A majority of Siem Reap’s roads are paved, making it easier for residents to move around. Photo from Khmer Times.Siem Reap is an amazing area of Cambodia filled with history. It’s no surprise that many expats chose to move here when they arrived in the Kingdom. Temples, nature, culture and arts are just a few of the factors that make Temple Town so great.This Expat Rental Guide will help you figure out how to find the best expat rentals in Siem Reap. This guide will also answer the following questions you need to know before signing that rental agreement:How much does it cost to rent in Siem Reap?What’s the best property for an expat to rent in Siem Reap?What should I keep in mind before renting in Siem Reap?Realestate.com.kh is Cambodia’s largest real estate classifieds portal. It is home to over 30,000 (and growing) property listings and works with the most reliable real estate developers and agencies across the Kingdom.For this guide Realestate.com.kh is collaborating with Daka Kun Realty, a popular real estate agency in Siem Reap staffed by local real estate experts, to help expats find the right property for their needs!How much does it cost to rent in Siem Reap?There are plenty of quality houses/villas for rent in Siem Reap without breaking the bank, like this one from Daka Kun Realty.For a ballpark estimate, renting in Siem Reap can cost anywhere from US $350 - $2,000 including utilities, this figure is dependent on several factors like type of property, size, facilities and location. Check out our breakdown of the different costs in the guide below.Monthly Rent in Siem ReapRenting a residential property in Siem Reap can cost anywhere from $250 to upwards of $1,800 per month depending on type of property, amenities available and location. A 1-bedroom apartment could cost $300 USD a month or even $600 USD a month if you’re feeling fancy, while a 2-bedroom can cost as low as $500. Siem Reap has a lot of rental properties to the point that your mileage may vary.Houses and villas (houses with yards) are also available for rent in Siem Reap. According to Daka Kun Realty, which has a whole portfolio of landed properties for rent, landed houses usually start rentals at $300 per month.Check available rentals in Siem Reap todayRental Deposit in Siem ReapRental Deposits in Siem Reap (and Cambodia in general) can be the equivalent of 1-2 month’s rent. According to Daka Kun Realty, this depends on the length of stay agreed on: a 6-month lease commonly asks for a 1-month rental equivalent and a 12-month lease could be up to 2 months. Although this may vary from landlord to landlord.The deposit is used to pay for any damages/lost items incurred during your stay on the property. Sometimes this is used to pay for your last month of renting the property. Though this depends on the rental agreement.Electricity cost in Siem ReapElectricity cost in Cambodia is around 800 - 1000 KHR per kWh (0.21 - 0.25 USD cents per kWh). Yes, it is considerably more expensive compared to neighbouring countries like Thailand and Vietnam. It is important to note that some landlords round this up to 0.25 USD per kWh.According to Daka Kun Realty, expat renters can expect the electricity costs in Siem Reap.Property typeCost in KHR per kWhCost in USD per kWhApartment1,0000.25House/Villa7800.19Water cost in Siem reapWater utility in Siem Reap is adjusted depending on monthly consumption. But generally, there are fixed rates employed by landlords to simplify calculations.Property typeCost in KHR per m3Cost in USD per m3Apartment2,5000.62House/Villa1,7000.42Rental TaxesThere is a withholding tax of 14% for rental properties in Cambodia. However, it is common practice for landlords to cover this.What is the best property to rent as an expat in Siem Reap?Siem Reap offers a lot of choices that cater to many different walks of life. Given its diverse population, much of its rentals have also grown to accommodate many different tastes. Find out which one is right for you (and your budget!)Apartments/CondosExpect around $250 per month as a starting price for new/renovated 1-bedroom apartments in Siem Reap. You can find a table below of what prices to expect when renting in the city.Cost of renting an apartment in Siem ReapNumber of bedsMedian rent per month1-bedroom$2502-bedroom$3503-bedroom$500NOTE: These are starting prices of recommended properties for expatriates, especially those looking for western-style apartments like in the image above. You can still find more affordable/premium accommodations by searching on Realestate.com.khAmenities to expect in apartments in Siem ReapRentals in Siem Reap have usual inclusions such as furnishings, appliances, and common fixtures. The only thing missing might be a WiFi connection. However, more landlords have started installing WiFi to make things easier for expatriates.Apartments for rent in Siem ReapHouse/VillaAccording to Daka Kun Realty, houses start at $300 while villas start at $500 per month. Houses/Villas available for rent often come complete with furnished interiors and some additions depending on how premium the property is.Houses/Villas are interchangeable when referring to rental properties. Villas, however, usually have large yards and spacious interiors.Cost of renting a house/villa in Siem ReapType of PropertyStarting rentHouse$300Villa$500NOTE: These are starting prices of recommended properties for expatriates, especially those looking for western-style homes/home interiors like in the image above. You can still find more affordable accommodations by searching on Realestate.com.kh.Amenities to expect in houses/villas in Siem ReapUsual inclusions are the furnishings, appliances and common fixtures. The only thing missing might be a WiFi connection. However, more landlords have started installing WiFi to make things easier for expatriates.Houses for rent in Siem ReapWhere are the best areas for expats to rent?Siem Reap’s central areas are the best areas for expats to rent. They’re close to supermarkets, restaurants, shops, and anywhere else you might need something from. Daka Kun Realty recommends the following areas:Sala KamreukSala Kamraeuk commune. East of the river and south of Highway 6, this area is fairly quiet, but still has a range of restaurants and shops.Svay DangkumSvay Dangkum is across the river from Sala Kamraeuk. Most of the backpacker hostels are here. And don’t forget the famous Pub Street!Sla KramSla Kram is north of Sala Kamraeuk. It’s closer to Angkor Wat park and has tons of local flavour.Things to consider before renting in Siem ReapWhen signing on the dotted line for rental properties, small very important details are oftentimes overlooked. But you should remember that your final lease agreement might not include many important elements that will ultimately make or break a rental agreement. You can check out our guide on a rental checklist worth going over before signing any lease!Things to consider when renting in CambodiaWhether you’re someone new to renting or it’s your first time coming to Siem Reap, we hope this guide has given you a few things to consider for your future rental in the temple town. Now, the real step begins: Find the right rental property in Siem Reap for you!Help me find an apartment/house for rent in Siem ReapArticle by:

So you’ve landed in the “Kingdom of Wonder.” Now you’re ready to find a place to live. Don’t be scared! This process might be difficult in other parts of the world. Here, however, finding expat rentals in Phnom Penh is simple.First, this guide will outline what choices you have. Do you want to live in an apartment? A villa? A shophouse maybe?We will take you through all of these things. Also, we will let you know how much it costs to rent in Phnom Penh. In the end, we will tell you the secret of getting the best deal on rent.But first, here’s a few key facts you need to know about accommodation in Phnom Penh:Keep transportation in mind. Will you be riding a motorbike? Taking Grab? Most people choose to live close to where they work because the city tends to get heavily congested during rush hourMeet the landlord. Since they will be your contact on everything to do with the house, make sure the landlord is friendly. Most even speak English.Pick your area. Different neighbourhoods of Phnom Penh are very different. Make sure your place is close to everything you need.Agents are great. Rather than searching on your own, it’s usually easiest to get an agent. They can usually find you the perfect place in a matter of hours. Luckily, we have a list of the best agents in Phnom Penh.Types of accommodation in PPCompared to other cities in the world, Phnom Penh places tend to be straightforward. In fact, they fall into a few basic categories. For the most part, places in the same category will be almost identical.ShophousesThese are shophouses for rent in Phnom Penh because people often use the ground floor as a place for their business. Not always, though. These places are often rented out on each floor (they are usually three to four storeys high).Expats looking for affordability usually live in a shophouse. You can usually rent them out with one or two other roommates. Or sometimes you can find groups that are already looking for another roommate to fill one of their rooms.Either way, these places usually have bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, full kitchens and at least one balcony. Shophouses in Phnom Penh are great places to live while on a budget.ApartmentWestern-style apartments for rent in Phnom Penh are becoming more and more popular in Phnom Penh these days. These are usually fully furnished. They can be found in a range of sizes.Different buildings will have different amenities. Smaller ones will just have parking and wifi. Bigger ones often have pools, gyms, security and weekly cleaning. We call these serviced apartments.If you’re an on-the-go kind of person this can often be the best option. Since everything is already there for you moving in is simple.For apartments, you can find anything from one to four bedrooms. VillasFreestanding houses are called villas for rent in Phnom Penh. They can vary in size, but usually, they have at least three or four bedrooms. Some are furnished, some aren’t. Most have dedicated parking and surrounded by fencing or walls, however.These can be a great option if you have a large group and you all want to live together. Villas in Phnom Penh are becoming rarer with every passing day. So, snatch them up while you can!Neighbourhoods of Phnom PenhChoosing where you want to live might be the most important decision you make. If you want to be in the centre of the city consider:expat rentals in Tonle Bassacexpat rentals in BKK1, expat rentals in BKK2 or expat rentals in BKK3expat rentals in Toul Tum Poung (aka Russian Market)expat rentals in Daun PenhOtherwise, if you want more of a quiet feel, try out:expat rentals in Toul Korkreal estate for rent in Wat Phnom, or evenexpat rentals in Chroy ChangvarWe have profiles of all these areas and more. So check those out if you need more details.PriceLastly, we have the million-dollar question: How much does it cost to rent a place in Phnom Penh?In short, you can find really affordable places and really expensive places. It all depends on what and where.On the low end, you can find rooms in shophouses for as little as $200 per month. This rate might be higher if you’re closer to the centre. Apartments will start at around $350 per month and go up from there. Look to pay around $500 for a well-furnished place in one of the central districts. Apartments with more than one bedroom can go for $700 to $2,000Villas usually start at around $1,000 per month. They can be as much as $5,000 per month in the centre of town. (Hint: If you opt for a villa it is wise to look in outer areas for the best deal)The official rate for electricity is 720 riel per kWh. However, many landlords will round this up to $0.25 for large buildings. The city's official water rate for residential spaces is between 550 and 1,270 riel per cubic metre. You should be paying between $20 to $60 per month for internet. If you pay for cleaning, you should look to spend from $30 to $100 a month, depending on the frequency.The secret to getting a dealSo, you know where you want to live. You know what kind of housing you want. What now?Well here’s the secret. Most landlords are open to negotiating rent rates. True, for newer places this might be harder. After taking a few tours, however, you will notice that there is no shortage of places to live.Because of this, you can often get them to knock down the monthly rent by $20 or so if you want to move in immediately. Heck, many agents will even negotiate on your behalf. To become a master negotiator, check out our five tips for negotiating.If you want to learn more about the business atmosphere in Cambodia, make sure to browse through our Investment Guide 2019. It covers everything an investor or renter should know.There you have it. Now get out there and find your new home in Phnom Penh.If you're already an expat living in Phnom Penh maybe you have thought about buying property. Browse through our listings for condos for sale in Phnom Penh. Get in on the action now!

Prior to 2020, imagining a future where no one went to work from an office, but rather, did all their work via the internet seemed like science fiction.Cambodia, and Phnom Penh in particular, saw a rise in the number of coworking spaces targeting digital nomads open up between 2016 and 2020, then the COVID-19 and pandemic totally changed the work dynamic globally and remote working and the gig economy seems more than likely a part of the modern workforce.The independence of being a freelancer, entrepreneur or digital nomad, or working remotely for full-time work has become more of a reality for more people.Cambodia was even ranked among the top ten nations for remote workers (digital nomads) to work from according to Club Med in 2021.There are also a wealth of options for finding office space in Cambodia. In 2020, Phnom Penh added 11 centrally owned office buildings - an additional 125,500 square metres (sqm) of office space- and a 34 per cent increase compared with 2019.Fast forward to the latter stages of COVID-19, by mid-2021 and the office building market is plentiful following the pandemic but CBRE said "previous economic downturns have been historically followed by leaps in technology, activity, and overall growth for economies, including real estate."As the population becomes more urbanised and more connected via tech, startup culture and opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are growing. However, these enterprises often have trouble securing capital. Coworking spaces can mitigate this problem.Coworking spaces usually offer up desk space, internet and other office amenities for a daily or monthly fee. They are a niche market but are also seeing integration into new mixed-use developments. These can be used as yet another outlet for developers and landlords wanting to hedge their bets in larger complexes.Here’s a guide to the best Cambodian coworking spaces.Coworking spaces in Phnom Penh:Phnom Penh is where most of the Cambodia coworking spaces are located. They all have a different vibe. We've given the most prominent spaces a short profile so you can decide which is the best suited for you.Impact Hub - The revolutionary coworking space Located in the heart of Phnom Penh’s BKK1, Impact Hub is a coworking space in Phnom Penh that aims to be more than just a place to work. They have tons of incubator programs and supportive programmes, workshops & events, mentorships, and resourceful networks.Impact Hub has a wide range of payment plans and its best to contact them for the latest rates to suit your needs.Weighing in on the startup culture in Cambodia, Impact Hub’s Director of Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Melanie Mossard, said the community of Khmer entrepreneurs there was mostly young graduates who were eager to bring innovation to the country.