Launched in 2015, Axis Residences is the first Cambodian eco-friendly condo development project to receive 'Highly Commended Award' or global Green Mark Gold Award for the Best Condo Development at the inaugural Cambodia Property Award 2016.Strategically located along Street Doung Ngeap number III and just 5 minutes from Phnom Penh International Airport, the $70 million development project is made up of eight condo buildings of 10 floors each – making up a total of 566 units. Scheduled to finish in 2018, Axis Residences has almost completed its structural works.Axis Residences is in talks with award winning Service Apartment 85SOHO from Singapore-listed property management group, LHN Group in providing all units in Axis Residence with service apartment style, high level hotel-like concierge experience for all residents.About 6 km from central Phnom Penh, Axis Residences is close to major international schools such as Northbridge International School and CIA First International School, Royal Phnom Penh hospital, Rathana Plaza supermarket and shopping complexes such as the Lion City & Okide The Grand.  Axis Residences boasts its sustainable building environment and is founded as the best condo development with significant eco-breakthroughs. Building environment refers to quality of buildings and structures as well as the surrounding infrastructures that would offer a full set for community's living.Mr. Anthony Ong, director at Spring CJW Development in Cambodia, said: “Axis Residences have cleared the preliminary assessment and will be the first residential development in Cambodia attaining Green Mark Gold Plus Accreditation by internationally-acclaimed Singaporean Building and Construction Authority (BCA), an agency under Singapore's Ministry of National Development focusing on Singapore’s building excellent environment.”“The intention of BCA is to promote sustainability in building environment and raising environmental awareness among developers, designers and builders when they start project conceptualization and design, as well as during construction process,” he added.Designed and developed by Singaporean developer Spring CJW Development Pte Ltd and Singaporean Consultants, Axis Residences will become the pioneer and the only condominium in Cambodia incorporating the innovative green features that benefits the residents with both a stable electrical supply and a reduced utility and maintenance bill. And this comes through the high technology of sustainable solar PV energy (Solar Panels) into the development.A sophisticated building complex encompassing excellent quality, modernity and convenience, Axis Residences is becoming popular in Phnom Penh largely thanks to its eco-friendly environment.Mr. Ong stresses that as environmental concerns are on the national and global agendas, eco-buildings such as Axis Residences is immediately becoming the preferred choice by its quality and lifestyle of Phnom Penh’s living residential.He said: “we are confident that Axis Residences will complement tenants' green credentials and benefit companies in areas of long-term energy cost savings as well as health overall. Within Axis Residences, we believe that going green is no longer an option, but a responsibility. We are committed to do our part by developing properties that have minimal impact on the environment while enhancing the quality of life for the communities.”Mr. Ong concluded by saying that Axis Residences will be a best choice for national and international business people who seek a green residential address in the upcoming Phnom Penh’s western district.Axis Residence is currently in process of being certified Green Mark Gold accreditation by BCA: making it the first and only condominium to achieve this internationally acclaimed accreditation in Cambodia.Get more information about Axis Residences and learn more about Cambodia’s newest developments by visiting Realestate.com.kh!

With Phnom Penh’s sewage system left unsettled, heavy rainfall floods the city during monsoon season and this usually has a negative impact on general business activity. In addition, the rainy season seems to reduce real estate transactions across the market, largely because most buyers are not intending to buy during this flooding period.  Mr. Sorn Seap, CEO of Key Real Estate, said: “wet season does have a negative impact on Cambodia’s real estate market by slowing down the market transactions. During this season, not many buyers are willing to buy property due to a spate of economic downturn.”Mr. Sorn added, “even if a number of sellers try to push for more real estate transactions in rainy season, weather conditions are not preferable for general real estate transactions. To some extent, rainy season reduces profits of some businesses such as retail shops, which face less customers. In fact, real estate buyers just pause some time awaiting for the dry season to come.”Commenting on this issue, Mr. In Sitha, an independent property consultant at cambodia21.com, said: “rainy season reduces some buyers conversions compared to the dry season due to unfavourable road conditions; namely, it is hard to travel through flooding in the city during heavy rain. Hardest hit is plot land market, as one can not go to see the plot land during rainy season and thus reducing the transactions.”Meanwhile, Mr. Yim Socheath, director at Cam D Network Property (CDN Property) Co., Ltd, said: "it is much harder to find clients in rainy season. Economic activity is not so good during this period with customers not spending much money to buy products. It is time for farmers to plant their crops and thus they do not have money to spend yet. As a result, general business activity ranging from retail to real estate will not grab much customer’s spending.”However, wet season might be a good time for buyers to buy property as during this period they can check all aspects of the property such as flooding condition, entrance quality and water infiltration. After checking all of those aspects, buyers can see how good the property is during that period.Moreover, property selling prices in rainy season may also be more attractive than in the hot season. Buyers are likely to get more bargaining power in rainy season as the buyer pool dries up.Mr. In added: “due to the limited property transactions during rainy season, property sellers in Cambodia will ultimately turn to promotional strategy in order to get a quick sale. With this aim, advertising campaigns to reach most property buyers is required to boost more sales during this stagnant period.”Cambodia is not the only nation to be affected by rainy season in terms of real estate transaction downturns. Neighbouring Myanmar is also faced with the same problem, where property transactions drop by up to 30 percent during wet season.Mr. Kaung Thu Win, Founder & Director of Myanmar's leading real estate portal, shweproperty.com, said: “Typically, we see about a 30% decrease in real estate transactions during rainy season, in regards to both developers and homeowners. Most homeowners won't try to sell their home during rainy season for fear of getting lower profits. For property developers, they often offer a rainy season promotion to increase sales. Point in case, our 2nd Affordable Housing EXPO next weekend has every developer running special offers for monsoon season.”Mr. Kaung added: “Most landowners might list their property on the website but won't come down on price, unless there is a reason or motivation behind the sale. In Myanmar, the buyer has more negotiating power with sellers. For real estate developers, the price is very different with much more promotions and discounts. Starting in September, at the end of the monsoon season, most developers see a huge influx in buyer inquiries and are less likely to negotiate.”While rainy season in Myanmar does not see impressive real estate transactions, dry season is a good time for real estate sector, especially for sellers.“In dry season, it's really a sellers market, which is why real estate is doing well here right now. In Myanmar the most popular projects sell out extremely fast, so buyers are more intent on getting a better located unit (river view or view of park, or pagoda) than negotiating price,” according to Mr. Kaung.Ostensibly, the rainy season is not the main factor affecting the entire real estate transactions in Cambodia and Myanmar. The transactions lie in prospective buyers who see the future benefits of the property and are willing to for it.Mr. In stressed that it is demand and supply factor which is the core determinant of real estate transactions, not season. For example, If a buyer badly needs a property somewhere, he or she will ultimately goes to hunt for that property regardless of rainy or dry season. The season is just part of the decline in property transactions but not a big issue for prospective buyers.If you wish to rent or buy a nice property for either living or running business,  check out more listing on Realestate.com.kh!

