000 urban homes estimated to add to current housing stock. This prospective population increase solidifies the true extent of the demand for affordable housing.Mr. Chea Sophara, Minister of Land Management, expressed support for the creation of more affordable housing to address the capital’s rising population figures. During the National Housing Forum held in June 2017, Mr. Chea said: “The Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction (MLMUPC) is paying more attention to seek ways for providing affordable housing for lower-middle people across the nation to obtain housing with comfort, dignity, and safety.”The MLMUPC is working with the Ministry of Economy and Finance to establish affordable housing prices and incentives on tax and regulation in order to encourage the private sector to shoulder the task, according to Mr. Chea.Ultimately, it is undisputed that the demand for affordable residential housing in Phnom Penh is a trend that will continue to grow throughout 2018, and the following years. With the expectation of a large population increase, support from the relevant Ministry departments, and developers already tailoring their developments with affordability in mind, it is likely that more families will have the opportunity to enter the residential property market in the years to come.Click here for current  properties for sale in Cambodia and current properties for rent in Cambodia

As 2017 draws to a close, vast amounts of families continue to flock from the provinces to Phnom Penh in search of job opportunities, leading to an ever-increasing demand for affordable residential housing. Developers have recognized and responded to this demand accordingly, with many key industry players changing their focus towards constructing more affordable housing projects - see Realestate.com.kh's Government’s low-Cost Housing Policy for more information.One company in particular, Arakawa, a prominent Japanese developer, has recently announced one of their newest projects: "Arakawa Residence” in Phum Phsar Teuk Thla village, which will prioritize constructing units for those in lower-income brackets, including civil servants, students, and families. This development will be the third project of its’ kind in Phnom Penh, aimed at enabling those with a lower budget for a home an opportunity to enter the property market.2017 has witnessed affordable housing projects and plot land for sale in Cambodia perform stronger than higher end residential developments. Condominium's for sale and big-budget borey purchases are beginning to reach a point of stagnation, with issues of oversupply and slowing demand emerging.Dr. Kim Heang, President of the Cambodian Valuers and Estate Agents Association, (CVEA) said: “2017 has been the year of affordable homes and plot land. Developers are no longer keen to build expensive residential projects anymore because they have already built many of them.”Dr. Kim continued: "Over the past few years, developers have built borey projects to sell in Phnom Penh within the $80,000 to $100,000 price bracket, and those who could afford this price have already bought them." Due to this, Dr. Kim believes now is the time for developers to focus on constructing projects in the $30,000 to $40,000 price bracket in order to target lower-middle income families, as this income bracket is representative of the majority share of the market.Demand for plot land has also seen a significant increase in 2017. Mr. Seng Saramany of Moana Realty, said: "We have two projects, one in the West of Phnom Penh and the other in Siem Reap. Throughout 2017, demand for plot land has grown sharply and most of our customers are lower-middle income families.”“Our projects have proven very successful this year and plot land within in the $5,000 to $7,000 range has been the most popular for our customers to build houses for living in,” Mr. Seng added.Commenting further on the rising popularity of plot land in 2017, Ms. Samnang Cheam, CEO of Lucky Property Services, said: “Demand for plot land- especially outside of central Phnom Penh, in areas such as plot land for sale in Prey Sar, land for sale in Takmao, land for sale in Bek Chan and along National Road No.1 has risen remarkably."Ms. Samnang further explained that lower-middle income families are the target for the plot land market, as they cannot afford to buy more expensive borey or condo for sale in Phnom Penh, and therefore most of them turn to another option-namely plot land. In fact, plot land plays a critical role in helping these families to purchase and construct suitable homes when they do not have the budget to buy within higher-end residential developments.However, Ms. Samnang highlighted that it is important that every developer sells not only the land itself- but basic facilities, such as road access, water, electricity, and sewage systems to buyers. Furthermore, she believes developers should be honest about the presence of these key facilities to prospective buyers when they embark on selling their projects.Moreover, Mr. Teng Rithy, CEO