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What are the best property investments in Bali?

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Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Indonesia Property Pack

property investment Bali

Yes, the analysis of Bali's property market is included in our pack

Bali's property market in 2025 offers exceptional investment opportunities for both lifestyle and rental income purposes.

From luxury villas in Seminyak generating 15% annual returns to affordable land in emerging areas like Tabanan, the island provides diverse options for every budget and investment strategy. With over 6.3 million international visitors in 2024 and a growing digital nomad community, rental demand remains robust while property values continue their steady 7-12% annual appreciation.

If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Indonesia, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.

How this content was created πŸ”ŽπŸ“

At BambooRoutes, we explore the Indonesian real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distanceβ€”we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Jakarta, Bali, and Yogyakarta. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

photo of expert daniel rouquette

Fact-checked and reviewed by our local expert

βœ“βœ“βœ“

Daniel Rouquette πŸ‡«πŸ‡·

CEO & Co-Founder at Villa Finder

Daniel Rouquette is very knowledgeable about the Bali villa market, as Villa Finder offers a vast selection of properties across the island. As the CEO and Co-Founder of Villa Finder, he has been leading the company since 2012, providing high-quality villa rentals and personalized concierge services. With over 4,000 villas in 28 destinations, Villa Finder has become a trusted name in luxury short-term rentals in the Asia-Pacific region.

What types of properties can you invest in when buying in Bali?

Bali offers five main property investment categories, each with distinct characteristics and investment potential.

Villas represent the most popular investment choice, ranging from $100,000 budget options to $700,000+ luxury properties in prime locations like Seminyak and Uluwatu. These standalone properties typically feature private pools, gardens, and multiple bedrooms, making them ideal for both personal use and short-term rental income.

Apartments provide a more affordable entry point, with modern units in Ubud, Canggu, and Sanur priced between $70,000 and $250,000. These properties require less maintenance than villas and often come with shared amenities like pools and security services, appealing to long-term renters and digital nomads.

Land investment opportunities exist throughout Bali, with prices ranging from $50 per square meter in emerging areas like Tabanan to $600 per square meter for prime coastal plots. Investors can purchase land for future development, land banking, or agricultural purposes, though development requires proper permits and zoning compliance.

Commercial properties include hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, co-working spaces, and retail shops, with investments starting from $100,000 for small establishments up to $5 million for larger hospitality ventures in tourist hotspots.

Is buying better than renting for Bali real estate investment right now?

Buying property in Bali delivers superior returns for investors with long-term horizons and specific investment goals.

Property ownership in Bali generates rental yields between 8-15% annually, significantly higher than most global markets, while property values appreciate 7-12% per year based on recent market trends. A villa purchased for $300,000 in Canggu can generate $2,000-3,000 monthly rental income while increasing in value by $21,000-36,000 annually.

Renting makes financial sense for investors staying less than 7-10 years or those wanting flexibility to test different areas before committing to purchase. Monthly villa rentals in prime areas cost $800-2,500, eliminating maintenance responsibilities, property taxes, and market risk exposure.

The break-even point typically occurs around year 8-10 when considering purchase costs, ongoing expenses, and opportunity costs of capital. However, buyers benefit from forced savings through mortgage payments, tax advantages, and the ability to leverage their investment for additional purchases.

As of mid-2025, Bali's strong tourism recovery and growing digital nomad population create favorable conditions for property ownership, especially in high-demand areas with proven rental track records.

How have property prices evolved in Bali and what are current price ranges?

Bali property prices have experienced steady growth since 2020, with residential and land values increasing 6-8% annually driven by tourism recovery and foreign investment demand.

Property Type Current Price Range (2025) Annual Growth Rate Prime Locations
Budget Villas $100,000 - $200,000 6-8% Tabanan, North Bali, Gianyar
Mid-Range Villas $200,000 - $400,000 8-10% Canggu, Ubud, Sanur
Luxury Villas $400,000 - $700,000+ 10-12% Seminyak, Uluwatu, Berawa
Apartments $70,000 - $250,000 7-9% Ubud, Canggu, Sanur
Land per sqm $50 - $600 8-12% Varies by location and zoning
Commercial Properties $100,000 - $5M+ 9-15% Tourist areas, business districts

What trends are shaping Bali's real estate market and future outlook?

Four major trends are driving Bali's property market transformation as we reach mid-2025, creating both opportunities and challenges for investors.

Tourism recovery has exceeded pre-pandemic levels, with over 6.3 million international arrivals in 2024 fueling demand for short-term rental properties. This surge particularly benefits areas like Canggu, Seminyak, and Uluwatu where occupancy rates consistently exceed 80% during peak seasons.

