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Interior Design opening doors for young Khmer business people
Interior Design opening doors for young Khmer business people
June 7, 2022, 4:32 a.m.
Realestate News
Year after year, the standard living for locals in Cambodia, and in particular Phnom Penh, is increasing. New types of property are changing Cambodian lifestyles; such as new standards of commercial buildings, office towers and co-working spaces, supermarkets, malls, entertainment venues, and modern residential developments. These structures offer proof of an increasingly modern lifestyle being adopted by the people of Cambodia.As this standard of lifestyle rises, increasingly Cambodian property buyers are demonstrating increasing demand for properties of a high standard and high quality. Accordingly, the business competition between property developers and designers in the nation is rising fast.These days we can also see more youth in Cambodia fresh out of school joining the business sector, bringing with them ambition, innovation, and a high level of commitment to their personal and business success.One such business sector being joined by more and more young entrepreneurs is interior design, as the demand for such services grows year on year.Starting a small business in the interior design industry is particularly attractive to the young-business sector in Cambodia because entering the market comes with very little risk, compared to some other professions.A young designer can easily catch a contract for the redesign of a restaurant, entertainment venue or home without a large portfolio of projects under their name and without the need for a lot of start up capital. Assisting them also is the growing popularity of the interior design sector across Cambodia.25 year old, Mavaly Chhoeum, senior staff from Studio INT in Phnom Penh, says that, “most of our interior design and construction projects are venues such as boutique clothes shops, restaurants, spas and many more places like this. Clients usually likes the contemporary concepts, and a try to make their spaces a bit more modern.”She added that, “interior design is highly demanded in the Cambodian market these days and competition is getting tough. It is important to travel to learn new things as much as you can, and always be creative and not a copycat.”“Interior design business and construction is more and more popular in Cambodia” said 29 Heang Venvitou, co-owner of Sathapanak Design and Construction.Interior design projects involve managing the creation of unique, attractive and livable spaces inside buildings. The design might follow trends of local taste or import standards of modern lifestyle through design from other countries around the world. Functionality must always be considered too.A good interior designer will leave their signature on the place that they remodel.Now Sathapanak has a collection of projects in hand, such as: boutique clothing store AXARA, Kobe Restaurant, a Spa, Bank, villa, and condo. For the materials that they use, they generally import from Thailand, Vietnam and some material from local.Interior design is driven by a passion to create something new; and given this aim, young Khmer business people with fresh ideas are perfectly suited to catch the market share in this business sector.Before Cambodia needed to import human resources in interior design from other countries, especially neighboring countries of Vietnam and Thailand – but now young interior designers are demonstrating that this is a local industry of great worth and reliability, and one with many opportunities.Find the best real estate news on Realestate.com.khlook for real estate for rent in Phnom Penh or real estate for sale in Phnom Penh? Check out Realestate.com.kh today.
Wish you invested in Singapore 20 years ago? Consider Cambodia today with Eastland Development
Wish you invested in Singapore 20 years ago? Consider Cambodia today with Eastland Development
June 6, 2022, 5:05 p.m.
Realestate News
Eastland Development Ltd. has demonstrated its full commitment to stay in the Cambodian market and wishes to support the economy through developing innovative real estate projects, fit for the local market and international investors alike. “Cambodia is exhibiting the correct economic growth indicators, investment incentives and political stability to allow us to enter this market in a real estate-related faculty,” said Sam Yang, CEO of Eastland, and “we know these same qualities are appealing to many other international property investors.” Eastland Development Co. Ltd’s head office is located in Hong Kong and is one branch of the world renowned Yuetai Group, which has over 8 Billion RMB in total assets. The Yuetai Group was among one of the first trailblazers to enter the Chinese real estate development market in 1994; and in just over two decades, the Yuetai Group can proudly stand behind a development portfolio that covers more than 20 groundbreaking projects, 10,000,000 sq/m of total floor area constructed, spread across 9 provinces of China. In 2003, the Yuetai Group successfully purchased the majority equities of the listed company Guangzhou Donghua Enterprise Co. Ltd. (SH600393). The Yuetai Group has won various honors for their real estate developments, including the Guangdong Top 20 Real Estate Qualification and Credit Enterprise Award, Guangdong Top 100 Private Company Award, the Guangzhou Top 10 Most Competitive Real Estate Developer Award, Guangzhou Trustworthy Brand Developer Award, and a Contract Abiding and Creditable Enterprise Award, to name just a few. The first Eastland Development project to reach completion is “East One International Apartments” project – a condo development which is already 90 percent sold and under construction in Duan Penh, central Phnom Penh. East One is located within minutes of the central business district, the Prime Minister's house, and the majority of the international embassies. It will include a hotel, ample carparks, full services for residents and amenities such as swimming pool, gym and recreational areas. Main construction is now complete, and East One will be fully furnished and ready for handover to buyers by March 2017. Based on the success of East One, Eastland then launched “East Commercial Center (ECC)” along Norodom Boulevard, a key artery road of Phnom Penh, dotted with government ministry offices and embassies. The East Commercial Centre (ECC) will have 38 floors of pure Grade B office space, divided into small and affordable units, with low management fees, and common areas with all necessary business amenities. Eastland selected to build to Grade B office standard because there is a huge shortage of affordable office space in Phnom Penh, and this grade is in very high demand currently. This guarantees market absorption of the project on completion in 2017. The following stage of this development will be the East View Residence project, which will include four 38-floor high residential buildings. This will provide living space for international and local business people working within the ECC tower, meaning they will not have to commute to their place of work. Eastland’s long term partners in all of these projects within Cambodia include the China State Construction Engineering Corporation, China’s largest and most renowned construction company, and Buildwork Asia, a full-service property management company from Japan with over 50 years of experience in the property management industry. Inquire about Eastland projects today on Realestate.com.kh, Cambodia’s home of real estate: EAST ONE INTERNATIONAL APARTMENTS | EAST COMMERCIAL CENTER ECC | EAST VIEW RESIDENCESThese Eastland projects have sold very quickly in the local Cambodian market, Taiwan and China. However, sales will now launch in Singapore and Hong Kong, as the Cambodian property market profile has now developed considerably in these markets. Eastland offer a level of quality and professionalism that the Hong Kong and Singaporean markets expect, with a unique company experience and understanding of what makes a project suitable, saleable and rentable for the local Cambodian market. Cambodia has also evolved into a place of notable political stability, despite a largely unverified international stigma. The country has now had the same Prime Minister for more than a quarter of a century, the longest serving non-royal leader in South East Asia. Out of the ASEAN nations, Cambodia has demonstrated itself to be within the top 3 in regards to political stability. Most attractive about the Cambodian property market for foreigners is the unique ability to invest totally in US$. There are no restrictions for exchanging US$, making it a highly-free flowing currency, and a global currency showing superior stability to all others. Transferring funds from abroad into Cambodia is very easy and able to be done with very little process. Meanwhile, when you resell your property in Cambodia, you can transfer your money outside of the country very easily, simply by showing your receipt of sale. Appreciation gains for Cambodian real estate are much more attractive than other established markets thanks to the nation’s consistently fast growing economy and GDP. Buyers of property in Phnom Penh can safely expect 6 to 8 percent appreciation. And, especially for Eastland projects, a 7.5 percent 5-year leaseback guarantee is available for all buyers. Meanwhile, investors in Cambodia are guaranteed secure assets, with well-versed freehold foreign ownership laws and highly attractive long term lease policies. Yang also cites China’s “One Belt One Road” initiative – wherein Cambodia is a part of China’s elaborate plan of land and sea connections to the rest of Asia, Africa, and Europe – saying that plans for the Chinese railway in coming years would only aid international investment in Cambodian real estate, and fuel the economy further. “We are extremely confident that the next great international economic boom will happen within the ASEAN countries,” concludes Yang. Don’t miss out your chance to invest in the last real estate frontier, Cambodia, with a developer you can trust, Eastland Development. Inquire about Eastland projects today on Realestate.com.kh, Cambodia’s home of real estate:EAST ONE INTERNATIONAL APARTMENTS | EAST COMMERCIAL CENTER ECC | EAST VIEW RESIDENCESARE YOU BASED IN SINGAPORE?Come and learn more about Eastland's projects at the Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel, Singapore: MAY 28 & 29!
