Samui Phangan Real Estate August September 2012 by Satayu Publishing Co., Ltd.

B U Y I N G • R E N O VAT I N G

SAMUJANA

real estate

phangan

INVESTING • LIVING

A LEAGUE OF ITS OWN

EDITORIAL Published & Distribution Satayu Publishing Co.,Ltd. Publisher Office สำ�นักงาน Satayu Publishing Co.,Ltd. 34/9 Moo 4, Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320 Thailand. Tel/Fax +66 077 484 616 Mobile: +66 08 9772 1589 Director กรรมการผู้จัดการ Yuwares +66 08 9772 1589 Advertising ฝ่ายขาย Staci Lee Wearne +66 08 6950 2291 sales@satayu.com Editor บรรณาธิการ Jade Moore editor@satayu.com Graphic Design Jeadsada Yuenyong Accounting ฝ่ายบัญชี Yuwares +66 08 9772 1589 Legal Advisor ที่ปรึกษาด้านกฎหมาย Surin Puangpakdee from NSP & Laws Firm www.samui-phanganmagazine.com

With the second issue of our newly revamped magazine out, we'd like to thank everyone for their fantastic feedback and support and to all who came to celebrate the re-launch with us in July – a great night was had by all and even a boogie on the dancefloor was enjoyed by some!

The property market is heating up with a lot more interest being garnered from abroad and from all accounts, sales are going up and the islands are once again revelling in those keen to enjoy a slice of paradise.

This issue we take a closer look at kitchens from floor to ceiling, inside and out and discover some great tips and hints to creating a cooking-space that is right for you. We also look at some amazing properties that are elevating the playing field, alongside some handy eco-friendly tips for homes as well as families. A little something for everyone...

Publisher License เลขมาตรฐานสากลประจำ�นิตยสาร ISSN 1686-8838 ใบอนุญาตจดแจ้งการพิมพ์ สศก ๑๔ นศ/๒/๒๕๕๓

Hope you enjoy this issue and don't forget to check out our fantastic new website at www.samui-phanganmagazine.com where you can enjoy some of our features online!

Printing & Colour separation สถานที่จัดพิมพ์ Amarin Printing and Publishing Co.,Ltd 65/101-103 Chaiyaphruk Rd., Taling Chan, Bangkok Thailand 10170 Tel. +66 02 422 9000 Disclaimer: All the information, discussions and opinions contained herein are not to be a comprehensive study nor to provide advice, legal or otherwise and should not under any circumstances be used as a substitute for specific advice, legal or otherwise, in respect of individual situation and circumstances.

*Distributed at Samui Airport

Jade Moore Editor In-Chief

74 this

issue... inside & out 18

Superior Interior 10 Kitchen Design Tips Retail Therapy Tempting Tools Architect's Talk When Down Under Counts

Retail Therapy Kitchen Easy

Food for Thought Lunchin'

Retail Therapy Outward Bound

Outdoor Living Outdoor Delight

realty in focus 50

Property Report An Essential Guide Legal Buzz Benefits Of Investing With An Offshore Entity Tax Corner Bad Debts: Part 1 Developer In-View Beach Republic Estates

18 34

Villa Rentals How To Find Your Perfect Island Retreat Personal Profile Making It Mayan - Landscaping The Islands

74 Feature

Samujana - A League Of Its Own

island life 88

100

Close Up Dr Frogs - Take The Leap

Green Scene Make Your Home Eco-Friendly

Eco Outdoor Go Green With Your Kids Home Help A Dog's Day Afternoon

life on the isles 108 109 112 113

Koh Samui Map Koh Samui Living Koh Phangan Map Koh Phangan Living

the legal arena 116 Land Title Deeds 117 Chanote 118 Tip for Starting the Biz English 120 Tip for Starting the Biz Chinese 124 Tip for Starting the Biz German 126 Tip for Starting the Biz Russian 132 Tip for Starting the Biz French 136 Building Regulations

directory 138

Island Contacts

le ab l i a av sale w no for

A fantastic panoramic view overlooking to Bangpor Beach. Innovative of a highly-functional, beautiful, and affordable execution of residential design.

For more information contact: 081Â 921 1473 e-mail: nite_stone@hotmail.com

Overseas Property Portfolio (OPP) is an independent and established real estate agent on Koh Samui with a wealth of experience. Our business includes Property/Land Sales, Rentals and Property Management.

FEATURE PROPERTIES: 3 bed Villas, 7.9m & 8.3m THB Sea View Available, 331sqm, private pool

1 bed Apartments, 1.6m to 1.9m THB Sea View Available, 60sqm, communal pool

Constructed by a well-established developer on Samui with a 10-year track record. Their concept is to create stylish and comfortable homes at an affordable price. Modern Bathrooms, kitchens, fans and aircon are just some of the finishings you get to choose and that are included in the sales price. Both Villas and apartments will be ready by December 2013 and a flexible payment plan during construction is available to buyers. For further information and to arrange a site viewing, please contact Emma Johnson on 080 535 1725 emma@overseaspropertyportfolio.com www.overseaspropertyportfolio.com

T R

T EN R

Villa • Ban Makham • Ref: S255

Villa • Big Buddah • Ref: S247

From 5,000 THB/night Close to Big Buddah and other places of interest, makes this an ideal base for exploring Samui. 3 bedrooms, 2 with ensuites, western kitchen, terrace with furniture, outdoor kitchen and pool.

/R LE SA

15,000 THB/month 1 bed wooden house with direct access to the beach, communal pool and garden. Basic kitchen and living area, wc downstairs and double bed with ensuite upstairs with outside area. 5 mins to Nathon.

Villa • Bophut • Ref: S194

14,500,000 THB / 80,000 THB month A beautiful, interior designed, open plan villa set in a residential location with 3 bedrooms, all ensuite, private pool and parking. The lower floor is empty, however, the space can be utilized.

Townhouse • Bangrak • Ref: S265

4,000,000 THB / 35,000 THB month Western property comprising of 2 bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms and terraces on the upper floor with kitchen, dining and living area on the ground, plasma TV, DVD and UBC. Communal pool and parking.

/R EN T

SA LE

/R EN T

From 6,500 THB/night Privately situated, single storey, 2 bed villa with ensuite bathrooms, yet just an 8 minute walk to Fisherman’s Village. Western finishings throughout, including the kitchen with all appliances.

SA LE

Villa • Bophut • Ref: S105

Villa • Bangrak • Ref: S243

45,000,000 THB / from 15,300 THB night Modern, 3 bed beach front villa with state of the art control systems, carefully designed throughout with high end finishings. Private parking, infinity pool and sea views from all rooms.

SALES • RENTALS • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Mobile : +66 (0)80 535 1725 Office : +66 (0)77 425 679

LE SA

LE /

info@overseaspropertyportfolio.com www.overseaspropertyportfolio.com

Land • Choeng Mon • Ref: S244

6,000,000 THB 1 rai (1,600sqm) plot of partial sea view land with easy and direct access from a Govt. road, including water and electricity. Popular area to build villas and just an 8 minute walk to the beach.

280,000 THB / from 62,000 THB night A high-end luxury villa with manicured gardens and exceptional views. 4 bedroom suites, in-house spa, large pool and outdoor dining areas. Live in staff including chef to make your stay luxurious.

Villa • Bophut • Ref: S147

Villa • Chaweng Yai • Ref: S261

Villa • Chaweng Yai • Ref: S260

SA LE

11,000,000 THB Perched high up on the hillside with expansive views to the forest and seas sits this 3 bed villa with ample maids accommodation. Open plan living areas with views from all rooms and black tile pool.

SA LE

9,500,000 THB 3 bed sea view villa across one level with a large terrace, sala and pool with a self contained and furnished, 1 bed apartment below. Sat in a small community with communal pool and off road parking.

Villa • Plai Laem • Ref: S239

Villa • Choeng Mon • Ref: S263

13,500,000 THB Beachside villa on a small development with communal pool, swim up bar and restaurant. 3 beds, 2 baths, 1 guest wc and a modern interior finish. Ideal as a holiday home and/or rental investment.

63,000,000 THB Luxurious and modern, seafront villa located on a 5 star resort with a spectacular restaurant and decking area over the rocks. 4 bed villa with ensuite bathrooms and an impressive master suite.

119/20 Samui Town Center, Moo 1, Bophut, Koh Samui

inside & out

superior interior

DESIGNING A KITCHEN?

HERE'S YOUR TOP

Max Power

Be sure there are appropriate power sources for all your appliances and in the right places! Many people realize too late that they don’t have the right gas or electric lines or enough. Why not measure your appliances to ensure that they fit comfortably into allocated spaces and plan for where all your outlet points will be?

Wide Berth

Plan ahead When designing a kitchen, put function first. There’s no ideal kitchen shape, so whether it’s a galley or U- or L-shaped, plan for the sink, fridge and cooktop to form a triangle, with no more than 6 feet between each for ease of movement.

Store It The biggest mistake you can make at the planning stage is not allowing for enough storage. Think about how many pots, pans, containers, glasses, utensils, plates and more that you have! Put overhead cabinets right up to the ceiling, rather than leaving a gap on top – avoid creating yourself a dust collector! Consider deep drawers for easier access to pots and pans, and include enough storage for appliances if you don’t want to have them out on display.

Light It Up Unlike in other rooms of the house, overhead lighting is generally insufficient in kitchens. You don’t want the light behind you, casting a shadow on the workspace. You need it positioned to fall in front of you. Consider using under-cabinet lights because they shine directly on countertops.

samui phangan real estate

There’s no such thing as too much counter space, so give yourself as much as you can and choose a surface that’s easy to work on and care for that won’t scratch easily. Hot tip - grout between tiles is hard to maintain and stainless steel will scratch very easily.

Fresh Start Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t use second hand appliances or items from an old kitchen. It may seem as if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re saving money, but an old appliance will stick out in a new environment and may easily break down in the near future compared to new appliances with warranties.

Safe As Houses Make your kitchen as safe and family-friendly as possible by planning for good visibility to backyard and indoor play areas from the cooking area if you have children. You can also use safety-conscious elements such as rounded countertops, slip-resistant flooring and ovens located at adult height to minimise the chances of accidental burns.

Air It A range hood helps ventilate whilst cooking and these days you can purchase one that is efficient, quiet and vented outside.

Bin It Think about your environment and plan for garbage and recycling bins. You can include built-in bins cleverly disguised behind a cabinet door.

Down There When it comes to flooring, consider slip-resistance and ease of maintenance. Some floors that are porous may need periodic resealing and hardwood floors are stunning but they wear out faster by the fridge, stove and sink than other areas. Look at hard natural stone options for ease of use and wear and tear.

samui phangan real estate

inside & out

retail therapy

Tempting Tools

1 2

With so many products on the market to make your cooking experience less time consuming and more precise, it's difficult to decipher which tools are totally necessary and which ones will collect dust. Some of us just like to have them as part of the overall kitchen look and feel (let's face it, some are really sexy!) Here are some for your consideration so you can decide if you need it or can leave it...

1. Breville RM-JE98XL Certified Fountain Plus Juice Maker 2. Cuisinart CRC Rice Cooker 3.Cuisinart DTC-975BKN Thermal 12 Cup Programmable Coffeemaker 4.George Foreman GRP4EP Platinum Evolve Grill

samui phangan real estate

5. Hamilton Beach Set n Forget Slow Cooker 6. Medelco 12 Cup Glass Stovetop Whistling Kettle 7. The Sharper Image 8130SI Stainless Steel 2 Speed Handheld Immersion Blender

www.amazon.com

samui phangan real estate

The Emerald Tongson

The Emerald Tongson Development results from a vision to create an innovative design with iconic modern, yet tropical architecture in an environmentally sensitive haven. This exclusive ocean front compound of only four 2 bedroom pool villas along one of the most inspiring shore lines of Choengmons Tongson Bay presents a new cool approach to exclusive tropical living. Features: • Car park with 4 lots • Common entrance lounge • Built to marine environment standard • Low consumption LED light features • Copper/Silver mineral pool treatment • Total villa size: 200-220m2

JMan Marina Co Ltd Mobile: +66 (o) 8 1893 5996 www.jman-marina.com Email: info@jman-marina.com 8/10 Moo 5 Bophut Koh Samui 84320 Thailand

inside & out

architect's talk

WHEN

DOWN UNDER COUNTS

The floor in your kitchen needs to be considered carefully - it has to be able to withstand lots of foot traffic, it needs to be water-resistant and has to withstand grease, spills, drips and even children...all the while looking good! When you're ready to install a kitchen floor, ensure it can handle everything it will be put through! You'll find that you have many choices and there is no single 'ideal' flooring material, but by doing some research you're sure to find one that will work beautifully in your kitchen and can withstand the heat and elements that go with island living.

Some choices to consider: Sheet Vinyl Sheet vinyl flooring is one of the most common choices for a kitchen floor. Sheet vinyl is very resistant to spills, grease and dirt, is very water resistant, and is also very easy to clean. There are hundreds if not thousands of patterns, styles and colours to choose from, as well as different weights and thickness. It's

samui phangan real estate

also one of the less expensive flooring options, so it's easier on your wallet and also makes it a little easier to change if you redecorate. Unfortunately vinyl flooring is prone to wear and tear over time and for resale value of your home it may lack the appeal of some of the more expensive floors.

Ceramic Tiles Ceramic tile is one of the best overall choices for a kitchen floor and probably the most popular for any island home. These hard, durable tiles will stand up to all sorts of abuse, from spills to heavy appliances and the tile is completely waterproof so will not warp during the hotter months on the islands and keep cool when the heat is on! There are literally thousands to choose from with various sizes, colours and patterns available. You can mix tiles, add borders using different tiles â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it's up to you. The only thing to consider is the grout lines. These are harder to clean and catch more dirt that the rest of the

tiles so make sure the grout is sealed after installation to make it easier on you in the long run.

over time making them less favourable for island living.

Laminate Floors

Hardwood Floors

Laminate flooring has become increasingly popular in the kitchen. There are dozens of patterns and colors now available, you can even get 'fake' hardwood looking laminate which can look as good as the real thing!

Hardwood floors are a favourite amongst people due to their classic and more expensive look. They are beautiful, durable and look good in almost any style of kitchen.