“The most pressing challenges for local entrepreneurs are getting access to capital, building communications skills for the business sector and developing human resources,” she noted, explaining that Impact Hub was adding even more programs such as mentorships, masterclasses, and an Innovation Space.They have partnered with several leading tech companies over recent years and also added a number of platforms to allow innovators to develop projects.Impact Hub17 Saint 306, Phnom Penh - 015 674 048Open 8am-8pm  WS1 by Factory Phnom Penh - The urban coworking space Just off National Highway 2 south of Phnom Penh, you’ll find the stylish Factory complex. The name says it all as this compound was set up in what used to be a factory. Graffiti pieces adorn the walls, and there’s a bike-share system. There is a whole community and tons of space offering a great vibe.Renting a coworking space at the WS1 Factory Workspace differs from a one-day pass or month access which has more features. Full offices can also be rented on a monthly agreement and they have more long-term options as well that span as much as 160 square metres.According to the Factory’s Corbett Hix, visitors to Workspace 1 include foreigners, local freelancers and startups. The rest of the campus, however, is occupied mostly by local businesses. “The truth is, despite the lack of a mature banking sector, there is a lot of private money floating around this country looking for an investment ...What we’re trying to do here at Factory, over the long term, is provide a place of inspiration, a place that will help cultivate original business ideas,” he said, adding that they wanted to provide training covering the less exciting parts of starting a business.The Factory is always evolving and there are on-site cafes, eateries, a craft beer brewery, art and performance spaces and a trampoline park.The Factory WS1 1159 NR2, Phnom Penh - 017 999 546 Emerald Hub - The startup coworking spaceWith Phnom Penh locations in both 7 Makara and BKK3, Emerald Hub’s coworking spaces seem to be tailored directly to the startup crowd. They boast a ton of community programming, mentor programs and partnerships with big names such as Smart and Sabay Digital.Day passes and monthly passes can also be purchased. You will get a feel for the local business scene if you spend enough time at Emerald Hub. Chea Mara, Emerald Hub’s general manager, said that 90% of the workers there are locals who are either long-time freelancers or part of established enterprises.“I think commitment and business operations are the biggest challenges for entrepreneurs in the country,” Mara said.(By mid-2021 it looked as if operations may have ceased).Emerald HubPPIU Building, 11th Floor, Phnom Penh - 093 316 781Open 8am-8:30pm  SmallWorld Realty - The original Cambodia coworking spaceTouting itself as Cambodia’s first homegrown workspace, SmallWorld is set up in the capital and was founded by local maverick Rithy Thul back in December of 2011. He is the brains behind several startups in Cambodia including Koompi, VitaminAir, and Selandra (Blockchain network focusing on empowering developers to build real-world Apps/Dapps)SmallWorld Realty was set up to look after the shared working space which is located at Raintree in 2021. They have co-working spaces, virtual offices, meeting rooms and within the building ar a rooftop area and cafe.SmallWorld Realty#2F-01, Raintree, #299 Preah Ang Duong - 017 669 881Open 7am-8pm  The Desk - The micro-office coworking spaceSelling itself as a space for micro-businesses in the ramp-up stage (but there are also freelancers, bloggers, etc). The Desk is a co-working space in Phnom Penh that aims to provide a community around their Tonle Bassac office.In addition to offering free mentorships, the organisation behind The Desk has ties to other coworking spaces in the region so they can facilitate travel between them for those on longer trips.A single desk here starts at $60 a month. Other plans are tailored to larger groups, such as the private offices that cost $350 per month and can accommodate six people. Norith Kim, a co-founder of The Desk, said that around 30% of the patrons there are foreigners, but the rest are mostly young local entrepreneurs. He added that there was no shortage of passion or enthusiasm in the country. However, he said the biggest challenge for newcomers is often establishing an airtight plan and assembling all the necessary skills.“Most of them are just inspired to run the business without a solid plan. They need to invest at least three to five years working for different companies so they can build their capacity before investing in [their own] business,” he urged.The Desk 206 Eo Preah Norodom Blvd (41), Phnom Penh - 097 217 7777Open 8am-8pm  Sahaka - The inspiring Cambodian coworking spaceFounded by four local ladies, this space on the south end of Phnom Penh with a tall ceiling and spacious design. Sahaka is pitched as a space that is both affordable and professional. If you’re keen on starting a business in Cambodia, this could be a place you want to try out. In addition to co-working facilities, they also offer consulting services on business registration and tax compliance in the country.There are serviced and private offices as well as open workspaces. Even if you aren’t looking for desk space, they host some great training seminars and lectures from regional experts.SahakaStreet 484, Phnom Penh - 088 208 1111Open 8:30am-8pm The Atom Vattanac- The classy business spaceThe Atom is one of the newest working spaces in Phnom Penh, entering the market late in 2020 and offers a premium co-working hub located on the sixth floor of the Vattanac Capital Lifestyle Cube. There is an in-house cafe and a selection of open working spaces and private offices, meeting spaces and premium lounge seating to work from. This will be an ideal business hub for professionals staying in the area.AtomVattanac Capital Lifestyle Cube, Level 6, Phnom Penh  - 023 963 039Open 8am-8pm  The Outpost - The boutique coworking spaceRelatively secluded on the Chroy Changvar peninsula is Outpost, a co-living and a 24-hour co-working space that offers up a well-tailored experience. They are on the top two floors of a green penthouse and boast balconies, a library and even meditation areas. David Abraham, is the co-founder of Outpost and added that they collaborate with the Yellow Tower, offering advice and thoughts on what makes a good community.The living space saw a mix of first-time travellers and established entrepreneurs. At the coworking space, however, it was a vast mix of locals and visitors.The Outpost was looking at moving location in mid-2021, posting online:  "Outpost Cambodia is currently moving. We will be reopening shortly in a new location. We can’t wait to welcome you to our new destination."Yellow Tower - The Urban Oasis was still promoting office space and co-working space by July 2021.The OutpostYellow Tower 191 Tonle Sap Street, Phnom Penh - 012 731 103Open 24 hours  Map of Phnom Penh coworking spaces:If you want to discover all of the different visa options to work in Cambodia legally, see our guide on visas in Cambodia.Siem Reap coworking spaces:Siem Reap has also seen coworking spaces pop up over recent years. However, the venues here can blur the line between business and hospitality and still compete with the numerous coffee shops in the Kingdom.The coworking spaces that offer accommodation have guesthouses and hotels to contend with as well.AngkorHUB - The digital nomad spaceSiem Reap’s AngkorHUB was one of the nation’s first coworking and living spaces with a social mission when it began operating. Since it has both workspace and accommodation on offer near one of the nation’s top tourist draws, it’s no surprise that it attracts those who work and travel simultaneously.Their space offers a range of features including SIM cards, airport pickup, food and even a cat named Tyler. They offer daily and monthly plans as well as accommodation plans that include access to the working space.Speaking on the evolution of coworking spaces in Cambodia, AngkorHUB founder Jeff Laflamme said that people are still accustomed to the idea of working for free in cafes. Businesses are evolving, however, and offering more help to new entrepreneurs.Even though a large chunk of AngkorHUB's customers are travellers, Laflamme added that promoting awareness about new working opportunities was a central mission of the place.