Buyer's Guide
Property Insights

Samui
Koh Samui is still a little behind Phuket and Pattaya when it comes to property investment opportunities, but the friendly climate and relaxed lifestyle makes it one of the most popular destinations in Thailand. This, in turn has sparked serious growth in the property sector over the last few years and despite recent bad press Koh Samui is still a good value option for investors, especially when it comes to high-end properties. However, the market is still unpredictable and recently suffered a slump due to land-encroachment scandals and stricter controls regarding foreign ownership.

The Samui commercial property sector has also grown in the last 12 months, as more people have arrived on the island from the mainland with Thai consumers and foreign residents creating new retail opportunities for both Thai and international firms. Major chains have joined boutique malls and now offer a wide range of products and services to an increasingly sophisticated international clientele. The island is now a bustling commercial tourist destination, but still boasts stunning scenery and secluded beaches in some of the island's less visited areas.