Buying real estate in Indonesia?

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Should you buy property in Jakarta now?

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

property investment Jakarta

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

Jakarta's property market in 2025 presents a complex landscape with selective opportunities driven by infrastructure development and government incentives.

Property prices vary dramatically across districts, with prime central areas commanding IDR 35-53 million per square meter while emerging eastern districts offer entry points at IDR 10-15 million per square meter. The government's 100% VAT waiver on residential purchases up to IDR 2 billion through end-2025 creates a unique buying window, while new transit infrastructure is reshaping value patterns across the city.

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 🔎📝

At BambooRoutes, we explore the Indonesian real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bandung. 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.

What are current property prices in Jakarta across different districts?

Jakarta property prices in September 2025 vary significantly by location, with the citywide average sitting at approximately IDR 25 million per square meter (USD 1,600-1,700).

Prime central areas like Menteng, SCBD, and Pondok Indah command the highest prices at IDR 35-53 million per square meter, with the Sudirman CBD reaching up to IDR 57 million per square meter for top-tier apartments. South Jakarta, the most expensive region for expatriate and luxury living, typically exceeds IDR 30 million per square meter.

West Jakarta offers more moderate pricing at around IDR 21.5 million per square meter, making it the preferred choice for middle-class buyers. East Jakarta presents the most affordable entry point with prices ranging from IDR 10-15 million per square meter, with some houses starting around IDR 370 million per unit.

North Jakarta falls in the middle range, while Greater Jakarta areas provide the most budget-friendly options for families seeking larger spaces. The CBD apartment average specifically reached IDR 52.9 million per square meter in Q1 2025.

How have Jakarta property prices changed over different time periods?

Jakarta property price growth has cooled in the short term but shows promising acceleration potential ahead.

In the short term (past year), prices increased by just 1.07% year-over-year in Q1 2025, down from 1.39% in Q4 2024. Apartment price growth was particularly muted at around 0.14% in the CBD market, reflecting market adjustment and policy uncertainty.

For the medium term (2-5 years), analysts forecast significant acceleration to 5-7% growth for 2025, driven by VAT policy changes and inflation pressures. Growth is expected to stabilize at 3-7% annually through 2026, barring major economic disruptions.

Long-term projections (10+ years) remain positive due to population growth, limited central land supply, and expanding transport infrastructure. However, climate risks including flooding and potential regulatory changes may moderate returns compared to historical patterns.

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

What rental yields can you expect by property type and location?

Area Mid-range Apartments Luxury High-rise Houses
Central Jakarta 6.5-7.5% 5-6% 2-3%
South Jakarta 6-7% 4.5-5.5% 7-11% (studios)
West Jakarta 6.5-7.5% 5-6% 4-5%
North Jakarta 5.5-6.5% 4-5% 4-7%
East Jakarta 6-7% 4.5-5.5% 3-5%
Greater Jakarta 5-6% 3.5-4.5% 3-5%

How does rental demand compare across central, suburban, and emerging areas?

Rental demand patterns in Jakarta show distinct characteristics across different zones, driven by tenant demographics and infrastructure development.

Central and prime areas maintain consistently high demand, fueled by expatriates, corporate tenants, and young professionals who prioritize proximity to business districts. Areas like SCBD and Kuningan see particularly strong demand from international companies and their employees.

Emerging zones including East Jakarta, outer South Jakarta, Tebet, and Cipete are experiencing rapidly rising demand, especially near new MRT/LRT lines and toll roads. These areas attract young locals, entry-level expatriates, and professionals seeking better value for money while maintaining reasonable commute times.

Suburban areas show lower but growing demand, primarily from family households and middle-class residents migrating from central areas due to affordability concerns. The tenant mix in these areas typically consists of local families, students, and young workers in areas like BSD and outer districts.

Typical tenant segmentation shows expatriate professionals dominating SCBD and Kuningan, local families preferring West and East Jakarta, and students plus young workers gravitating toward Tebet, Cipete, and BSD areas.

What are current transaction volumes and market liquidity levels?

Jakarta property transaction volumes declined approximately 7% year-over-year in Q3 2024, reflecting market caution amid policy changes and economic uncertainty.

However, Q1 2025 showed a modest uptick in small-unit sales, particularly for completed properties eligible for VAT waivers. Inventory turnover has improved for finished, VAT-eligible units while pre-sales for new launches remain subdued.

The average apartment take-up rate reached 88% in Q1 2025, indicating healthy absorption for completed projects and suggesting the market is processing existing inventory effectively. Market liquidity varies significantly by price point and location, with central areas maintaining better liquidity than suburban markets.

The VAT incentive program has created a two-tier market, with eligible properties experiencing faster turnover while non-eligible units face longer marketing periods and potential price pressure.

How are government policies affecting property buyers today?

Current government policies create both opportunities and compliance requirements for Jakarta property buyers, with significant tax incentives balancing stricter documentation needs.

The VAT rate increased to 12% from 11%, but the government offers a 100% VAT waiver for residential purchases up to IDR 2 billion (partial waiver up to IDR 5 billion) through end-2025. Both locals and foreigners holding tax IDs are eligible, creating substantial savings for qualifying purchases.

Foreign ownership rules have been streamlined under the Omnibus Law, allowing qualifying foreigners to obtain Right to Build (Hak Guna Bangunan) titles in addition to Right to Use (Hak Pakai) arrangements. However, buyers must maintain Indonesian tax IDs and comply with purchase limits and usage regulations.

Additional incentives include higher loan-to-value ratios and government mortgage activity support for eligible units. The main compliance risks involve stringent documentation requirements, local identity verification, and resale restrictions within one year to maintain VAT benefits.