Laminate floors have some give to them, making them one of the softer and more comfortable floors to stand on and are great for children. They can also be a very good do-it-yourself project as they do not require a huge skillset to install. Make sure you seal them well to avoid damage from the elements. Unfortunately laminate can be prone to scratching, so if you have bar stools, or a chairs on the floor â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this can increase the wear and tear quite significantly. Laminate can also require special cleaning products for longer life, and may not stand up to a lot of water

Getting a professional to install your hardwood floors is ideal as they are tricky to do yourself and require many elements to get them just right. Carefully choose your hardwood floors as some require special cleaners as opposed to simple mopping and they can be prone to scratching and damage from excessive water. Whatever flooring option you choose, choose wisely as you want the floor to suit both your lifestyle and the look and feel of your kitchen. You certainly don't want to be re-doing your floors in the coming years not only is it disruptive but it's heavy on your wallet!

samui phangan real estate

Ko Samui Properties offer independent advice on all types of real estate based on ten years experience on Koh Samui. Please feel free to consult us without obligation. Harry Bonning F.R.I.C.S • Mobile 081 741 6443 OVER 600 PROPERTIES ON OUR WEB SITE

Ban Tai - 3 Bed Sea view pool Villa Baht 13 m. or 55k / month HH1469

Bang Po - 5 Bed Ocean view pool villa Baht 12.5 m. or 65k/month HH 1239

Baht 5 - 12 million / rai

Choengmon - 2 Bed Town houses

Lipa Noi - 3 Bed pool villa near sea

Ban Tai - 3 Bed Sea View pool villa

Baht 6.5 million

Baht 10.5 million

HF 1475

HF 1463

The Ridgeway - fully serviced plots LH 1395

HH 1458

CONDOMINIUMS & APARTMENTS Baan Arisara

Infinity Bang Po

Two I Bed Foreign Freehold Condomimiums from Baht 3.1 m. CF 1472 & 1473

1&2 Bed Apartments from Baht 14 m. AH 1286

LOCATION OF OUR NEW OFFICES IN BANGRAK Fisherman’s Village

Replay

Ring Road

Scent Hotel Como Plumeria

GPS: 9.5580740 N 100.0467990 E

to Big Buddha

Celebrating TEN YEARS on Koh Samui Professional Advice from RICS Qualified Chartered Surveyor Visit us in our new offices Residential Sales and Rentals • Resorts and Hotels • Project Management A SELECTION OF BEACH LAND AND VILLAS

One Rai Beach Land - Tong Krut

4 Bed beach front pool villa Choengmon Baht 80 million HB 1465

3 Bed beach front Villas - Laem Noi

7½ Rai Beach Land on island

Bangrak - 2 Bed villa and pool

Maenam - 4/5 Bedroom pool villa

Baht 14 million / Rai

Baht 5.15 million

Reduced to Baht 14.95 m. HF 1322

Baht 35 million

LB 1455

LB 1470

HF 1477

USD 1.3 million

HB 1466

1-2 Bed Garden House - Lamai

New 1-2 Bed Villas - Chaweng Noi

Bang Po 3 Bed Villa Sea View

Baht 7.5 million

Baht 4.8 - 7.7 million

Baht 20 million

HF 1459

HF 1454

KO SAMUI PROPERTIES 58/11 Moo 4, Bophut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320. Thailand Telephone: 077 484 770, 077 484 771 Telefax: 077 447 777 Mobile: 081 741 6443 (English) 085 798 8682 (Thai) Email: contact@kosamuiproperties.com www.kosamuiproperties.com

HH 1385

inside & out

retail therapy

Kitchen Easy 1

2 3

Stocking your kitchen with great gadgets and utensils can be really fun, although daunting as there are countless numbers of kitchen bits and bobs to help make life a little easier. There are a few ways to begin collecting the equipment, utensils and appliances you need. As you begin cooking, you'll quickly realize what utensils your kitchen is missing but here are a few handy gadgets to get you going...

1. CIA Masters Collection Measuring Spoon Set 2. OXO Steel Can Opener 3. Fred M Cup Measuring Matroyshkas Set of 6 Dry Measuring Cups 4. Deni Blade Meat Tenderizer

samui phangan real estate

5. EatSmart Precision Pro Multifunction Digital Kitchen Scale 6. Splash Proof Super Fast Thermapen Instant Read Thermometer 7. Vacu Vin 4882350 Stainless Steel Pineapple Easy Slicer 8. OXO Good Grips 3 Piece Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl Set

www.amazon.com

samui phangan real estate

inside & out

food for thought

Thinkin' About Lunchin'

Living on an island doesn't mean we are all lazing about drinking cocktails, so here are some quick, easy and delicious lunch ideas that the whole family can enjoy! Ingredients 2 Tortilla or Soft Bread wraps 1 tsp Wasabi (wasabi is optional for those who don't like the heat) 1 tsp Sesame seeds 2 tbsp Greek style yoghurt 1 tbsp mayonnaise 6 baby corn 1 fresh pepper (red, green or yellow are fine) 120g baby prawns shelled and de-veined. 80g white crab meat 12 mint leaves, torn 1 1/2 tsps sesame oil

• Lay the corn, prawns and crab meat down the centre then scatter with the mint leaves and slices of pepper. • Roll from one edge to the other, forming your wrap and make sure it is tight. Brush with the sesame oil and grill or griddle to achieve a nice colour on the outside.

PRAWN & CRAB WRAP

Directions • Lightly grill or sauté your prawns and corn until cooked. • Mix the wasabi & sesame seeds with the yoghurt and mayonnaise and spread over the wraps leaving a 2cm border around the outside. • Thinly slice the pepper and tear up the mint leaves.

samui phangan real estate

GRILLED CHICKEN & BASIL SANDWICH Ingredients

Directions

4 large slices of thick fresh bread ½ cup mayonnaise ½ lemon juice (zest) ½ garlic clove (minced) 1 tomato Handful of basil leaves (ripped) 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts ½ tbsp olive oil ¼ cup spring onion (finely chopped) Salt to taste Black pepper to taste ½ cup rocket (leaf)

• M ix the mayonnaise, lemon juice and zest, garlic and basil together in a large mixing bowl. • A dd the chicken and coat it evenly with the mixture and season with salt and pepper, let sit. • Q uickly pan fry the spring onion for 30 seconds in the olive oil and then add the chicken from the marinade, turn on high heat. • F ry the chicken on both sides until it is cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes per side. • R emove with the spring onion and let the chicken cool slightly and then slice thinly. • L ay the chicken on two slices of bread and top with the tomato and rocket. • F inish with a dollop of mayonnaise on each and add the other slice of bread on top.

samui phangan real estate

69/93 Moo 5, T. Maenam Koh Samui, Suratthani, Thailand 84320 Tel: +66 (0)77 247 796, Fax: +66 (0)77 247 768 Mobile: +66 (0)8 1921 1473 E-mail: nite_stone@hotmail.com

inside & out

retail therapy

Outward Bound

1 2

Living on the islands allows us all the chance to enjoy the outdoors. Investing in some quality outdoor furniture will give you the freedom to relax and unwind in the sunshine, or in the shade. Your furniture choices will be dictated by the outdoor space you have, but be it big, or be it small, there is a little something for everyone to help you enjoy the island breeze...

1. Strathwood Falkner 72 Inch Dining Table with Umbrella Hole 2. Lexington Modern Magatama Outdoor Rattan 3 Piece 3. Lexiton Modern Outdoor Patio Wicker Sofa Sectional Malibu 5 Piece Set2

samui phangan real estate

3 4

4. Lamplight TIKI 1108367 Island King Large Flame Torch 5. Tiki Umbrella 6. Zuo Eagle Bed

www.amazon.com

samui phangan real estate

inside & out

outdoor living

samui phangan real estate

Outdoor Delight Cooking outside is one of the most enjoyable experiences, so why not create an outdoor kitchen where you can really get to cookin'

Outdoor kitchens have certainly become one of the hottest items in home building in the last few years. You can get the same options from your indoor kitchen and you can put those things in your outdoor kitchen. For example, you can get cabinets, grills, refrigerators, but there's one thing that's totally different - everything has to be waterproofed and weatherproof for the island's elements be it sunshine or rain, as we get plenty of both! The most basic item for your outdoor kitchen is a barbecue grill - don't forget that what makes it a kitchen is that you have a place to cook. You have a few options when it comes to an outdoor grill, you can get something that is prefab, something semi-custom or something that is customized. You can get something as extravagant as a drop-in stove that's got six burners and a gas kit. You might hire a kitchen designer for your indoor kitchen, but for a more casual outdoor kitchen you might want to do it yourself. A BBQ grill is the most popular choice for all outdoor cooking, but there are other outdoor cooking options available: • A firepit can be used to cook - with a rotisserie, skewers or a grill over the open flame. • Another way of cooking outside is to include an outdoor oven in your kitchen. The outdoor oven that you "may" want to consider is more of a traditional oven - a brick or stone pizza oven, for example. Some additional considerations for your outdoor kitchen include: • If your outdoor kitchen will be any significant distance from the indoor kitchen, allow at least a small budget for adequate storage space for frequently used items like grill

samui phangan real estate

• Finally, it's important to consider the proper flooring. You must try to avoid using flooring that is slick, which eliminates tile or marble right off the bat – concrete slabs or treated and sealed wooden decking are perfect. To keep costs low you can get as basic as you want as long as you follow a few rules as you try to save money - never build an outdoor island from combustible materials, including plywood countertops covered with tile. Second, when you're laying out your design, factor in some usable counter space no matter how small your outdoor space will be. You can't have grills and sinks butting up against each other with nowhere for you to work. After you attend to these basics, there are plenty of areas to tackle for savings.

Pick Propane Running gas lines, electricity and water to an outdoor island is fairly expensive, so if you're on a tight budget, you might want to consider using propane bottles to fuel your grill. Easy to fill up and replace on Samui and Phangan! brushes, forks, spices and paper towels - you don't want to spend the whole time running back and forth. Storage cabinets need to be waterproofed on an outdoor kitchen, and there are many woods that are resistant to rot - such as redwood. Stainless steel that matches a grill, for instance, is another good option for cabinets. • Like an indoor kitchen, your outdoor version might include countertops and storage cabinets. For the countertop in your outdoor kitchen two options are brick or stone. • The counter space can also be used to eat on. Usually when you are planning for an eat-on counter, you want to make sure that it's at least 15" deep and approximately 24" wide per person. • No kitchen would be complete without a sink. Outdoor sinks are either fed with a hose or connected to the home's water supply. Good choices for your outdoor sink would be either stainless steel or ceramic. • You need to consider keeping your kitchen sheltered from the elements. You can definitely have a shelter over your kitchen area, but experts wouldn't recommend having a ceiling or shelter over the grill area because of all the smoke.

samui phangan real estate

Buy a Hardy Barbecue or Grill It may sound counter-intuitive, but you have a better chance of sticking to a budget if you sink money into a high-quality grill. A grill made from high-grade stainless steel is recommended. Look for a model made from at least 304-grade stainless steel, interior and exterior, because if the inside rusts out there's nothing you can do to save the rest and you'll be back at the shop before you know it buying another barbecue! Barbecue's on rolling carts are another nice way to plan for an upgrade later - most grills and barbecues can be installed with a grill on a rolling cart with an adequate number of side trays and some storage beneath and then removed later and reinstalled into a pit if your budget increases – the portable grill is a great idea if you want the feel of an outdoor kitchen on a tight budget. Consider getting some tradesmen to help you create your perfect outdoor kitchen, to help tackle all the tricky bits you may not be able to tend to yourself. Once you are all set up and ready to go, enjoy your nights under the stars or your days in the sun...most of all, just enjoy!

BANG PO VILLA

HB057

PRICE : THB 18,000,000 Property Type Location Land Size Villa Size No. of Bedrooms

: Beach Front Villa : Bang Po : 712 sq.m. : 220 sq.m. :2

The villa is a stylishly designed estate with houses benefiting from a blend of contemporary architecture with traditional Thai influences creating attractive and eyecatching beachfront properties.

BANG PO VILLA

HV118

PRICE : THB 45,000,000

Property Type Location Land Size Villa Size No. of Bedrooms

: Ocean View Villa : Bang Po : 1,300 sq.m. : 545 sq.m. :3

“Buy a lifestyle”, this luxury Pool Villa at Bang Po with 3 storeys is a charming, secluded home with a breathtaking panoramic ocean view. It is located in the beautiful hillside, providing both the scenery of the mountains and an amazing ocean view where you can enjoy the sunset from the most unique perspective of all.

BANG PO VILLA

HV114

PRICE : THB 45,000,000

Property Type Location Land Size Villa Size No. of Bedrooms

: Ocean View Villa : Taling Ngam : 3,072 sq.m. : 600 sq.m. :3

This villa is the biggest of the 3 villas - a dream of a villa with spectacular, heavenly, breathtaking and panoramic views - which leaves nothing to be desired. to try and describe the villa and the view with words is a limitation of it all. Surrounded by lush primary tropical forest.

BOPHUT HILL VILLA

HV102

PRICE : THB 35,000,000

Property Type Location Land Size Villa Size No. of Bedrooms

: Ocean View Villa : Bophut : 800 sq.m. : 720 sq.m. :5

The villa has stunning panoramic sea views out over Bophut and Bang Rak around 180 degrees looking out to Chaweng in the distance.The villa comprises of 5 Bedrooms all ensuite, Large living room, Separate kitchen.

LUXURY REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS 11/7 Moo1, Bophut, Koh Samui Suratthani 84320 Tel: +66 (0) 8 1968 3486, +66 (0)77 427 648 ext.108 www.epsamui.com Email: sales@epsamui.com

AQUALINAMAENAM

BOPHUT VILLA

PRICE : THB 34,000,000

PRICE : THB 36,500,000

Property Type Location Land Size Villa Size No. of Bedrooms

: Ocean View Villa : Maenam : 741 sq.m. : 437 sq.m. :3

The Villa has a unique organization with a shallow L-shaped design that lows the integration of the extended swimming pool into the building.

MAENAM HILLSIDE VILLA

HV107

PRICE : THB 19,500,000

Property Type Location Land Size Villa Size No. of Bedrooms

: Ocean View Villa : Maenam : 1,050 sq.m. : 499 sq.m. :3

Property Type Location Land Size Villa Size No. of Bedrooms

HB045

MAENAM HILLSIDE

HV084

PRICE : THB 38,000,000

: Beach Front Villa : Bophut : 630 sq.m. : 440 sq.m. :4

Property Type Location Land Size Villa Size No. of Bedrooms

: Ocean View Villa : Bophut : 1,600 sq.m. : 640 sq.m. :4

This is a truly exceptional villa with an Baan Ling Noi, which means “Little Monkey interesting layout which is enhanced by an House” in Thai, sets new standards in exquisite collection of furniture and artwork. elegant Thai living. Baan Ling Noi is simply but elegantly furnished throughout with contemporary Thai furniture.