The Charm of Cambodia for Property Investment
The Charm of Cambodia for Property Investment
June 6, 2022, 5:06 p.m.
Realestate News
Talks of growth in Cambodia has made it a hot-spot for foreign property investment in the last few years, and the nation is receiving worldwide interest from property developers and investors. Known for its beautiful culture, awe-inspiring beaches, mystical forests and rivers, and enormous temple complexes, it’s easy to understand why everyone wants a piece of it. But more than the aesthetic beauty of the country, there are a few other things that give Cambodia its property investment charm:U.S. Dollar Based Investment:Cambodia has used the U.S. dollar as one of its main currencies for a long time now, over 20 years in fact. The government explains that the US$ provides stability in the market with ease of conversion from Riel (the local currency). This makes transactions less complicated for investors and offers a currency option that faces very few transfer restrictions around the world. There are no restrictions for exchanging US$, making it a highly-free flowing currency, and a global currency showing superior stability to all others over recent years. Transferring funds from abroad into Cambodia is very easy and able to be done with very little process. Meanwhile, when you resell your property in Cambodia, you can transfer your money outside of the country very easily, simply by showing your receipt of sale. Many regional banks that have opened in Cambodia also offer ample support for foreign investors who wish to enter the growing real estate market of Cambodia.Early Development Phase:Even though the Cambodian real estate industry has come a long way in the preceding years, there is still a large chunk of undeveloped land and untapped districts able to be utilized by investors and developers from overseas. Most developments in recent years have focused on the capital Phnom Penh, the beach town of Sihanoukville and the tourist destination Siem Reap; but Cambodia still has huge potential for growth in other regions, and investors are welcome to join in when they bring FDI, infrastructural support and experience.Impressive Growth in GDP:Research from a large variety of sources has demonstrated a consistent average GDP growth of 7 to 7.5 percent in the last 5 years for Cambodia. This has allowed the Kingdom to rank 21st in this measure of growth worldwide, and the 1st in the Southeast Asian region – further solidifying its integrity for potential growth into the future. While the bulk of this GDP has traditionally come from garment manufacturing, the economy is entering a phase of diversification and value-adding upskilling which is set to take the economy to a new level of sustainability, for both investors and Cambodian nationals. In fact, last year construction was the largest engine of GDP growth in Cambodia - a testament to the emergence of a booming real estate industry. Appreciation gains for Cambodian real estate are much more attractive than other established markets thanks to the nation’s consistently fast growing economy and GDP. Buyers of property in Phnom Penh, for instance, can safely expect 6 to 8 percent appreciation each year.Secure Assets:Development in policies regarding strata titles, whereby foreign investors can purchase co-ownership in a property as a workaround of the Cambodian State Constitution, has proven to be a profitable decision for its economy and a key for foreigners looking at entering the real estate market. Long term lease policies have likewise allowed huge opportunities for international investors to enter the market and these have provided security sufficient to encourage more and more inward investment.Strategic Trade Location and Logistical Integration:Lying between equally competitive and growing neighbor countries, Cambodia is located alongside Thailand and Vietnam. Meanwhile, the economy sits between the two giants of China and India, with consistently growing partnerships with both. It has also joined ASEAN and has established highly beneficial trade agreements with Europe, North America and Australasia. Infrastructure and trade services have been one of the things Cambodia has pushed very hard on in recent years. That is why it has continued to build better roads, railways, bridges and deep sea ports. It has also continued to develop its international flight connections across the country so as to integrate fast transport and travel for investors. As part of China’s “One Belt One Road” policy, the country will also soon see interconnecting railways across the Asian region and into Europe.Political Stability: The fact that the Kingdom has had one prime minister for almost a quarter century means that there has been, and will continue to be, consistency and continuity in its highly investor friendly policies and political practice. In fact, the current prime minister represents the longest-ruling non-royal leader in South East Asia. Out of the ASEAN nations, Cambodia has demonstrated itself to be within the top 3 in regards to political stability. Retirees' Mecca:Cambodia boasts a low cost and high-standard of living for retirees; offering a great lifestyle at a fraction of what it would normally cost in other places in the region, and tiny compared to highly developed economies. This is what makes it a perfect retirement spot for foreigners. This is becoming increasingly so as the nation's logistical connections, health system, schools, visa support systems and infrastructure grows in leaps and bounds. People:According to the Population Division of the United Nations’ Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Cambodia has about 15,700,000 people, and these people are the Kingdom’s greatest asset in terms of growth. They are not merely spectators to growth; they are the drivers of economic progress - given that 70% of this population is under 30 years of age! Aside from that, the people of Cambodia are also naturally friendly and welcoming, and most understand the value of partnering with internationals for benefits in terms of sharing worldly experience, education and economic benefits.   These are just some of the things that have given Cambodia its charm for investors in the last decade. And as more and more people see the great accomplishments in its past developments and its full potential beginning to emerge, it will soon grow even more attractive for property investment opportunities, whether at a personal or at a business scale. Nevertheless, for the most appreciation, NOW is the time to consider investing in Cambodian real estate! FIND A PROPERTY NOW!
Positive Investment Climate encourages J & L Property Development's entry into the Cambodian market
Positive Investment Climate encourages J & L Property Development's entry into the Cambodian market
June 7, 2022, 1:47 a.m.
Realestate News
Cambodia remains a relatively untapped market for many, offering substantial upsides to foreign or local investors looking for green field investment opportunities. Hence, investors with foresight are increasingly identifying Cambodia as the next boom economy in the Southeast Asian property market. MCC International Corporation Ltd, a Chinese state-owned company which ranked 326th in the world’s largest companies in 2015, and 10th in the Engineering News Record’s Global Top 225 Contractors, recently set up a subsidiary in Cambodia, acting as chief and sole constructor, and strategic partner, for J & L Property Development and their latest project in Russey Keo: SkyTree Condominium.CLICK HERE TO INQUIRE TODAY Mr Chen Shaochun, President of MCC International Corporation Ltd, at a recent press conference in Phnom Penh, stated that “Cambodia is exhibiting the correct economic growth indicators, investment incentives and political stability to allow us to enter this market in a real estate related faculty. And these same qualities are appealing to many other Chinese and International property investors.” Mr Scott Wu, CEO of J & L Property Development concurs, mentioning that “our development company’s investment timing is perfect to enter the Cambodian market in 2016. The Government is stable; the economy is showing impressive but sustainable growth across the board; the nation's infrastructure and logistical networks are developing out of sight; and consumer tastes in the city are fast changing to high-end, convenience-driven, high-rise real estate. Those buyers who look to quality projects such as SkyTree Condominium now will realise their investment was extremely smart five years into the future when Cambodia truly comes of age.” For investors seeking stability, Cambodia is now able to meet international expectations. The current head of government — Prime Minister Hun Sen — has been in charge for more than 25 years; and, in fact, Hun Sen now represents the longest standing non-royal leader in Southeast Asia. CEO of Eastland Development, Sam Yang, said that, “Three things are clear to me: Firstly, the next great international economic boom will happen within the ASEAN countries. Secondly, out of the ASEAN nations, Cambodia has demonstrated itself to be within the top 3 in regards to political stability. Meanwhile, thirdly, in Cambodia investors can still trust in the US dollar – this is unique.” Rami Sharaf, Member of International Advisory Council, APCO Worldwide, and a well-known advocate for the Cambodian market, says that, “the major attraction for foreign investors considering whether they should invest in Cambodia is the ASEAN-member nation’s steady economic growth; phenomenally steady growth: 7.5 per cent average for the last 5 years, year on year. This puts Cambodia as the number 21 worldwide in growth, and number 1 in the region.” Due to its membership in ASEAN, Cambodia has access to the ASEAN Free Trade Area. The ASEAN countries have 625 million people and are a less mature macro-market, providing vastly more opportunity for growth. If ASEAN were a single country, it would have the seventh largest economy in the world, after the US, China, Japan, Germany, France and the United Kingdom.  Additionally, Cambodia has been designated one of the Least Developed Countries (LDC), which gives it preferential access to both the European and North American markets. Why invest in Cambodia? Learn more. Importantly also, Cambodia is midway between China and India. Very recently, India displaced China as the world’s fastest growing economy. Due to its location, Cambodia has excellent geographic access to both of these huge markets. The wealth of the future is practically guaranteed to be determined by who has access to the Chinese and Indian markets. In 2010, the China–ASEAN Free Trade Area (CAFTA) became a reality, giving member nations access to a trading block of 1.7 billion people. ASEAN also has an agreement with Australia and New Zealand that creates yet another free trade area in the other direction (AANZFTA). Additionally, talks are under way between India and ASEAN, which could create a similar trade block. Those seeking pure investment opportunities are offered a unique proposition in the rising market of Phnom Penh; which is exhibiting appreciation growth impossible in the developed markets that property investors have traditionally targeted. According to Knight Frank Cambodia’s Cambodia Real Estate Highlights 1H2015 Report, “land prices in Phnom Penh have increased by as much as 80 percent since 2010, with a forecast of a further 25 percent increase for 2015.” Yang also cites the “One Belt One Road” initiative, saying that plans for a regional Chinese railway in the coming years will only aid Chinese investment in Cambodian real estate. “Thus far,” continues Yang, “the Cambodian real estate market has only attracted relatively small investment pools, in comparison to international and mainland Chinese standards of major investments. Generally, new real estate investments in Cambodia are valued at around five to ten million dollars only. The larger real estate investment funds of 200 to 600 million dollars have not yet come to Cambodia – but they will soon.” With Singaporean architectural design, Sky Tree Condominium rises 32 storeys above Phnom Penh. Uniquely, 40% of the total complex is dedicated to exclusive public facilities such as rooftop gardens, helipad, medical clinic, sky bar, gym, spa, international brand shopping, ample car parking, business facilities, and much more. Furthermore, Sky Tree Condominiums unit size is well suited to a a family who needs extra space - you will have all the room you need to invite extended-family to stay with you in your new condo home. This makes it perfect for Khmer and expat families looking to move into a better standard of living within the inner-city. Don't miss out on your chance to improve your families' quality of life - with monthly payments starting from just $333 per month, and a minimum 10% deposit on signing. CLICK HERE TO INQUIRE TODAY
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Realestate.com.kh Official Media Partner for the 2016 South East Asia Property Awards!
