Property Market on the Upswing for Asian and Domestic Property Groups

The real estate market is on the verge of a comeback after the political situation in Thailand caused many foreigners to hesitate on making major investments. Colliers International Thailand, a prestigious property consultant has reported eight accounts of foreign investors approaching the company in the past two weeks to inquire about investment opportunities and potential joint ventures. Each of the eight inquiries are from one of the major players in Asia, including three from Japan, two from South Korea, one from Hong Kong, Singapore, and China.

Each of the eight investors has a budget of about 3.2 billion baht, which would mean that if all eight went through with the proposed projects, and additional 25.6 billion baht (or 8 million USD) would be invested in Thailand through real estate. The projects would cross several channels of property types, including hotel and residential projects, factories and office buildings. For some, the target return on investment in Thailand is up to 6% more than it would be in their home countries.

Before any decisions are made though, property investors and consultants agree that the market and the political situation need to be closely watched for signs of violence, which may ultimately be the deciding factor.

Domestically, major developer J.S.P Property Co is planning for an initial public offering (IPO). Tapping in to the Thai stock market will allow the company to mobilize its funds in order to buy land for new projects, as the company currently has 2.2 billion baht worth of capital shares. Projects will be focused on the areas of Praksa, Samut Prakan and will consist of low-rise commercial and residential projects as well as mixed-use residential and retail concepts.