LAMAI VILLA

HG021

PRICE : THB 11,000,000

Property Type Location Land Size Villa Size No. of Bedrooms

: Garden View Villa : Lamai : 400 sq.m. : 140 sq.m. :2

The villa enjoys amazing ocean views. The A superbly 2-3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms Thaiproperty is located in the area of Maenam/Bang balinese style tropical garder surrounding. Po, which is zoned for residential use only and well away from the crowds ensuring that the existing harmony between human and nature will be maintained. This is also reflected in the design of the architecture

GARDEN VIEW TOWNHOME HG058 PRICE : THB 4,000,000

Property Type Location Land Size Villa Size No. of Bedrooms

: Garden View Villa : Bank Rak : 60 sq.m. : 125sq.m. :2

Resale of a fully furnished mews house in “The Gardens,” a fully managed complex with maid service, offering proven rental returns and excellent value and quality.

LUXURY REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS 11/7 Moo1, Bophut, Koh Samui Suratthani 84320 Tel: +66 (0) 8 1968 3486, +66 (0)77 427 648 ext.108 www.epsamui.com Email: sales@epsamui.com

LIPA YAI – 3 RAI

B056

PRICE : THB 50,000,000

B142

PRICE : THB 33,000,000

3 rai plot of beachfront land for sale on the exlusive beach of Lipa Noi in Lipa Yai area. Benefiting from spectacular views to the West, full infrastructure and chanote title. Land can be sold in three seperate plots if required.

CHAWENG – 3,084 SQ.M.

LIPA NOI – 1.4 RAI

V175

PRICE : THB 13,500,000

Fantastic panoramic ocean views showing most of famous Chaweng Bay from these 3,084 sqm. Located in one of the most privacy area which is on the top of the hillside area, and adjacent to Chaweng beach. This land is perfect for someone who would like breathtaking scenery the gulf of Thailand.

B166

PRICE : THB 28,000,000

This beautiful piece of beach land is located in the south-west of the island. Featuring 22 meters white sandy beach frontage with full infrastructure present. Benefiting from spectacular views to the West, and within a secure development with Chanote title.

BOPHUT – 1564 SQ.M.

CHOENG MON – 1.15 RAI

V130

PRICE : THB 4,600,000

Delightful plot with a breathtaking views over looking koh pangan and big buddha. No buildings in front, just coconuts trees and dazzling views that offers a great location to create the beautiful residence of your dreams. Just 10 min. From the famous fisherman’s village, a great place for dinning and shopping. Full access through the land with all the ready connections to water and electricity.

Escape to a secluded haven on the breathtaking panoramic ocean view on this 1.15 Rai Ocean Front Lot located in Choeng Mon. The plot provides 66 meters on the ocean front and is best for building a luxury ocean front villa; also prepared in two Chanotes with the public access. Optional to purchase on each individual plot with THB 15,000,000 on 33 meter on the frontage with 920 sqm.

BOPHUT – 1564 SQ.M.

V148

PRICE : THB 4,250,000

Located in bophut hill and close to bophut hill golf. This land surrounding by exclusive developments as sit on the best location of this area. Land come with 2 road acesses so multiple layout can be create. The owner got this land direct from original land owner and price is lower than the market value now.

LUXURY REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS 11/7 Moo1, Bophut, Koh Samui Suratthani 84320 Tel: +66 (0) 8 1968 3486, +66 (0)77 427 648 ext.108 www.epsamui.com Email: sales@epsamui.com

TALING NGAM – 7.6 RAI

B170

PRICE : On Application Koh Som is a small private island which is located just 600 meters off the north coast of Koh Samui; only 5 minutes by speed boat from Koh Samui. It is the only private island around Koh Samui. This freehold property offers incredible sunrise and sunset views, and, unusually, offers sea access at two points. The first one, stunning white dusty sand beache, looks toward Koh Samui; the second gazes over open sea to Koh Phangan, with amazing sun sets. Two beach fronts, is extremely unique comparing to other properties in Koh Samui. Coconut palms confetti the three-acre property. Suitable for an island resort or private residence, Koh Som offers incredible development opportunities. This property offers privacy and seclusion combined with access to tourist infrastructure. It is only 5 min by boat to the nearest harbor. From there, only 10 min by car to Chaweng – Koh Samui “center of action”. The airport and malls are only 5 min away.

LUXURY REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS 11/7 Moo1, Bophut, Koh Samui Suratthani 84320 Tel: +66 (0) 8 1968 3486, +66 (0)77 427 648 ext.108 www.epsamui.com Email: sales@epsamui.com

BAAN DALAH

PRICE Property Type Location Land Size Villa Size No. of Bedrooms

: THB 39,000,000 : Beach Front Villa : Bang Rak : 844 sq.m. : 250 sq.m. :3

Baan Dalah is a modern property situated on the beachfront in Bang Rak; on the north-east coast of Koh Samui. Consisting of three spacious bedrooms in a walled environment, this villa has the benefit of privacy and stunning views to neighbouring Koh Phan Ngan. It’s also conveniently positioned to enjoy the local restaurants and bars. Samui’s busiest resort area of Chaweng Beach is only 10 minutes away. Outside in the courtyard, the villa’s large swimming pool is surrounded by a wooden deck perfect for sun-bathing or reading a book in the shade. Being only steps from the beach, you can always be assured of options when it comes to spending your time.

LUXURY REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS 11/7 Moo1, Bophut, Koh Samui Suratthani 84320 Tel: +66 (0) 8 1968 3486, +66 (0)77 427 648 ext.108 www.epsamui.com Email: sales@epsamui.com

realty in focus

property report

THE PROPERTY PURCHASE PROCEDURE

The procedure for purchasing property can be divided into ten distinct steps: It is important to be familiar with these steps for two reasons. First, it allows buyers to proactively prepare for each step in advance. Second, by defining each step, buyers can ensure that relevant action is taken for each stage before moving prematurely to a subsequent stage. It also ensures that none of the steps are overlooked. Following is a brief explanation of each step: 1. Determining the purpose of the investment (such as primary residence, rental income, holiday home, retirement or capital appreciation) and the exit strategy should always be the starting point because the answers influence the majority of subsequent decisions related to the purchase of property, including what to buy, where to buy and how to structure the purchase. 2. Conducting preliminary research is concerned with achieving a fundamental understanding of Thai property law (as it relates to foreign ownership), i.e. what a foreigner can and cannot own. It is important to come to terms with this basic information prior to commencing a property search so as to enable the buyer to ask relevant questions and communicate

samui phangan real estate

effectively with lawyers, agents and sellers. Part of the preliminary research should also be to narrow down the property search to a specific resort, area and location. 3. Appoint your own lawyer. It is advisable to appoint a lawyer at this early stage â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in advance of viewing properties or making offers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; for two reasons: firstly, once engaged, your lawyer is on hand to offer advise during the entire process of viewing, negotiating and purchasing. Secondly, once you have identified a property you wish to purchase, it is possible to move more quickly with a purchase if a lawyer has already been engaged. (While the sequence of steps outlined above makes logical sense and is recommended, it is also possible to continue with steps four, five and six before engaging a lawyer. In other words, some property buyers prefer to view properties, choose the one they wish to proceed with and commence negotiations before appointing a lawyer). 4. Property search and viewings. This includes working with property agents and discusses what to look out for during the viewing of properties. 5. Short-listing and choosing a property require properties to be evaluated and compared according to your investment objective and personally chosen criteria.

The Essential Guide to Buying Property in Thailand by Rodney Waller

6. Making offers and negotiating requires a familiarity with the full range of issues that can potentially be negotiated with property owners or developers. 7. Reservations and deposits. Once a property has been chosen and a price has been agreed with the seller, the next step is usually entering into some form of reservation agreement and the payment of a deposit. The seller often requests a deposit as a demonstration that a purchaser is serious, in return for taking the property off the market and agreeing not to sell it to another party for the duration specified in the reservation agreement. 8. Due diligence. Sometimes step seven is skipped entirely, if a purchaser prefers to proceed with due diligence before putting any deposit money down. The risk is that the deal could be lost if a second purchaser comes along and pays a deposit to reserve the property before the first interested purchaser has completed due diligence. Whichever sequence is preferred, due diligence is an essential step to perform for all property purchases and one that should not be skipped under any circumstances. 9. Completion. Once due diligence has been completed and findings are satisfactory, seller and purchaser can then proceed to completion, which involves the signing of contracts, full payment of the

purchase price (less any deposit or reservation fee already paid) and the transfer of property ownership. 10. Taking possession of the property involves the handover of keys, together with any other relevant documentation and guarantees. It is also where the purchaser needs to check and confirm that the fittings and fixtures detailed in the sales agreement remain in the property. These ten steps provide a conceptual framework for property buyers to move through the process of purchasing a property. It also provides a framework for much of the information contained in this book. With this in mind, the following chart duplicates the ten steps listed above, together with references to the key chapters relevant to each step. If you want to read more, The Essential Guide to Buying Property in Thailand by Rodney Waller features page after page of practical advice, insights and tips, covering everything you need to know about the property purchasing process, including essential information to protect your investment. The book is available in Thailand at these bookstores: Asia Books, Bookazine, Kinokuniya. Also at www.amazon.com

samui phangan real estate

STEPS

KEY CHAPTERS

1. Determine the purpose of investment and exit strategy

What is the purpose of investment? (Chapter 8) What is your exit strategy? (Chapter 11)

2. Conduct preliminary research

What can a foreigner buy? (Chapter 2) Land title (Chapter 14) Zoning and building regulations (Chapter 21) Building your own property (Chapter 37) What is off-plan property? (Chapter 61 - 62) Ownership structures (Chapter 95) Understanding rental demand (Chapter 110)

3. Appoint lawyer

Appoint your own lawyer (Chapter 84) Legal fees (Chapter 85)

4. Property search and viewings

Working with property sales agents (Chapter 27) What to look for when viewing properties? (Chapter 28) Mitigating risks of non-completion (Chapter 67)

5. Shortlist or choose property

Comparing properties (Chapter 35)

6. Make offers and negotiate

Who is the seller and what is the reason for sale (Chapter 33) Negotiating with developers (Chapter 75)

7. Reservations and deposits

Paying deposits (Chapter 88)

8. Due diligence

Surveys and structural engineers (Chapter 34) Due diligence (Chapter 89)

9. Completion

Transaction costs on purchase (Chapter 97) Minimising taxes upon sale (Chapter 98) Corporate structure or personal name? (Chapter 102) Inheritance (Chapter 103) Paying for your property (Chapter 104) What is escrow? (Chapter 108) Taking over utilities and services (Chapter 36)

10. Possession

What is included? (Chapter 30)

This is an excerpt from the new book The Essential Guide to Buying Property in Thailand - by Rodney Waller. The book is available in Thailand at these bookstores: Asia Books, Bookazine, Kinokuniya. Also at www.amazon.com

samui phangan real estate

realty in focus

legal buzz

BENEFITS OF INVESTING WITH AN OFFSHORE ENTITY Over the last ten years or so, the boutique real estate market in Koh Samui and Koh Phangan has become a hot spot for savvy international real estate investors. From serviced apartments to luxurious sea view villas, investors look to Koh Samui and Koh Phangan for both economic returns and personal utility - business and pleasure.

This article was written by Jeffrey Martin, Senior Associate of Limcharoen Hughes & Glanville (Samui). For further information, please contact our Koh Samui offices on (0) 84 714 8800 or e-mail jeffrey@limcharoen.com. Other offices located in Bangkok, Phuket, Ho Chi Minh City, Bali and coming soon, Hong Kong.

It is no surprise that a sizeable portion of the investors watching the property market in Koh Samui and Koh Phangan are foreigners, and it is well known that although foreigners are generally prohibited from owning freehold land in Thailand, they may acquire other interests, including registered long-term lease interests over land, direct ownership of buildings and fixtures situated on land, and minority shares in limited Thai companies, which own land. A number of foreign persons utilize offshore entities in order to acquire their interests in Thailand, although some investors are still skeptical of employing an offshore element into their corporate legal structures. This article explores both the benefits and the risks of employing an offshore company in order to invest in Thailand. As the reader will see, the primary benefits associated with using an offshore entity arise at the time of re-sale.

Avoiding Novation In the first instance, using an offshore entity to enter into the various contacts that go along with a real estate investment can often facilitate a more efficient resale. To provide an example, if you enter into the required contracts using your personal name and in the future wish to re-sell, each and every contract must be ‘assigned’ or ‘novated’ to the new buyer requiring the original parties and the new buyer to sign. However, if an offshore entity is used to enter into the contracts, a re-sale can be carried out simply by selling and transferring shares in that entity, rather than the burdensome process of assignment and novation. Upon a sale of shares of the offshore entity, the purchaser will take control of the entity and in turn, all of the contracts that such entity has entered into. Likewise, an offshore entity can acquire ownership of shares in a Thai company which owns land, ownership of any buildings and other fixtures situated on land and a long-term leasehold interest over land. In the event of re-sale, new buyer may simply take ownership of shares in the offshore entity, and thereby indirectly acquire ownership of those interests.

Reducing the Number of Thai Co-Investors According to Thai law, a limited Thai company must consist of at least three shareholders, the majority of whom must be Thai persons or qualifying Thai

samui phangan real estate

entities. In addition, the Thai shareholders must collectively hold at least 51% of the total shares. It should be noted that Thai law prohibits the use of “nominee” shareholders, appointed for the sole purpose of filling the required Thai quota, and who have no legitimate connection to the investment. Therefore in instances where a number of foreign investors wish to co-invest within a Thai-land owning company, and should they elect to acquire those shares personally, they will be required to source additional Thai co-investors. For example, should three foreign persons acquire shares in a Thai company, they will be required to source four Thai co-investors to acquire the majority shares. However, if the foreign investors were to establish an offshore company, collectively acquire shares in that offshore company and appoint the offshore company as the sole foreign shareholder in the Thai company, they would only be required to source two Thai co-investors/co-shareholders.