The digital nomad influx has fundamentally changed rental patterns, with remote workers seeking longer stays (1-6 months) in areas with reliable internet, co-working spaces, and international communities. Canggu, Ubud, and Pererenan have emerged as primary hubs, driving up both rental rates and property values in these locations.

Sustainable and eco-development trends are reshaping buyer preferences, with increasing demand for green building materials, solar power, and eco-friendly designs. Properties in Tabanan and southwest Bali incorporating these features command premium prices and attract environmentally conscious investors.

Limited land supply in prime coastal and central areas continues pushing prices higher, with some beachfront plots increasing 15-20% annually. This scarcity is driving development toward previously overlooked areas like North Bali and inland regions, creating new investment opportunities for early adopters.

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investing in real estate in  Bali

What are the legal and financial steps to buy property in Bali as a foreigner?

Foreign property acquisition in Bali requires navigating specific legal structures and compliance procedures that vary based on intended use and ownership duration.

Choose your ownership structure first: Leasehold (Hak Sewa) allows up to 25-30 years renewable terms and suits most residential investors, while Right to Use (Hak Pakai) provides 30-year renewable rights for residential properties. PT PMA (Foreign-Owned Company) structure enables ownership under Right to Build (HGB) for commercial and some residential developments but requires ongoing business compliance.

Conduct thorough due diligence by hiring qualified notaries and legal advisors to verify land titles, zoning regulations, building permits, and any existing encumbrances. This step prevents costly legal issues and ensures the property can be used for your intended purpose.

Sign the sale agreement including a 5-10% deposit, followed by land office registration through the Pejabat Pembuat Akta Tanah (PPAT) to transfer ownership or lease rights. Complete payment includes the balance, 5% transfer tax, and registration fees typically totaling 7-10% of purchase price.

Obtain necessary licenses for your intended use: Pondok Wisata licenses for short-term rentals, business permits for commercial operations, and ensure ongoing compliance with annual property taxes and visa requirements if maintaining Indonesian residency status.

Who typically invests in Bali property and what motivates them?

Bali attracts four primary investor categories, each driven by distinct motivations and investment strategies that shape market demand patterns.

Foreign lifestyle buyers represent the largest segment, seeking holiday homes, retirement bases, or part-time residences in tropical paradise. These investors typically purchase villas in the $200,000-500,000 range and prioritize location, amenities, and personal enjoyment over pure financial returns.

Yield-driven investors focus primarily on rental income generation and capital appreciation, often purchasing multiple properties across different price points and locations. This group targets properties with proven rental track records in areas like Canggu and Seminyak where 10-15% annual returns are achievable.

Digital nomads and remote workers increasingly buy properties for live-work flexibility, combining personal use with rental income when traveling. They typically prefer modern villas or apartments in areas with strong internet infrastructure and international communities, spending $150,000-400,000 on properties.

Entrepreneurs invest in hospitality, wellness, or co-working ventures, purchasing commercial properties or developing boutique hotels, retreat centers, and co-working spaces. These business-focused investors often have larger budgets ($300,000-2 million+) and seek properties with development or conversion potential.

What are strong reasons versus risky motivations for Bali property investment?

Understanding the difference between sound investment logic and emotional decision-making determines long-term success in Bali's property market.

Strong Investment Reasons:
  1. High rental yields of 8-15% annually combined with 7-12% property value appreciation create compelling total returns that outperform most global markets
  2. Dual-use potential allowing personal enjoyment during holidays while generating rental income throughout the year maximizes property utilization
  3. Low property taxes and living costs compared to Western countries enhance net returns and reduce ongoing ownership expenses
  4. Strong tourism fundamentals with over 6 million annual visitors and growing digital nomad population provide sustainable demand for rental properties
  5. Portfolio diversification benefits from investing in emerging Asian markets with different economic cycles than traditional Western property markets
Risky Motivations to Avoid:
  1. Expecting quick property flips or unrealistic short-term gains without understanding market cycles and transaction costs
  2. Buying based on social media hype or influencer recommendations without conducting proper due diligence and market research
  3. Relying on illegal nominee structures or unclear title arrangements that could result in complete loss of investment
  4. Purchasing in oversupplied areas or declining neighborhoods without analyzing rental demand and competition levels
  5. Ignoring legal compliance requirements, zoning restrictions, and ongoing tax obligations that could lead to penalties or forced sales

What are the best areas to invest in Bali for different investment goals?

Bali's diverse regions offer distinct advantages depending on your investment strategy, budget, and objectives for the property.