After the success of the first show in May this year, the Cambodia Real Estate Show is back this October 2017, the 6th & 7th, at NagaWorld Hotel, Phnom Penh, to provide a forum for local and international property investors to survey the current offerings of the Cambodia real estate market.  The last show attracted over 3000 guests from across the region, and resulted in over $3Million of real estate sales over the two days. This success created a high demand from developers and agencies in the market for a second show this year.“The Creed Group, presenting 3 projects at the show - Bodaiju Residences, Borey Maha SenSok and Arata Garden Residences - achieved a great result: 21 unit bookings and reservations for current selling projects and the upcoming project, Arata Garden Residences,” confirmed Ms. Kelly, Deputy Sales & Marketing Director at Creed Group.The Cambodia Real Estate Show is an event managed and extensively marketed by realestate.com.kh, Cambodia’s leading real estate search website and property marketing agency. The show offers a different side to the business, as the company is primarily focussed on the online sphere, generating sales and rental inquiries through the website platform for a host of agency and developer clients.Mr. Tom O’Sullivan, CEO of Realestate.com.kh, said that, “the key benefit of our real estate show is that it closes the gap between the investor and the opportunity. When investors from throughout the region and world arrive in Phnom Penh for our real estate show, they will feel, smell and touch Cambodia; and they will see the drastic changes happening here in terms of construction and real estate development. They will also understand the infrastructural improvements that are transforming the country into an economic hub. This exposure to Cambodia will give them confidence to invest in property here.”“Again in October, for our second show, we are bringing together a collection of the nation’s finest new projects, condos and boreys, as well as other businesses that influence and play a role in the market, such as agencies, banks, and insurers, ” continues O’Sullivan.In the October show, realestate.com.kh are confident that they can offer a wide range of property options for guests, ranging from land, borey properties, condominiums and overseas property investment opportunities. “During the show, attendees will also be able to watch various educational seminars which will assist property buyers and investors understanding the market, the legal obligations of property ownership, and to help them to make educated decisions when purchasing real estate in Cambodia. Education of the market and protecting our customers long term interests is always a prime concern,” said O’Sullivan.  Speakers at the May show included experts in the real estate sphere such as Sok Siphana, Managing Partner at Sok Siphana & Associates - a member of ZicoLaw; Matthew Rendall, Senior Partner at Sok Siphana & Associates - a member of ZicoLaw; Anthony Galliano, CEO of Cambodian Investment Management (CIM) and Simon Griffiths General Manager at Metro Global Pte Ltd.Given the interest in the seminars at the first Cambodia Real Estate show, the October event will include and extended program of speakers, and this time include sessions in English, Khmer and Chinese - as per the audience demographics present at the first show in May. Panel debates covering topics of particular relevance in the industry with also take place at the October event.“We were very satisfied to be a part of the inaugural Realestate.com.kh Cambodia Real Estate show at NagaWorld. The event enabled our team to generate a significant number of direct sales and many good quality leads for prospective buyers. We are looking forward to the next event organized by the Realestate.com.kh team,” said Mr Laurence Hamilton, Vice President of NC Max World Real Estate Development/Brokerage who presented new projects such as The View and East One Apartments at the show.For sponsorship or exhibitor opportunities at the Cambodia Real Estate Show, please contact:Khmer and Chinese: nin.kang@realestate.com.kh,   or call  +855 93 552 305, +855 78 637 323English: tyler.stuart@realestate.com.kh, or call  +855 12 599 669, +855 81 599 669Don't miss out the Cambodia Real Estate Show 2 this 6 & 7 October, 2017!Find the best real estate news on Realestate.com.kh

Launched in early 2016 and developed by a renowned construction company J&L Development, Sky Tree Condominium is considered a safe and peaceful residence, providing a topnotch residential building at the center of Phnom Penh.With the building’s construction completed for five floors, the 32-floor Sky Tree project  is expected to finish in late 2018 and hand over to clients in early 2019. Obtaining financial support from banks, Sky Tree has recently announced the first joint-venture loan which was offered by several financial institutions and banks from overseas.Mr. Wu Chen, CEO at J&L Development Company, said: “We got $35 million from six international banks to support our construction project. With this loan, we guarantee the project will definitely be 100% completed as promised. On the other hand, this loan will also be used to support our customer through our home loan project.”He added “J&L is the first developer in Cambodia which was chosen by six international overseas banks. These include Taiwan Cooperative Bank, Land Bank, Bank of Taiwan, Sunny Bank, Bank of Pan Xin, and Taiwan Biz Bank.” “J&L has strictly studied the pre-qualification process through its connection between its parent company in Taiwan and the J&L Company in Cambodia. The criteria is mainly focused on the financial management of the parent company, the location of Sky Tree condominium, the financial management of J&L, and the standard quality of the project. They also inspected whether the project can get support from the government of Cambodia,” according to Mr. Wu.He explains that “J&L gained the trust from the banks thanks to our project having strong management in all aspects. And this will be a good example for other developers and investors in Cambodia to follow.”Built with Singaporean standards, Sky Tree project will be a high-rise complex with a total of 1,104 residential units. These units will range from one to three bedrooms. The unit size will start anywhere from 61.75 square meters to 140.93 square meters. In terms of special features, Wu mentioned that “Sky Tree has, by far, the highest standard for interior design out of any projects currently underway in Phnom Penh. The project is maintained with impeccable attention to detail and high quality materials, finishes, and fixtures. It features marble flooring, proper ventilation, door handles imported from Germany, and plugs by J&L. Every door is also equipped with carbon fiber steel and it is totally thief, fire, and sound proof. The unit’s entrance door does not face an opposite unit’s door. And each unit also includes an emergency lift.”“On the other hand, Sky Tree will also offer a nice open view of the building by utilizing a big balcony. And each window uses double glass that can protect you from the heat and the UV rays. Keep cool inside. It’s soundproof and very eco-friendly,” he added.Wu also says that “the foundation work is also an effective technical construction process and is a first in Cambodia. Piling work is 40 meters under the rock and it’s built with a unique technique to strengthen and protect it from natural disasters such as storms or an earthquake. In order to ensure the quality of the building, we also did testing on clorise concrete and iron reaction which no other projects have done in Cambodia.In addition to these, the northern Phnom Penh suburb area is also becoming an up and coming area in terms of commercial, business and housing developments. The Sky Tree development is situated at the Russey Keo district, a very prominent neighbourhood of the Toul Kork district. Wu is proud to say that the project is “strategically located in a very desirable area, surrounded by various amenities. It’s close to the Oknha Khleang Moeung Boulevard -- next to the Phnom Penh City Center, embassies, five star hotels, supermarkets, a golf course, the central station, the Prime Minister’s office, ministries, and other establishments.” “For prospective buyers and investors interested in the Sky Tree, they will be satisfied to know that there are around eighteen facilities provided inside the complex such as branded shop outlets, a reception hall, a spa room, a gymnasium centre, a swimming pool, a playground, sky gardens, a green garden, an audio-visual room, a sky bar on the top floor, a reading room, a medical center, laundry, security centres, a property management office, visitor parking spaces, a car basement, and a helipad,” according to Mr. Wu. He concluded by saying, “An international standard condo exists in Cambodia. And it’s best suited for local and foreign investors. The unit prices are very affordable. They start at only $89,440 per unit. Live in Sky Tree today, live in one of Phnom Penh’s prospective areas for growth! Get more information about Sky Tree and learn more about Cambodia’s newest developments by visiting Realestate.com.kh!

Located in Russey Keo district of Phnom Penh City, Sky Tree Condominium is a freehold mixed-use development project developed to respond to the needs and lifestyles of modern people. A luxury residence project, Sky Tree offers luxury condominiums, serviced apartments with full hotel management services, and comprehensive amenities for a premier and convenient lifestyle. In order to know more details of the project, Realestate.com.kh interviewed A.Ganesan, assistant to CEO at Sky Tree showroom.Mr. Ganesan said: “Sky Tree Condominium, developed by J&L Development, is more than just a residence and is suitable for both living and investment. With over 20 years of local experience. The developer wants people to enjoy a great and diverse environment with comfortable life”He added: “the project is in the development zone with the price of land increasing about 10% annually. The developer asserts that when you buy a residential home in this project, the value of a home can increase up to 20%.”Sky Tree targets local buyers and buyers from Asia and Europe. 40% of the total complex will be dedicated to exclusive public facilities such as rooftop gardens, a helipad, a medical clinic, a sky bar, gym, spa, international retail outlets, car parking, business facilities, and much more.Built with Singaporean standards, Sky Tree project will be a high-rise complex with a total of 1,104 residential units. These units will range from one to three bedrooms. The unit size will start anywhere from 61.75 square meters to 140.93 square meters. They also sell Studio units for a starting price of only $ 55,611.For more information, visit the Sky tree Project Office directly or visit Realestate.com.kh

Located in the edge of northern suburb of Phnom Penh, Sen Sok bordering potential Toul Kork is expected to be a very attractive area for both middle and high-income families. The area is most suitable to those who want to avoid heavy traffic in Central Phnom Penh and need a more peaceful place to live.Phnom Penh’s rapid land price growth is a main factor leading most people to relocate from the heart of the city to suburban areas such as Sen Sok to form new towns and communities. At present, Sen Sok is being boosted by the construction of the coming second Aeon mall project. This will push for more demand for the area, especially housing units.According to the 2016 report on the Phnom Penh property market from local firm Vtrust Appraisal, Sen Sok has enjoyed rapid growth in terms of residential and commercial developments. The area has witnessed a remarkable change in pace of developments, especially in mixed-use housing and infrastructure. This growth will continue its pace as developers foresee market optimism over the next coming years.Sen Sok is a great choice for everyone to live a modern life in the city. Wanting to buy or rent properties in the area, you can ask for more information from Key Real Estate, a local and trustworthy real estate agency. The company specializes in all types of properties in the area, especially residential houses and has many years of experience in Cambodia’s real estate market.  Sorn Seap, founder and director of Key Real Estate, said: “we have many types of houses for sale and rent in Sen Sok and there are now two available residential houses: Villas and shophouses. If you want to purchase all types of properties in this area, contact us for more details.”He added: “Key Real Estate offers clients good and reliable quality service and aims to contribute to the growing Cambodia’s real estate sector. Key Real Estate is your win-win partners!”Price of villa houses and shophouses in Sen Sok is similar based on locations but is more expensive than normal flat houses.Regarding price of residential houses in the area, Ms. Chheng Chhay Hong, Sale and Marketing Manager of Key Real Estate, said: “For villa, price can start from $200,000 to $500,000 while the price of shophouses located in the front main road available for both living and running business ranges from $200,000 to $400,000. As for cheaper flat house, price starts from $50,000 to $150,000.”As for price of rent, she added: “rental price for villa starts from $1,500 to $3,000 per month; some villas in Borey starts from $800 to $1,200 per month and shophouses from $1,000 to $2,000 per month. Price of a normal flat starts from $300 to $600 per month.”If you wish to rent or buy a nice property for either living or running business,  check out more listing with Key Real estate for more details.