Tax Issues By using an offshore company, the resale transaction can take place outside of Thailand in the jurisdiction where the company has been established. It is generally perceived therefore that an offshore transaction does not generate a taxable event in Thailand. However, this may not be the case. With any investment, investors should always consult with a tax advisor before structuring their holdings for tax purposes, as several factors may affect tax liability in the context of an offshore sale, including, but not limited to, whether or not the buyer and seller are deemed tax residents of Thailand, and whether or not the purchase/sale funds are brought into Thailand within the same taxation year that the transaction is completed. Investors also need to recognize that an offshore transaction may generate taxes in the jurisdiction of the party’s residence or in the jurisdiction where the offshore company was established, and furthermore that tax legislation is subject to frequent amendments in most jurisdictions, and therefore their tax liability may change in the future. Investors should also note that using an offshore company will not eliminate taxes payable on rental income or other income from sources within Thailand , which taxes will vary depending on whether the offshore entity owns the rental property, whether it is deemed to be carrying on business in Thailand, the amount of the rental income or the assessed rental income and whether the rental funds have been paid inside or outside of Thailand, amongst other factors which go beyond the scope of this article. It is important to establish an offshore legal structure at the time of acquisition, as attempting to restructure one’s holding at a later date may result in added tax liability. For example, should an investor acquire a lease interest in land and ownership of a building in his personal name, and then later wish to transfer those interests to an offshore company, he will be required to pay all applicable land office fees and taxes twice, once when acquiring in his personal name and once when transferring to an offshore entity. Similarly, income tax may be payable on deemed gains of shares/assets. This writer must emphasise that tax laws in Thailand are complex and subject to frequent amendments. The foregoing tax discussion is by no means exhaustive and it is crucial for investors to discuss tax issues with a qualified expert before making any major investment decisions. This article is intended to provide a survey of the use of offshore companies in Thailand. Specific advice should be sought from legal and tax experts before investing.

samui phangan real estate

realty in focus

tax corner

BAD DEBTS: PART I Is your company unable to collect money from a person that owes you certain funds? In that case your company might be eligible to write-off that Bad Debt. From a corporate accounting perspective, a “Bad Debt” is generally defined as an account receivable that is uncollectable. From a tax perspective, however, Bad Debt is also not automatically and in all cases eligible to be erased from your company’s accounts receivable ledger or “written-off”. If your company writes-off a Bad Debt then it would be relieved of the tax burden it incurred. Thus, the Revenue Code of Thailand (“RC”) contains certain hurdles for a creditor before such creditor is able to use the Bad Debt as an expense that reduces the taxable profit. DUENSING KIPPEN is a multi-service boutique law firm specializing in property and corporate/ commercial matters, as well as arbitration proceedings arising therefrom.

It is paramount, however, for your company to clear these Bad Debt writeoff hurdles when a debt turns bad. If your company does not do so it will have to pay income tax on that debt even though it was never collected. Section 65 of the RC defines “net profit” as the result of taxable income from business or arising out of business in one accounting year less certain

DUENSING KIPPEN is also the only such firm in Thailand that compliments its property and corporate/commercial legal expertise with a core tax law practice.

expenses. Section 65 requires that this calculation is done on an “accrual

DUENSING KIPPEN can be reached at: contact@duensingkippen.com or for more information please visit them at: www.duensingkippen.com

treats all your company’s receivables as “income” even if they have not yet

basis”. Accrual basis, as opposed to cash basis, is a method of accounting in which each item is entered as it is earned or incurred regardless of when actual payments are received or made. Cash basis recognizes income when funds are physically received. Since the RC follows the accrual basis the RC been physically received by your company. On the other hand, where a receivable later meets the criteria to be considered as a Bad Debt then, in accordance with Section 65 RC, it is treated as an expense. This of course reduces the net profit and tax burden of the creditor. To be eligible for such “conversion,” such receivable must meet the definitions and requirements outlined in RC Sections 65bis and 65ter. RC Section 65bis(9) states that “[w]riting off bad debts from a debtor’s account shall be done only if it follows rules, procedures and conditions prescribed by a Ministerial Regulation (...)” The relevant Ministry of Finance regulation is No. 186 (1991) (“MR”). MR Clause 3 defines the qualifications of a Bad Debt that is eligible to be written off as follows:

samui phangan real estate

(1) Debts that arose from carrying on a business or in connection with business or have been included as revenue in the computation of net profits, but not including debts owed by a person who is or used to be a director or managing partner whether or not debts arose before or during the time such person is a director or managing partner; and (2) The claim for debts is not barred from court action by time limitation and is sufficiently evidenced for the purpose of suing the debtor.” Please note that the following “prescriptions periods” or time limitations beyond which court action is barred, exist in Thailand in accordance with the Civil and Commercial Code of Thailand (“CCC”) depending on the kind of claim: (a) Ten years is the basic prescription period in Thailand if the law does not establish a shorter period for a specific claim in (CCC Section 193/30); (b) Five years for certain claims relating to, for example, interest, salaries (CCC Section 193/33); (c) Two years for most commercial transactions (CCC Section 193/34). Note: after the expiration of the above mentioned periods, the debt will not be eligible for deduction. In Part II of this two part article we will examine the additional requirements for writing off your company’s Bad Debt under the MR.

samui phangan real estate

realty in focus

developer in-view

A SMARTER WAY TO OWN PROPERTY ON KOH SAMUI

Owning a holiday home on Koh Samui is a dream of many who visit the tropical paradise. With its beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and laid-back lifestyle, Samui is firmly established as one of the most popular destinations in Thailand. For those who have succumb to its charm and wish to visit for extended lengths of time, purchasing a home on the island can seem to offer the perfect solution. However, sole ownership of a second home in a foreign country can be fraught with burdens that the prospective buyer

samui phangan real estate

may not have fully considered. Issues related to property taxes, upkeep, maintenance, security, and finding tenants are made all the more difficult when the owner is based overseas or is not entirely familiar with local rules, regulations, and customs. Along with these issues, increasingly prospective buyers are questioning the financial logic of purchasing a home that will only be occupied for a few months per year. It is perhaps not surprising then that fractional ownership – where a share or fraction of a residence is owned – is increasingly becoming the preferred choice of those looking to purchase a property on Samui. On Samui, the pioneer of fractional ownership is the multi-award winning Beach Republic The Residences located on the far North end of Lamai Beach. The

collection of 39 one and two bedroom Private Pool Villas, Penthouse Sky Pool Villas, and Deluxe Apartments are a regular choice of those looking for 5-star nightly accommodation in a uniquely hip and most importantly, fun atmosphere. Since fractional ownership of select units became available in late 2009, The Residences have also proved immensely popular with those looking to own real estate on the island. Designed with tropical living firmly in mind, The Residences benefit from private chemical-free pools, open-air living spaces, sun decks, granite kitchen counters, and balcony Jacuzzis set amongst the swaying palms. The interiors reflect the region’s culture and rich heritage, whilst selected amenities like 300 thread count cotton sheets, luxurious pillow

samui phangan real estate

menu, flat screen TV’s, iPod docks, Blu Ray DVD players, and personal espresso machines provide luxurious touches. Fractional ownership at Beach Republic is made especially desirable due to the adjacent Ocean Club, Spa, and Restaurant at which owners receive privileged access. The stunning location and contemporary tropical architecture of the Ocean Club combine to create an upscale yet completely unpretentious atmosphere where both locals and jet setters can let loose and enjoy the good life. Beach Republic is recommended by both New York Times and CNNGO.com as a must-visit place on Koh Samui. With two chemical free ocean front infinity edge pools, oversized sun beds, fine Mediterranean and Thai cuisine, and a Resident DJ spinning mellow grooves daily, the atmosphere here is truly fantastic. Every week, the Ocean Club plays host to Sunday Sessions – featuring The Ultimate Sunday Brunch Club™. The event has become an island institution with Fah Thai rating it Samui’s best Brunch. The all-you-can-eat affair attracts Samui residents and tourists alike, who enjoy lazy afternoons by the pool followed by a sunset chill out session with guest DJs.

Owners at Beach Republic generally fall into two categories, Lifestyle Investors and Investment Owners. Lifestyle Investors are typically those who want to visit year after year. Investment Owners are typically looking to enhance their portfolio and have the potential to profit in two distinct ways. Beach Republic is currently offering a guaranteed annual return of 5.75% for the first three years. After this time investors can choose to rent the unit out themselves keeping 100% of the revenue or they can request that Beach Republic rent the unit out on their behalf, in which case they receive 60% of the net revenue. Secondly, investors have the opportunity to profit via capital appreciation. As the value of the entire resort increases so does the value of each individual fraction.

In real estate terms there are a number of clear benefits to fractional ownership over sole ownership. While certainly a viable option for some, the purchase of a second home in a foreign country presents numerous challenges all of which fractional ownership easily overcomes. A fractional owner at Beach Republic purchases only what he or she plans on using (or renting out) and does so with the peace of mind that all issues relating to management of the property are taken care of while the investment required to enjoy five star accommodation, amenities, and service is far less than required as a sole owner. And yet, just like sole ownership, fractional ownership results in an asset that can be sold or passed on to one’s children. It’s important to note that fractional ownership is not vacation ownership or timeshare. Although often confused with the former, both of these two options are forms of membership where the buyer purchases the right to stay at a resort for a set number of weeks per year for a fixed number of years (usually 25). Nothing is owned and a stay at the resort is usually subject to availability. Fractional ownership on the contrary involves owning a share of a real estate asset.

samui phangan real estate

In light of the ease of ownership at Beach Republic along with the stunning product on offer, it is not difficult to see why fractional ownership at the resort remains extremely popularity. Beach Republic Director of Sales Robert Pestello commented, “We have always offered a superior product at an extremely competitive price, but winning the 2011 Thanachart Bank Thailand Property Awards in the category of Best Shared Ownership for the second year running has really helped to put Beach Republic on the map. We have more and more people from around the world choosing to become owners because they appreciate exactly what the judges at the awards commended us for - stunning private pool villas and penthouses, top of the line facilities at Asia's hippest ocean club, extremely strong branding, a highly attractive investment opportunity, and a very straightforward and low-key sales approach. This is my third year with Beach Republic and I am seeing an unprecedented level of interest in ownership here.” Since winning at the Thailand Property Awards the strength of Beach Republic’s Fractional Ownership offering has been further recognized by its peers. The region’s premier property magazine Property Report named it one of the top 20 resorts in South East Asia – a true testament to the strong vision and dedication of the management team. In October 2011, Beach Republic was awarded the coveted Silver Medal in the category of Best Fractional Development at the Overseas Property Professionals

(OPP) Awards for Excellence in London, England. Beach Republic is again expected to be a strong contender at this year’s Thanachart Bank Thailand Property Awards. With excellent facilities and superior amenities, a breathtaking location, strong brand name, and increasing recognition both in Thailand and abroad, it is clear that the multi-award winning Beach Republic is one of the most appealing fractional ownership investments in the region today.

The Beach Republic Estates sales office is located on site at the ocean club entrance and is open 8.30am to 6pm, 7 days a week. Visit BeachRepublicEstates.com or call 089 973 4993.

samui phangan real estate

realty in focus

villa rentals

HOW TO FIND YOUR PERFECT ISLAND RETREAT Villa rental is fast becoming the preferred holiday accommodation option for a vast majority of vacationers to Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. Renting a villa as a family or group of friends can prove far more economical in the long run than hotel accommodation and can afford you the luxury and privacy you seek on a holiday without breaking the bank. For longer term lets, there is a multitude of options from private owners to agent lets ranging from basic to 6 star luxury â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all you need to do is spend some time finding the right villa for your long-term living needs. Holiday villas are generally fully furnished and include a full western kitchen with appliances, towels and bed linens, water and electricity and will normally include a maid service who will come once or more a week to

samui phangan real estate

change linen and tidy the villa, as well as a maintenance person to take care of the gardens and pool if included. There are a host of other optional services on offer such as a private chef, babysitting, pre-arrival shopping, laundry, driver or car hire, butler, island tours, personal training, massage and spa treatments, Thai cooking lessons...simply do your research and ask lots of questions when selecting your villa to see what is available to you during your stay. If booking your villa from outside of Thailand, it may be wise to use one of the more established and recognised agents to ensure you are getting what you pay for. While it may seem cheaper to go directly through the home-owner, agencies usually

have representatives in Samui and Phangan who can advocate on your behalf. That can include minor repairs or even moving you to another property if you’re not satisfied with your original choice. That’s something that the owner can’t help you with. Prices can vary greatly depending on the location of the villa (closer to the beach or beach-front means you will pay for the access and view!), the size/bedroom numbers, the facilities, services and the standard of the villa - with several levels of luxury available! There are hundreds of villas available on the islands starting from basic, mid-level, luxury and beyond – it’s truly reliant on your budget and your requirements - either way, you will not be stuck for choice. Generally a deposit of 50% or more is required to secure the villa of your choice prior to your holiday and the remainder paid in full upon arrival, this may vary from agent to agent. Read the rental agreement very carefully to make sure you understand what’s provided as well as any and all conditions, exclusions, inclusions, costs and penalties.

Samui Beach Village

When you decide on the ideal holiday villa to suit your needs, you can relish in the fact that you will enjoy privacy, space and of course the beautiful tropical surrounds of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. Happy holidaying!

VILLA LETTING AGENTS ADVANCE INTER DEVELOPMENT

077 231 625

PHATHONG RESIDENCE

089 813 5715

ADVANTAGE HOLIDAY VILLAS

077 418 891

PLUMERIA PLACE RESIDENCE

077 430 043

BAM BUH

086 061 4280

SAGE LAND & HOUSE

089 016 9750

HORIZON HOMES

077 417 005

SAMUI BEACH VILLAGE

077 418 256

INFINITY RESIDENCES & RESORT

089 666 0610

SAMUI DIAMOND PROPERTIES

087 895 4132

KALARA INTERNATIONAL PROPERTIES

077 246 100

SAMUI ESCAPES

077 425 136

KOH SAMUI LAND & HOMES

089 474 1837

SAMUJANA

089 894 9088

KOH SAMUI PROPERTIES

077 484 770

SAMUI-PHANGAN PROPERTIES

087 180 7247

LAAN DARA SAMUI

077 414 204

SAMUI VILLAS AND HOMES

077 427 648

LAEM SOR VILLAGE

081 406 1065

THAILAND RETREATS

077 427 774

OVERSEAS PROPERTY PORTFOLIO

080 535 1725

THE PARK

077 601 108

PAI LEAM HOUSE

085 782 4910

THE PHUFAR RESIDENCE

081 535 9100

PALM GROUP ASIA

085 795 9393

THE SEA

077 960 567

samui phangan real estate

THE BEST SERVICE THE BEST POSSIBLE CARE บ ริ ก า ร แ ล ะ ดู แ ล ที่ ดี ที่ สุ ด . . .