of Property Investment Realty Partner, believes that all plot land transactions and developments within Phnom Penh should take into consideration the city’s master plan. Mr. Teng said: “A number of [plot land] developments do not follow the capital’s master plan and will inevitably face some problems in the future. For example, some locations are solely designated for industrial purposes but developers are using those areas to develop residential projects.”Mr. Teng continued: “In industrial areas, there will be a lot of factories which make a lot of noise and as a resident there, this will definitely have an adverse effect on your health. Another problem is that there will be no hospitals or schools in those areas since it is for industrial, not residential purposes”. Therefore, it is paramount that purchasers in Phnom Penh make a proactive effort to look at Phnom Penh’s Master Plan 2035 prior to purchasing, to ensure the sustainability and longevity of their investment.Ultimately, the demand for affordable housing and plot land in Phnom Penh and throughout the Kingdom is a trend that is likely to continue to escalate throughout 2018. However, with any type of property investment, market experts believe it is critical that the prospective purchaser undergoes adequate research to ensure they can secure the perfect future home for their needs.   Want to learn more about land titles in Cambodia? Read our article on  Land Title Transfer in Cambodia  on Realestate.com.kh Search for the land for sale in Cambodia on Realestate.com.kh!

Purchasing a new home is one of the biggest financial decisions you will make and one of the most critical assets you will acquire in your lifetime. Therefore, making a decision of such gravity requires a large amount of initial thought, comprehensive planning and forward thinking. One of the major considerations that you need to take into account is whether you require a home loan - and, with such a variety of current and emerging banks in Cambodia, it is important that your home loan provider is trustworthy and reputable in the market. These qualities - amongst many others positive traits - are exemplified by PPCBank.Why Choose PPCBank as Your Home Loan Provider?Phnom Penh Commercial Bank (PPCBank) has made its first step in 2008. After changing shareholders to Joint Venture of Jeonbuk Bank Co., Ltd and Apro Financial Co., Ltd, in 2016Mr. SHIN Chang Moo took on the role of PPCBankPresident.  The combination of expertise from an already thriving bank in South Korea and a clear vision to be “the best financial retail group” in Cambodia has resulted in PPCBank's success and continuous growth from day to day. A bank with experience is critical when choosing your home loan provider.PPCBank also genuinely cares about their current and prospective customers needs. This is reflected through their clear focus on customer service. Even the PPCBank logo embodies this ethic, featuring the Chinese symbol meaning ‘people’. PPCBank strives to cater for all ages, demographics and income brackets and make the home loan process simple for all.Loan Terms:With a PPCBank home loan you can borrow up to 80% of the value of your chosen home (or up to USD 200,000); with up to a 20-year repayment term. The process is administered with speed and competitive interest rates starting at as low as 0.65% per month.Conditions & Requirements:Every home buyer will have different financial needs and loan requirements. However, having additional savings and funds of your own available prior to applying for your home loan is important. This will enable you to easily pass the initial stages of your home loan application and ensure you have the necessary deposit amount.Below are the conditions and requirements needed in order to apply for a home loan with PPCBank:●   Complete a loan application form (obtainable from any PPCBank branch);●   ID Card or Passport (copy),●   Family book or Book of Residence amortization (copy),●   Guarantor's for the loan (name, phone number and signature)●   Letter of confirmation of your employment & remuneration from current employer and any sufficient income that warrants your ability to pay back the loan ;●   Permanent residential address in Cambodia;●  Repayment mode: This can be in installments or through amortization. There are also the options with an available grace period(first 2 years) and partial payments. PPCBank is happy to discuss the best mode of repayment for your needs.●    Collateral in the form of  land and building.