Phuket is experiencing an influx of long-staying visitors and expats. That is hardly surprising, when this tropical island can offer more than just sun, sand and sea. To deal with rising numbers of visitors, Phuket has undergone a total transformation from a mining village to a premier resort island destination. Public roads are constantly upgraded and its electrical capabilities are strengthened. A myriad of facilities have been built including wellness and spa retreats, exceptional local and international cuisines, award winning golf courses, first-class healthcare and medical facilities, designer shopping, nightlife and activities can be found to accommodate its year-round visitors.
Chances are those who return year after year already will already have an accommodation of some sort to stay instead of relying on guesthouses and hotels. There are all kinds of properties available for foreigners to buy and own. Whether you are able to afford the sweeping views of the Andaman Sea in your own bedroom, or a compact apartment for simple living, the choices are endless when it comes to property for sale in Phuket. However, the most straight-forward type of property a foreigner in Thailand can buy and own is a condominium.
Condominiums are a rising trend in Phuket, and due to height restrictions imposed by the authorities, you will not find high rise condos. Instead, many have features that incorporate the environment into the design, so as to blend in with the surroundings and help retain the island's natural beauty. Condos are a great investment for those seeking an alternate option to a vacation villa, as they are easier to buy and do not cost an arm and a leg. Many are equipped with excellent lifestyle facilities such as a swimming pool, gym, high speed internet connection, cable TV, parking and security. What you can get is sometimes better than being at home!
Access control are more often than not available, as well as on-site security guards and other people such as technicians, a site manager and gardeners and so there is always someone around to keep an eye on the property. The condo management will cover maintenance such as gardening, maid services, guest liaisons, facilities maintenance and other general upkeep. Maintenance fees are usually shared which makes it all the more financially viable for someone who does not live on the island all year round.
The best thing about buying a condominium in Phuket is that you can always rent it out to other holiday makers when you are not here, earning some returns along the way. Rather than paying for hotel rooms each time you visit, it works out to be a lot cheaper to rent an apartment or condominium, especially if you are here with a group of people and planning to stay for an extended period of time. This fact, however, is not privy to those who are returning for another stay. Fully furnished and serviced condominiums and properties across the island which can provide a high level of convenience, comfort and luxury are now eagerly sought after by returning visitors.
The southern areas of Rawai, Chalong and Nai Harn are a residential area that provides access to local markets, small grocery shops and other convenient facilities. The same can be said of the northern residential area of Cherng Talay and Bang Tao beach. For investment purposes you should opt for one with a panoramic sea view or mountain view, ideally located in prime locations saturated with holidaymakers such as in the Kata, Karon and Patong municipality.
Phuket currently has a large quantity of projects being developed by leading property developers, and condominiums for sale in Phuket are one of the fastest growing property markets in the region. Anyone wanting to invest can be sure that this trend is going to continue to rise. Holiday rentals, particularly for condos and serviced apartments, are increasingly in demand. With so much to offer it is not surprising to see why many people want to stay in Phuket at any time of the year. However, the increase in property prices mean many now have to buy villa at exorbitant prices, pricing out those with average capital to spare. Condominiums thus provide a more cost effective avenue for those who want to own a piece of paradise.