Realestate.com.kh Official Media Partner for the 2016 South East Asia Property Awards!
June 6, 2022, 5:05 p.m.
Realestate News
Realestate.com.kh is proud to be announced as Official Media Partner for the 2016 South East Asia Property Awards. Returning for a successful sixth year, the South East Asia Property Awards 2016 is the biggest, most prestigious and most recognised industry awards in the entire region.  Organised by PropertyGuru, Asia’s leading online property portal group, the programme serves as the grand finale for the ASEAN strand of the 11-year-old Asia Property Awards series, with the top and emerging names in real estate gathering on 23-24 November at the prestigious Shangri-La Hotel Singapore. Last year’s biggest winners included Far East Organization and UOL Group from Singapore, and Front Concept group from Malaysia, while UOL’s deputy group CEO Liam Wee Sin was awarded the coveted Singapore’s Real Estate Personality of the Year accolade. The event is also a tremendous networking opportunity for real estate professionals who would like to meet the industry leaders who are redefining the property landscape. Don’t miss this! As stated by Director of Realestate.com.kh, Mr Tom O'Sullivan, about the media partnership: "In early 2016, Realestate.com.kh created a strategic relationship with the PropertyGuru Group that allows Realestate.com.kh and our clients to leverage off the powerful network of property portals, events and related media in the ASEAN region; including PG Singapore, PG Malaysia, DD Thailand and Indonesia. The South East Asia Property Awards brings together leaders from across the region, including those from our market: the extremely fast-developing Cambodia. Partnering with the SEA Property Awards allows Realestate.com.kh and our clients to bring Cambodian property to the world stage, and of course to network and learn from the region's industry leaders."WANT TO FIND OUT MORE?
HLH Group Announce CamFarm
HLH Group Announce CamFarm
June 7, 2022, 5:14 a.m.
Realestate News
HLH GROUP EXPANDS AGRICULTURAL FOOTPRINT IN CAMBODIA BY UPGRADING ITS EXISTING 10,000-HECTARE FARM INTO A FULL-SCALE AGRICULTURE PARK: Camfarm.SGX Mainboard Listed HLH Group, had successfully upgraded its existing 10,000-hectare farm in Aoral District, Kampong Speu Province in Cambodia to become a full-scale Agriculture Park, which covers the cultivation and processing of cassava (Tapioca) into cassava chips or cassava starch. It will also have an area to attract international investors with interest in husbandry and livestock assets to set up farms in the new park. The new cassava starch production factory at the site was completed last week. Known as Camfarm.FIND OUT MORE - contact HLH Group now!Meanwhile, the company’s first starch production line which was completed in the first week of April 2016 will produce 120 tons of cassava starch daily starting from this week. Production levels are expected to increase to an estimated 150 tons per day and will hit about 35,000 tons of cassava starch annually by the end of this year. Most of these cassava starch will be exported. The current market value of cassava starch is around USD360/ton.“With the new 10,000-hectare agriculture park in place, we can scale up our production significantly through the supply of cassava products. We are also looking forward to attract and partner with global investors with a robust appetite in the agricultural sector. With the right infrastructure such as the well-equipped deep-water sea port of Sihanoukville for exports, agricultural equipment and production facilities, we can enhance the yield of our plantations as well as raise both production quantity and quality,” said Dato Dr Johnny Ong, HLH Group’s Deputy Chairman and CEO.“HLH Agriculture (Cambodia) Co. Ltd is also planning to initiate programmes for contract farming and provincial collection center to raise the competitiveness of Cambodian farmers and at the same time provide new employment opportunities in the country by enabling more Cambodians to become self-employed in the fast-growing agriculture industry,” he added. By end of this year, the Agriculture Division expects to export 50,000 tons of both cassava starch and cassava chips. The ultimate target is to export 1 million tons of both products in the near future.Meanwhile, the company has also unveiled a new plan for an integrated Agriculture Food Processing Park to be named CAMFARM on a 400-hectare plot of farm land acquired in 2008. It is expected to be completed in year 2017. The company will be actively sourcing for strategic international investors in food processing industry to set up their assets in this park. THE FIRST AND ONLY AGRICULTURE PROCESSING HUB IN CAMBODIA, BROUGHT TO YOU BY HLH GROUP. We are offering to any investors an opportunity to join us and explore this project of 400-hectare plot of farm land.FIND OUT MORE - contact HLH Group now!AGRICULTURE PROCESSING HUB WITH THE SINGARPOREAN STANDARD:Can fruit processing factory. Can food processing factory.Dried fruit processing factory.Vegetable processing factory.Bio-gas Industry.Water treatment plant.Rice industry.Restaurant, food outlet & Entertainment places…etc.Animal farm, such as: Pig farm, Cow farm, Goat farm, Chicken farm, duck farm..etc.Manufacture of food processing industry.Fruit planting, such as: Banana, Mango, Coconut, Grass for cow feed, Sesame, Maringa plant, Vegetable etc.Bee Keeping.Fish Farming. Fruits and Vegetables Export.Fruit juice-Jam-Jelly Production.Groundnut Processing.Cashew-nut Processing.Potato Chips Production.Agro-Farming Blogging.Hotel (Farm Resort stay).Shop house.New expressway.Bank etc…Going forward, HLH plans to add another two production lines in 2017 which will raise its daily starch production capacity to 600 tons. The cost of the new production facilities is estimated at USD10 million and will be funded by financial institutions and potential joint investors.FIND OUT MORE - contact HLH Group now!
Home loans in Cambodia: How do you choose a reputable lender?
Home loans in Cambodia: How do you choose a reputable lender?
June 6, 2022, 5:07 p.m.