Buying a new home to live in is a necessary thing for everyone in Cambodia, especially in Phnom Penh as most of them are renting but considering buying one for their family. However, buying a new home does not mean that you spend only on the base price of the property - you also have to spend on additional costs associated with the property. Therefore, it is vital that you be aware of extra costs associated with property purchase in order not to have any unpleasant surprises.Below are a few basic tips, thanks to realestate.com.kh, to help you first-time home buyer manage your budget for a new property:Home Loan application fee and Legal fees:When you apply for home loan, lenders will charge you fees to cover the charges incurred for valuation and processing of the loan. Then you have to pay 1 percent of total loan to lenders. Also, you have to pay $250 dollars to lawyer for legal services: legal advice, property checks, and legal processing.Ownership Transfer tax fee:This is the tax fee to be paid to the city or province where your property is located for the transfer of ownership from seller to buyer. The home buyer needs to pay 4% of the property transfer ownership fee and also needs to pay $1,000 for the service of cadastral office. Usually, it takes around 12 weeks to complete the transfer of hard titles done at the cadastral office. A hard title, an ownership certificate issued by the Cadastral office, is the most secure form of ownership and recognized at the national ministerial level as well as at the sangkat and district level.Home insurance feeCambodia’s ministry of finance and economy requires home buyers to buy home insurance if they borrow money from a bank. The home insurance fee depends on the size and value of the home. if the home price is above $100,000, homeowner must pay $100 or higher per year. If the price is $100,000, homeowner must pay less than $100 per year.Real estate agent’s feeIt is the fee seller has to pay to real estate agency for home transaction. But sometimes it is buyer who has to pay the fee to real estate agency. In Cambodia, real estate agency charges commission fee of 3% from seller not buyer for the home transaction.  But in some cases, buyers also have to pay the commission fee of 3% when they want to buy property from someone. This occurs when seller is unwilling to sell the property, but buyer is willing to buy and asks for agency to persuade seller to sell their property.”However, these are only a few basic additional costs associated with property purchase - and there are more to keep in mind. Realestate.com.kh will explain other additional costs in part 2 next week in Wednesday’s property section! Or find the full guide online @ Realestate.com.kh/news

Located in Sangkat Koh Rong of the Mittakpheap district in Sihanoukville Province - and about 25 kilometers away from the mainland of the province - Koh Rong Island is the second largest island of Cambodia after Koh Kong, with a total land area of approximately 78 square kilometers. With four village communities comprising over 3,000 villagers, the island is one of the most attractive islands for both local and international tourists. And this looks set to continue due to the announcement of upcoming mega tourism projects to be developed by The Royal Group, a major Cambodian consortium. To boost development in Koh Rong, in 2008 the Royal Government of Cambodia granted a 99-year lease of land concession to The Royal Group to develop five-star hotel and luxury resorts on the island. Both the government and the Group aim to transform the island into Asia’s most attractive tourist destination.  Mr. Seng Hour Lean, Chief of Sangkat Koh Rong, said: “Koh Rong will become one of Southeast Asia’s most attractive islands owing to its natural beauty and upcoming development projects by The Royal Group and another 100 smaller firms. The Royal Group of Oknha Kith Meng has been developing there already, with basic and major infrastructures being expected soon.” Meanwhile, Mr. Den Sakal, CEO of Universal Real Estate, based in Sihanoukville Province, said: “Koh Rong is one of the most beautiful beach islands in Cambodia, attracting a lot of national and international tourists every year. Every time tourists visit Sihanoukville, they never forget to visit Koh Rong. The island has excellent amenities and services similar to those in Sihanoukville. These services include: beaches, hotels, guesthouses, bungalows, restaurants, night clubs, and pubs.” However, over the past few years there has been controversy regarding Koh Rong land titles for villagers residing on the island. Some who have lived on the island before 2008 had a legal land titles for their land, while those coming to live after 2008 have had no legal land title. Yet the strength of these titles amid disputes remained uncertain.Commenting on this issue, Mr. In Nan, partner of KohRongProperty.com, said: “people say they have land ownership rights on the island but do not have hard title for their land ownership. They can sell and buy the land as normal - but price is not high without the hard title. I am concerned about the slow process of the island’s development as the government is taking so long to address the conflict between villagers and companies and to ensure the legal land title for residents.”Yet, Mr. Seng confirmed that the government has already solved the land title issue for the residents of Kong Rong. And the issuing was publicly announced to villagers today, the 14th of July 2017. Therefore, local residents will now feel comfortable and can sell or buy the land if they want to without any concern.”Regarding upcoming development projects in Koh Rong, he added: “The Royal Group alone plans to develop over a total area of 2,500 hectares; another smaller 100 companies will also be developing on the island. Airport, Casino, transportation services, water treatment plants and electricity will soon be developed there. Moreover, the government also plans to make Koh Rong into a tourist city, which is good news for local villagers in particular and the province in general.”Development plans in Koh Rong will be a huge benefit to local people as land price is expected to skyrocket and residents will have a better chance of earning more money when more and more tourists flock to the island.Mr. In said: “Koh Rong is an island of great future potential, especially for tourism sector since it is one of the most beautiful islands in Cambodia, offering best place for relaxing and refreshing with green area in the sea. Local people can run every type of small businesses to respond to local market’s demand. They will feel delighted with more job opportunities which ultimately raise their standard of living.”Regarding land prices, Mr. Den and Mr. In shared the same comment that: “land price varies based on its particular area: coastal land, residential land, or farmland. Land price can range from $35 to $75 dollars per square meter After the government confirms legal land titles to residents of Koh Rong and ends conflict and uncertainty between land of residents and land of companies, it is highly likely that land prices will skyrocket and Koh Rong will change its new face among other islands of Cambodia.”Mr. Brad King, Managing Director at Cambodia Real Estate, based in Sihanoukville with an office on Koh Rong Island, said: “Koh Rong will be Sihanoukville’s next boom destination for real estate investors, in particular those focussed on high-end hospitality.”Mr. King continues, “Investors should turn their attention to Koh Rong island land investment, as at the moment the land price on the island is much cheaper than the Sihanoukville mainland, where speculation from investors, in particular the Chinese, is pushing prices higher than similar plots of land along Thailand and the Philippine Coastline. This is stunting ongoing investment on the mainland, and price speculation is becoming ridiculous. Average land prices on Koh Rong however now are around $50 per square meter - compared to over $1,000 along the Sihanoukville coastline. Furthermore, the beaches of Koh Rong are some of the finest in the region.”Mr. Prum Seng, CEO of Nan Seng Co, Ltd., a real estate firm based in Sihanouk, said that, “Issuing the hard titles for villagers will offer a positive benefit for both residents and investors. Villagers will meet a great opportunity of land price growth for their plots of land - and their business opportunities will grow quickly now. And people can sell their land without any concern anymore. Meanwhile, investors will receive a 100%  guarantee that they can now safely purchase the land on the island with fully respected hard title ownership.”  He added that, “We can expect the future of Koh Rong to be very bright. While the land is small, demand for that land will be huge once the land titles are fully approved. This is an exciting time to live and do business here.”Check out Land for sale and rent on Koh Rong Island now