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What major infrastructure projects will impact property values over the next decade?

Jakarta's infrastructure transformation is reshaping property values across the metropolitan area, with multiple projects creating new growth corridors and connectivity improvements.

The Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Rail, multiple MRT/LRT corridors, new toll roads, and transit-oriented developments (TODs) are the primary drivers of value change. These projects are particularly benefiting previously underserved areas by improving accessibility to central business districts.

East Jakarta areas including Halim, Jatinegara, Duren Sawit, along with South Jakarta locations like Tebet and Cipete, are experiencing significant price growth up to 26% due to improved connectivity. New transit stations create immediate catchment area value premiums.

The development of Indonesia's new capital city (IKN) may lead to corridor reprioritization, with certain areas gaining importance as commuter and secondary commercial hubs. Transit-oriented developments around MRT/LRT stations are expected to create mixed-use value centers over the next 5-10 years.

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

Which property types are performing best in today's market?

Mid-market and premium apartments in prime or transit-linked locations are showing the highest yields and lowest vacancy rates in Jakarta's current market.

Small landed houses, particularly completed VAT-eligible properties, are outperforming medium and large houses due to affordability factors and government incentives. These properties benefit from both first-time buyer demand and investment interest seeking tax advantages.

Commercial units maintain stability in core business zones, but their performance is closely tied to tenant mix and they offer less liquidity compared to residential properties. Office and retail spaces in established CBD areas continue showing resilience.

Luxury high-rise apartments in prime locations provide steady returns but with lower yields compared to mid-market options. Studio apartments in certain South Jakarta areas can achieve yields up to 10.8%, making them attractive for yield-focused investors.

What budget ranges offer the most competitive opportunities?

The most competitive opportunities in Jakarta property market span several price segments, each offering distinct advantages for different buyer profiles.

The best value currently lies in East Jakarta, Tebet, and Cipete areas, where prices range from IDR 10-20 million per square meter with rapid appreciation potential. Completed apartments under IDR 2 billion per unit are particularly attractive as they qualify for 100% VAT waivers.

High-growth premium opportunities exist in SCBD, Menteng, and Kuningan areas, offering superior liquidity and future price upside but requiring higher entry costs. These areas provide the safest appreciation path for investors seeking capital growth.

Entry-level buyers can find secondary market supply under IDR 1 billion per unit, mainly in outer South, West, and East Jakarta areas. However, buyers should carefully verify building quality and tenant demand in these segments.

The sweet spot for many buyers appears to be completed mid-market apartments in emerging transit-connected areas, combining affordability with growth potential and tax advantages.

infographics rental yields citiesJakarta

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.

If buying to live, which areas balance affordability, lifestyle, and growth potential?

For owner-occupiers seeking the optimal balance of affordability, lifestyle amenities, and future growth potential, several Jakarta areas stand out as particularly attractive.

Cipete, Tebet, and South-East outskirts offer excellent balance with good schools, transit access, emerging café and lifestyle scenes, plus double-digit growth potential. These areas provide urban convenience while maintaining more reasonable pricing compared to prime central locations.

Pondok Indah and Kebayoran Baru command lifestyle premiums due to green spaces, family-friendly environments, and proximity to international schools. While more expensive, these areas offer established infrastructure and community amenities.

Areas with new transit connectivity in East and outer South Jakarta provide the best growth potential but may require tolerance for ongoing construction and developing amenities. However, early buyers in these locations often benefit from significant appreciation as infrastructure completion approaches.

Buyers should avoid flood-prone areas and locations with aging infrastructure unless major redevelopment projects are planned and confirmed by local authorities.

For rental investment, where are the strongest markets and tenant types?

Jakarta's rental investment landscape offers distinct opportunities depending on target tenant demographics and return expectations.

SCBD and Kuningan areas provide the strongest rental markets for expatriate and young professional tenant pools, sustaining high rental rates and consistent occupancy. These areas benefit from proximity to international companies and business districts.

Kebayoran Baru attracts a mixed tenant base of families and expatriates, offering slightly lower yields but excellent occupancy rates and tenant stability. The area's established infrastructure and amenities support consistent demand.

Kelapa Gading, Tebet, and BSD areas serve young worker and student clusters, providing stable occupancy with moderate yields. These locations benefit from proximity to universities and emerging business districts.

Studio apartments in strategic South Jakarta locations can achieve yields up to 10.8% by targeting young professionals and short-term corporate tenants. However, these investments require active management and understanding of local tenant preferences.

For resale investment, which areas show the strongest appreciation potential?

Transit-linked emerging corridors in East and outer South Jakarta are showing the strongest appreciation potential for resale-focused investors, with some infrastructure-affected neighborhoods experiencing up to 26% price growth.

These areas benefit from double-digit medium-term upside forecasts as transport projects complete and catchment areas develop. Early investors in transit-oriented developments often capture the maximum appreciation as infrastructure becomes operational.

Prime CBD and SCBD areas offer safer but slower appreciation with maximum liquidity for investors prioritizing capital preservation and easy exit strategies. These locations provide steady growth with lower volatility risk.

Newly completed, VAT-waived units present the best opportunity for quick turnover due to tax-driven demand spikes in 2025. These properties benefit from both policy advantages and completion premium over pre-construction units.

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. Jakarta Price Forecasts
  2. Global Property Guide Indonesia Price History
  3. Juwai Asia Property News
  4. Jakarta Rental Yields Apartments
  5. Own Property Abroad Jakarta ROI
  6. University Research Journal
  7. Investasian Jakarta Areas
  8. Vietnam Plus Indonesia VAT News