“One of the biggest obstacles for Cambodians is that they are unaware of the opportunities of entrepreneurship. The current education system doesn’t seem to be addressing the current global workplace shifts,” Laflamme said.AngkorHUB896 Angkor Night Market St, Siem Reap - 088 706 8879Open 8am-6pm  BioLab - The coffee lover’s coworking spaceIf you love that coffeehouse vibe but want a dedicated place to work, Siem Reap’s BioLab may be the perfect middle ground. In addition to serving up java and snacks, this place offers a slew of productivity features. They have printing and scanning facilities as well as stationary available. The coffee served in glass beakers, is the focus here. It could be the best choice if you are a new entrepreneur and don’t yet want to commit to a more business-focused workspace. Buying food or drinks gets you access here, so it’s one of the cheapest options.BioLab’s manager Samnang Chou claimed that the majority of the patrons here are local freelancers. “Most of them depend on the flow of tourists. To overcome this they should focus on both local and tourist customers.”BioLab#0418 Wat Bo Rd Wat Bo, Siem Reap - 087 616 816Open 7am-9:30pm  Map of Siem Reap coworking spaces:Kampot coworking spaces:Kampot has always had a roaming and easy-come-easy-go expat population but more digital nomads and remote workers have opted for the laid back lifestyle in Kampot.This has seen more dedicated working spaces being added, but completion with the many excellent cafes in the riverside town is still fierce.Nomad Working Space - The mixed living digital nomad hangoutThis mixed hostel and guesthouse in Kampot also offer working spaces for short to mod term remote workers and digital nomads. There is a large roof space and a gym has also been added in 2021. Conference rooms and private offices are available to rent with access to A.V, projectors, whiteboards, flipcharts, desktop computers, super-fast fibre optic internet etcThere are 3 restaurants on-site and access to coffee and snacks.Nomad Working SpaceKampot - 088 441 3833Open 8am-8pmA niche marketCoworking spaces have had to ride out a turbulent time with the pandemic and some are still out of reach to some entrepreneurs and freelancers.Cafes are abundant throughout Cambodia and often preferred by some working remotely but for digital nomads, online teachers, startups and other tech-savvy professionals, a better-dedicated co-working space is better suited.Some of the requirements are the stability of printer access, consistent and fast wifi and air conditioning. Some remote workers also prefer to have green or open spaces when escaping their living environmentIf you want to elevate your business skills to the next level, download our free Investment Guide. It's got a full rundown of everything about enterprise in the Kingdom!

This year’s World Bank Ease of Doing Business report ranked the country 185 out of 190 when it comes to starting a business in Cambodia. However, many foreigners are still attracted to the Kingdom as a place to begin their journey as entrepreneurs. The report showed that it took an average of 99 days to complete all the legal procedures to register an enterprise. It should be noted, however, that there are a wealth of options other than starting from the ground up. Many people choose to join up with a business that is already established. Others will hire a local fixer to help smooth the process of starting up an operation.Michelle Brown, the founder of Kampot’s Bohemiaz Resort and Spa, notes that she had a close friend living in the country help with the initial process of starting a business in Cambodia. Her associate then came on as a manager and helped find staff when they opened in 2014.Indeed, if you decide you want to try starting a business in Cambodia in either the food and beverage or hospitality sector, you can often find places that are already for sale. Perhaps you want to start a bar, guesthouse or restaurant. Just search business for sale in Cambodia on our site to check out options.‘Unofficial fees’ for doing business in CambodiaUnfortunately, Cambodia still has a reputation for being a place where bribes are a part of the business environment. To be sure, however, things are getting better day by day. Since many processes are quite slow, business owners will sometimes pay unofficial fees to expedite them. Realestate.com.kh does not endorse any form of bribery and recommends full compliance through official channels only.Sole proprietorship in CambodiaDo you want to start a sole proprietorship or a partnership? What licenses will you need? Will you be hiring workers? These are all questions you should be answering before you start the registration process. BNG Legal has this handy guide on their website that you can use as a jumping off point when you begin the process of starting a business in Cambodia.In fact, it wouldn’t hurt to get legal advice from a lawyer in the country. Just a short meeting can often be indispensable for sending you in the right direction. Registering a company in CambodiaBefore starting the registration process you will need:a valid business visaa local bank account with at least $1,000 depositeda certificate of health and a criminal background check from your home countryNote that you should open a bank account with a bank where you can pay government fees such as Acleda, FTB or Canadia Bank.After you have these materials it’s time to start the government registration process. This process will take you through the Ministry of Commerce (MoC), the General Department of Taxation (GDT) and the Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training (MLVT). Luckily, much of the MoC process can be completed online. Refer to the government's guide to registering a Cambodia business for more details.Cambodia business license costWhen the MoC process is complete you will only have two weeks to register as a taxpayer with the GDT. There you can either register for six months or one year as a taxpayer. The fee is $500 or $650, respectively. All documentation from the GDT is usually completed in less than a month.The MLVT process can also be completed—at least in part—online. Note also, that businesses will have to register for the National Social Security Fund here, dependent on how many employees they have.Additionally, there are licences that will be needed. This depends on the sector in which your business operates. If you are starting a guesthouse or restaurant the Ministry of Tourism will be where you go. These licences usually need to be renewed annually.Paying salary tax, profit tax and value-added tax (VAT) is done by the 20th of each month.Securing funding for your Cambodian businessThere are many different ways of getting the capital you need to initiate starting a business in Cambodia. Perhaps you want to scout out investors. Or maybe you want to raise the money yourself or pool funds with a partner. Every industry will have different needs when it comes to initial investments.What kind of business could you start in Cambodia?Traditionally, most foreigners coming to the country start Cambodian businesses in the tourism industry. This means bars, restaurants, guesthouses or tour companies. Many from other areas of Asia also find success expanding their existing operations in manufacturing or production. Increasingly, there are companies springing up in the tech, real estate and financial sectors. This is because the country has reasonably good technical infrastructure and a quickly growing and urbanising population. Make sure to do your research before diving into the country.Finding a space for your Cambodian businessOne of the biggest attractions of starting a business in Cambodia