Sale & Service Curtain, Wallpaper, Cushion, Vertical Blind, Blind, Panel Carpet, Curtain Laundry, Sofa, Import Product Ect

หจก. ณัฐรัตน์เดคอร์เรท NUTTARATDECORATE

105/17 M.6 Rob Koh Rd. Maret Koh Samui Suratthani 84310

T: 077-920-266 T/F: 077-418-549 M: 08-1832-6811

nuttarat.nr@hotmail.com www.nuttarat.com

จำ�หน่ายและติดตั้ง ผ้าม่าน, วอลล์เปเปอร์, เบาะ, ม่านปรับแสง, มูลี่, ฉากกั้นห้อง พรม, ซัก รีด ผ้าม่าน, โซฟา, สินค้านำ�เข้า อื่นๆ

realty in focus

personal profile

Making it Mayan Landscaping the islands

From banging his heart out on a drum-kit to digging his way down deep, Mark Tweeddale of Mayan Landscaping in Koh Samui has made a successful name for himself and created many a dream garden and outdoor utopia for hotels, villas and residents. Working on projects big and small, from intimate personal gardens to installing 25 meter tall, 5 tonne trees.... we talk to Mark and find out what it's like to design some of Samui's most incredible outdoor areas. What made you move to Samui? We’d holidayed on Samui quite a few times, and like many foreigners, fell in love with the lifestyle and the Thai people. The climate was a main factor in our decision to move. The area where we lived in Australia experiences cold, dreary and long winters, and we’re both sun-loving people. Our spare time here is spent at the beach. We have a speedboat and enjoy skiing and wake-boarding, which we can do all year round. How long has your business been running? Mayan Landscaping was founded shortly after our arrival in 2004. I’m also a professional drummer, and for the first couple of years, I worked two jobs – landscaping during the day, then playing at the now defunct Coco Blues 6 nights a week. When I look back, there weren’t a lot of spare hours in the day then! It took a little while to build up the business, but I’m now lucky to have a fantastic team of highly skilled staff, headed by our indispensable foreman, Khun Nattee. The business has steadily grown over the years, and we have a great reputation here now, due to the fact that we have the qualifications, expertise and experience to deliver quality landscape and hardscape design and construction.

samui phangan real estate

have little chance of surviving unscathed. Another important factor is choosing the right plants for the location, i.e. shade-tolerant, salt-tolerant (for beachside gardens). As we are in the summer months, what plants would you suggest are perfect to plant?

Before

What got you into landscaping? It was always a plan to get into some form of horticulture here on Samui, as that’s my forte, and it became obvious early on that there was a niche opening on Samui for a landscaping company that catered to Western clients who expect Western standards. It seemed that every man and his dog were “landscape designers” or “landscape consultants”, however very few businesses back then had any sort of qualifications or experience. The majority of our clients are foreigners who have villas here on Samui, and their expectations are understandably high. Tell me a bit about your background ... My previous employment in Australia, which spanned almost 20 years, was in the area of recreational turf management, i.e. bowling greens, golf courses, etc., so my passion is for grass! After 6 years of study I acquired a Diploma in Horticulture and an Associate Diploma in Turf Management. In my spare time back in Oz, I designed and constructed numerous gardens for private clients. I was also employed at a local TAFE College as a sessional teacher in the area of turf management and horticulture. Leisure hours were few back then also!

Isn’t it always Summer on Samui?! Ha ha! Seriously though….gardeners should always be aware of the water situation here during the drier months and strive to plant species that are drought-tolerant, i.e. don’t need a lot of water. Some examples would be Bougainvillea, Cape Gardenia, Pandanas and Ixora spp. What’s the strangest request you have ever had for a garden? Mmmmmm……I’ve had a few! I think the underground water cave, which consisted of an eco-pond leading onto a plunge pool surrounded by a waterfall and, obviously, shade-tolerant plants, takes first prize. The initial planning made for a few sleepless nights, however the results were amazing! What would be your ideal landscaping design? That’s a tricky question, as each design is very unique. We spend a lot of time with each individual client, ascertaining their specific needs and wishes. However, tropical garden design should always be about flow and relaxation – bringing the inside out, and the outside in. The climate here lends itself to outdoor living, so rather than a garden just being a showcase, it should also be an integral part of daily life and a beautiful space for people to relax, unwind and enjoy! Of course, my own personal ideal design would have to have a space to set up my drum kit!

What’s the most important tip about designing your own garden? For me, soil preparation is the key. Good soil which has a mix of natural mulch (such as worm mulch) will ensure your trees and flowers flourish. The natural soil on Samui is generally low in PH, so correct testing and amendments should be applied. Drainage is also extremely important. Those of us who have lived here for some time, know just how bad the flooding situation can be during certain times of the year. Plants left languishing in water for too long will

samui phangan real estate

After

T: 077 426 936 F: 077 426 946 M: 081 691 1719

W: www.baansuaylandandhouse.com, www.bs-landandhouse.com E: info@baansuaylandandhouse.com 118/1 Moo 1 Koh Samui Ring Rd. (Opp Big C), Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani

Beach Front Location

LS05144013

: Ban Bang Rak

Luxury Resort Location

BS8014

Plai Laem Villa Location

: Bang Por

HS112287

: Plai Laem

Land Size : 1 Ngan 51 Sqw.

Land Size : 4 Rai

Land Size : 1 Ngan 24 Sqw.

Access

: Public

Title Deeds : Chanote

Title Deeds : Nor Sor Sam Gor

Price

: 36,000,000 THB

P House Location

HS06285702 : Ban Bang Rak

: 210,000,000 THB

Luxury Villa Location

HS8003

: Lipa Noi

: 20,000,000 THB

9 Houses BS8004 Location

: Bophut

Land Size : 50 Sqw.

Land Size : 1 Rai 44 Sqw.

Land Size : 2 Rai 2 Ngan 84 Sqw.

Access

: Public

Title Deeds : Chanote

Price

: 2,500,000 THB

: 16,500,000 THB

: 18,000,000 THB

T: 077 426 936 F: 077 426 946 M: 081 691 1719

W: www.baansuaylandandhouse.com, www.bs-landandhouse.com E: info@baansuaylandandhouse.com 118/1 Moo 1 Koh Samui Ring Rd. (Opp Big C), Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani

Arun Location

BLS 001 : Bophut-Koa Pra

Bandara Location

BLS 002

Suttilak Location

: Bophut

BLS 003 : Angthong

Land Size : 1 Rai 1 Ngan 77.3 Sqw.

Land Size : 1 Rai 3 Ngan 96 Sqw.

Land Size : 13 Rai 2 Ngan 2 Sqw.

Access

: Public

Title Deeds : Chanote

Price

: 4,200,000 THB

Maret Location

BLS 004 : Lamai Maret

: 8,500,000 THB

Montila Location

BLS 005 : Bophut

: 23,000,000 THB

Baan Jinda Location

BHS 001

: Bophut-BangRak

Land Size : 5 Rai 0 Ngan 80 Sqw.

Land Size : 1 Rai 2 Ngan 86 Sqw.

Land Size : 0 Rai 2 Ngan 20 Sqw.

Access

: Public

Title Deeds : Chanote

Price

: 2,000,000 THB

: 6,800,000 THB

ราคาดังกล่าวอาจมีการเปลี่ยนแปลงโดยไม่จำ�เป็นที่จะต้องแจ้งล่วงหน้า

: 5,500,000 THB

T: 077 426 936 F: 077 426 946 M: 081 691 1719

W: www.baansuaylandandhouse.com, www.bs-landandhouse.com E: info@baansuaylandandhouse.com 118/1 Moo 1 Koh Samui Ring Rd. (Opp Big C), Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani

Baan Kaowta

BHS 002

Chanweng Soi10 BHS 003

Mr. Jim House

Location : Bophut

Location

Land Size : 0 Rai 2 Ngan 19.2 Sqw.

Land Size : 1 Ngan 15 Sqw.

Land Size : 0 Rai 0 Ngan 55 Sqw.

Access

: Public

: Chaweng

: Public

: Bophut, Chaweng

: Public

Title Deeds : Chanote

Price

: 3,000,000 THB

: 5,700,000 THB

Baan Talay Kaow BHS 005

Yupa Land

Location

: Bophut-BangRak

BHS 006

: Bophut

: 5,000,000 THB

Villa Lamai Location

BHS 004

BHS 007

: Lamai

Land Size : 0 Rai 2 Ngan 23.3 Sqw.

Land Size : 0 Rai 0 Ngan 158 Sqw.

Land Size : 1 Rai 1 Ngan 14 Sqw.

Access

: Public

Title Deeds : Chanote

Price

: 9,900,000 THB

: 5,500,000 THB

: 8,500,000 THB

Those prices are subject to be changed without notice

realty in focus

feature

SAMUJANA

A LEAGUE OF ITS OWN With countless numbers of villas and residences on Koh Samui, it's sometimes easy to put them all in the same category. Luxury? Yes. There's no denying that many of the villas recently built scream luxury but some are outstanding in their design, sheer size, uninterrupted magnificent views and attention to detail. Samujana, located in Choeng Mong falls in to this category and it is seriously in a league of its own. Perhaps this is what heaven is like... Using award winning GFAB as the design consultants for Samujana, it's easy to see how this development started with a successful foundation. GFAB won the award for Best Architecture for a Multiple Residence

samui phangan real estate

Development in the entire world last year â&#x20AC;&#x201C; something not to be sniffed at. With 27 distinct residences, all with their own unique touches and slightly varied layouts â&#x20AC;&#x201C; each residence offers a cinema room, indoor/outdoor kitchen, outdoor living and bedrooms that do not suffocate each other, rather they allow enough space from each other that you may not even bump into those who are staying with you! Samujana excels in both architecture, quality and uniqueness and with this comes guest services that also hold their own. Running at a 6-star level, the

in much the same way that it's a dream for any sales person to represent the best of any product. Whether you are talking about build quality, the views, the design, the building materials, the floor plans, the use of environmentally friendly technologies, the preservation of the natural topography of the land, the location, the service, the ambiance... Samujana always seems to come out on top.”

usual services such as a 24 hour concierge, Thai cooking classes, massages and the like are standard. Excitingly within the coming year guests also will have access to three different boats; an incredible 47' catamaran that can sleep three couples, a motor boat for island hopping and a ski boat for those seeking some ocean adventure! We spoke with Richard Cohen, Managing Director of RBC Properties and Head of Sales and Marketing for Samujana to gain some insight into what it's like to represent one of the most prestigious properties Samui currently has to offer. “It's really a salesman's dream come true to be able to represent Samujana,

The development of Samujana has been carefully planned in stages so as to create a quality set of residences that will stand the test of time in design and functionality as well as offering guests services that are above and beyond. “The early building did succeed in its goal of creating the best villa development on the island, but over time, Samui has matured a bit and as such there is now a call for a superior product. So with Phase 2 we have added higher elevation homes, allowing the same incredible southerly view, but in addition a northerly view over blue seas and a westerly view over the ocean as well, providing incredible sunsets. Phase 2 villas are also bigger, better appointed (higher spec) and much more of the living area is enclosed, as a defence against hot or rainy weather conditions. There will also be many more amenities for the guests including the best gym on the island, a new two lane entry to the site, three rai has been purchased in order to provide better access to the beach, a Beach Club is to be introduced, a full service spa will be available and lastly a kids club for guest-parents seeking a little down-time!” Kurt Berman, recently appointed General Manager of Samujana brings with him a wealth of experience and knowledge alongside a passion for Samujana “We have recently completed a landscaped path leading down to our private beach access. This grassed area culminates in a beachfront lawn right on the water that is absolutely perfect for an intimate wedding ceremony. In the near future we will be developing a range of beach facilities and amenities as well as creating more landscaped gardens, ideal

samui phangan real estate

the opportunity to create unique and personalized bespoke occasions.â&#x20AC;?

for an open-air wedding at sunset or for erecting a marque and hosting a party or event. All villas are well suited for small, executive think tanks, brainstorming sessions or corporate retreats. Imagine having a live teleconference in your own private cinema! We work with the best private chefs, caterers, event organizers and wedding planners on Koh Samui and relish

samui phangan real estate

With so many properties on the market, Samujana simply stands out from the crowd says Richard â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think that it's quite amazing that the property is five minutes from Chaweng, 10 mins from the airport, & 10 mins from Bophut, yet it's absolutely incredibly quiet and unaffected by the outside world. But this isn't something guests would find alluring, it's more like a fantastic benefit. The most inviting thing is probably the architecture/design and how it enhances the views. There are hundreds, if not thousands of homes in Samui with great sea views, but perhaps no one package that views quite as well as Samujana. To take an automobile comparison, there are lots of cars that can be fixed up to go fast, but going 250kph in a suped up Honda Civic is a far different experience than going 250 in a Ferrari or Lamborghini!â&#x20AC;?

selling the ultimate Samui dream home, we're also selling value. Also, the level of service for renters and owners will be higher, as the developer has brought on our experienced, top-level GM, Kurt Berman who has many years of experience in high-level luxury developments and hotels around the world” It's easy to see why Richard, Kurt as well as the owners and many guests have fallen in love with Samujana and there is increasing interest in owning a slice of this heaven. “The developers of Samujana have made my job one of the easiest on the island. First, they gave me an award winning project, which has been built for more than six years and has clearly stood the test of

“The location, the packaging of the incredible views, and the architecture are the stand-out points. Each of the 27 villas are different and designed to be in harmony with the landscape. Today I had an agent and his clients on site. The agent remarked to me that while he was right in the middle of a fairly major development, it didn't feel like he was in a villa estate. Instead of noticing all the houses, what he noticed were the flowering trees, the view of the ocean, the view of the island, the view of the beaches, the rock cladding on the villas the landscaping on the villas' roofs and so on. At the previous developments they looked at, they were bombarded with each of the 10 or 20 or 30 villas staring them in the face.” “What I like so much about selling Samujana villas is that while the quality, the views, and the design are as good as any on Samui, the pricing, while high in absolute terms, is actually extremely reasonable on a per square meter basis. Thus, in addition to

time. Then, they decided to improve the villas AND the views AND the amenities, and perhaps most importantly, to build the villas themselves, rather than building them to order. Thus, the buyers can see their exact villa before they buy it, unlike most other villas at this price point, which are sold off-plan.” For more information visit www.samujana.com or www.ownsamujana.com to buy your own piece of paradise.

samui phangan real estate

island life

close up

Dr Frogs... take the leap... Some restaurants simply stand the test of time, marking their success year on year and continuing unparalleled culinary offerings alongside extraordinary views. Dr Frogs is one of those restaurants. It's easy to see why customers come back time and time again to enjoy the delicious offerings of authentic Thai food and classic Italian cuisine, all with an uninterrupted view of the island....... and as they say, you have to kiss more than one frog to find your prince...and this is the prince of them all. Set high on a cliff-face overlooking the crystal blue waters of Samui in Chaweng Noi, Dr Frogs affords diners a view that is hard to surpass. Day time or early evening is the best time to truly appreciate the breathtaking views of Samui's stunning coastline, but as dusk settles and the evening sky creeps in, a sparkling of firework displays can be enjoyed throughout the evening from Dr Frogs expansive

samui phangan real estate

dining-terrace, as the many bars dotted along the shore set them off in celebration. Having opened it's doors five years ago, the restaurant has received many accolades for it's relaxed approach to dining combined with it's detailed approach to food. The menu lends itself to an array of traditional Italian food ranging from fresh home-made pastas, to classic Thin-crust pizza and an amazing selection of seafood - to more Western fare of prime Australian beef and acclaimed New Zealand lamb, Lobster, King Prawns and even of course, Frogs Legs! Chef Massimo Mariani leads the culinary charge at Dr Frogs and having worked in Milan, Monte Carlo and Sardenia he brings with him an understanding of fine-dining and flavour combinations that alight the palate. Chef Massimo's menu travels the gamut of Italian favourites such as his Carpaccio di Manzo Toscana