Realestate News
The process of choosing home loans in Cambodia and a lender can be quite complicated, but if you tackle it in stages you can avoid disappointment, frustration and wasted time. Realestate.com.kh is here to help.How do you choose a reputable lender in Cambodia? With more than 35 commercial banks operating in the Kingdom, it can be overwhelming to make the right decision and ensure that your lender is conducting its business in a legal and ethical manner.The majority of home loans in Cambodia are provided on flexible interest rates, which means that if your bank wants or needs to change your interest rate during the loan term, then they can. With that in mind, always choose a bank with a trusted reputation and a solid financial position.If you ask a question to your bank lender and they can’t answer you properly, your best bet is to keep looking. Find a bank who has a team of experienced lenders, not “jacks of all trades”.Most commercial banks are generally similar when it comes to upfront costs. Typically, you are expected to pay a loan approval fee (or processing fee), legal fees for the preparation and registration of your mortgage documents at the land titles office, a valuation fee and an insurance fee for basic fire cover over your property.The main point to look out for is hidden costs or clauses around upfront fees and paying off your loan early either partially or in full.Most banks will have a three percent early repayment fee if you make any extra payments or want to pay off your loan within three years, though some banks’ fees are higher and longer.Ask detailed questions regarding the mortgage’s terms and conditions: Ask about the application processing fee and if it is paid upfront or annually; how long it takes to obtain approval for the loan request; and how monthly repayments are to be made - is it by cash or automatically debited from the borrower’s account?Another loan feature worth considering is portability. This is necessary to learn about if you intend to increase your property portfolio by purchasing an additional property or selling your current home to buy another. This may involve a fee but it will be considerably less than the cost of establishing a new loan.Some banks can be inflexible even if you have sold your house and need to pay off your loan to release the title for property transfer ownership. Be careful of this one as it could mean a show stopper for your sale.Some banks insist that you provide at least three months’ notice if you wish to pay off your loan early and that this is often used as a tactic to reduce the instance of people refinancing to another bank. If this is the case, you need to know before you accept the loan.Stay up-to-date on the real estate industry in Cambodia and get real-time updates on real estate news as they happen. Download the Realestate.com.kh App now!Looking for reputable lenders in Cambodia? Let us help!Article by:
The Peak: From Cambodia’s Most-Renowned Developer
The Peak: From Cambodia’s Most-Renowned Developer
June 6, 2022, 5:05 p.m.
Realestate News
Cambodia’s most outstanding mixed-use development is soon to overlook the Mekong River with three 55-storey buildings, set for completion in 2020. The two towers of The Peak will be reserved for residential uses, while the third commercial tower will be the home of 20-storeys of the world-renown Shangri-La hotel, with 35-storeys of Grade A office space below it.With the upcoming ASEAN Economic Community, increasingly international corporations are entering the Cambodian market, and high grade office space and luxury residential units are rising in demand every month. Over 50% of registered companies in the Kingdom are majority foreign owned, and this trend is set to continue as Cambodia rises as an interconnected manufacturing, resource, agriculture and logistics hub for regional firms looking to expand, outsource or diversify. With an additional 5-storeys of prime retail space, The Peak also caters to Cambodia’s rising middle class, who are proving to have a taste for shopping and international brands.The developer is the renowned Oxley-WorldBridge Cambodia, a joint venture between Singaporean-based Oxley Holdings and WorldBridge Land Cambodia, which first launched in Cambodia in 2013. Oxley-Worldbridge’s The Peak is the second major residential development undertaken by the conglomerate.The Bridge, the joint venture’s first Phnom Penh project, marked a turning point for the entire Cambodian’s property sphere. With the release of The Bridge, the world took notice of the Cambodian market, the huge project bringing a new standard of construction and architectural flare to the capital.The Bridge, coming online in 2018, has now sold 96% of the projects 762 apartment units and 71% of 963 SoHo units. The Peak is perfectly located minutes walk from Phnom Penh’s largest AEON Mall, Nagaworld 1 & upcoming Nagaworld 2, and just 2 minutes drive to Business Convention Centres on Diamond Island. And of course, the 5-Star Shangri-La Hotel will be right next door.Don’t miss your chance to own a slice of Cambodian history; get in touch with The Peak’s friendly team today!
Afford your dream beach condo home; with D’Seaview and Maybank
Afford your dream beach condo home; with D’Seaview and Maybank
June 6, 2022, 5:05 p.m.
Realestate News
Within the confines of Cambodia, there lies a paradise known as Sihanoukville, the nation’s premier beach town. For years, this gem was overshadowed by the interest of tourists who only visited Cambodia for a few days to experience the temple complex and Angkor Wat in Siem Reap. However, with an eye for great investment opportunities, the developer Camhomes – part of the Singaporean Corporation, the HLH group – looked in the opposite direction toward the majestic views of the Sihanoukville coastline. This prompted the conceptualization and the progressing construction of D’Seaview, one of Cambodia’s grandest property investments. FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY NOW!Standing tall with a 28-storey foundation, this project offers buyers a flexible finance scheme for purchase. With interest rates starting from only 9% per annum for up to 25 years, Maybank gives you the chance to own not only your own modern beach condo in Sihanoukville, but a chance to own part of Cambodia’s beautiful skyline. Not only that, but Maybank will allow you to loan up to 70% of the property purchasing price for local Cambodian and up to 50% for international buyers.  Even with its state of the art facilities and Singaporean-inspired design, Camhomes – through its unique partnership with Maybank – still allows third party guarantees and accepts soft title deeds with no loan approval fee, no renewal fee and no amendment fee.   A well-equipped gym and lap pool will be available for those who need their daily health fix; and D’Seaview will also provide 24-hour manned security for individuals and families alike. A 24-hour car park for residents and guests, with ample space, is ideal for those who planned to extend their hours into the morning. FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY NOW! Peaceful gardens also await investors as they make their way through to their units, ensuring fresh and breathable air. Walk paths along the waterfront property will also provide them ease of access and an enjoyable sightseeing experience as they look upon the great architectural design of the buildings surrounding them. The modern and eco-friendly aesthetic and function of D’Seaview definitely takes into consideration the livability of this project - for each and every beach condo. That’s why it also has a playground, so that the whole family can enjoy. And when you don’t feel like going to the beach, you know that you always have the option of staying in the confines of Sihanoukville’s first ever mixed use development where it will always feel like home. Don’t worry though, the beach and views are not the only things that make this piece of Sihanoukville worthwhile. It also boasts of a convenient and strategic location where international and traditional Khmer dining is available just a few minutes away from your unit for when you decide that you’re just too tired to cook. And if some partying and retail therapy is your idea of fun, bars, discos, night markets, spas and shopping plazas are just a few minutes away.  So, you see, there’s no shortage of things to do in Cambodia, especially in the town of Sihanoukville. Whether you want to get a tan or immerse yourself in local culture, D’Seaview by Camhomes will get you that perfect balance. If you’re retiring, moving to work in Sihanoukville or just looking to start a new phase of your life, why not consider this as an investment property for a beautiful future that just so happens to come with a beautiful view as well?FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY NOW!
A Villa for Rent in BKK1? A $100 Phnom Penh Apartment? Expat Expectations debunked
A Villa for Rent in BKK1? A $100 Phnom Penh Apartment? Expat Expectations debunked
June 6, 2022, 5:06 p.m.