●   Letter of offer confirming the purchase price of the house and a copy of the state lease;It is advisable that as soon as you find a property that suits your needs, you ask for the necessary proof of ownership from the current owner. A copy of the hard title is one of the key documents that you will need possession of to ensure that you have a legitimate right to the land. If your proposed property is  off-plan or currently under construction, make sure that the developer/seller writes you a ‘Letter of Sale’ indicating the amount that they will sell the property to you for. You should also write a Letter of Acceptance to the developer/seller showing your acceptance of the offer. Those two documents, together, show a legally binding contract between you and the seller of the property; and having these documents assembled will accelerate the processing of your home loan application.Additional costs:Whether you are purchasing an existing property or one that is off-plan, there are always costs that are associated with being a homeowner that extend beyond the price of the house itself. There are basic costs associated with the transferring of the property and even once you have obtained ownership, maintenance costs and potential renovations are also financial factors to be considered. Therefore, it is critical that before you obtain your home loan you think about your purchase as a whole as a  long term investment.Consultancy services:Although the prospect of obtaining a home loan may seem overwhelming - with the body of paperwork involved and the forward thinking involved with repayments - this is not a process you need to go through alone. PPCBank has a renowned and cost free consultancy service which will guide you through every step of the home loan process. From acquiring the necessary documentation, to finding a repayment scheme that works for you - the team at PPCBank will ensure you find a financial solution that is ultimately sustainable and right for you and your family.When you are ready to consider a loan more seriously, we can even put you in touch with Cambodia’s leading lenders

The relationship between China and Cambodia is one that has proven to be a catalyst for Cambodia’s economic growth over the preceding years. This is largely due to China’s dominant and ongoing economic contributions and close political ties between the two nations.In an announcement at the end of November, two major Chinese property and construction  firms have pledged a capital investment of 7 billion USD in Cambodia's infrastructure, tourism, construction and financial sectors. This statement followed discussions in Beijing between Cambodian Prime Minister, Hun Sen, Mr. Cheng Risheng, Chairman of Henan Transport Investment Group and Mr. Zhang Yuling, Chairman of Greenland Holding Group.The proposed new projects include an expressway between Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville, the construction of another satellite city and the establishment of a tourism center and a new nationwide commercial bank.Foreign direct investment (FDI) continues to be one of the most important pillars of the Kingdom’s economy. As a result of two decades of consistent economic growth, Cambodia’s economy lifted from a least-developed country status, into the bracket of lower-middle income nations such as Vietnam and India.China has been Cambodia’s biggest source of FDI, with over 14 billion USD invested across multiple sectors between 1994 and 2016 and many more projects in the pipeline- particularly in terms of construction and infrastructure.These new projects are further to other Chinese funded initiatives taking shape, including a further 124 billion USD investment to be injected into the One Belt One Road Policy, which will develop nationwide infrastructure and expand trade links between China, Asia, Africa and Europe once completed.The establishment of the Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone was also funded by a 3 billion USD investment by China and presently hosts over 110 companies and corporate entities and once completed will have produced over 30,000 jobs.The generation of employment opportunities was one of the key motives behind the announcement of the new projects in late November. In a statement released by the government, Prime Minister, Hun Sen welcomed these projects, which he will believes will be critical for the Kingdom’s economic development and will create an estimated 20,000 jobs once construction commences.A series of formal agreements will follow this announcement, outlining the investment scope and how these projects will take shape, prior to the planned visit of China's Prime Minister, Li Keqiang in January.  Find out the best real estate news on Realestate.com.kh

Taking the leap into the property market for the first time can often be a daunting prospect, with an abundance of property types available. However, with adequate preparation and research, this prospect and process can be simplified and rewarding.Last week in 'Tips for Property Investors - Part 1', we examined the importance of identifying your purpose and began looking at how to examine a property’s investment potential. This week we will delve deeper into the evaluating potential and protecting your investment in the long term, thanks to Realestate.com.kh!Further examination of the property’s potential:Aside from embarking on research on your proposed property and factoring in other costs associated with your investment, such as maintenance and business fees, it is also important to note that some developers in Cambodia now also offer