Cambodia is set to receive the most benefits among the Southeast Asian nations in terms of Chinese outbound real estate investment this year. Juwai.com report projects that in 2017, real estate investors from China will invest US$80 billion worldwide, ranking this year among the top three years on record along with 2015 and 2016. Southeast Asia gets a special highlight section in the report because it will be one of the most successful regions this year at winning an increased share of China's of real estate investment flow.Southeast Asia appeals to growing numbers of retail-level Chinese buyers. In each of Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Cambodia, Chinese real estate buying inquiries via Juwai.com in the first quarter of 2017 were up at least 26% compared to the same period in 2016. Cambodia was up over 300% more than any other country in SEA while the Philippines and Vietnam were up 130% and 60% respectively.Why does Cambodia become the most favourable country among Southeast Asian nations appealing to retail-level chinese buyers in Q1 2017?Alex Loo, Business Development Director of SC Capital Co., Ltd., said: “the reason is largely thanks to Cambodia’s friendly relation with China and the investment cooperation between the two nations is also strong. In 2016, Sino-Cambodian trade volume increased by 7.4% over the previous year.”Mr. Sunny Soo, Managing Director at Keystone Property Consultants Co., Ltd., agrees that Cambodia offers a stronger political economy and friendliness to Chinese investors, compared to neighbours Vietnam and Thailand. Meanwhile, says Mr. Soo, “the US dollar is a incentive for Chinese property investors, offering a reliable hedge against the uncertainty of the RMB.”This year Xu Ningning, Executive Director of China-ASEAN Business Council, visited Cambodia. He met with Minister of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction to promote the development of China-Cambodian construction industry and its business cooperation, which will be to a certain extent, China's real estate developers to further investment into Cambodia.Mr. Loo added: “For overseas investment, economic growth is the main attraction of the country. Cambodia's economic development is very rapid; the basic annual GDP growth rate remained at 7% per annum.”“Over the past 10 years, Cambodia has opened up its economy and experienced new opportunities and challenges. To strengthen international competitiveness, the Cambodian government has promoted export liberalization and implemented tax reform to attract investors. Cambodia's economic growth rate for the world's top few is expected in the next few years,” says Mr Loo.Meanwhile, Laurence Hamilton, Vice President of NC Max World Co.,Ltd, said: “demand from Chinese Retail Buyers has been driven by stricter regulations in the Chinese monetary markets, causing many Chinese Investors to seek overseas property investments where possible. Cambodia has been particularly favorable due to its use of the US Dollar, a relatively stable currency. Of course Cambodia is also realizing one of the highest GDP growth rates in the region, which, in turn, is generating real property appreciation.”Even though Southeast Asia is not China’s largest outbound real estate investment, the region is the fastest developing market in the world, generating much higher returns than in developed markets.Mr. Hamilton added: “Although the tertiary markets of Europe and USA remain strong vehicles for Chinese investors, a large portion of that foreign direct investment has shifted to South East Asia’s developing economies over the recent years. This is because the developing markets have generated much higher returns on investment than in developed markets, with much less risk than previously stigmatized.”He explains that China is in the process of overtaking the United States as the world’s largest economy. This inevitably has a huge impact on the immediate region, especially given China’s extrovert, trade-driven foreign policy. Chinese real estate investment in Cambodia will be a win-win scenario, with the Chinese acquiring real estate at an attractive price point, generating US dollar residual income, and the Cambodian Economy being boosted by the increased demand for business goods and services, which generates jobs and tax revenue for the country.Commenting on this, Mr. Loo also said: “China's investment is giving smaller neighbors in Southeast Asia an unprecedented change to help Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar become larger Chinese export destinations. China will provide $10 billion in infrastructure loans to Southeast Asia. China's direct investment in Southeast Asia is mainly concentrated in Indonesia, Malaysia, Cambodia and Thailand, with a focus on infrastructure, energy, finance, real estate and transportation.”Chinese outbound real estate investment this year and next will continue to be a main contributor to Cambodia’s overall economy, especially the real estate sector.Search for real estate and property all over Cambodia on Realestate.com.kh NOW!