Realestate News
Many westerners who move to Phnom Penh for work, long-term holidays or retirement often arrive with expectations that don’t add up to reality of the 2016 Cambodian real estate market situation.For example, many have dreams of living in an opulent french-style villa at a rental or sale price that is just a fraction of what they might expect for a similar property in their home market.READ OUR ULTIMATE EXPATS GUIDE TO CAMBODIA Others think that their money will go a long way in Cambodia in terms of budget rentals, even in the big city’s hottest corridors. However, Phnom Penh, and in particular the expat-friendly suburbs, is a beast that is changing beyond the recognition of expats that settled here for work, pleasure or retirement 5-10 years ago. Some commonly-held expectations are becoming unrealistic in the 2016 Cambodian real estate market, and especially in Phnom Penh. In fact, the city is no longer full of the inexpensive, charming villas that many expats blithely assume will be readily available. So too is it beginning to see a shortage of affordable options for renters in central locations, as demand rises and landlord understand the underlying value of their locales. Desmond Yap, general manager of Yong Yap Properties in Phnom Penh, notes that this is only a natural result of supply and demand trends in the capital. “As wealthy property developers continue to find prime land for their developments in the central city districts, villas are getting snapped up due to the size of their surrounding land. The villas are then knocked down and the land is developed in a condo complex, hotel or commercial venture. Over time, this has limited the supply of villas and therefore prices have increased dramatically,” says Yap. The reality is that Phnom Penh has grown dramatically in the past ten years. Like any high growth city, this has caused two things to happen: 1) Housing prices have gone up dramatically and 2) no matter how much gets built, it is rapidly filled by buyers and renters, leaving a scarcity of supply for the most desirable kinds of developments. Yap also notes that as the standard of living rises in Phnom Penh, the cost of living also increases: “You can give example of how workers salary in Phnom Penh is rising – it’s a lot tougher now to find a waiter working for $100/month compared to 5 years ago.” Many expats coming to Cambodia are misinformed as to the true affordability of property, suggests Yap. Yap gives the example of The Lonely Planet guide. This highly popular travelers resource says that expats can get small flats for around $200 with internet and wifi in central Phnom Penh, “yet they need to take this into context; are they referring to inner city Phnom Penh? How long ago did they write it? etc. We actually have had people that come into the Yong Yap office quoting lonely planet and how we should be able to find them a western place for $200 inclusive of x,y,z… If they expect western qualities in their new apartment, this proves a very hard ask!” More realistically, western style luxury apartments with all the amenities, and also serviced apartments — such as a pool, gym and security — can be had for $500-$3000 per month. Check out properties available NOW! Alternately, more authentically Cambodian digs can be rented for around $300 per month. As the city has grown, the city has done what so many cities do: Converted housing on busy streets to businesses and demolished low density housing to replace it with high-rise apartments or commercial skyscrapers. When high-rise buildings go up, the villas next door to them are negatively impacted by the noise and dust of construction. They often never really recover. For the villas that remain, the demand is not only from residential property seekers but also F&B operators. This means home buyers and renters are having to compete with commercial enterprises who place a high value on the architecture, parking space and also the prime locations. The reality is that, at this point, there is a fairly small pool of highly desirable, Western-style homes in good locations. And unsurprisingly, these homes are rarely up for grabs. Either the owner knows they have a sweet deal and is not going anywhere any time soon, or these prime locations get sold to people who have connections of some sort, such friends of the family or coworkers. There are a lucky few expats who do enjoy this situation because they locked low rental prices some time ago with a 5-10 year lease. But for new signees, prices remain consistently high. For those new comers looking for a villa for rent in BKK1 - you might be on a waiting list... Some areas popular with expats include BKK1, Tonle Bassac and Southern Daun Penh. They do have a limited supply of villas, but not as many as they once had. Toul Kork remains a relatively good choice for an expat seeking a villa, however. But this may mean a longer commute for workers. Tuol Kork is a neighborhood about 30 minutes out of the center of the city that is increasingly attracting ex-pats. As with other large cities, commuting to a suburb outside the densely developed downtown area is a good way to find places renting for much less money. Learn more about expat rentals in Phnom Penh! Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that Cambodia is not a Western country. Although the West has had a substantial influence upon the architecture of developed cities the world over, like any Eastern country, Cambodia has its own history and culture, including its own architectural tastes. Even for homes that are built in a largely Western style, it is common for some details to just seem odd to the Western eye. The colors may seem not quite right. They may seem bolder than you expected. The trim may also seem in some way unusual. The finishing quality too may differ from western expectations. Yap notes that “western products/services generally will cost more as many products need to be imported. Quality window frames, light fittings etc. all need to be imported, and this naturally raises expected costs for renters and buyers.” Therefore, advice for those moving to Phnom Penh is that you will be well served by arriving with more realistic expectations concerning the style, price and availability of housing in the city where you plan to live out your expat experience. You may need to go with an apartment instead of a villa. You may need to have a longer commute. You may need to adjust your tastes. But after all, the ability to adapt is a key part of the expat experience, in any country, and can come with unexpected pleasures... READ OUR ULTIMATE EXPATS GUIDE TO CAMBODIA
Multiple Issue Cambodia Visa for Chinese and Korean tourists
Multiple Issue Cambodia Visa for Chinese and Korean tourists
June 6, 2022, 5:06 p.m.
Realestate News
A recent news release from the Cambodian Ministry of Tourism has announced that the Cambodian Government is currently preparing to issue three-year multiple visas, exclusively to Chinese and Korean tourists. Last year, 700,000 Chinese and 400,000 Korean tourists visited Cambodia last year, putting them in the top 10 foreign visitors. The initiative seeks to bolster the tourism sector, according to the report, one of Cambodia's keys to continued economic growth. Such a flexible and long term multiple issue Cambodia visa should encourage repeat travel and bring more tourists from China and Korea to Cambodia. But it may also bolster Chinese and Korean investment in the Cambodian real estate market... Travel is also opening Chinese eyes to real estate investment opportunities outside their borders; and Chinese outward tourism is the largest and fastest-growing tourism market in the world. Despite only 4 percent of Chinese nationals holding a passport, that 4 percent spend $200 billion overseas yearly. In 10 years, 12 percent of China’s population will hold passports, suggests China’s National Tourism Administration. “By 2020, it is predicted that 234 million outbound Chinese travellers will splurge $422 billion abroad,” says Charles Pitar, CEO of Juwai.com, China's leading international property portal website which introduces mainland Chinese buyers to international real estate investment opportunities. Stay tunes to Realestate.com.kh NEWS for more on this as it unfolds...
Strata Title Office Space in Cambodia with James Padden, REMOC2016 on Realestate.com.khTV
Strata Title Office Space in Cambodia with James Padden, REMOC2016 on Realestate.com.khTV
June 6, 2022, 5:05 p.m.
Realestate News
The first annual Real Estate Market & Outlook Conference 2016 (REMOC2016) was held this April at the Phnom Penh Hotel, with a host of the local and regional real estate industry leaders giving their outlooks on the state of the Cambodian real estate market.Realestate.com.kh caught up with James Padden, Commercial Agency Manager at CBRE Cambodia at REMOC 2016 to get his 2 cents on the state of the current and future Cambodian property market prospects and to learn about strata title office space in Cambodia: What makes you optimistic and what worries you about the Cambodian real estate market? CBRE are optimistic about the office market. Exchange Square is due for completion in Q4 16 and has seen strong interest locally and regionally highlighting growing demand for grade A space in Phnom Penh. Increasingly we are seeing interest from companies in office space in secondary cities such as Sihanoukville, Battambang and Siem Reap highlighting that Cambodia is not all about Phnom Penh but these provincial cities are seeing strong economic growth in their own right.I think there is a need for caution regarding the residential market and we are yet to see strong domestic owner/occupier demand that is required for condominiums to really drive the market forwards. Existing investment is predominantly by overseas investors looking for capital growth. This market will be driven long term by Cambodian occupiers and this has been slowly changing but is yet to become a clear segment of demand. What significant changes are you anticipating for the Cambodian real estate market over the next year?We have seen the announcement of strata title office space in Cambodia for the first time in 2014 and this is a welcome trend with this asset being a popular investment in other markets such as Hong Kong and Bangkok. There will be further segmentation of the office market as Exchange Square adds to grade A office stock. High prices and limited availability of land in prime, central areas is likely to continue the trend for development in secondary locations such as Sen Sok and Chroy Changvar.Strata title office space in Cambodia is a good step forward for the investor market. I think we will also see continued development and investment activity in provincial cities such as Sihanoukville, Battambang and Siem Reap. Overall we expect 2016 to be a year of a lot of activity driven by Cambodia’s continued strong economic growth and further bolstered by the movement towards ASEAN integration as there is continued intra-ASEAN investment and regional expansion of businesses out of their home markets.Want more video content? Check out the Realestate.com.khTV channel now!
Land bordering the new city of Tbong Khmum in hot demand
Land bordering the new city of Tbong Khmum in hot demand
June 6, 2022, 5:14 p.m.