Stile, beef carpaccio Tuscan style served with tossed rocket salad, parmesan shavings and cracked black pepper down to antipasti that clearly shows blending of his Italian roots with his new found home of Thailand with his Tortini di Granchi - Crab cakes accompanied by a spicy mango salsa. Fresh home-made pasta is not easy to come by on Samui yet Dr Frogs offers an extensive selection that would make Mamma proud. Fettuccini di Spinaci con Salsiccia Italiana e Porcini, fettuccini with porcini mushrooms sautéed with braised Italian sausage and cream, Tagliatelle Ragù di Agnello – a dish of ground lamb shoulder, carrot, celery, onions and a light tomato sauce to traditional Gnocci and Risotto selections, with the classic Salsiccia Risotto, cooked to perfection with sautéed Italian sausage in white wine. Having garnered the Number 1 Pizza accolade on the island, it's fair to say they have earned it. Thin crispy crusts, with the perfect balance of ingredients and large enough to share you simply cannot go past the Red Hot Pizza, for those who like it spicy! Homemade hot pork Italian sausage meat, salame Milano, black olives with fresh and dried chilli flakes. Add a dash of home-made chilli oil if you want to really set your world on fire! Alongside the traditional Italian menu stems authentic Thai dishes that are exceptional in flavour as well as presentation such as the Nua Poo Phad Phoeng Kari, an exotic dish of fried crab meat with yellow curry paste, spring onions and egg or their Shu Shee Goong - fresh king prawns with spicy red curry coconut cream accompanied by green beans and sprinkle of kaffir lime leaves. Spice levels are up to the guest and the staff at Dr Frogs will happily guide you through the extensive Thai menu to find the perfect dish for you to experience.

The drinks menu does not disappoint and complements the menu perfectly from mocktails, to cocktails to their extensive wine-list, their attention to detail is evident in all that they do. A thorough wine list combining new and old world wine is available as well as bubbles to a glass of sticky, Dr Frogs can offer you a match for every meal. So if you're looking for a place to dine in Koh Samui that ticks all the boxes - scenery....a view to die for....authentic Thai....classic Italian....Western favourites.....a relaxed atmosphere...friendly and attentive staff....drinks to satisfy any thirst....this is most definitely the one. Stop by on your island travels and savour this prince amongst frogs.

samui phangan real estate

Surat Baansuy Ltd. Part หจก.สุราษฎร์บ้านสวย (คฤหภัณฑ์) CUSHION

WOODEN BLIND

TENSION MEMBRANE

AWNING

CURTAIN

SOFA

ด้วยช่างที่มีประสบการณ์กว่า 20 ปี จำ�หน่ายและรับติดตั้ง

ผ้าม่านทุกชนิด, มู่ลี่ทุกชนิด ระบบมอเตอร์ผ้าม่านทุกชนิด เบาะ, โซฟา, ผ้าใบ, หลังคาผ้าใบ, พรม, กระเบื้องยาง และ สินค้านำ�เข้าจากต่างประเทศอีกมากมาย 118/1 Robkoh Rd. Bo phut Beach Koh Samui (Opp Big C) Tel: 077-484-662-3, 081-691-1719 Lamai Branch Tel: 077-458-746-7

We are expert in curtain services for more than 20 years

Sale and Service Curtain, Roller Blinds, Bamboo Blinds, With Motor System Cushions, Sofa, Awning, Tension Membrane Carpet, Pvc Flooring, Import Product Ect Mobile: 081-536-6178 ( Mr. Jim) Email: jim@suratbaansuy.com

www.suratbaansuy.com

island life

green scene

MAKE YOUR HOME

ECO-FRIENDLY With climate change a hot topic these days, we can all do our bit to help reduce the impact we make on Mother Earth. With grim predictions of climate change now a permanent feature in daily news reports, pressure is mounting on everyone to figure out how to lead greener lives. Below are some suggestions on how you can help reduce your carbon footprint on the planet, all starting from home! • Buying energy-efficient appliances is one of the most effective ways of saving energy. What’s more they are easily available and are not necessarily more expensive. New, energy saving bulbs consume as much as five times less energy as that used by older bulbs. Just replacing the bulbs in your house would be a small step for you, but literally a big step for mankind. • With such hot weather, a typical home loses almost half its cooling through its walls and roof. Insulating the roof and the walls could save you a lot of money annually, which more than makes up for the relatively low initial cost of insulation and will keep your home cooler longer. • Switching off an electronic appliance with a remote control merely puts it on standby and energy is still being used. Any appliance that is not in use should be put off at the power switch. This small act could save each home a small amount per year but consider how much that translates to per neighbourhood! • While washing clothes in a washing machine you could save a lot of energy by running the machine with a full load and at a slightly lower temperature. As far as possible put your clothes outdoors to dry and avoid using the tumble dryer. • When boiling water in a kettle, boil only as much as you need. Boiling extra water is a waste of energy as well as time. If you use your kettle a lot, you may want to consider buying an eco kettle.

samui phangan real estate

• A smart electricity monitor is a clever little device that can break down the energy consumption of every appliance in the house and can give you your energy usage in real-time. Use it to help you ascertain which appliances are consuming too much energy and where you can cut down. • Keep your doors and windows closed when your air-conditioner is on. Leaving them open reduces the effectiveness of the air-conditioner and makes it work harder to cool down your room or house. • Choose low flow toilet mechanisms. These use less water while still doing the same job as regular toilets. Obviously, you will save water and money on water bills. • Open your doors and windows and turn off your air-conditioner! The islands are blessed from time to time with cool sea breezes – using this natural way of cooling your house will lower your bill and use less electricity. • Install skylights in your roof. This will allow natural sunlight to illuminate your house for free, especially over rooms that are the darkest. Sunlight is more powerful than any bulb, so the light will flow through much of the room where the skylight is installed. • Consider installing solar panels to create your own energy. Although not hugely popular in Samui and Phangan yet, they are a great way to reduce your overall electricity bill and use the natural sunshine to power your home. One solar thermal can provide an astounding 50% of your annual hot water requirements.

samui phangan real estate

Tel: 077 247 550-1 PUMP ASTRAL VIRON P300 HIGH EFFECIENCY

3 speeds pump High speed 2850 RPM/983w/282LPM/18 HEAD Medium speed 2410 RPM/675w/245LPM/13 HEAD Low speed 1900 RPM/345w/204 LPM/8 HEAD

CHEMICAL Liquid Flocculant(Astral) Eliminate Colloidal Particles, Solving water cloudiness, Fast flocculent effect.

ทำ�ให้สง่ิ สกปรกรวมตัวและเร่งตกตะกอน - ทำ�น้�ำ ใส ใช้กบั pH ช่วงกว้างได้ - ระยะเวลาตกกะกอน 8 ชัว่ โมง

ASTRAL Victoria Plus Pump 16,000 l/h 0.78 kw (1 Hp) 230 v 21,000 l/h 1.10 kw (1.5 Hp) 230 v 26,000 l/h 1.50 kw (2 Hp) 230 v 34,000 l/h 2.20 kw (3 Hp) 230/400 v 3 phase

Solid pH Plus (Astral) Adjust pH between 7.2-7.6 Solid state form for easy of use, non irritation

ASTRAL Alaska Max Series 0.75 Hp 18.6 m3/hr (1.0 Hp) 24.6 m3/hr(1.5 Hp) 30.18 m3/hr(2.0 Hp)

Solid pH Minor(Astral) Adjust pH between 7.2-7.6 Solid state form for easy of use, non irritation

HURLCON CTX Series 18.6 m3/hr (1.0 Hp) 24.6 m3/hr (1.5 Hp) 30.18 m3/hr (2.0 Hp)

ปรับค่า pH ให้อยูใ่ นช่วง 7.2-7.6 ชนิดเม็ดแข็งใช้งานง่าย - ไม่ระคายเคือง

Extra Algicide(Astral) Algicide - Non foaming - eleminate odors Flocculant Effect

กำ�จัดและป้องกันการเกิดใหม่ของตะไคร่ ไม่เป็นฟอง - เร่งสิง่ สกปรกรวมตัวและตกตะกอนเร็ว พิเศษ - ทำ�น้�ำ ใส - ขจัดกลิน่ ไม่พงึ ประสงค์

E Series Pool & Spa Pumps - Single Phase E 140 - 0.50 HP Pool and Spa Pump E 170 - 0.75 HP Pool and Spa Pump E 230 - 1.00 HP Pool and Spa Pump E 290 - 1.50 HP Pool and Spa Pump

Brightener Algicide with brightener 1 L Algicide with brightener 5 L

FX Flooded Suction Pumps - Single Phase FX 250 - 1.00 HP Flooded Suction Pump FX 290 - 1.25 HP Flooded Suction Pump FX 340 - 1.50 HP Flooded Suction Pump FX 520 - 2.00 HP Flooded Suction Pump

Chlorine Powder(Astral) 90% Available Chlorine - Stabilizer powder Non Comburent

BX High Performance Pumps - 24 hours run-dry tested BX 1.0 High Performance Pump - Single Phase BX 1.5 High Performance Pump - Single Phase BX 2.0 High Performance Pump - Single Phase BX 3.0 High Performance Pump - Single Phase

Chlorine Granural(Astral) 90% Available Chlorine - Stabilizer Granulate Non Comburent

Submersible Pump-Plastic body Power Plus for clean water, flow 3,500 l/h : 200 W. Power Plus for clean water, flow 5,000 l/h : 250 W. Power Plus for dirty water, flow 7,500 l/h : 400 W. Power Plus for dirty water, flow 12,500 l/h : 750 W.

Chlorine Tablet(Astral) 90% Available Chlorine - Stabilizer tablets Non Comburent

90% คลอรีน - สร้างเสถียรภาพ ชนิดผง ลดการระเหยของคลอรีน -ไม่มสี ารไวไฟ

90% คลอรีนชนิดเกล็ด - สร้างเสถียรภาพ ลดการระเหยของคลอรีน -ไม่มสี ารไวไฟ

90% คลอรีนชนิดก้อน - สร้างเสถียรภาพ

ASTRAL POOL SHOP 44/34-35 Moo 1 Maenam, Koh Samui Surathani 84330 Thailand Tel: 077 247550-1 Fax: 077 961556 E-mail: tsppools@gmail.com

New Arrive!

integrated pH/ORP control

SELF-CLEANING

Save over 40% per month of pool maintenance ประหยัดค่าใช้จา่ ยกว่า 40% ต่อ เดือน Less chlorine smell ไม่มก ี ลิน่ คลอรีน

Industrial systems เหมาะสำ�หรับโรงแรมทัว่ ไป Healthier and salutary water

Chlorine control Automatic System ระบบตัดคลอรีน อัตโนมัติ PH Control Automatic System ระบบควบคุมค่า PH อัตโนมัติ

E-mail: astralsamui@gmail.com, tsppools@gmail.com

island life

eco outdoor

GO GREEN WITH YOUR KIDS

Involve your kids in eco-friendly practices in some easy and fun ways and they won't even notice they're learning! Along with the movement to â&#x20AC;&#x153;Go Greenâ&#x20AC;? there seems to be a need to return to basics and living simple. With all of the technology available, our children seem to always be glued to one contraption or another. It

is imperative we encourage kids to go outside and play - so, why not create a great eco-friendly oasis that your kids will want to play in. By building it with them, you can not only help save the planet but also teach your children to be environmentally friendly in the process.

How your kids can help in the garden It is important to let your kids in on every aspect as you create or change your garden. By getting them involved and having them understand why you are doing this, they will have further investment in the creation. There are great resources on the internet and some wonderful children's books that are good at helping you explain the whole green concept to your kids in a way they can grasp at an early age.

Gardening As Play Time What better way to get the kids to play outside then to let them start their own garden? Not only can they help you with the entire project but also by giving them their own space to carve out-it will spark their imaginations! They can build a bird feeder out of a milk carton and maintain it with birdseed and learn

samui phangan real estate

about the types of birds that come to feed. Another idea is to have them plant a small organic herb garden; they will really enjoy watching it grow, and helping to pick the herbs and see them cooked in meals. Tending a garden helps teach responsibility, love of the earth and builds character.

Conservation One of the overall principals of living green is to conserve. By teaching your child to conserve water and materials, they will be well on their way to making green living a lifetime habit. One way of ensuring the conservation of water is to forgo the manicured green lawn with a sprinkler system and replace it with a mixture of regionally native plants as well as no-mow grass seed. This will greatly save on water and keep the air clean by not having to use a gas mower. Build a rain collection system to water your plants and use organic plant food to keep pesticides out and nutrients in.

Creating a Green Playground Building a green, sustainable playground in your backyard can not only be environmentally friendly but also keep your children safe from harmful toxins. First you can start by locating a company in your area or on the Internet that specialized in providing sustainable recreation options, such as goearthscapes.com. They should offer playground materials that are made of 100% recycled plastic or from recovered wood fibers. Some companies even offer recycled tires that can create soft flooring. Turning your backyard into a green wonderland can be a great activity for the whole family. Instil a love of the outdoors in your children and help them to make green living a habit that they will continue for a lifetime.

Volunteer Why not sign up and volunteer with some of the green initiatives in Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. There are always beach cleaning days and chances to plant trees. Trees help us enjoy cleaner air and more beautiful landscapes. The Samui Mala organisation in Koh Samui (http://www.samuimala.org/) is a leader in green initiatives and welcomes volunteers no matter what age. By showing and doing instead of just telling your children, they will gain a much better understanding of the impact they can have on the world around them.

samui phangan real estate

island life

home help

A DOG'S DAY AFTERNOON

Most of us who live on the islands have a companion to call our own and consider them a true part of the family. Having said that, we often forget to provide our dogs with the same comforts and precautions we do our other family members so here are a couple of suggestions to keep both you and pup happy!