is the affordable real estate here. What’s more, it can be easy to find a space for sale that is already set up for what you need. If you want to start a hotel just search the listings on our site. Looking for a place with everything you need can sometimes be difficult. We recommend consulting the expert assistance of a real estate agent. They can help you zero in on what you need. Of course, if your operation is small you can look at coworking spaces. These are becoming more and more popular in the country and can be an affordable way to get started quickly.Hiring staff for your business in CambodiaHiring staff members is a long and intimate process. However, if it is done right your business will reap the rewards. The Kingdom is disproportionately young, so take this into consideration. A job with the right salary and a possibility of advancement will, hopefully, generate lots of interest.Training can be absolutely pivotal for new employees. Don’t let the cultural divide get in the way, either. If your enterprise is big enough, definitely consider hiring a professional HR manager that can solve any staffing issues.Cambodian offices are usually open for 40 hours a week, but many also work Saturday mornings as well to hit 45 hours a week. The Kingdom has a whopping 28 days of public holiday a year. Many businesses are starting to move towards a less holiday-intensive schedule, but compromises often need to be made. Family is a very important aspect in Khmer culture. Some businesses also choose to add one workday every month to make up for the holidays.Benefits and health insurance are on the rise in Cambodia. However, salary is still one of the most important factors for new hires. There is no hard and fast rule for Cambodian wages. In general, you get what you pay for. Staff with higher skills and more job prospects will command a higher wage. The best way to settle on a fair salary is to do plenty of research. Find out what similar positions in the country are offering. Staff retention is one of the biggest problems you could encounter after starting a business in Cambodia. It’s vital to find the right workers, invest in them and build a strong workplace culture. You can use a staffing agency, job site such as BongThom.com or ask for recommendations from trusted friends. If you plan ahead and emphasise thorough training you and your staff will succeed.Commenting on the rewards and challenges of hiring local staff, Bohemiaz’s Michelle Brown said that seeing her employees grow has been one of the most exciting parts of her experience after starting a business in Cambodia.“It just took some time to adjust to learning how to communicate … the most rewarding thing about what I have created at Bohemiaz isn't the development of the resort but seeing the young girls I employed four years ago blossom into amazing young ladies with real career aspirations and desire to travel and learn,” she said.Buying a business in CambodiaAnother popular option is to buy a business that is already set up. This is especially good if you want to start a hospitality business. Usually, you can find turnkey operations that already have a staff in place, all the needed infrastructure and even a customer base.A few specialty agents operate in the selling of turnkey businesses. One of the major names is Asian Business Brokers. What's more, these agents can also help new owners navigate the laws and requirements to help them get off the ground. Many agents suggest doing your research and having a good plan in place. Watch the video above, Crispian Knowles from Asian Business Brokers says that people need to be fully prepared before they start a business in Cambodia.There are tons of events going on across the country where you can spread the word about your business. Expos and trade shows go on all the time for sectors ranging from real estate and construction to cosmetics and travel. Get your brand out there!Networking with other Cambodia business ownersFellow business owners can be some of the best resources for advice. There are already tons of organisations in the country where you can connect with entrepreneurs from your country. Check out the American Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia (AmCham), BritCham and EuroCham. Their sites have tons of resources and their events are a great place for networking.More informal networks can be found in groups on Facebook and other social media. Finding like-minded individuals will help while you are starting a business in Cambodia. You will eventually get to know other business owners in the area and it can be good to show support for each other. After all, everyone benefits from a growing economy, right?Business Etiquette: Doing business in CambodiaJust like in any other country there are difficult parts to starting a business in Cambodia. You can learn from the mistakes of others, however, and come out ahead. One of the biggest tips you hear from entrepreneurs is to surround yourself with people you trust. Whether it’s business partners, staff or landlords, only rely on people who you truly have faith in. Your business should be like your child. After all, you wouldn’t let just anyone off the street babysit for you, right?Make sure you plan ahead. Do your research. Talk to experts. Ask lots and lots of questions. There is no such thing as too much preparation. Calculate everything out and have a plan in case it all goes wrong. You will thank yourself later.Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, stay flexible. Remember, Cambodia is still a developing nation. There will be setbacks and there will be headaches. If you can roll with the punches you will be that much better off.Brown mentioned that one of the biggest challenges she has faced has been with bank and government contracts. She urged business owners to be totally sure of all the details before signing on the dotted line.“Initially it was also difficult to get a regular supply of imported products, however in the last couple of years the supply chain has vastly improved and the range of western products in Kampot is now amazing,” she added. Creating a successful Cambodia businessGrowing a successful business isn’t easy. It definitely is possible, however. If you work hard you will have something to show for it. Surely you will learn loads about yourself and about this wonderful country.Don’t forget that Realestate.com.kh can help you nearly every step of the way, either. Besides helping you find real estate, our news section can keep you up to date on the sector. Click over to our reports section to check out surveys and reports. Additionally, we have other guides like this one that can help educate you and improve your skills.If you liked this guide you'll love our Investment Guide 2019. Download it for free and learn everything you need to know to start a business! Article by:

Located on the southwest part of Cambodia, Sihanoukville, formerly Kampong Som, is one of the Kingdom’s most important urban centres. Additionally, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Kingdom. Here's Realestate.com.kh's visitor's guide to the coastal city.To learn about different areas of Cambodia check out all of our guides, and location profiles. If you want to stay up to date, click over to our news section.If you're wanting to relocate to Sihanoukville we also have hundreds of listings for real estate for rent in Sihanoukville, or even real estate for sale. Without futher ado, here's the guide:Sihanoukville was carved out of the jungle by the French in the 1950s. After a short period of growth, the coastal city became entangled in the Vietnam War and subsequent Civil War which precipitated a period of decline that only ended after the signing of the 1991 Paris Peace Accords.Today, Sihanoukville, which was named after the late King Norodom Sihanouk, is an economically vibrant city of nearly 160,000 people. Sihanoukville is once again an important centre for trade, commerce, and tourism. It has earned the moniker “Rising Star of the Southwest”.A city rebornSihanoukville’s current economic renaissance is mainly due to its strategic location and presence of important businesses and industries.Sihanoukville hosts the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port (PAS), Cambodia’s sole deepwater seaport. This is an important trade gateway to Asean and the world beyond. The Sihanoukville Special Economic Zone (SSEZ), the Kingdom’s largest and most important special economic zone, is located within the city.In the last few years, Sihanoukville has also emerged as one of the most sought-after travel destinations in Cambodia. Millions of visitors from all over the world visit every year. People from China, Korea, Japan, the US and Europe savour its pristine beaches, historic temples and coterie of casinos.More information about business in the Kingdom can be found in our annual investment guide.The New York Times ranked Sihanoukville 13 in its 2018 list of best places to visit around the world.Rain, rain, go awayMost tourist opt to visit Sihanoukville during the dry season, avoiding the local monsoon season. The high season begins in November and ends around March. At this time it is sunny but still relatively cool in the mornings and evenings. The afternoon heat will still have you craving a dip in the ocean, however.Planes, trains and minibusesThere are many buses, minibuses, and minivans that travel to and from Sihanoukville. Capitol Bus, Mekong Express, Giant Ibis, Mey Hong, and Larryta Express are among the companies plying the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville route daily. On average, foreigners pay around $10 for the trip, while Khmers are charged less.For between $45 and $60, you can hire a private taxi to bring you to Sihanoukville from the capital. These taxis can usually seat four people with luggage. There are also shared taxis you can get at the Central Market in Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville's old bus station. These are usually cars that charge $7 to $10 per seat.A bus, minibus, taxi, or minivan ride from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville and vice versa takes between 3.5 and six hours.  Trains on the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville line run three times a week (Friday, Saturday and Sunday). The train trip, which costs $7, usually takes seven hours. In Phnom Penh, the trip starts from the Cambodia Railways Station and makes stops in Takeo and Kampot.Coming by airThere are regular international flights to Sihanoukville from China, Vietnam, the Philippines and Malaysia. Local carriers Sky Angkor Air, JC International Airlines, Cambodia Angkor, and Bayon Airlines have regularly scheduled domestic flights to Sihanoukville from Siem Reap and vice versa. Meanwhile, the Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville air route is served by Bayon Airlines which flies to the port city three times a week. King of the beachesSihanoukville is famous for having some of the best beaches in Cambodia. They are known for their immaculate white sands and crystal clear waters. Below are some of the best and most popular beaches in and around Sihanoukville:Independence BeachDespite a large portion of it taken over by massive new property developments, Independence Beach is still one of the best beaches in Sihanoukville. There is a long stretch of white sand, said to be the best in the city, where you can relax and soak up the sun. The sparkling clear waters make for a great swimming, and an array of restaurants and bars make this an ideal place for dining and partying. Serendipity BeachOften described as the party beach, Serendipity is popular with Western visitors. It hosts an excellent array of restaurants, beach huts, and bars offering Western and local dishes and a wide variety of amazingly cheap drinks. Before the partying starts, this is a good place to relax and sit on all the beach chairs.Otres BeachConsidered one of the most beautiful beaches in the country, Otres was once ranked by Forbes among the top 22 beaches in Asia. Largely untouched, the beach offers a relaxed atmosphere. Along with its three-mile stretch are seafood restaurants and plenty of accommodation options, including guest houses, small resorts, and upmarket boutique hotels. Otres Beach has less development than neighbouring tracts. That may change soon, however, as it has been eyed as the location for huge hotel complexes. Stop by soon to experience it as it is.Ochheuteal BeachOchheuteal Beach is often considered the most popular oceanside spot in Sihanoukville. Expats from Phnom Penh and holidaymakers flock there on weekends and holidays. There is a wide range of accommodations just off the four-km stretch from hotels to budget bungalows. This is a popular spot to lounge in a grass hut shelter or get a beachside massage. Everywhere you go you’ll be within arm’s reach of drink stands and restaurants galore.The island lifeA few miles off the coast of Sihanoukville are a bevy of tropical islands. While not as well-known as Phu Quoc in Vietnam or Koh Tao in Thailand, these islands are increasingly becoming popular with locals and foreign visitors alike. They are popular for diving, snorkeling, fishing and swimming.Here are some of the best and most well-known islands off the Sihanoukville coast:Koh Rong Koh Rong is an island 25 km off the coast of Sihanoukville, in the Gulf of Thailand. With an area 78 square kilometres, it is the second largest island in Cambodia. Largely undeveloped, the island has earned the moniker of “unexploited paradise island”. Spread over 45 km of the island are 23 white sand beaches, making it a premier destination for beach lovers.The waters surrounding the island are excellent for snorkeling and scuba diving. Accommodations vary widely in the area. There are wooden bungalows, hotels and almost everything in between. There are also restaurants, bars, laundry shops, stores, ATMs, and pharmacies. To get to and from Koh Rong, there are five modern ferries and a few slower boats running the route daily. Speed Ferries Cambodia (SFC), Island Speed Boat Cambodia (ISC), Buva Sea, Angkor Speed Ferry (ASF), and GTVC Speedboat do the trip in around 45 minutes. They usually depart from Serendipity Pier and cost $25 round trip. The slower boats are around $5 to $10 but take twice as long.Koh Rong SanloemSimilar to Koh Rong, nearby Koh Rong Sanloem has developed rapidly in the last few years. While the interior is mostly covered by dense jungle, the coastline features an array of beautiful beaches. The crescent-shaped Saracen bay is the leading tourist attraction in Koh Rong Sanloem. Other notable tourist spots in the area include Lazy Beach, Sunset Beach, and the village of M'pai Bai. The island boasts of more than a dozen guesthouses, private beach bungalows and villa resorts.  Lovers of luxury can rent villas with full amenities, while shoestring travellers can easily find dorm beds.The ferries that go to Koh Rong stop at Koh Rong Sanloem first. So, tickets there are just $20 round trip.Koh TangThis largely uninhabited island is just three square kilometres and sits four to five hours off the mainland. Though it has limited tourist facilities there are plans to develop it. Several tour companies operating out of Sihanoukville run overnight trips to the island.Koh Pos (Snake Island)This island, less than a kilometre off Sihanoukville, is largely undeveloped. It hosts several species of snakes including king cobras and pythons. One of the sole buildings on the island is Treasure Island Seafood where you can get heaps of crab, fish, shrimp, lobster and squid. The island is connected by bridge to the mainland.And don’t forget about Sihanoukville’s other tourist sites:Wat Leu Many visitors to Sihanoukville make a pilgrimage to this Buddhist temple. Wat Leu, located in forested area atop Sihanoukville Mountain, is 1.5 kilometres from the centre of the city. Many people looking for peace and quiet have trekked up the mountain to visit the sacred spot. In addition, Wat Leu is also visited by many