Are you looking to invest in a property in Cambodia? Consider buying a Borey! These exclusive gated communities are gaining popularity in the country, offering modern amenities. But before you jump in, it's essential to understand the process of purchasing a Borey property. In this guide, we'll take you through the steps involved in buying a Borey in Cambodia and provide useful tips to help you make a wise investment.  What to Expect from a Borey Borey is characterised by a group of low-rise residential properties located in a gated community. These include villas, flats, townhouses, shophouses, and even the occasional condominiums. Borey developments have a variety of properties that cater to both individuals and families. It typically has its own infrastructure and services which include roads, water, electricity, and waste management. But the biggest selling point of a Borey is its huge space and security. It also generally has a quieter scene because of its exclusivity.Buying a home within a Borey development is a good option because it means that your new home will be surrounded by all the right infrastructure, such as water, electricity and appropriate road systems. It should also mean that the community is secure and contains common areas for your family to enjoy. The downside is added costs compared to stand-alone properties, a possible waiting period before you can move into your new home, and also the potential dangers of buying into a Borey project that doesn’t fulfil all its promises.Where are most of the Borey for sale located?Major Borey developments are located on the outskirts of Phnom Penh city - and very few are located in the inner-city districts. This is because they require more land to set up and this is hard to find in the already-heavily-congested districts of the city. They are also increasingly appearing in other major provinces, such as Siem Reap, Sihanoukville and Battambang.(A Borey complex in Sen Sok district, one of the districts in Phnom Penh popular for this type of gated-community development / Realestate.com.kh)  Meanwhile, new Borey projects are being launched near main highways outside of the cities, particularly in areas with significant industrial activity and factory-worker populations.A Borey developer can take land that is totally undeveloped (farmland, rice paddy and lakes) and lay the base infrastructure for a new mini-city. For this reason, the boom in Borey developments is essentially creating new areas of the city suitable for residential properties. For the developer, by developing the necessary infrastructure, they can transform the land and increase the price per square meter dramatically after the project is completed.  Can Foreigners Buy Borey?Foreigners are not allowed to buy homes in Boreys because these are predominantly landed properties. Article 8 of the Land Law states that “a foreigner who falsifies national identity to become an owner of land in Cambodia shall be punished as determined under article 251 of this law. Any property bought under these circumstances will be seized as state property without compensation from the state.” Yet, some storeys do have condominium units available with strata titles fully applicable to foreign buyers. Also, foreign buyers could consider buying a Borey home that is landed via a Cambodia nominee.  I’m Cambodian, Can I buy a house for sale inside a Borey?If you are a Cambodian citizen looking to buy a landed property, Borey Developments can be a great option for you. The good news is that there are no legal hurdles or financial constraints to worry about as long as you fulfil your legal and financial obligations. With the growing popularity of Borey communities in Cambodia, more and more developers are making it easier for locals to purchase properties.  What documents should I look for when choosing a new house in a Borey development?Many developments will pass themselves off as Boreys. But fake projects don’t have the necessary approval and documentation. They simply call themselves “Borey” in their marketing drive. Buyers need to check for five vital documents to ensure the quality and credibility of the Borey development.(A sleek interior design of a house in one of the Borey developments in Phnom Penh / Realestate.com.kh) These 5 crucial documents are the hard title, company registration, approved master plan, construction license and Borey License.Hard Title: You have to look at two classifications of hard titles when dealing with Boreys.The first is the hard title for the whole Borey development. This is called a master title - and will cover the entire piece of land on which the project sits. The second one should be hard titles that are subdivided for each residential unit included in the Borey. These are called individual titles. A legitimate Borey development should be able to produce both of these hard titles for potential buyers. If they can’t show this, don’t put any money down until they do.Development Company Registration: Development companies will need to register themselves to gain approval from the necessary ministries to proceed with construction. However, construction is not always a sign that they’ve been approved. You can ask to see their company registration just to make sure both the project and the developers can proceed legally.Master Plan Approval: The Ministry of Land Management will need to approve the developer’s Master Plan first by the Ministry of Land Management before construction begins. A credible developer will be able to provide you with it or at least show you a copy.Construction License: The construction company then goes through a thorough background check with the Ministry of Land Management. Boreys must have a single registered construction company building the units and infrastructure to ensure consistency and quality throughout the development. Once this has been cleared, the construction company is then given a license.Borey License: The Ministry of Economics and Finance releases the license for Borey once everything is in order. This means that the developer has satisfied the requirements of the government in terms of quality, design, sales plans, and documentation.Should I buy with a hard title or a soft title?In reality, you can buy with a soft or hard title. Most importantly, you have to look to make sure that the developer has a main hard title.Ms Lay Solida, Lawyer at CBL Law Group, said that “Borey projects should be legal and recognised by related ministries. The most important thing is that the Borey project has the main hard title.”Boreys must have hard titles for the whole development area. Hard titles give an assurance that the developer fully and rightly owns the development of land. You can go the extra mile by checking if there are any pending legal issues with respect to the hard title. These specific sets of documentation serve as your protection for you and your investment.Mr Dara has just bought a house in a Borey in Phnom Penh. He said he’s already familiar with the above-mentioned documents. He explained, “I have just bought a house in Phnom Penh. I chose to pay an instalment with the project owner. And for now, there is no hard title issued or even a soft title. It’s just a buy-sell agreement letter. There is a guarantee to be issued after payment is completed. And if I want a hard title, I need to process the documents myself.”Kheang Puthy, CEO Sleuk Rith Realty, told a local news agency, “We need to check all the legal documents, like ownership title, construction license, and agreements from the related ministries. You’ll be safe when you buy a Borey that has all the documents.”But what if the Borey for sale has a hard title for the entire development but still only gives you a soft title?Mr. Cheng Soknov, Loan Staff at the ACLEDA Bank, is optimistic. He said that it “is not a problem if you just have a soft title when you buy in a Borey project, the most important thing is that the Borey project is legal. We can make a hard title later.”If the development title is hard, then hard titles can be made for individual properties bought by customers. It is still the most secure option to make sure you have an individual hard title for your home section. This can be achieved, but it will cost you 4% of the property price. Once you get this though, you can live without fear of any title issues moving into the future.(A modern kitchen in a show house in a Borey project in Phnom Penh/ Realestate.com.kh)  Why is a master plan for the Borey for sale so important?Every development project needs to have a master plan. Before the development projects get the other licenses, they also need to have a detailed plan to show to the ministry to monitor whether the development would be successful or not in the future.In some cases, the ministry must conduct research on sales strategy because sometimes the owner will not make a deep study of the market and surrounding area to see if the project is likely to be absorbed by the market.Ms. Chan Socheata, the Head of the Office of Business Management Housing Development at the Department of Industry and Finance also said that "if that project sold out lower than the market price, we (the ministry) can meet with the owner to consider selling prices compared to the costs and other expenses for the project sold out at a reasonable price."The importance of Boreys having a construction license, registration certificate, and a Borey licenseThe Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction have made announcements together that some of the construction projects are not registered with the relevant ministries so as to contribute to the development of real estate.Ms. Chan Socheata said that “generally, before the issuance of the license for any project development, the ministry evaluates through its checklist to find out whether the development has a clear and strong source of income, capital, collateral, land title, and other assets that support their project”Socheata advised, “All project developers have to get a license from the Ministry of Economy and Finance. And this is something that any buyer should seriously consider before buying residential properties off-plan, whether condo or Borey. Keep in mind to ask whether that project has got a license in order to protect your own benefit and not waste money with unnecessary trouble.”Overall, if we buy any project that does not have a valid license, it's very risky. And when those projects have a valid license, it’s useful to create a solid basis for the financial system, prevent financial crises, make strong regulations for buyers and sellers in the real estate industry, and have a clear guarantee from responsible developers and buyers especially to protect and prevent risks when the company goes bankrupt. Check Licence with Developer There are still concerns about some developers only registering a legal construction licence through the local government and not on the national level. This can be very troublesome for buyers in relation to either the ownership of the land or the house mainly due to the fact that possibility that the authorities won’t honour your local registration.So, before deciding to buy a house from any project, make sure it’s legal and they possess the following other legal documents such as a master plan and hard title.The types of Borey Development Budget Plans?Generally, there are three types of Borey development budget plans.The first is when a project owner uses their own capital as an investment.The second is when the project owner partners up with a bank.The third is when the project owner collects money from customers first in order to start the construction (off-sale plan).  The first situation is the safest for the buyer - because it means that the developer has sufficient capital to complete the project even without pre-sales to buyers and/or the financial support of the bank. Having said that, a project in partnership with a bank is also common in the Cambodian market and should be no real cause for concern if the developer has a good reputation and track record, and partners with a reliable and well-respected bank.The third scenario should, however, raise some concerns for the buyer. If the project doesn’t sell as fast as the developer expects, it may be halted or slowed down. In this case, if you have bought a unit presale, you may not get your new home when you expect it. And in the worst-case scenario, you might never get it at all. Also, if a developer runs out of money as the project nears completion, shared facilities within the Borey may suffer and not be built to the original promises made to early buyers - such as roads, security and community areas.(A fully-furnished and decorated master bedroom in a completed Borey project in Phnom Penh / Realestate.com.kh)  Pay With an Instalment Scheme?The economics editor of BTV, Mr Yin Leangkong warns against the usage of instalment schemes. He continues, "In fact, some developers use payment methods that don’t require a deposit. It means that customers can redeem their properties once the project is completed.” But he also stressed that "instalments may take approximately 5 to 10 years to pay. And pay costs can exceed the sale price."It is a buyer's decision to choose which payment method suits them. The instalment plan entails a higher price than normal and requires you to wait and pay for the construction until after the project is completed.  The money gathered is either allocated for the construction or for marketing.Purchase Before Construction is Finished?Paying before the completion of the project can be an advantage. The farther away it is from the completion date, the smaller the property price is. But when a project developer has to wait for money from the client to complete construction, the buyer should consider the capital and budget plan of the project. It could be riskier when you buy that kind of project because it might not have enough money and go bankrupt if clients don’t come in soon enough.If the developer received loans from the bank for the project, this gives customers the confidence to buy the property because banks have strict requirements and protocols before they approve a loan.Are Home Loans Available?It would be helpful to check if there are loan agreements available to assist you financially if you’re not able to afford the full price immediately. This gives you the flexibility to pay at a pre-arranged and more comfortable pace. There are several home loans available but different banks offer them at different interest rates as well. But sometimes Borey Developments also partner with local banks for these home loans. So, it’s best to check with both your local bank and the developer to see what your options are. Consider your home loan options before you agree to buy - not afterwards!  Get a loan from the bank or from the developer?If you get a loan from the bank, you can normally get up to between 60-70% of the property price. However, you need to have a stable income and collateral. The interest rates start at 7% per annum, with a loan term of up to 15 years. Borrowers are sometimes required to make a 30% down payment on the house price.It’s easier to get a loan directly from the Borey developer. You don’t need collateral, an income statement, or a down payment. You just have to make sure that you have a stable income to pay. But they will also be very quick to take back your asset if you fail to pay.When you get a loan from banks, they will investigate your financial capacity. They will also need to investigate whether the Borey is a safe investment or not. This is harder to satisfy for the buyer - but it may pay off in the long run.Boreys may offer easier loan terms, but you have to face more risks than a loan with the bank.    Article by:

​​​ City Tower, a unique and modern office building standing a total of 14 floors, was opened for occupancy in March this year, with 25% of office space already leased. It is located along Mao Tse Tong Boulevard, Sangkat Phsar Depou I, Khan Toul Kork, Phnom Penh. It sits in the main commercial area, adjacent the Intercontinental Hotel and just next to international food and beverage branches, including Burger King and Coffee Today. Mr. Bun Kheam, General Manager at City Tower, explains, “We don’t see many high-rise office spaces in Phnom Penh and the City Tower project is among the few currently present in the capital. This makes it a very good option for businesses looking for a foothold in the capital.” The entire building’s concept design is developed and supervised by the Archetype Group, a leading architecture and construction consultancy firm that designed the Phnom Penh and Siem Reap International Airports, among many other projects. Meanwhile, responsible for the construction work is local firm, Heng Eng Kong Construction Co., Ltd. According to Mr. Bun, City Tower is designed to focus on convenience and a comfortable working environment through the inclusion of modern facilities and its interior design. It has a 2.75m floor-to-ceiling height that features suspended ceiling tiles with recessed LED lighting.  Furthermore, the office units also showcase floor-to-ceiling windows for optimal natural daylight, VRF centralized air conditioner for energy efficiency and comfortable cooling, flexible partition, CCTV, and access control security in the common areas.   100% guaranteed to incorporate quality with its lush and unique aesthetic, The City Tower offers multi-purpose accommodations to suit the different needs of lessees. Additionally, the building also offers high speed fibre optic cable telephone system backbone and fire protection mechanisms (heat and smoke detectors, fire alarms, horse reel and fire extinguishers, and 2 pressurized staircases). A Public Announcement System is also in place, together with a standby power generator for 100% power backup in case of electricity cut off. City Tower also features a two-floor basement parking space: one floor is dedicated to car parking space and the other one to motorbike parking. In regards to the leasing price, “the office space unit starts at a price of $15 to $18 per square meter. And $2.5 will be charged monthly for management services fee. Facilities and management system of the building are very similar to grade A office space, but the leasing value is more affordable,”said Mr. Bun.  Office spaces range anywhere from 60 to 610 square meters and retail spaces ranges anywhere from 100 to 350 square meters. The ground floor is available to serve as a showroom and a banking space, while the mezzanine is available for cafés and restaurants.”  Since the City Tower is open for lease for coffee shops and restaurants, it becomes a place for everyone -- whether you work inside the building or outside, you are allowed to walk in for coffee and food, according to Mr. Bun. He concluded that for those who intend to get a long-term lease for a large office space, negotiations for discount are welcomed. Get your business off to the right start in Cambodia with City Tower! Check out the available spaces here : retail space and office space