guaranteed rental returns for a specific duration after a residential unit is turned over to you. This can offer you financial security for the first few years after your investment.You should also look into other new developments in Cambodia being constructed and surrounding infrastructure in your proposed location. Any major changes in these two aspects will impact the value of your chosen property over time.Protecting your investment:Looking at whether your potential developer is reputable is key to protecting your investment and can be established by making some simple inquiries. Asking for specific details about the developer’s site plan, and whether they have insurance and property management services will eventually make a big difference during disputes and natural calamities – things outside of your control.A final factor to consider is obtaining independent legal advice, or at least establishing a full understanding of the laws relating to your proposed investment - see Realestate.com.kh's Guide for First Time Cambodian Investors for more information.Take for example the strata titling in Cambodia. Foreigners are only legally allowed to own properties through strata titles. But this also has legal restrictions, stating that a foreigner can only own up to 70% of the co-owned building. If you are being offered an investment opportunity that does not take into account property laws – such as the example above, it can affect the legitimacy of your title to your property, which can leave you without remedy if a dispute were to arise.Ultimately when it comes to investing in Cambodia for the first time, a clear investment purpose, doing your research on a property’s potential and looking thoroughly into the legalities and reputability of your developer are all necessary steps to take to ensure you make a smart and rewarding investment choice.Want to learn more about investing in Cambodian Property, read our article Why invest in Cambodian Property or visit Realestate.com.kh for more information

Song Saa Collective, a company renowned for their luxurious hotel resort developments on Song Saa Private Island, Sihanoukville, has plans in motion to establish an eco-tourism city in Banteay Srey district in Siem Reap. The company has announced an initial investment of 3 million USD to purchase 400 hectares of land from locals residing in the area to host this initiative - see Realestate.com.kh's Chinese Tourism: A New Catalyst for Cambodia’s Real Estate Boom for more information.  In an article published on Ministry of Environment website, His Excellency, Say Samal  Minister of Environment, gave his approval of the project and encouraged any company which can aid the Government in creating more jobs for Cambodian people, whilst help conserve natural resources without an adverse impact on the environment.Rory Hunter, Director of Song Saa Collective, elaborated on his vision for the eco-tourism city, stating that he ensured one hectare of the project had a surrounding natural lake to help conserve the animals in the area. Mr. Hunter hopes that over the next five years his company’s  project would be developed with ease-  creating more jobs for people living in an area which is yet to see any industrial development.Once completed, the project will comprise of hotels, villas, schools, religious centers and other natural resorts. It is anticipated that the project will help attract more tourists; both domestic and international to visit the province- which is typically solely renowned for it’s historic Angkor Wat temple complex.Mr Mario Tan, Sales and Marketing Director of Hunter Estate commented on the benefits of the project stating: “The project will help attract more foreign tourists - especially Chinese to visit Siem Reap. Tourists visiting our neighboring nations Vietnam and Thailand usually stay longer in those countries because they have more tourism destinations compared to Cambodia.”Mr Mario continued: “When Cambodia has more resorts- especially in Siem Reap, the nation is able to compete with its’ neighbors, resulting in attracting more tourists to stay for longer periods. Ultimately, more tourists, for longer periods of time will have a majorly positive effect on the local economy”Tourism is considered one of the four major pillars supporting the Cambodian economy. In 2016 the Kingdom received over five million foreign tourists, including 830,000 Chinese and accumulated gross revenue of $3.4 billion, according to the Ministry of Tourism statistics.Increasing Chinese tourism is a major goal for the Government with the establishment of the  “China Ready for Cambodia Tourism” policy which aims to attract two million Chinese tourists to enter the Kingdom each year by 2020. Therefore, Cambodia needs to develop more tourism sites - such as the proposed eco-tourism city - to stimulate the growth of tourist arrivals each year and reach these targets.Please read our Siem Reap Location profile on Realestate.com.kh! Search properties for sale in Siem Reap and current properties for rent in Chroy Changvar!