Realestate News
While Tbong Khmum advances towards becoming Cambodia’s first model satellite city, land prices along the outskirts of the proposed development area are skyrocketing as investors who foresee the rapid growth of the new province rush to capture roadside plots for future commercial and retail purposes.Tbong Khmum city, the new centre of the province formed in late 2013, is the first ever Cambodian city to have zoning and infrastructural plans firmly in place before any official groundbreaking.Sorn Seap, CEO of Key Real Estate, visited the site over the Khmer new year to inspect progress and survey land investment opportunities; and said all road construction was underway.Zoning is already clearly defined and signposted on site, to include commercial, industrial, residential and administrative areas.“The combination of strict zoning, open roads, green space, and the gentle slopes of the city, will create a new urban centre that will look more like a western-style city,” Seap said.Tbong Khmum governor Prach Chan said this week that current plans are to complete all basic roadwork in the precincts development plan before the onset of monsoon season, while the water treatment system is slated for completion in 2017.According to Chan, no private companies have yet invested in the new city. “However, the land prices are still cheap here, and offer a good chance for investors in the near future,” he said.Although land within the borders of the Tbong Khmum development zone are not yet up for sale, land along the border of the site on the eastern side of National Road 73 remain a hot ticket for local investors.Investors from the provincial capital of Suong, currently the largest city of Tbong Khmum province, and other parts of the neighbouring Kampong Cham province, are racing to get their hands on some land.Despite the new provinces isolation from other major real estate hotspots, the land prices remain high along National Road 73, with land prices commanding up to $4000 per metre front.“The land is not being sold by meters squared, however, but rather according to meters of road front access,” noted Seap, adding that investors were buying purely for retail and other commercial purposes.“The current land for sale is being resold now, having been subdivided by the original buyers into smaller sections.”While large parcels of land were originally available for first movers, Seap said since plans for the city had become more concrete, all plots have been divided to a maximum of 10 meters road front, with between 30 - 50 meters of land attached behind.Co-written by James Whitehead and Siv Meng
The ULTIMATE Expat Guide to Phnom Penh
The ULTIMATE Expat Guide to Phnom Penh
June 6, 2022, 5:06 p.m.
Realestate News
Want to start living in Phnom Penh? You should. Over 80,000 expats have already moved to the Kingdom and life is good! The ULTIMATE Expat Guide to Phnom Penh covers all things you need to know before moving to the kingdom of wonder, thanks to Realestate.com.kh, Cambodia's home of real estate. Real Expat Reviews:Firstly, let’s see what some expats currently living here in Phnom Penh have to say:Daniel Santantoniou, an Insurance Broker originally from Geneva, Switzerland, who has lived in Cambodia for 20 months, says that “the best thing about living in Cambodia is the cost of living, business opportunities, overall growth in all sectors, proximity to the beach and the influence of Buddhist culture.” Daniel lives in a one bedroom apartment, local Khmer style, with a view of Royal Palace and the National Museum. This costs just 430$/month, including water and cleaning once a week, which Daniel says is “good value for money given the location and view. However, we found serviced apartments way overpriced in Phnom Penh compared to Bangkok.”Alexander Evengroen, a Netherland’s native and a business developer, real estate professional and motivational speaker by trade, has lived and worked all over the world, including China, Singapore, Thailand, Ghana, Malawi, and now Cambodia... “I have stayed in beautiful Cambodia for around 5 years. The best thing about living here is my beautiful Cambodian wife,” says Alex. In terms of advice for new expat residences, Alex says that, “someone moving to Phnom Penh soon needs to be open-minded and go further than the tourist attractions. Dare to explore more provinces and meet the fantastic people of Cambodia. The amazing food, the culture and so much more. Meet other expats to share experiences and join events to learn from each other - but don’t only hang around them! See and feel the beauty of this great country.” Alex lives in a beautiful spacious 5 bedroom, 5 bathroom villa home with “all the needs and facilities you can dream of - Seldom do we get power cuts, and fully air-conditioned - in the Attwood area of Phnom Penh.”Filipino native Carmela Torres, a real estate marketer by day, band vocalist by night, has resided in Phnom Penh for 1 year and 3 months. She says, “The best thing about living in Cambodia is the affordable yet high quality of life (cheap cost of living). Also, the unique freedom to start a business and not get killed with taxes.” “My advice for an expat moving here,” says Carmela, “would be shop around to find the best deals on property and to always try to barter the price. Do not be overly anxious about safety and security when moving in Phnom Penh, and when it comes to healthcare I think the medical care facilities here have greatly improved, and many ailments can now be treated in Phnom Penh by foreign doctors and foreign-trained Cambodian doctors. Dental care is also professional and affordable. But have medical insurance in your home country in case of the worst! Finally, beware the heat!” Carmela lives in a stand alone apartment in the BKK1 area, which she says is “definitely good value for money: Centrally located, easy access and very close to everything.”Hayley Flack, a student instructor from London, has lived in Cambodia almost fourteen years. Hayley comments that, “I enjoy my job and the easy going lifestyle of Phnom Penh. On weekends, the hardest thing is deciding where to eat - as there are so many great restaurants, and which gigs to go to. We are generally spoilt for choice. A piece of advice I would give is to stay calm and do not lose your temper. A smile will go a long way even when you get frustrated, which will happen.” In regards to where you should live, Hayley explains that, “I have lived in the same apartment for nearly ten years. The rent is very good and the landlord is very hands off, apart from when we need help. We live behind the University of Fine Arts. It is very good value for money. However, one thing I will say is the apartment next door and many others in our area lie empty. Why? Because the rent is more than double than ours. I don't understand why the landlords keep the rent high and therefore the apartments empty. I have had friends look at them and try to haggle the price, but they won't budge.”Adolfo Perez-Gascon, a Spaniard who has lived in Cambodia for 2 years already working as a journalist, thinks that, “the best thing about living in Phnom Penh is the fact that you have access to a big and vibrant community of expats, while also having the opportunity to interact with a very friendly and open local population. Living in Phnom Penh, you'll find that you have access to almost all western commodities and activities that you enjoy back home, but you are still in a foreign and exciting country; a country that you'll feel compel to explore and learn more about. In this regard, Phnom Penh strikes an almost perfect balance.” Adolfo notes that, “a lot of people move to Phnom Penh without a plan; they don't really know what they want to do here, and, of course, do not have a job waiting for them. They are lured to the country by lax visa requirements and the prospects of an easy life. My advice to any person planning the move to Cambodia is to come here with a job. Do your research, find an employer that you'll like to work for, and don't board that plane until you are sure of what you are going to be doing. Having a concrete plan of action will help you enjoy your experience in the Kingdom a lot more. Starting work right away will help you integrate into the community. I shared an apartment (with 2 other people) on the second floor of a traditional Khmer building located in the vicinity of the Genocide Museum. Rent is extremely cheap (we pay 400$/month for the whole apartment). Compared to my home country, this is an amazing deal. Put bluntly, you'll never find such cheap accommodation in Spain. The apartment is nice, spacious and comfortable. We have all the amenities that you'd expect of a modern house, including wifi and aircon.”A Little History That Ex-Pats Should Know:Cambodia has a rich history going back at least five thousand years. However, it was an experiencing a Dark Age from the 1400s until 1863. This Dark Age ended when the French came in and established a protectorate. Over time, this situation changed and Cambodia became a French colony. In the early 1940s, events that occurred during World War II weakened the French Colonial Empire. In 1953, Cambodia established itself again as an independent kingdom. Thus, from the 1940s through the 1960s, development in Cambodia was comparable to what was occurring in Vietnam and Thailand at the time. Unfortunately, the war in neighboring Vietnam negatively impacted Cambodia, resulting in sections of Cambodia being bombed by various parties, including the USA. This helped bring a group to power known as the Khmer Rouge. Most likely, you have heard the term "Khmer Rouge" and are aware that it has negative associations. They came to power in Cambodia in the 1970s, and, during their relatively short reign of terror, killed approximately a third of the country's population. These events affected everyone in the nation and still do. But this era was particularly hard on educated professionals, such as doctors, lawyers, and teachers. They were targeted first. Although these events are history, they are not yet resolved. The country is still struggling to heal its wounds from these events. The trials of the Khmer Rouge leaders for their atrocities started relatively recently and are still ongoing in The Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC) located outside Phnom Penh. Additionally, the country developed the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek Killing Fields in Phnom Penh. These are tourist sites aimed at educating the world, as well as a form of national therapy, helping the country to come to terms with these recent events.History and The Ex-Pat Community:Modern Cambodia was established in 1993. Thus, it is a relatively young nation, yet it has a long and rich history. The recent events detailed above have some of the following impacts on the ex-pat community today: 1) The tremendous recent loss of so many educated people is the primary reason that Cambodia has such a thriving ex-pat community. The country needs far more educated, skilled professionals to fill vital roles than it can supply internally. So, if you are an ex-pat living in Cambodia, you have been welcomed here to help with the recovery process that the country is still undergoing. 