For many real estate agents and private sellers, it can be a challenge to get the attention of the growing millennial generation. Yet these younger buyers are sometimes a good target - as they are shopping for their first homes or investment properties. Millennials are also known as “Generation Y”: those born between 1980 and 2000. So, what can you do to capture their interest? Here is a list of tips you can apply, thanks to Realestate.com.kh.Master the digital platform:Millennials constitute around 40 percent of Cambodia’s population. And one of the primary tools to reach this younger generation is social media, and the internet generally.  Social media can be used in a variety of ways. It can be used to create viral posts to get you exposure or it can also be an effective way for people to recommend what you have to offer to their friends. It is also the perfect place to build your network. Social media sites also provide you the opportunity to engage with the younger home buyers in an environment where they are already at ease. Around 7.4 million people are now internet subscribers In Cambodia, you can just imagine the amount of potential customers you’ll be able to interact with.By establishing your presence, creating a good reputation, and sharing valuable content, the younger crowd will naturally be drawn into your real estate offerings.Sell the neighborhood:After entering their platform of preference, it’s time you speak their language. Millennials think more about the experience than the home itself. So, setting up property listings that focus on lifestyle will definitely help you boost your sales to the younger generation. Highlights can include places and facilities like parks, food hubs, a high-tech home, or access to nearby mini-adventures. Adjust communication:With the evolving technology, it was only a matter of time before the preferred means of communication changed too. And you have to be willing to adjust to whatever that is for your client. Some prefer communicating via electronic mail and some prefer texts and phone calls. The latter seems to be more apt as 2016 saw mobile users rise to 19.45 million across six mobile networks. Be responsive:With the younger generation having access to a lot of things in just a snap of a finger, instant gratification is one of the things that millennials will be familiar with. And in general, nobody really likes waiting.  And with a lot more activities to do these days, you’re bound to lose their interest if you don’t act on the opportunity to engage them immediately.Want to learn more about effectively selling your property? Get on Realestate.com.kh today, the best source of information for property buyers & sellers in Cambodia.

Choosing properties in Cambodia can be quite an overwhelming task – especially if you don’t have much knowledge about the current market conditions, and the buying or selling process. That’s why the services of real estate agents are often used. But it can also be difficult to find a good agent. So, Realestate.com.kh lists some of the questions you should be asking your agent to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth! If you’re still skeptical, seek guidance from trusted local real estate organizations! How long have you been in the business? Cambodia has had a lot happen in the past two decades. Agents who have been in the industry longer would have had a lot of experience in terms of a rapidly changing market, seeing the country rise from the ashes and into a property landmine. This can be a valuable attribute for an agent to have because it speaks to their resilience, wisdom, and adaptive capabilities. Newer agents may lack experience sometimes. But it doesn’t mean they’re any less capable. In fact, they can even be more present at times. Seasoned agents may tend to juggle a little too many clients at one point, but the newer ones can really focus on you and your needs. They can spend more time attending to you than trying to go back and forth between clients. How many sales or rentals do you have under your belt? It is important to note though that sometimes, newer agents have more valuable experience than seasoned agents. At a more objective standpoint, this question gives you a better gauge for the agent’s ability to close deals. If an agent has been in the industry for five years but have only closed 30 deals, you may be better off with a new agent who’s had 20 sales in just one year. However, it’s also important to check just the previous year’s numbers rather than the last five years. A seasoned agent may have just been on hiatus for the first four years because they’ve ventured into other opportunities in other industries first but has made 25 sales in the last year. Meanwhile, the new agent may have done nothing but just work in real estate for the past year alone. It’s important to analyze this ratio first before making your decision. Want to learn more about what you should be looking for in a real estate agent? Get on the Guide to Choosing the Right Cambodian Real Estate Agent at Realestate.com.kh today, the best source of information for property buyers & Sellers in Cambodia.

Cambodia’s investment climate and property market is expected to grow rapidly and steadily in the upcoming years due to the increase of local and international investors. Together with the growing supply and demand for premium homes, the need for matching premium home appliances is also growing. Bosch, the premium German home appliances brand under BSH Home Appliances Pte Ltd, has recognized this need. After bringing their products to several iconic projects into countries such as – Korea, UAE, USA, Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia,  the Philippines and many more – BSH Home Appliances Pte Ltd has now partnered with Modern Kitchen Boutique (MKB) to distribute their products in Cambodia.  MKB was established in 2012. MKB is an extension of Gas Toansamay (Modern Gas) and together they have more than 30 years of experience in Home & Kitchen appliances. From the designing of the kitchen cabinet to its construction and to the installation of appliances, MKB provide complete solution to your Kitchen’s needs. Now with Bosch, it served to complete this already well-established entity.   Charlie Chea, MKB’s Product & Purchasing Director, said “The market in Cambodia is ready for one of the new premium level of lifestyle and we are glad to offer Bosch appliances going forward.”In addition, he added that “Since Bosch is filling a niche for premium European appliances, their product selection is very appealing toward the luxury retail market as well as the booming Project market.”  Some of the “premium European appliances” that will be distributed by MKB include Bosch’s winning Series 8 Ovens, which comes with a cook-assisted program and unique cooking functions, like perfect Bake and Perfect Roast. It also boasts of a 2.5” TFT Screen for improved usability and control. For anyone looking to complete the afternoon homemade pastry and coffee experience, MKB will also offer Bosch’s Automatic Espresso machine. It features a TFT display too that can easily guide users through options for coffee strength, coffee temperature, and type of coffee drink. Perhaps one of the products the company is most excited about is the washing machine with Eco Silence Drive. With its anti-vibration side panels and automatic loading sensors, the machine is not only pleasant to the ears. It’s also efficient both in terms of process and energy consumption.  Bosch’s product will be made available by MKB in its free standing showroom in Phnom Penh by end of June. So, if you’re planning on investing on development of a new construction, buying your first new home or upgrading your home, getting appliances from Bosch is an ideal choice to spruce up your home and future proof it along the way.  Find the best real estate news on Realestate.com.kh!

Choosing the right real estate agent can be challenging at times and to make your life easier we have listed some of the questions you should be asking your agent, to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth! Missed Part 1? Find it online at Realestate.com.kh/news  Can you provide references? Considering the agent is not fresh out of college, they should be able to show you references for the properties they’ve sold or helped rent out because of their strategies. Ask if you can also call these references to ask a few questions. But be careful, because this may come off as offensive. If the agent is relatively new and doesn’t have a lot of references yet, they should at least be able to show you a case study on the strategy or strategies he wants to employ. What kind of guarantee do you offer? A good agent will have no trouble assuring the client that they’re going to get what they want through a guarantee. This shows the client how serious they are and how much they’re willing to invest in getting you exactly what you asked for. For this reason, when choosing the right Cambodian real estate agent, “trust funds are a great sign that the agency is serious about their business and protecting their client’s interests.” Can you show me documents I need to sign? Serious agents will be able to provide you with documentations, or at least copies of them, in order to give you time to go over them yourself. So, whenever it is possible, ask for these forms you have to fill up and sign. If they are uncertain as to what forms you should be signing or they say that they cannot provide it until the sale, it should raise a red flag. How much do you think my property is? Real estate appraisals are not done at a whim. Agents should be able to give you an initial market price based on market conditions and trends, but they should also advise you to hire valuation services if you’re determined to find out. Be wary of their referrals though. Ask your agent if they’re an affiliate because they may just be getting paid to recommend this valuation service. It is important to note that Cambodia still has a lot farther to go before achieving standardized valuation. So, be careful about who your agent recommends. Currently, there are around 61 valuation companies and around 100 accredited valuers in the industry, according to Bou Chanphirou, Deputy Director General for the Finance Industry, Ministry of Economy and Finance. It’s vital to cross-check recommendations with the relevant ministries, just to be sure. How much do you charge? Agent fees are mostly negotiable. But it’s important to know whether their charge is within the range of your budget. Experienced agents will tend to charge more, of course. You also have to ask them about their commissions. In Cambodia, commissions are typically at 2% to 3% of the sales price. Want to learn more about what you should be looking for in a real estate agent? Get on the Guide to Choosing the Right Cambodian Real Estate Agent at Realestate.com.kh today, the best source of information for property buyers & Sellers in Cambodia.