Area Investment Type Pros Cons
Canggu High-Yield Rental Digital nomad hub, 12-15% yields, beach access, vibrant scene Expensive entry ($250K+), traffic congestion, crowded
Seminyak Luxury Tourism Premium rates, high occupancy, dining/nightlife, established market Limited new land, high prices ($400K+), intense competition
Uluwatu Luxury/Prestige Clifftop locations, surf culture, luxury positioning, strong appreciation Higher entry costs, limited amenities, distance from nightlife
Ubud Wellness/Culture Stable occupancy, cultural attractions, wellness tourism, green zone protection Construction restrictions, lower rental rates, limited nightlife
Berawa/Pererenan Growth Potential Still affordable ($200-300K), emerging demand, development potential Infrastructure developing, fewer amenities, unproven long-term demand
Tabanan/North Bali Budget/Land Banking Large plots available, eco-retreat potential, low entry costs Lower rental demand, slower appreciation, limited tourism infrastructure
infographics rental yields citiesBali

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Indonesia versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.

What property options exist for different budget levels in Bali?

Bali's property market accommodates investors across all budget ranges, from entry-level apartments to ultra-luxury estates, each offering distinct investment characteristics and potential returns.

Budget Level Property Options Available Best Use Cases Expected Returns
Low ($70K-150K) Small apartments in Ubud/Sanur, basic villas in outer areas, land plots Long-term rentals, land banking, first-time investment 8-12% rental yield
Medium ($150K-300K) 2-3 bedroom villas in Canggu/Berawa, modern apartments, small commercial Mixed personal use and rentals, steady income generation 10-14% rental yield
High ($300K-600K) Luxury villas in Seminyak/Uluwatu, boutique hotels, prime land Premium short-term rentals, luxury positioning, capital appreciation 12-15% rental yield
Ultra-High ($600K+) Clifftop estates, beachfront villas, large commercial developments Ultra-luxury rentals, prestige holdings, development projects 10-18% total returns

What common mistakes should you avoid when investing in Bali property?

Seven critical mistakes account for most investor losses in Bali's property market, yet all are completely avoidable with proper preparation and professional guidance.

Wrong location selection tops the list of costly errors, with investors often choosing areas based on personal preferences rather than rental demand data. Always research occupancy rates, average daily rates, and seasonal patterns before purchasing, and prioritize locations with proven track records over undeveloped areas unless you have extensive local market knowledge.

Skipping due diligence creates legal and financial disasters that can result in complete investment loss. Always hire qualified notaries to verify land titles, check zoning compliance, confirm building permits, and investigate any encumbrances or legal disputes affecting the property.

Underestimating ongoing maintenance and management costs destroys rental profitability for unprepared investors. Budget 15-25% of rental income for property management, cleaning, maintenance, utilities, and repairs, plus emergency reserves for major expenses like pool equipment or roof repairs.

Using illegal nominee structures or unclear ownership arrangements violates Indonesian law and provides zero legal protection for foreign investors. Stick to legal ownership structures like leasehold, Hak Pakai, or properly structured PT PMA companies with professional legal guidance.

It's something we develop in our Indonesia property pack.

Where should you invest for long-term rentals and what returns can you expect?

Long-term rental success in Bali depends on targeting the right tenant demographics in areas with strong infrastructure and community amenities that support extended stays.

Canggu leads long-term rental demand due to its established digital nomad community, reliable internet infrastructure, numerous co-working spaces, and vibrant social scene. Properties here attract remote workers willing to pay $1,500-2,500 monthly for modern 2-3 bedroom villas, generating 10-14% annual yields for well-located properties.

Ubud attracts wellness-focused tenants, yoga instructors, artists, and spiritual seekers seeking 3-12 month stays in peaceful environments. Rental rates typically range $800-1,800 monthly for quality properties, with yields of 8-12% annually, though seasonal fluctuations affect consistency.

Sanur appeals to retirees, families, and conservative expats preferring quieter beach town atmosphere with established amenities and healthcare facilities. Long-term tenants here pay $1,000-2,000 monthly for comfortable properties, providing stable 9-13% annual returns with lower turnover rates.

Pererenan emerges as a growing long-term rental market, attracting budget-conscious digital nomads and surfers seeking affordable alternatives to expensive Canggu. Properties rent for $700-1,500 monthly, generating 11-15% yields due to lower purchase prices and increasing demand.

Target tenants typically seek fast internet (minimum 50 Mbps), modern appliances, air conditioning, reliable water supply, security systems, and proximity to cafes, co-working spaces, gyms, and social venues that support their lifestyle needs.