Itchy & Scratchy Through the ages, fleas have been the bane of existence for humans as well as dogs. Before pesticides, it was common to strew herbs over the floor of a home, pub or castle to control vermin. The

100

samui phangan real estate

oils in many garden herbs are historic flea repellents, which led to them being dubbed “fleabane.” To use them this way, simply cut the branches and strip the leaves to line the bottom of a dog house. Or, dry the herbs and leaves and stuff them inside the lining of the dog’s bed, which naturally discourages the pests. Some of these herbs may also discourage ticks as well; • • • •

Fleawort Fleabane/pennyroyal Tansy Wormwood

heat just as we do by hitting the beach for a swim or popping on the air-conditioner. Dogs instinctively dig nests in shady places to access cooler soil, and sprawl out in them during the heat of the day. In heavy soils especially, this makes a huge mess-the dirt stains paving, plasters the dog’s fur and inevitably ends up inside your house. One solution is to provide them with a pit of their own that’s more damp and cool than the flower beds. Give them sand to lie in and it won’t stain or make mud, and when dry, it easily falls away from their fur. Keep the area slightly moist and your dog will prefer that spot over all else. You can make a few of them, scattered around damp, shady, out-of-the-way spots in the yard. Be sure to wet down the area often in the heat.

Doggy Pool Heaven

• • • • • •

Rosemary Sweet Bay Peppermint Dill Fennel Eucalyptus

Warm Weather Flop Spot Dogs don’t sweat, they cool off by panting. Many dogs labelled problem diggers are really just trying to keep cool and in this weather, it's easy to understand how our beloved pets need some respite from the

It’s easy to create a dog dipping pool that’s safe and easy to clean and will help keep your pooch out of your own swimming pool! The trick is to choose a sturdy, moulded-plastic kids pool rather than an inflatable one, which is too easily punctured by sharp claws. Be sure the pool is shallow enough for your pet to get in and out of easily. (Note - Small dogs may find the plastic sides hard to navigate when wet; choose a size that’s safe for your particular dog.) The best way to disguise it in your garden is to set it into the ground just like a real swimming pool. Dig out the area under the pool so it sits with the rim an inch or two above the soil line. This will protect the rim and side walls from breakage as your dog enters and exits. They're also less likely to chew on it, and it will stay put when empty, which is a time when big dogs tend to turn kiddy pools into play toys. The downside with this kind of pool is draining it, which can be done with a simple siphon (you can find one at Homepro). Or, when all else fails, bail it out with a bucket!

samui phangan real estate

101

life on the isles

108

koh samui map

samui phangan real estate

LIVING IN KOH SAMUI

Koh Samui’s enduring appeal as one of the world’s top holiday destinations has inspired many people to relocate to the island, either choosing to make it their permanent home or spending extended amounts of time living what those in less blessed locations would understandably consider an idyllic lifestyle. In the last ten years, the island has developed into a full service destination and the range of facilities, amenities and services has therefore expanded considerably, making Samui one of very few places in the world where you can literally choose your preferences, both in terms of the way you pass your days and nights and also the amount of money you want to spend. Although the island’s tourist and residential worlds often collide, they can also be very distinctive. But in terms of choice, both groups benefit from the island’s incredibly diverse and eclectic offerings, whether in terms of accommodation, retail, dining, entertainment, health or adventure. As a long term resident on Samui, if you stop to consider the sheer

extent of comfort and convenience on offer around the island today it’s sometimes difficult to remember that you are living on a small island in the Gulf of Thailand. As soon as you leave the beach you are spoilt for choice - shopping malls such as Tesco Lotus and Big C stock all the daily necessities and more, specialist outlets like Tops Supermarket and Villa in Lamai offer indulgent imported goods, while 7Elevens, Family Mart outlets and local shops make impulse buying a an easy option, even at 4 in the morning. A selection of fresh food markets also cater to an ever growing Thai community with everything from rice by the kilo to fresh Tiger Prawns sold by the kilo at what are very reasonable prices when compared to the deli counters of most western supermarkets. For those who prefer to dine out, developed a deserved reputation a paradise with an enviable choice of their menus often created by chef’s of repute and wine lists that rival those in

Samui has s gourmet restaurants, international some of the

samui phangan real estate

109

world’s top city bistros. Excellent Thai food is also readily enjoyed, either roadside at one of the island’s many affordable local eateries or in more opulent surroundings accompanied by five star service and stylised, cultural designs and entertainment. The Samui party scene has also developed in leaps and bounds in the last few years, sophisticated Beach Clubs like Beach republic and Nikki Beach

serve top class food and beverage choices in chic poolside surroundings. They also host regular parties with international DJs and performers. Western style pubs and nightclubs line the popular tourist strips, with sports bars like The Islander and Bondi in Chaweng showing live international sporting events. Those in search of a more healthy, green lifestyle on Samui can easily avoid the tourist bustle. The quiet beaches on the island’s south coast still feel relatively untouched by development and many small residential communities have emerged in places like Baan taling Ngam and Lip Noi, where the pace of life is slow and the tropical landscape still untroubled by crowds and commerce. Spas and wellness centres offer a wide range of treatments and therapies to rejuvenate tired souls, while yoga, meditation and other more spiritually inspired activities can be studied and practiced at various centres around the island. Families are increasingly well catered for on Samui and the island now boasts its very own International School (ISS), as well as several other learning institutions catering to to both Thai and expatriate students. The island’s clubs and organisations often organise family friendly gatherings, regular Walking Streets offer festival style outings and there are also several restaurants that cater for children’s parties. With so much on offer to residents, Samui has now become as much a place to live as it is a place to visit. It is now a multi-faceted residential island with an enviable range of services and facilities to choose from, all of which combine to offer permanent and long stay‘Samuians' one of the most appealing and diverse tropical lifestyle experiences on the planet.

110

samui phangan real estate

life on the isles

112

koh phangan map

samui phangan real estate

LIVING IN KOH PHANGAN

Stunning beaches, an affordable lifestyle and an appealing island environment have drawn a growing number of visitors and residents to Koh Phangan’s tropical shores. Many of the island’s visitors choose to stay longer than they originally planned and this has led to the establishment of a sizeable foreign community of long stay tourists, working residents, business owners and retirees. The number of foreign investors choosing Koh Phangan as their second home is increasing every year, with easy transport access, a fast developing infrastructure and a range of lifestyle and hospitality services all adding to the island’s growing appeal. Koh Phangan is a rare island escape just a short boat ride from Koh Samui’s more developed and commercial environment. This means residents and visitors can enjoy the unspoiled beauty of some of Thailand’s finest beaches while still having access to the comforts and benefits of a modern lifestyle. The recent growth in the number of luxury hotels and private villas on the island has prompted the emergence of more upmarket retail, dining and

entertainment choices, with cool nightspots and restaurants opening in the more popular beaches like Haad Rin and Thong Nai Pan. As Koh Phangan evolves from a backpacker haven in to a full service destination, the island is attracting those with the spending power to combine natural escape with a sophisticated island lifestyle. The Thai government and its tourism authority has long been promoting Koh Phangan as an ecodestination in order to transform the island’s reputation from party venue to tropical escape, promoting Koh Phangan’s natural beauty and untainted environment to the world. Eco-adventures and marine based activities are widely available to visitors and residents with mountain biking, diving, wake boarding and jungle treks all on offer to encourage a more sensitive approach to island life that also minimises the impact on the island’s ecosystem. On a practical level, the opening of a modest Tesco Lotus Supermarket, combined with a significant increase in the number of foreign run businesses has

samui phangan real estate

113

had a real impact in terms on the ease of living on Koh Phangan. Designer boutiques, international cuisine, real estate agents and developers are all gradually changing the island landscape, yet the laid back lifestyle has thus far survived and the local people are known for their commitment to preserving their traditional culture. Whether selling the daily catch

from their boats, chatting with friends in the shade of the village â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;salaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; or celebrating weddings with dances and local music, local people remain distinctively Thai in many ways. As for the foreign residents, the ease of life, natural beauty and diversity of lifestyle choices make Koh Phangan a unique destination as either a permanent or second home.

REAL ESTATE OF KOH PHANGAN Koh Phanganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s real estate sector has grown as the island has developed and become more popular with visitors from around the world. Investment opportunities abound, whether it is raw beach and mountain land, off plan residential purchases or completed luxury villas for sale. Prices are considerably lower than they are on Koh Samui, which often attracts adventurous investors looking for an affordable slice of paradise. Restrictive ownership laws in Thailand, however, mean buyers are advised to go through reputable law firms when considering any purchases on Koh Phangan. As is the case on Koh Samui or Phuket, it is important for anyone considering an investment to thoroughly research the laws and regulations, as well as to ensure that any land titles are thoroughly checked and that the most secure method of purchase is found to guarantee a trouble free, long-term investment. It is advisable to research construction firms employed to guarantee that their reputation is solid and that any previous projects have been successfully completed.

114

samui phangan real estate

the legal arena

land title deeds

LAND TITLE DEEDS IN THAILAND There are two main types of land ownership in Thailand which we should explain

RIGHTS OF POSSESSION Firstly there is the right of possession, for example, land that has been used by a family for generations to the benefit of the land and they have possession rights of the land under the civil and commercial code. Such titles are Sor Kor 1,Tor Bor 5 , 6 or Sor Por Gor 4. These titles basically are only family possession rights and generally only used for farming. These titles can not be bought or sold and no building rights or legal acts would be allowed on the land. I do know of cases where families being in possession of certain pieces of land for generations have been able to upgrade them to regular land title deeds but this is not generally the case and any serious investor would not normally give any credibility to these titles of possession.

RIGHTS OF OWNERSHIP Usually we are looking for land title deeds giving right of ownership not possession. Here there are basically three title deeds:- Chanote, Nor Sor 3 and Nor Sor 3 Gor. The most sought after titles are the Chanote and the Nor Sor 3 Gor as both these titles have legal documents of Rights of Ownership and can be sub-divided into smaller plots and planning permission and any such legal acts can be carried out immediately on the land. The only difference with the Nor Sor 3 is that although legal documents are issued for the land it has not been accurately surveyed which can lead to problems in verifying actual land area. And if any legal act is to take place on this land it must be published for at least 30 days. As we have been saying all the way through if it is not clear 100%, seek the advice of a legal professional in this field, as there are also many other issues that are important to consider such as servitude, access and rights of way.

LAND MEASUREMENT & SURVEY Land in Thailand is measured in Rai, Ngan and Talang Wah. • 1 Wah= 4 sqm • 1 Ngan= 100 Wah or 400 sqm • 4 Ngan= 1 Rai or 1600 sqm In comparison to Western Standards: • 2.50 Rai= 1 Acre • 6.25 Rai= 1 Hectare

116

samui phangan real estate

the legal arena

TIPS FOR STARTING A NEW BUSINESS Are you planning to start your own business for the first time in Thailand? If so, we hope this useful information will help put your business on the right track. The simplest and easiest sort of company for foreigners to form with a small business is a Thai Limited Company. In Thailand, a Limited Company is a company with up to 100 shareholders, who share the same business purpose and is formed with a Capital divided into equal shares.

GETTING STARTED To set up a company, you must first have the memorandum that can be acquired at the registration office. To properly register, you are required to provide the authorities with details of your company and list a minimum of three shareholders (who can either be Thai or foreign nationals or both). At least seven days after you first approach the department, you can call a shareholder’s meeting to reach an agreement on the purpose of your business and set up the company’s operational rules. Having agreed on the purpose of your business, you can then apply for business registration at the same department. If you cannot agree on company rules, you can refer to those stated in the Civil and Commercial Code’s partnership and companies section.

SHARES Besides the issues of business registration, you must also make sure that your company’s shares are worth no less than 5 baht each. These shares can be transferred or even sold if the company has no regulations on this matter. Every shareholder must be given a share certificate, a document that guarantees their status as a shareholder. Should anyone wish to transfer their shares to another party; they have to fill in the share transfer form that confirms the deal between the transferor and transferee. The company also has to have in its possession a register of shareholders that contains a record of all the company’s shareholders. The book is evidence that will identify the company’s shareholders.

SHAREHOLDERS AND CHAIRPERSON A Limited Company’s shareholders can be either Thai or foreign nationals or both, but the percentage of shares held by foreign national plays a significant role in determining the nationality of your company, which may impose serious limitations on the company’s rights, such as landownership.

118

samui phangan real estate

If less than 49% of your company’s shares are held by foreigners, your company is considered a Thai company. However, if foreign nationals hold more than 49% of the shares, your company is a foreign company. The significant differences between Thai and foreign companies operating in Thailand lie in their rights to buy and own properties or other businesses. It is therefore important, especially for those in real estate and development businesses, to know and remember that unless your company is Thai, you are restricted in the ability to possess and obtain land and property in this country without an exemption granted by the government. Foreign companies are also restricted to certain activities and to proceed with certain operations the company will have to apply for permission from the government. In such instances, applications will be considered case by case. They will also face tough scrutiny and strict restrictions on their right to operate and ability to run their business. These companies will be treated in the same way as foreign nationals seeking jobs in Thailand. If you are registered as a Thai company, you are automatically granted the right to purchase and own properties and other business and will be treated the same way as a Thai citizen. However, according to new legislation that has recently come into effect, the Land Department’s staff are now required to thoroughly investigate your Thai shareholders’ sources of income. Thai shareholders in a company wishing to purchase properties in Thailand have to declare their income and provide the authorities with evidence that proves their ability to coinvest with other foreign shareholders in the same company. Only those successful in convincing the authorities are granted the right to purchase and possess land. Companies with approval from the Land Department can then proceed with their applications for land title deeds or other certificates of use and possession.

LITTLE THINGS THAT MATTER A company limited has to have its own board of directors to act on behalf of the company. This panel will, however, act under the regulations and agreements approved by the shareholders. Appointing directors or removing any of them requires shareholders approval. At the end of the company’s financial year, within five months, it shall be the duty of the company to present the balance sheet to the Department of Business Development (DBD). If your company fails to present the balance sheet, the company will be fined up to 50,000 baht and the company’s board of directors may also be fined up to 50,000 baht. If the committee refuses to pay the fine, the police can appeal to the court for a warrant and file a lawsuit against the resilient parties. Withdrawal of the company’s business registration is also another penalty the company may face, should they not provide the authorities with the necessary statement.