Annual Press Conference 2017 in Phnom Penh  Construction and automotive industries key growth sectors for Bosch Bosch Automotive Aftermarket achieved record-breaking triple-digit growth Increasing brand awareness through multi-channel corporate brand campaign of how Bosch helps make a difference in CambodiaUp-skilling of more than 100 trainers and trainers-to-be in 2016 through vocational training Phnom Penh, Cambodia – Bosch, a leading global supplier of technology and services, registered strong sales growth in Cambodia for fiscal 2016. The company has been growing at a double-digit rate since establishing its presence in the country in 2010. “Cambodia continues to be an important growth market for Bosch in Southeast Asia, thanks to the steady economic growth of the country at around seven percent, particularly in the automotive and construction sectors,” said Andre de Jong, Managing Director of Bosch for Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar.    Strong development across all business divisions Bosch’s Automotive Aftermarket division was the main contributor to the company’s overall growth in Cambodia in 2016. It achieved a record-breaking triple-digit growth, boosted by the country’s growing automotive market. According to the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation, the number of registered vehicles in Cambodia reached 3.7 million in 2016 - a 16 percent increase year-on-year. “Cambodia’s automotive landscape is diversifying in terms of the number of makes and models of vehicles in the country. Bosch is supporting this trend by expanding our product range offered in the country,” said de Jong. “In parallel with the enhanced efforts of the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation to improve the safety of trucks, we are also expanding our portfolio to bring in a wider range of equipment and machinery spare parts (off-highway product segment).”  The Power Tools division maintained its momentum of positive growth, largely buoyed by the kingdom’s growing construction industry. By end 2016, total investment from approved construction projects in Cambodia had increased by over 140 percent compared to 2015. This amounted to USD 8.5 billion from more than 2,600 projects. “Bosch aims to contribute to the technological advancement of Cambodia’s construction industry. To support this booming sector, builders must have access to the right tools. In 2016, we therefore launched the “Heavy Duty” power tools series, a range of precise and long-lasting tools specifically tailored for heavy duty construction work,” said de Jong.  The flourishing construction industry also presented opportunities for the Security Systems division to offer safety and security solutions for property developments such as condominiums, offices, and hotels. The division registered a strong double-digit sales growth in 2016 compared to the previous year, with security cameras and access control systems as the main drivers.  The Drive and Control division performed well in 2016, too. The division currently offers solutions for the manufacturing, agriculture, mining, energy, and construction industries. Bosch has also broadened its product offerings in this area, to include frequency converters to help increase a building’s energy efficiency.    Building a strong corporate brand in Cambodia  To support long-term growth in the country and to heighten awareness of the company’s business activities and local presence, Bosch launched its first Southeast Asia-wide corporate brand campaign last year with the slogan, “We help make a difference”. Brand-building activities carried out in Cambodia. mainly focus on digital media including a microsite with a connected Facebook app that is linked to other touch points in print, television, and outdoor brand placement on billboards, buses and bus shelters. In 2017, Bosch is set to roll out the second phase of the campaign with details to be informed at a later date.     Enhancing the quality of life for the local community  Bosch’s corporate philosophy of enhancing the quality of life extends beyond its business practices to social commitment in the countries where the company operates in. In Cambodia, Bosch has been actively providing vocational training to trainers and trainers-to-be from various vocational training entities since 2010. In 2016, Bosch provided training to more than 100 participants, and donated its products to vocational training centers. “Bosch has had a long heritage in supporting vocational training. It is our lifelong commitment and passion to help make a difference to the local community by imparting technical know-how and skill sets,” said de Jong.  Bosch Group: Global strategy and business outlook for 2017 For 2017, in light of a subdued economic outlook and geopolitical uncertainty, Bosch aims to achieve sales growth of between three and five percent. And despite still heavy upfront investments in safeguarding the company’s future, results are set to rise. “Business success today gives us the leeway to shape tomorrow’s world,” said Dr Volkmar Denner, Chairman of the Bosch Board of Management. “As an innovation leader, we are shaping and driving transformation,” Denner added. The focal points of this transformation are changes in the mobility sphere and IoT connectivity. By 2020, all Bosch’s new electronic products will feature connectivity. The key to this is artificial intelligence (AI). Over the next five years, Bosch will be investing 300 million euros in its own center for artificial intelligence. In Asia Pacific, Bosch recorded a hefty 8.3 percent increase in sales in 2016 to 20.8 billion euros (exchange rate adjusted +12 percent). Bosch now generates 28 percent of its total sales revenue in Asia Pacific compared to 27 percent in the previous year.  Find outthe best real estate news on Realestate.com.kh

The concept of a co-working office space has been around for quite some time and is finally increasing  in popularity in Cambodia to satisfy the country’s short-term rental space demand. Most of co-working spaces offered are foreign companies that have progressed tremendously in just a span of a few years. Those shared spaces have become very popular among individual or groups of entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses. Co-working space is a new trend entailing a shared working environment, often similar to an office. Unlike in a typical office environment, these co-working spaces are usually not occupied by the same organization or company. There has been an increase in working space of this type both in Phnom Penh City and Siem Reap province. Some of the co-working spaces in Phnom Penh are Impact Hub Phnom Penh, Small world, Colap and a lot more. Meanwhile, Siem Reap has The 1961 Co-working & Art Space, and Angkor Hub.  Although co-working is still quite a new concept in Cambodia which begun in 2015, Olivia Hough, Chief Operations Officer (COO) at Impact Hub, stresses it has proven very popular for two years, saying: “we have expanded three times. It is likely to continue to grow as a trend as the startup scene continues to grow in Cambodia. We wanted to support and enable Cambodians to start their own social businesses.” Ms. Olivia explains Co-working is like an open plan office, with the difference that anyone can join. Our community at Impact Hub is made up of techies, creatives, NGO workers, entrepreneurs, freelancers, or writers, etc. It's very diverse, meaning you can work in a quiet environment with fast internet and like-minded people for a membership fee. It's also a great place to network and meet new people. Meanwhile, Mr. Ham Kimhoun, training director of Wecreate Cambodia, said: “Although new a  trend, co-working space is the office for everyone who is working long-distance, individuals, or small groups of people. Co-working office space offers a special and flexible environment as usually they include training, networking, referrals, and a venue for open discussions.” In fact, Co-working spaces in Cambodia are offering a good opportunity for Cambodians to meet people from different fields, allowing them to learn and exchange different business ideas.  Siem Reap, a multi-national melting pot, offers great opportunities for co-working spaces with a lot of encouragement and motivation. Mr. Loven Lamon, managing director of The 1961 Co-working and Art Space based in Siem Reap, said: “There is great potential for co-working office space in the Cambodian market. And Siem Reap comes second after Phnom Penh since it has many tourists, foreigners and young people in the area. with The 1961, members are also able to access more services and facilities such as meeting rooms, private skype rooms, and other wide range of rooms that can be used as needed.”  Mr. Loven added that The 1961 was converted in 2014 from a hotel to a co-working space. This was because they saw this growing trend, noticing many of business ideas from young people and didn’t have sufficient resource to rent an office space. Regarding rental price, Olivia said price for full-time membership is $60 a month, and part time (access to the space three times a week) $35. Members can also choose to have their own fixed desk with a locker for $150. For Mr. Loven, the price depends on the need of members: if a member needs to use the place for a day is $5, three-days $10, one week $20 and one month $100. This is the price for low season but it can go up during the high season. However, this price is still cheaper than working in their own office, or coffee shop, which won’t offer high internet speed and flexible environment. Co-working space is not a 100% real estate commitment, but it is a place where people can first prepare their business before they’re ready to occupy the actual office building for establishing the company. So, co-working space prepares the real estate market to accept actual business, according to Mr. Loven. Co-working spaces is not just a shared office, is more of a new community of like minded entrepreneurs and young business people. It offers a great opportunity to learn and grow connections. As the startup environment is not likely to stop any time soon, we can only foresee a further increase of co-working spaces.  Looking for office for rent in Cambodia? Find it on Realestate.com.kh!