photography enthusiasts, who note that it is one of the best places to take pictures of Sihanoukville. To reach Wat Leu you can take a moto or tuk-tuk. A moto ride from the city centre costs around $2. A more scenic tuk-tuk ride costs a bit more, however.Ream National ParkThis vast area is a paradise of exotic flora and fauna. Located around 18 kilometres east of Sihanoukville, Ream was established on 210 hectares by the King in 1993. The park hosts pangolins, sun bears, dugongs, dolphins, deer, wild boars and birds. Tour agencies offer full-day tours that cost around $15 to $20 and include transportation, food and a guide.Food, glorious foodSihanoukville has excellent dining options. Both Khmer and international food are abundant. Indeed, restaurants run the gamut from budget eats to luxury dining. You’ll surely want to try the seafood at Treasure Island. Ernie’s Burger is purported to be amazing and Douceur du Cambodge offers up loads of French pastries.If you want to dine while also supporting a humanitarian cause, head to Sandan. Part of the Friends International Group, the restaurant serves local fare and trains underprivileged youth to be food industry stars.Want to take a culinary journey? Try falafel at Sok San Village, Mediterranean food at Olive to Olive, Kamasutra’s Indian food or the Western dishes of Globetrotter Cafe and Tavern.Living for the nightSihanoukville has one of the best nightlife scenes in all of Cambodia. Many beach bars host all-night parties. Dolphin Shack Club at Serendipity Beach leads the charge. Foreigners seem to congregate there nightly.Five Men Fresh Bar is modeled after German beer halls. They make all the beers on site. Other popular haunts include Maybe Later, Rocky Bar and Otres Corner Bar Sessions. Some of Sihanoukville’s main attractions are casinos. Currently, there are more than 30 with a whopping 70 more in the works. Holiday Palace Casino sits near Victory Beach while Fortuna is adjacent to Serendipity and New Macau by Ochheuteal.Lay your weary head to restAs a leading tourist destination, Sihanoukville has tons of places to stay for local and foreign visitors. The type of accommodations available in Sihanoukville can be divided into luxury, mid-range and budget categories.Keeping it classyThere is a coterie of luxury hotels and resorts in Sihanoukville. Most of these accommodations are located within the city, though a few are situated in some of the islands off the coast. These usually have amenities like swimming pools, gyms, saunas and jacuzzis.Among these are Song Saa Private Island, Sokha Beach Resort, Moha Mohori by Sokha Beach Resort, and Lakeside by Sokha Beach Resort. Staying at places in this category can set you back between $120 and $900 a night.The middle pathDominating the mid-range accommodations in Cambodia are boutique hotels, which first appeared on the scene two decades ago. Sihanoukville currently hosts more than 80 hotels, most of which are boutique hotels or similar accommodations.While prices and amenities vary, a typical boutique hotel in the Kingdom has a rooftop bar, a swimming pool, and a restaurant. Boutique hotels here are known for their luxurious rooms and facilities, a wide variety of fine dining options, excellent in-room service with a personalized touch, and way cheaper than similar accommodations in other countries.In Sihanoukville, hotels and other accommodations falling under this category include Ren Resort, Deluxx Boutique Hotel, Tamu Hotel, Naia Resort, Legacy Hotel & Resort, and Mary Beach Hotel & Resort.Staying at these accommodations will cost you approximately $60 to $120 per night.BudgetSihanoukville does not lack in budget accommodations. At present, the city hosts more than 300 guesthouses and similar accommodations.There are dorm-style shared rooms favoured by many backpackers and other budget travellers that can be rented for $10 or less a night.For a better and more comfortable stay, there are private rooms available in many guesthouses. Prices here range from $12 to $40 a night. You can choose the number of beds, air conditioning or fan and other amenities.There’s an app for thatThe rental app Airbnb is becoming more widespread in the country. Currently, there are nearly 200 listings on the mobile app that range from full house rentals to shared rooms. For most accommodations in the coastal town, you can book in advance or simply walk in. During high season or local holidays, it can be wise to secure lodging ahead of time.Shop ‘til you dropCompared to the capital, Sihanoukville shopping options are a bit limited. Though there are no international-grade shopping centres there similar to Aeon Mall, that could soon change. Construction of Furi Times Square Mall is currently underway. It is expected to be completed before the end of 2019. For now, the best shopping options are Samudera Market, Orange Market and Lucky Ocean Supermarket. Orange Market has a wide selection of imported goods, as does Samudera. Want to pick up some souvenirs? Stop by Unique, M’Lop Tapang, Sihanoukville Duty Free Shop, Rajana, Khmer Artisans or Element. If you want to truly shop like a local make sure to visit either Phsar Leu or Central Market.Hitch a rideThere is a wealth of transport opportunities in the city. The traditional remorques and converted trucks are still the most common. Stiff competition is coming in the form of auto rickshaws and motorcycle taxis, however. These moto taxis usually charge $1 to take you from the city centre to any of the beaches. If you have more people a remorque will cost around $2.Interestingly, the local ride hailing service PassAp is now being used in Sihanoukville. This is a local equivalent to Uber or Grab. Using the app you can map out where you want to go and choose anything from SUV to a moped. The fare is all calculated for you as well, so there’s no need to negotiate price.If you love the freedom of the road, renting your own motorbike is a great option. Traffic isn’t as hectic as the big city so adventurous visitors often do this. Stray Dog Adventures, Mr Yeat’s, Mottah Cambodia, DH Cambodia, Lim Henghoo and Wonderful Travel and Tours all have motos on offer. Guesthouses can usually arrange rentals for you and fees are between $4 and $7 per day.Safety is a prioritySihanoukville is generally quite safe. It has been in the spotlight recently for an uptick in fraud and theft cases. Some have attributed this to an influx of labourers due to the recent construction boom. Government officials have create special working groups to address this issue. The only thing visitors should be vigilant about, however, is keeping bags with money and travel documents secured. Emergency servicesHospital and medical service in Sihanoukville have markedly improved in the last few years. However, facilities in the province are still relatively limited. The Sihanoukville International Clinic has the best reputation and is a favourite among expats. It offers 24-hour medical care and has specialists in obstetrics, ophthalmology, dermatology, and gynecology. The CT Clinic has good equipment and a few English-speaking staff. Services offered include minor operations and doctor visitations. For more serious cases, it would be better to head to Phnom Penh where there are more international-standard hospitals and clinics. Like in other urban areas of Cambodia, there are many pharmacies around town. Chamroeum Chanlida Pharmacy, which is well-stocked and has a large selection of prescription and over-the-counter medicines, has the best reputation and is a favourite among expats.Like nowhere elseThere’s a reason that Preah Sihanouk province was originally named after the King. There’s definitely something magical about the enchanting landscape. Indeed, the lifestyle in Sihanoukville is one of leisure and calm. You really have to experience it to truly understand.Looking for real estate for rent in Sihanoukville  or real estate for sale in Sihanoukville?Need more guides? Check out other great resources such as Location Profiles and Investor Guides on Realestate.com.kh now!