Information courtesy of Khun Surin Puangpakdee Senior Lawyer NSP&Laws Firm +66 077 458 204

samui phangan real estate

119

the legal arena

120

samui phangan real estate

Translation courtesy of Jade Fang Jman Marina +66 08 1893 8366

samui phangan real estate

121

the legal arena

124

samui phangan real estate

Translation courtesy of Marion Siepe +66 08 0041 5004

samui phangan real estate

125

the legal arena

126

samui phangan real estate

Translation courtesy of Thai Property +66 08 6948 4443

samui phangan real estate

127

AngthongVillas Sunset Sea and

Mountain Views Lipa Noi

Lots for Sale

1.4 Million Baht per Rai Lots From 497,000 Baht

“Земельные участки на продажу: - от 1,4 млн. бат за 1 “рай” (1600 кв. м), Земельные участки, площадью менее 1 “рая” - от 497 000 бат” B Lots: 1.6 Million Baht Per Rai C Lots: 1.4 Million Baht Per Rai B3

1068 Sqm

568 Sqm

604 Sqm

1220 Sqm

Sold

692 Sqm

628 Sqm

C Lots: 875 Baht Per Sqm

1276 Sqm

1600 Sqm

1536 Sqm

800 Sqm

756 Sqm

B Lots: 1,000 Baht Per Sqm

• Ready to build all Chanote Title • Approved Plans in place (2-5 Bedrooms) • Electric and water to lots • Additonal Lots Available for investment

INVESTORS WELCOME ! Angthong Villas Tel: +66 (0)8 9972 1539 E-mail: karamat2011@hotmail.com www.samuivilla.asia Sea Scale Tel: +66 (0)8 1499 9353

the legal arena

132

samui phangan real estate

Translation courtesy of Laurent Samui Phangan Properties +66 08 9587 2850

samui phangan real estate

133

ARCHITECTURE

V A I L DE V E R SIG I A H

ThaiRevivalDesign.com

American/Thai architectural firm offers new Thai style home designs with beautiful Thai rooflines, modern floor plans, maintainence free materials and affordable construction cost. International contact in US:

Ralf Amsden Tel: 001-603-964-5180

Thailand contact:

Somporn Khovitoonkij Mobile: 089-612-0648

the legal arena

building regulations

BUILDING REGULATIONS ON KOH SAMUI In order to build on Koh Samui you must first obtain a building permit from the municipality office and your building must meet certain requirements, depending on the location of the land on which you wish to build.

There are 4 defined areas for land depending on its distance from the beach. (See diagram on opposite page) STAGE 1. Land up to 10 Meters from the beach. The law states that no construction is permitted within this area. STAGE 2. Land up to 50 Meters from the beach. Within this area you are permitted to construct a single storey building only Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s height cannot exceed 6 Meters (including the roof) and the building cannot exceed the maximum allowed area of 75 Square Meters. STAGE 3. Land up to 200 Meters from the beach. Within this area you are permitted to build up to a maximum height of 12 Meters (including the roof). The maximum allowed size is 2000 Square Meters. STAGE 4. Land located more than 200 Meters from the beach. Within this area, building of up to 12 Meters in height (including the roof) can be constructed.

In addition, all buildings must now be constructed with peaked roofs, flat roofs are no longer permitted.

Information courtesy of Manit Tajew (Senior Lawyer Miklaw Associates)

136

samui phangan real estate

137

ISLAND CONTACTS PROPERTY DEVELOPERS/ ESTATE AGENTS ADVANCE INTER DEVELOPMENTS .....................077 231 625

ADVANTAGE PROPERTY.....................................081 892 6372

ANGTHONG APARTMENTS....................................077 430 326 ANGTHONG VILLAS.............................................089 972 1539

AQUALINA SAMUI.................................................084 322 4680

ARTRIUM SUITES.................................................087 607 6078

BAAN FAA SAI BY ANGTHONG HILLS...................086 256 555 BAAN RAK TALAY .................................................. 077 430 326

BAANSUAY LAND & HOUSE..................................077 426 967 BAMBUH................................................................086 061 4280 BANG MA-KARM LAND.........................................085 198 8918

OCEAN 11 BEACH FRONT RESIDENCE.............089 813 5715

BANGPOR VILLA...................................................081 341 4755

OCEAN 13 THE RESIDENCES.............................085 885 3434

BASE DEVELOPMENTS.........................................077 961 762

PALM CREEK RESIDENCE...................................081 374 0014

CD&P......................................................................081 924 9574

PLAI LAEM VILLAS................................................085 782 4910

BAN SWEET COCONUT.......................................089 500 9800

OVERSEAS PROPERTY PORTFOLIO ................080 535 1725

BEACH REPUBLIC................................................ 089 011 9538.

PALM GROUP ASIA...............................................085 795 9393

CHAWENG SILA......................................................077 430 779

PEARL PROPERTY...............................................081 370 2480

CHEONGMON GARDENS ....................................086 043 5438 COUNTRYSIDE PROPERTY ................................089 866 2062

DHEVATARA PROPERTY........................................077 430 326

DREAMCOAST DEVELOPMENTS........................081 082 9355

ECO REAL ESTATE ASIA........................................077 961 991

EMERALD RESIDENCE........................................081 903 8003

PHATHONG RESIDENCE.....................................089 813 5715 PLATINUM ASIA PROPERTIES.............................086 271 3800

PLUMERIA PLACE..................................................077 430 043 PROPERTYBROKERSTHAI.COM

REPLAY SAMUI ..................................................... 077 448 201

ROYAL SAMUI HEIGHTS........................................077 414 222

EXCLUSIVE VILLA ................................................084 708 1501

SAMRAN GARDENS.............................................089 474 1837

HALCYON SAMUI PROPERTIES..........................089 971 7194

SAMUI QUICK SALE ............................................081 082 4030

FUNCTION HOMES.................................................077 430 540 HILLSIDE VILLAGE...............................................081 903 8003

HORIZON HOMES...................................................077 417 005

SAMUI PHANGNAN PROPERTIES.......................081 979 0679 SAMUI SANCTUARY.............................................084 689 7081

SAMUI ESCAPES PROPERTY MANAGEMENT..... 077 245 136

INFINITY SAMUI....................................................089 666 0610

SAMUI VILLAS & HOMES.......................................077 427 648

KOH SAMUI LAND & HOME..................................089 474 1837

SAMUI BEACH VILLAGE.........................................077 430 326

IPM SAMUI.............................................................081 894 4093 KARMA SAMUI........................................................077 413 901 KOH PHANGAN HOLIDAY HOMES......................087 898 3918

KOH SAMUI PROPERTY.........................................077 230 606

KALARA INTERNATIONAL PROPERTIES..............077 246 100 KIRIKAYAN...............................................................077 247 867 LAAN DARA SAMUI.................................................077 414 204 LAEM NOI LAND....................................................081 903 8003 LOTUS TERRACES...............................................089 972 3043

SAGE LAND & HOUSE..........................................089 016 9750 SAMUI DIAMOND PROPERTIES..........................087 895 4132

SAMUJANA............................................................089 894 9088 SEA VIEW LAND FOR SALE ...............................081 651 1444. SHAMBALA SUNSET BEACH VILLA.....................089 972 1539 SIAM IMMO COMPANY.........................................081 850 6475

SINTHORANEE PROPERTY...................................077 414 222 TALING NGAM TROPICAL VILLA..........................089 651 0302 THAI PROPERTY.....................................................086 948 443

MANDALAY GARDEN............................................080 523 4488

THAILAND RETREATS............................................077 427 774

MINI GOLF.............................................................081 787 9148

THE MANDALAY VILLAS.......................................085 797 0477

MANGROVE VILLA ...............................................081 374 0014 NARAI KIRI............................................................081 537 3088

NARESH..................................................................077 426 944

138

samui phangan real estate

THE EMERALD THONGSON................................081 893 5996 THE PHUFAR RESIDENCE ..................................081 535 9100 THE ROYAL MOUNTAIN........................................081 956 1636

THE SEA KOH SAMUI.............................................077 961 982 THONG NAI PAN ESTATE.....................................083 391 8159

TIC............................................................................077 247 710 TONGTIP MANSIONS...........................................081 476 2646

TROPICAL HOME.................................................082 179 3933 VILLA SOPHIA & VILLA COCONUT......................087 823 7371 X2 RESIDENCES...................................................082 495 2525

LEGAL SERVICES LIMCHAROEN HUGHES & GLANVILLE.................077 246 185 BIG BUSINESS........................................................077 413 764 BLUMENTHAL RICHTER & SUMET.......................077 231 732

CHARNDELL DISPUTE MANAGEMENT................02 514 9170 IPM SAMUI.............................................................081 894 4093

DFDL........................................................................077 246 081

CREATIVE SYSTEM PROJECTS ........................ 080 698 6811

GARDEN & LANDSCAPE BOTANICAL DESIGNS LANDSCAPING...............084 315 9742 HELICONIA LANDSCAPE GARDEN.....................081 090 5489

KITCHEN HARDWARE FRANKE KITCHENS................................................02 236 9777 H.A.FELE.................................................................077 423 073

IKON KITCHEN......................................................089 972 2789 I.P.M. SAMUI..........................................................081 894 4093

KITCHEN STUDIO...................................................077 423 073 RS VENTURE.......................................................02 662 3571-3

MANIT ASSOCIATES...............................................077 458 135

SWIMMING POOLS

NAI ANDREW PARK..............................................081 830 4462

CP POOL..................................................................077 234 410

NAT ACCOUNTING..................................................077 246 249 NSP & LAWS FIRM..................................................077 458 204

SUKHOTHAI INTER LAW........................................077 430 642 VITTAYA BUSINESS LAW OFFICE ........................077 484 470

WONDERFUL SERVICES.....................................081 086 5141

DES JOYAUX...........................................................077 247 588 JD POOLS................................................................077 427 356 PURA POOLS..........................................................077 960 565 TSP POOLS.............................................................077 234 034

LIGHTING SYSTEMS

DESIGN SERVICES

CREATIVE SYSTEM PROJECTS ........................ 080 698 6811

3D ARCHITECT ...................................................... 077 238 962

FIBER OPTICS.........................................................077 448 077

JMAN LTEK LED-LIGHTING................................. 081 893 5996 AV INSTALLATION SYSTEM.................................089 971 5775

HOME & DECOR BEAUTIFUL WORLD.............................................081 956 0337

ARCHITECTUAL VISUALISATIONS........................077 247 862 BOTANICAL DESIGNS LANDSCAPING...............084 315 9742 OPEN DESIGNER.................................................089 890 4960 SAMUI GRAPEVINE..............................................080 620 9964

SIL ARCHITECTS..................................................083 690 9700 THAI REVIVAL DESIGN.........................................089 612 0684

CERA........................................................................077 247 805

PHOTOGRAPHY

GOLDEN DRAGON..................................................083 646 555

CHRONOS DYNAMICS.........................................081 894 4513

ETERNAL FLAME..................................................089 772 1589

NUTTARAT DECORATE .........................................077 920 266 ORIENTAL LIVING...................................................077 247 675 SALAK THAI.............................................................077 234 368

SEASIDE DÉCOR.................................................. 083 390 3711 SURAT BAANSAUY...............................................081 691 1719

SECURITY SYSTEMS B-SMART SYSTEMS...............................................077 248 362 CREATIVE SYSTEM PROJECTS ........................ 080 698 6811 KUNINI.....................................................................077 230 839

AUDIO VISUAL INTERIOR DESIGN AV INSTALLATION SYSTEM.................................089 971 5775

AVIVA........................................................................02 685 3676

CLAUDIO / FANTASYATWORK.COM ...................087 270 4972 HELICAM AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY.....................089 874 7464

ORIENTAL LIVING...................................................077 247 675

ENGINEERING SERVICES EASTERN TECHNICAL ENGINEERING.................077 295 316

HOME SERVICES AUTOMATIC GATE................................................081 892 1066

CERIS LAFARGE ROOFING...................................02 586 5600 ECO PEST CONTROL...........................................085 791 2496 EUROPEAN RAIN GUTTERING..............................077 423 073

EZ DOCK (THAILAND)............................................077 426 955 FAR THAWEE PORN............................................077 245 570-1 samui phangan real estate

139

HOME SERVICES

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

INFINITY HOME MANAGEMENT............................077 426 608

DMA........................................................................085 790 1520

JOHNSON HEALTH TECH......................................076 304 040

RS BUILT ..............................................................086 271 0156

NITE STONE............................................................077 247 769

SIL ARCHITECTS..................................................083 690 9700

SAMUI MASTER WATER.........................................077 427 726 SEARA SPORTS......................................................076 355 040 SUNFLEX ASIA........................................................077 414 412 THE STONE DOCTOR..........................................087 282 4930 TRUE VISIONS........................................................077 231 490 UNIVERSE LOGISTICS.........................................086 344 4989

FINANCE SERVICE

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES BLUE BUILDING...................................................... 077 430 411 EXIM STUDIO..........................................................02 934 7921 PALM CONSTRUCTION..........................................077 961 991 P&W CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT.................077 238 182. RS BUILT ..............................................................086 271 0156 SAMUI VILLAS & HOMES.......................................077 430 326

GFS AUSTRALASIA...............................................085 795 9393

SEA B.C...................................................................077 960 584 TROPICAL BUILDERS.............................................077 602 262

INSURANCE SERVICES

MAINTENANCE SERVICE

CT TRADING INSURANCE.....................................038 420 618 ENSURE ASIA..........................................................077 417 015

MANAGING SAMUI..................................................077 430 010 SQUEAKY CLEAN WINDOWS..............................087 013 7650

OTHER BANGKOK AIR WAYS ..........................................077 422 512-9 BLUECHIP INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY..........089 651 0020 FIREWORKS SAMUI.............................................087 263 4371 SAMUI RESCUE..............................077 421 444/087 263 4371 TESCO LOTUS........................................................077 245 400 TS-TEAK................................................................081 893 4933

LEISURE SAMUI 100 DEGREE EAST DIVE CENTER........................077 245 396 BAAN TALING NGAM RESORT & SPA...................077 429 100 BBC CAFÉ ..............................................................077 425 089 CHANTARA JUNK BOAT.......................................087 064 3126 INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF SAMUI...................077 484 548 HARLEY DAVIDSON BANGKOK.............................02 934 4855 MAGNOLIA SPA.......................................................077 601 133 MAX’S MURPHY......................................................077 413 614 MINI GOLF.............................................................081 787 9148 OCEAN 11 BEACH FRONT RESTAURANT............077 245 134 OCEANS ELITE CHARTERS...................................077 427 244 RAJDHEVEE CLINIC...............................................077 430 702 PAUL ROPP SAMUI .............................................086 270 3060 WECI & COMPUTER INSTITUTE............................077 233 101

140

samui phangan real estate

The Chantara Junk Boat is one of the most breathtaking ways to enjoy Koh Samui and her surrounding islands. With group trips three time a week to Koh Phangan and private tours available, what better way to experience the stunning blue waters of the Thailand gulf. Visit www.junk-boat-cruise.com

For more information or phone 087 064 3126/077 426 741Â Â to book now. Group trips three time a week : Tuesday, Friday(9am-5pm), Sunday(11am-Sunset).