Despite the upcoming parliamentary election, land prices in Sihanoukville keep rising as infrastructural developments and major investment announcements buoy investor and local seller confidence. However, some market insiders believe these prices are moving faster than demand. In an interview with local media, Oknah Cheng Kheng, ceo of Cambodia Properties Limited (CPL) said, “land prices in Sihanoukville are climbing because of the nonstop flow of investors, especially Chinese investors.” The Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone (SSEZ) is an ideal example of Chinese capital reshaping the coastal region. According to CBRE Cambodia’s Special Report on Sihanoukville, “it is estimated that at its completion, the SSEZ will be home to over 300 factories employee 80-100,000 people.” The same report also indicates four new major condominium developments that will contribute to the market’s residential supply as soon as 2018 hits. Echoing Mr. Cheng's view, Cambodian Valuers and Estate Agents Association (CVEA) president, Kim Heang, in a local media report said that this year was a peculiar case, with trade in Sihanoukville property still active despite the upcoming election. This is contrary to the past when property trade came to a standstill in the months before elections. Yet, some market insiders suggest that high land prices in Sihanoukville, in particular around the beach areas, are being pushed up by unfounded speculation. According to Brad King, Managing Director at Cambodia Real Estate, a Kampong Som based brokerage, landholders in central Sihanoukville see major development happening around them and assume their land has also now doubled in price. “But usually it’s not the case,” says Mr. King, “with their land being inferior to post development land as it lacks base infrastructure such as water and electricity connectivity.” The especially high land prices apply to beach areas from Hawaii Beach all the way to Otres 3, says Mr. King, with prices anywhere from $1000 per square meter up to $2500 per square. According to Mr. King, even just two streets back from the beach, prices start at $300 to $750 per square meter. Sihanoukville foothills with small views start at $80 per square and go as high as $750 per square for unobstructed sea view land. “With the majority of beach plots being over 1 hectare, the entry level prices on the beach is $10,000,000 USD for 10,000 square meters,” says Mr King. “Other than this, you can find the odd plot under 1 hectare, but the prices are usually above the “average”. For example there is a one 5000 square meter plot left on Otres Beach for $1,250,” continues Mr. King. Mr. Den Sakal, ceo of Universal Real Estate, said that a Chinese investor has bought a considerable section of Otres Beach land shortly after Khmer New Year. In reply to this investment, land prices around the project plot rose very quickly.  According to Mr. Den, land prices on the Otres beach front have risen as high as $1,250 or $1,300 per square meter in some cases, buoyed by the confidence of a major Chinese development underway. However, Mr. Den notes that land transactions in the Otres area have not increased alongside the price increases. The rising prices are driven by local landowner speculation and it is unclear whether the sale prices will reach these heights.  Mr. Den suggests that this type of speculation will create a bubble in the market only suitable for Chinese buyers willing to pay exorbitant prices - and will freeze other investors interest in the area, both local and international.  There are 3 plots on the main road to Sokha Beach that are prime plots for development and still below the current market prices, notes Mr. King. These plots range from $550 to $750 a square meter with the size from 3,800 to 10,000 square meters, just minutes from Sokha Beach. Yet, the reason these plots are priced at “last year's prices” is due to the owners living abroad and not following this year’s price increases, says Mr. King. “Beach Land prices in Sihanoukville should not be as high as similar destinations in Thailand and the Philippines quite yet, as there is no supporting infrastructure in place to warrant those prices,” believes Mr. King. And while CBRE mentions in their report that, “The downtown area provides many services including international banking, medical, post office, business services and shopping,” Mr. King says that “the roads in Sihanoukville are in bad shape, there is no major shopping center, no quality entertainment, the hospitals are underfunded and not up to an international standard that gives investors confidence; and although the airport is becoming “international” it is far from happening yet.” Mr. King believes “the prices of land suitable for the small investor or retiree have slowed the growth rate of Sihanoukville - as it is out of reach to 90% of the western foreigners looking to retire or buy a holiday home there. This means the land on offer to the market is either too big for the average buyer and/or too expensive.” “The whole market is in a development cycle and hopefully some of the major landowners will see the long term benefits of developing mid range to high end villas and apartments which will give Sihanoukville long term sustainability in all seasons,” Mr. King said. For smaller investors Mr. King recommends buying established houses or established apartments built prior to these high land prices becoming the norm. If you want land, “look into the foothills or look at smaller blocks along back streets. Here there are plots of land for under $80,000 and below that are perfect for villas and/or apartments.”  All property for rent and sale in Sihanoukville!

Located at street 228 corner street 55, Sangkat Chaktomuk, Khan Duan Pen, Phnom Penh, the Lumiere Hotel is a lush and unique building among the crowd. The recently opened 4-star hotel, goes up to a total of 15 floors, offers a stunning sky bar at the roof top and a unique and modern design. Although this hotel was developed by a Singapore-based investor, it was designed and constructed by local Cambodian firms. SOMA Construction & Development Co., Ltd, is a local construction firm that performed as main contractor during the construction of the Lumiere Hotel from foundation, super-structure, MEP and finishing works. The construction work started in August of 2015 and was completed in January 2017.    For up to date news and information, visit our news section at Realestate.com.kh now!

Turnkey Design gives young entrepreneurs, startups, business owners, and investors the most comprehensive range of design services within the market of Cambodia.   Turnkey Design was founded by young Cambodian entrepreneurs, aimed to apply the skills and knowledge they have acquired in their home country: Cambodia. Having been working in consultant sectors, they have noticed the increasing competition within the industry and a greater need for standards improvement. In order to find out more about the company, Realestate.com.kh met up with Ms. Oum Chanvatey -- its co-founder, Account Director, in client services sector. When asked why they created the firm, Vatey stated that “As a double degrees graduate from Cambodia myself, I have always wanted to build my own brand in Cambodian market.” 2 years ago I met my business partner who graduated from abroad and happened to have the same passion as mine so we founded “Turnkey Design” and has a very high commitment to working closely with clients to provide the best standards of design, as well as to meet the client’s needs.” Vatey added, “We see a lot of design firms in Cambodia, but most of them belong to foreigners, and we think that Cambodians also have the capacity to do so, and this is  why Turnkey Design was created. The purpose of our company is to bring nothing less than international standard design services to Cambodia’s market.” Vatey also explained, “Even if this business has just been running for couple of years, we are supported by both local and foreign customers; in fact most of our clients are foreigners. This is because our team works hard to understand what the clients want and what are their needs. More importantly, we don’t only focus on design: we also provide consultations to customer and create new creative concepts.” “We believe in professionalism and we provide high quality work to our valued customers, and unique designs are one of our strongest points” confirmed Vatey. Called “Your Absolute Design Platform,” Turnkey Design is mainly focusing on three prominent design services that include: Graphic design, website design, and architectural & structural design. Turnkey Design has the right team to design beautiful and user friendly websites -- with application experience and clear versions through appropriate technology. In terms of graphic design, the company provides services such as designing logo, designing branding design such as name cards, shop signs, packaging, and all related marketing materials design. As for architectural designs, the company offers structural and interior design, not only interior design but also building’s exteriors, front yard spaces, car spacing, etc. Whether it’s a technical consultation or a platform design for any business, Turnkey Design has the capacity and the expertise to accommodate their client’s needs. “Discipline, timing, responsibility to produce quality product with an affordable price are what Turnkey Design guarantees to its clients to establish mutual trust and confidence” added Vatey. “Besides working towards the company’s growth, Turnkey Design also intends to  employ more young people in Cambodia.” Vatey suggested that “I see a lot of potentials in our young people creativity. All they need is a chance to showcase their talent and as Khmer people, I feel the need to give them the shot to shine.” Vatey added “Their design’s quality is not bad, in fact if we look closely, the creativity of their design has the same international standards quality at those applied at foreign companies; they just need the channel as well as the market to showcase their design”. “We are ambitious. We will never stay in one place and always try to grow our company. In the future, we aim to expand our services outside of Cambodia — to South East Asia and also other parts of the world,” said Vatey. Find the best real estate news on Realestate.com.kh!