Air Asia announced it will operate four-times weekly flights linking Kuala Lumpur to Hua Hin starting in May. The move will have a far ranging impact with the Hua Hin real estate market among the many sectors set to benefit. While long popular with residents of Thailand, the seaside town has struggled to become an international destination.
In order to reach Hua Hin, international tourists currently have to cope with a three-hour car/minibus journey from Bangkok. This option is unappealing when compared to the 90-minute drive it takes to reach Pattaya. However, that could change with Air Asia now flying into the city. It should increase the number of visitors from Malaysia as well as places like Singapore who can easily transit in Kuala Lumpur.
“I think this could be a good start and it will hopefully pave the way for even broader access in the future,” Tom Thrussell, Centara’s vice president of brand, marketing and digital, told TTG Asia. “The Asian markets who make short stays to Thailand have been less inclined to visit Hua Hin in the past because the journey time from Bangkok, at either end of a short stay, eats into too much of their break. This new accessibility will change that for one of these markets for now at least.”
What does it mean for the Hua Hin real estate market?
The link between real estate and tourism is well known, and while it could take a bit of time for the effects to fully kick in, the Hua Hin real estate market is likely to benefit. The city is popular for its low-key, laid back lifestyle and it is easy to see some visitors preferring the city to Pattaya or Phuket.
This could positively influence both rental rates and property prices in Hua Hin, both of which have been relatively stagnant over the past few years. Exactly how much depends on if more flights are allowed to land at Hua Hin Airport and if other infrastructure projects, such as the proposed high-speed train, are completed.
An affordable beach alternative in Thailand
Property prices in Hua Hin remain relatively reasonable with condominiums offering great value. It’s even possible to find bargains for high-end real estate if you look closely. Here are few of the condominium units currently available on www.thailand-property.com
Resort-style condominium unit
The Hua Hin real estate market has plenty of resort-style condominiums available at all different price points. This one-bedroom unit at the north end of the city is available for only THB1.3 million (USD 41,368). At 33 square metres, it is spacious and comes fully furnished. The unit can be used for short, medium or long-term rentals. Executive Homes Hua Hin is listing this unit.
Fully furnished modern condominium
For THB 2.2 million (USD 70,000), this modern condominium offers everything a person could possibly want in Hua Hin. It comes fully furnished in a new-build development that boasts several amenities like a sky deck with panoramic sea views. This condominium is listed by Hua Hin Japan and can be used as a holiday home, primary residence or for rental investment.
Amazing sea view unit with wraparound balcony
While it may be more expensive, this 17th floor unit offers some of the best ocean views possible. Located in Cha-am, a 30-minute drive from Hua Hin, the two-bedroom, three-bathroom unit is on the market for THB14.5 million (USD 461,500). The entire property has been completely refurbished and modernised with the wraparound balcony making it extremely unique for the area.