How profitable are short-term rentals and what are the regulations?

Short-term rentals in prime Bali locations generate higher gross yields than long-term rentals but require more intensive management and compliance with evolving regulations.

Canggu, Seminyak, and Uluwatu lead short-term rental performance with occupancy rates reaching 80-90% during peak season (July-August, December-January) and 60-70% during shoulder periods. High-end villas in these areas can gross $40,000-80,000 annually, translating to 10-15% yields after expenses.

Regulatory requirements mandate obtaining a Pondok Wisata license for legal short-term rental operations, which involves property inspections, safety compliance, tax registration, and ongoing reporting obligations. Some local areas have implemented restrictions or bans on short-term rentals, making license verification crucial before purchase.

Operating costs typically consume 30-40% of gross rental income, including property management (10-15%), cleaning and maintenance (8-12%), utilities (5-8%), marketing platforms (3-5%), and taxes (10%). Professional management becomes essential for maintaining service standards and maximizing occupancy rates.

Seasonal demand patterns significantly impact returns, with peak months generating daily rates 2-3 times higher than low season periods. Properties in Berawa and central Ubud show strong year-round demand from digital nomads, reducing seasonal volatility compared to pure tourism-dependent areas.

It's something we develop in our Indonesia property pack.

What makes a property a smart investment versus a warning sign to avoid?

Successful Bali property investments share four fundamental characteristics that differentiate them from problematic purchases that drain investor returns and create ongoing headaches.

Smart Investment Indicators:
  1. Clear legal title with proper zoning compliance, valid building permits, and transparent ownership structure through legitimate leasehold, Hak Pakai, or PT PMA arrangements
  2. Proven rental demand demonstrated by comparable properties achieving consistent occupancy rates above 70% and rental rates supporting projected yield calculations
  3. Strategic location with existing infrastructure including reliable electricity, water supply, internet connectivity, and access to amenities that target tenants require
  4. Capital appreciation potential supported by area development plans, tourism growth trends, and limited land supply that constrains future property availability
  5. Quality construction using appropriate materials for tropical climate, proper drainage systems, and building standards that minimize ongoing maintenance costs
Major Warning Signs:
  1. Unclear ownership documentation, nominee arrangements, disputed titles, or properties located in green zones without proper permits that could trigger government seizure
  2. Unrealistic return projections promised by agents or developers without supporting data from comparable properties and verified rental performance
  3. Properties in oversupplied areas with numerous similar listings, declining rental rates, or locations losing popularity due to infrastructure problems or regulatory changes
  4. Poor construction quality, flood-prone locations, structural issues, or properties requiring immediate major repairs that weren't disclosed during purchase negotiations
  5. Sellers pressuring quick decisions, refusing independent inspections, or avoiding questions about legal compliance and ongoing costs

How does Bali compare to other similar investment destinations?

Bali stands out among Southeast Asian property markets for its combination of high yields, legal accessibility for foreigners, and lifestyle appeal, though each destination offers distinct advantages and challenges.

Compared to Thailand, Bali offers higher rental yields (8-15% vs 6-10%) and more flexible ownership structures for foreigners, while Thailand provides more established property laws, better infrastructure, and larger scale development projects. Both markets benefit from strong tourism but Bali's smaller size creates more supply constraints driving price appreciation.

Vietnam presents lower entry costs and higher growth potential but restricts foreign ownership to certain areas and apartment buildings, limiting investment options compared to Bali's diverse property types and locations. Vietnam's rapid economic development offers stronger long-term capital appreciation potential at higher risk levels.

The Philippines allows foreign ownership of condominiums but restricts land ownership more severely than Indonesia, while offering similar tropical appeal and English language advantages. However, Bali's more developed tourism infrastructure and international connectivity provide better rental demand stability.

Malaysia's MM2H program offers easier residency paths for property investors but generally lower rental yields (4-8%) and less tourism-driven demand compared to Bali's international appeal. Each market suits different investor profiles, but Bali remains optimal for those seeking high yields combined with lifestyle benefits and reasonable legal accessibility.

It's something we develop in our Indonesia property pack.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

  1. World Estate - Types of Real Estate in Bali
  2. BambooRoutes - Bali Property Investment Guide
  3. Bali Select - Real Estate Investment Types
  4. Exotiq Property - Bali Land Price Trends
  5. Invest Land Bali - 2025 Market Trends
  6. Real Estate Australia - Ubud Properties
  7. Bali Exception - Foreign Property Ownership
  8. Bukit Vista - Property Purchase Guide
  9. Invest Land Bali - Investment Benefits
  10. Oxo Living - Best Investment Villas 2025