2) If you want to fit in and be comfortable in your interactions, it helps to understand the culture a bit. One of the take-aways from this short history lesson is that there is a significant French influence in Cambodia due to the years that it was a French colony. Another is that Cambodia is right now undergoing a process not unlike The Nuremburg Trials from some years ago, when European leaders were similarly tried for war crimes from World War II. 3) The country still has a lot of landmines and other visible scars from being embroiled in conflict for decades. It is wise to be mindful of potential danger in some parts of the country when you travel.Phnom Penh for Expats:As the capital and the largest city in the nation, Phnom Penh is a locus of the ex-pat community. Not only are there a lot of jobs here that are well-suited to attracting ex-pats, it has development more comparable to that of many western nations. This gives ex-pats the chance to find their comfort zone, anywhere from largely recreating a life similar to what they had in their country of origin to living much like a local for an especially broadening personal experience. The ongoing influx of foreign investment and foreign workers living here has brought with it western style businesses and amenities, plus international school amenities geared to the needs of ex-pat families. As with any big city, more development tends to lead to higher prices. However, going local can give you an exotic experience on the cheap, if you so desire it. Western style luxury apartments with all the amenities, and also serviced apartments -- such as a pool, gym and security -- can be had for $500-$3000 per month. Check out properties available NOW! Alternately, more authentically Cambodian digs can be rented for less than $300 per month. If your comfort zone involves organic, upscale food stores, you can find that for prices comparable to what you would pay at home. Or you can shop the local outdoor vendors (similar to western Farmer's Markets) for substantially less, often about half price. A western style coffee from a foreign chain can be had for around $3, while a cup of coffee from a local stall is typically well under $1. In fact, the first Cambodian Starbuck's recently opened in the Phnom Penh International Airport. If you just must have a taste of home, it can be found there at typical Starbuck's prices. There is plenty to do and see within the capital, including fine dining, live music, movies and other entertainment venues. But, living in Phnom Penh also gives you easy access to the recently expanded international airport and bus services, making regional travel very do-able for the more adventure-minded types. All of this means that an ex-pat living in Phnom Penh can live what would be a very upper class lifestyle in most large western cities, but on a relatively modest income. A housekeeper can be hired for about $5 per visit, making it affordable to have one come once or twice per week. A mid-price restaurant meal for two is approximately $15-20, about the same as or not much more than you would pay for fast food in many western cities. Plus, simply being here means that when you take a day trip or a weekend jaunt, it is invariably to see things that many westerners would only dream of visiting if they were incredibly rich.The Ex-Pat Work Scene:Most ex-pats in Phnom Penh live on anywhere from $12,000 to $60,000 per year. They are employed in NGOs, the hospitality and tourism sector, education, tech and business. Some are hired to come here. Others choose to simply show up and look for work. Simply showing up is not as crazy as it might sound. Cambodian visas have some of the most lax rules in the entire world, and being here allows one to find jobs via word of mouth that won't ever be advertised online. You can also check newspaper listings if you are here. Some people start by looking at online job listings. The two most popular Cambodian job sites are Bong Thom Dot Com and HRinc.How to Get a Visa:There is a low bar to entry here. Many people get a standard E-class visa by simply showing up. Airports and border check points both allow you to get one by filling out very nominal paperwork and paying a few extra dollars above what a tourist visa costs. For about $300, you can extend it to a year. However, in 2014, Cambodia passed a new law that requires foreign workers to have a government issued work book. This is really a responsibility of the employer, not the employee, and, so far, enforcement has not been stringent.Currency:It may surprise you to learn that US Dollars and Cambodian Riel are the predominant currencies here. In fact, most ATMs dispense US Dollars only (unless otherwise noted). With the exchange rate in the neighborhood of 4000 Riel to $1, it is typical for transactions to be made primarily in dollars, with "change" given in the form of Riel instead of US coins.Popular Ex-Pat Neighborhoods:A popular area for ex-pats is Boeung Keng Kang 1, 2 or 3. Don't worry! Everyone just abbreviates this as BKK 1, 2 or 3. The Russian Market and the Riverside area also have many ex-pats. BKK 1 and 2 are more upscale, with more amenities geared specifically towards foreigners. BKK 3 and the Russian Market both offer an attractive mix of western and local shops. The Riverside area is popular with tourists and has a number of bars and nightclubs. It is, perhaps, less family friendly than the other neighborhoods, but a good place to go if you love the nightlife. More recently, Tuol Kork is a neighborhood about 30 minutes out that is increasingly attracting ex-pats. As with other large cities, commuting to a suburb outside the densely developed downtown area is a good way to find places renting for much less money. Housing:In addition to the aforementioned luxury apartments and local style rentals, Phnom Penh also has French colonial architecture and western style homes tucked away on tree-lined streets. Single ex-pats who choose to share an apartment can find accommodations for as little as $150 per month. Those who choose to live on their own may pay up to $500 for an apartment, depending upon its size, location and amenities. Couples or families are typically looking at costs between $250 and $1000.Should I opt for a long or short term lease in Cambodia? Here are some pros and cons. If you go through a real estate agency to help you find a place, it shouldn't cost you anything as they are typically getting paid by the landlords. They can help you understand what is available and what is in the lease. Just like you would in other countries, it is not uncommon to sign a lease for a set period of time, pay a security deposit and your first month's rent prior to moving in.Here’s how to choose the right Cambodian real estate agent for you!Utilities:Although some landlords cover utilities for you, such as cable, water and trash, they typically charge you for electricity. The typical rate is around $0.25 USD/kilowatt. Read your contract before you sign. Some landlords may try to pad that. Make sure you understand your contract before you sign!English is Common:As with many countries, a lot of the locals speak English. This makes it easier to shop, dine and make friends than you might expect. Many shops and restaurants can assist you in English, even with local goods.Petty Crime:If you look like a well-heeled foreigner, you may find yourself the target of petty crime. This is pretty normal in less developed countries, but Phnom Penh is actually safer than Vietnam and Bangkok. Crime levels have gone up recently, but if you take reasonable precautions, this shouldn't be particularly more concerning than in any big city. Bag snatching is a minor issue in downtown areas at night, especially for western women. This also occurs from the side of Tuk Tuks at night, perpetrated by thieves on motorbikes. To be sure, make sure you keep your bag on the inside of you at all times.Learn more about home and personal security in Cambodia.The State of Medicine in Cambodia:Perhaps you have heard that you should "Go to Thailand" if you need medical care while in Cambodia.It was not that long ago that this was the standard wisdom in the ex-pat community, but medical care has come a long way in recent years. Increasingly, Phnom Penh has first rate doctors available, whether foreign doctors who came here to practice or Cambodian doctors who were trained abroad. Dental care is also comparable to that in more developed nations, while costing far less.None the less, some kinds of procedures may not be available locally. Thus, it is not uncommon for people to go elsewhere if they require certain things. Thailand is still popular, followed by Singapore and Malaysia. Bangkok is particularly popular for OB care. However, even after you factor in travel expenses, you will find that medical care in this region will generally be less expensive than what you would pay in the USA. To give you a general idea of the price range: Visiting a local emergency clinic for stitches, plus two follow-up appointments, can cost less than $300.Getting Groceries:Ex-pats can shop at modern grocery stores for many of the same amenities they would find in a western country, often at prices that are not substantially different, though there are certainly some notable exceptions. For example, apples and are not native fruits here. Since they are imported, they may be surprisingly expensive compared to the prices in your country of origin. However, many ex-pats enjoy checking out the numerous open air markets that dot the city. Similar to Farmer's Markets, these are a great place to get great prices on locally grown produce. Bonus: You may get a chance to learn some of the local language (Khmer) and it puts you directly in touch with local culture in a low risk, comfortable manner. You do not have to be too adventurous to partake of this ex-pat experience, while collecting charming stories to tell back home someday. Ex-pats may love the local outdoor markets with their fresh, surprisingly cheap in season produce, but for more perishable items, like meat and dairy, many ex-pats prefer to shop at stores geared towards western sensibilities. These are western style grocery stores with air conditioning and refrigeration for perishables. Unsurprisingly, they are more readily available in some of the same neighborhoods where ex-pats tend to concentrate, such as BKK 1 and 2 or the Russian Market. You may especially enjoy the lingering French influence that is clearly present at such places. Their bakeries routinely carry croissants, baguettes and other authentic French style baked goods. Most ex-pats can find all their familiar favorites, just like back home. If you are feeling a bit homesick, you can just stock up on all of your "normal" foods and cook at home, giving some of the local eateries a rest for a bit. Then dip back into Cambodian culture again at will, whenever you feel like it.Wine and Spirits:If you are fond of good alcohol, it is surprising how readily available and affordable such things are in Cambodia. Many familiar brand names, such as Absolut Vodka, are readily available, usually for under $20. You can find wine shops and craft beers. There are bars and restaurants that will serve you cocktails. Happy Hour often means cocktails are half price. A can of local beer from a local shop is astonishingly cheap. You can also find experiences such as weekly rum tastings.Local Transportation:Within Phnom Penh, ex-pats and locals mostly travel by hiring tuk-tuk and "motos" (local slang for motorbikes). Tuk-tuks are carriages pulled by a motorbike. Going across town via tuk-tuk should cost around $5. Shorter trips within the city will be less.If you are traveling alone, you can catch a ride for a small fee on a moto. This will be cheaper, but more of an adventure. They are not particularly regulated here, thus most drivers are engaging in a casual form of unregulated entrepreneurship. Pretty much anyone who owns a motorbike can hire themselves out. They do not usually provide helmets for their passengers. Of course, they typically do not wear a helmet themselves either. Taxis can be found, but they mostly service the airport. If you really want a taxi, you should call and arrange one. They do not typically cruise the city looking for passengers, so it is not realistic to assume you can readily flag one down. In 2015, local bus service was established in the city. Unsurprisingly, given how new the system is, routes are limited and service is not yet reliable. This is something to look forward to for the future, but not something you should count on for basic transportation just yet.Travel Outside of the Capital:Phnom Penh’s International Airport is still being upgraded. Its ongoing expansion has added more international flights, both to and from the capital. There are multiple daily flights to Bangkok, Thailand, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam for less than $100. For about $50, you can take an Air Asia flight to their Kuala Lumpur hub, and from there go on to other parts of Asia. Although the local bus service is in its infancy, regional bus service has been around for some time. Thus, it has had the opportunity to mature. Typically for less than $20, you can find air conditioned buses to most parts of the country via Giant Ibis. For not much more money, it is also possible to find buses that will take you to a bordering country, such as Thailand. If you wish to go someplace not on an established bus route or you wish to retain additional control over your schedule, for a bit more money, you can also hire a car and driver to take you anywhere you wish to go.A Magnet for Foreign Nationals:Phnom Penh has much of the charm and opportunity that our parents found in so many places around the world, but which is nearly non-existent these days. This unusually low cost cosmopolitan city offers ready access to relatively obscure, exotic regional destinations. Plus, it has economic access to major markets, such as India, China and Australia. This makes it one of the few places left in the world where educated people from more developed nations can find abundant career opportunity while living like they are on a permanent vacation.Retiree’s Mecca:InternationalLiving.com’s Annual Global Retirement Index has just named Cambodia as 1 of 3 top retirement destinations worldwide. The retirement index seeks to compare and contrast retirement destinations around the world – all of which are exhibiting relatively low costs of living by global standards. Retiring in weaker economies is becoming a global trend for expats from more expensive, developed economies, as the relative costs of living in cheaper retirement destinations guarantees a better quality of life for pensioners. In the past 10 years the Kingdom of Cambodia has become one of Southeast Asia’s most up-and-coming destinations for tourists and expats looking to enjoy the exotic charm of a country that also offers the most attractive cost of living in Asia.Cambodia has flexible visa requirements for citizens of Western countries who can obtain annual long-stay visas with a minimum of paperwork and a processing fee of just $285 per year. When you get there, everything from entertainment to renting is very affordable in Cambodia. Meanwhile, the Cambodian government looks set to make it even easier to retire in the Kingdom…Meanwhile, the government has released plans to increase Cambodia’s attractiveness as a destination for foreign retirees, according to a draft policy from the Ministry of Tourism obtained by the Cambodia Daily. “The draft includes a range of proposals to extract more income from Cambodia’s tourist industry by encouraging foreigners to buy property and stay longer in the country, with involvement from the ministries of tourism, finance and land management,” said the Cambodia Daily report.The proposed policies are said to include measures such as the development of “special residences” throughout Cambodia with commercial tourist properties and a wide range of useful facilities. “Special tourists” such as retirees would have the right to buy, rent or sell property in these special residences, and also be entitled to longer-term and more flexible vi­sas, according to the draft of the policy.Enjoyed the Expat guide to Phnom Penh? Learn more about real estate investment in Cambodia!
Make your money work for you, with Hong Leong & Realestate.com.kh
Make your money work for you, with Hong Leong & Realestate.com.kh
June 6, 2022, 5:06 p.m.
Realestate News
Realestate.com.kh is extremely proud to be working together with Hong Leong Bank of Cambodia to make your dreams of owning a home a reality. We want to help all Cambodian’s leverage their finances effectively to improve their life, and the life of their families, today! Through this unique partnership, we want to help all Cambodian’s manage their finances effectively to afford the things most important in their lives, ensuring sustained prosperity for businesses, households and the families within - and help you spend less time worrying about money, and more time enjoying your life. Hong Leong Bank (Cambodia) Plc. or HLBCAM is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hong Leong Bank Berhad – one of the leading banks in Malaysia. HLBCAM further cements Hong Leong Bank’s legacy of meeting the evolving needs of customers by offering a broad range of banking and specialized financial services in Cambodia. Relating to their home loan product range, HLBCAM has a 20 year home loan and home investment loan, a 10 year home equity loan and a 10 year commercial mortgage loan all allowing you to borrow up to 70% of market value. Living up to the Group’s tagline of “Reaching Out to You”, the Bank reaches out to its customers in Cambodia through its inaugural head office branch and Priority Banking lounge, strategically located in the heart of the city and 4 other supporting branches throughout the busy Phnom Penh districts. Hong Leong’s vision in Cambodia is to become Cambodia’s ‘preferred’ financial services provider among the leading banks, and our mission is to partner with our targeted business community. Hong Leong strives to help create better value as we fulfill our customers’ financial needs with the highest level of integrity and professionalism, where our highly capable people make the difference. A standout feature of Realestate.com.kh is being able to apply for a home loan directly – and you can even use our clever home loan calculators to work out how much you will likely need to loan, based on the price of the property you are considering. Once you know the value of your dream house or commercial property, with Realestate.com.kh you can apply for a loan directly to Hong Leong with the click of your mouse. This process makes getting a home loan easier than ever before – all from the comfort of your home, office and even from your mobile phone! Find out more today about how you can finance your dream home with Hong Leong and Realestate.com.kh, Cambodia’s home of real estate.
TK Royal One: Modernity has arrived in Phnom Penh
TK Royal One: Modernity has arrived in Phnom Penh
June 6, 2022, 5:06 p.m.
Realestate News
With over 30 years of experience in the property development business, the Taiwan-based TC Royal Manor Co., Ltd. steps back into the Cambodian prime development’s market with their latest project: TK Royal One. TK Royal One started construction in early January 2015 and is slated for completion by the end of 2017. The project is located along the city’s main artery street, Russia Boulevard - well positioned in front of the renowned Royal University of Phnom Penh. The new project is also conveniently backed onto street 122, meaning easy access off the main road for those using the extensive car parking facilities.On your doorstep, find great cafes and eateries, such as Brown Cafe, the Pizza Company and the TK Avenue shopping plaza and cineplex. And for International buyers and those that work in Phnom Penh, TK Royal One is just a 10 minute drive to the Phnom Penh International Airport and the Phnom Penh Special Economic Zone. The project offers both office and residential units, providing state-of-the-art amenities suited to a modern urban lifestyle. Freehold ownership is available to both local and foreign buyers, with prices starting from $2,800 per square meter. And there are more than just condos and offices in this new project - all tenants will enjoy fully managed services such as the gym center, swimming pool and rooftop garden overlooking the entire city. Luxury, security, privacy are the hallmark features of the International Grade TK Royal One project.Taste a life that is defined by modern living - and don’t miss out on this great investment opportunity. Inquire with the professional sales consultant team today!