Want to start living in the Kingdom of Wonder? It is one of the best places in Asia to live as an expat. Over 100,000 expats are currently residing here and life is good! To help you, Realestate.com.kh has put together another Cambodia expat guide.If you’re just planning a visit check out our visitor guide to Cambodia. This Cambodia expat guide, however, will show you what it’s like for new residents.Firstly, let’s see what some expats currently living here in Phnom Penh have to say:Avigal Orha, a Phnom Penh expat from Israel, works for a humanitarian NGO. She has lived in the Kingdom on and off for over four years. Currently, she resides with a roommate in a Western-style apartment near Russian Market.“People are always friendly and helpful and there is a nice community feeling to the [Toul Tum Poung] area,” she said.Alfred Amayo, a gin distiller and entrepreneur originally from London, said that he came to Cambodia just over a year ago. He only meant to stay for a month, but he fell in love with the country and the active lifestyle in the capital. “Cambodia is most exciting for its F&B [food and beverage] scene, which is still very young but has a lot of promise. The local bartenders are really excited to learn, and there are a plethora of new bars popping up every month — it feels like I’m discovering amazing venues every week,” he said.Amayo currently lives in a fifth-floor apartment with two roommates. He enjoys the proximity to his workplace and the affordable rent costs.Filipino native Carmela Torres, a real estate marketer by day, band vocalist by night, has resided in Phnom Penh for almost two years. “The best thing about living in Cambodia is the affordability and the freedom to start a business,” said Carmela. We asked Carmela if she had any advice for readers of the Cambodia expat guide. She said future expats should shop around to find the best housing deal.A Cambodia expat guide to historyCambodia’s history is rich and nuanced. It goes back at least five thousand years. For the sake of keeping our Cambodia expat guide simple, however, we will focus on three main periods: the Angkor Empire, French colonisation and the Khmer Rouge regime.Angkor EmpireFirst, let’s talk about the Angkor Empire. Today, Cambodia is a relatively small country. From around 800 AD to 1430 AD, however, the Kingdom covered most of Southeast Asia. Not only that, but it also produced the amazing temples such as Angkor Wat and Bayon near Siem Reap. Interestingly, the Angkor Empire began as a Hindu empire and only later became Buddhist. Because of this, most of the architecture at Angkor Park depicts Hindu imagery. The heritage of this era is a point of pride for most Cambodians. French colonisationStarting in 1867, Cambodia was a “protectorate” in the area known as French Indochina. Hence, it was in the same category as Laos and Vietnam. Cambodia is still deeply influenced by France’s legacy. Many colonial buildings still stand and you will see French names adorning hospitals, roads, and landmarks. The country recovered independence in 1953 and became a constitutional monarchy under Norodom Sihanouk. His son is the current reigning monarch.Khmer Rouge regimeMost people in the world already have some knowledge of Cambodia’s most infamous period. After deposing the American-backed Lon Nol government in 1975, the Khmer Rouge came to power. The group was ultra-Maoist and their leader, Pol Pot, pushed a vision on the country as an agrarian utopia. Arbitration executions, forced labour, and torture were all prevalent during this time. Ultimately, between 1.5 and 3 million people died, around 25% of the population. If you want to learn more about this dark period, check out the 1984 film The Killing Fields, the book First They Killed My Father and the film adaptation of the same name directed by Angelina Jolie.Expats welcomeOne lasting effect of the disastrous Khmer Rouge is that Cambodia’s population is disproportionately young. Around half the population is younger than 25. Education is still developing slowly, too. Because of this, many companies look to expats to fill certain positions.No Cambodia expat guide would be complete without saying this: It’s important to network if you want to find work fast.Finding work in the KingdomA large chunk of the expat population in Cambodia work in the education sector. Virtually all teach at private schools or language academies. Teaching hours and salary vary widely, but most schools look for native English speakers with some TEFL certification.There are a large number of non-profit organisation in the country that often hire expats as well. Additionally, many expats are employed in the tourism, technology or business sectors. Some are solicited to come to Cambodia, but many simply show up and then find work. This isn’t as crazy as it might sound, either. There are many great resources for finding jobs such as the website Bongthom.com and several job-based Facebook groups. Cambodia’s visa process is pretty hassle-free as well.Which visa do I get? Cambodia issues visas on arrival at border crossings or airports. There are two main types of visas that are relevant to expats. A type T, or tourist visa, is $30. It lasts for 30 days and can be renewed only once for an additional $45 dollars. This is just a single entry visa.The second type of visa that expats should know about is the E-visa (E class, not electronic visa). An E-visa is $35 and can be extended indefinitely if you prove employment. It can then be extended for varying increments of one month up to one year. A one-year extension currently costs around $300. Note: This Cambodia expat guide recommends getting an E-class visa if you plan to look for work here. If you enter on a tourist visa then decide to get a job you will have to make a trip to the border an enter on an E-visa. Finding a home away from homeMost expats in Cambodia are based in Phnom Penh. That’s not to say there aren’t plenty in the other major cities of Sihanoukville and Siem Reap, however. In Phnom Penh, popular expat areas are Boeung Keng Kang (BKK) 1, 2 and 3, as well as Russian Market (Toul Tom Poung), Tonle Bassac and the Riverside area. To learn more check out all of our location profiles.Thankfully, we have hundreds of listings for expat rentals in Phnom Penh.Offerings will be fairly similar in both Siem Reap and Sihanoukville. Both are growing every day and seeing more and more apartment and condo buildings pop up. We also have plenty of options on our site for rentals in Sihanoukville and rentals in Siem Reap.Housing options across the Kingdom span a wide range of prices. You could end up paying as little as $200 or as much as $2,000 per month depending on the space.It can often be helpful to go through one of the Kingdom's real estate agents to help you find a place. Agents are given commissions by landlords so it doesn’t cost you anything.Just like you would in other countries, it is not uncommon to sign a lease for a set period of time, pay a security deposit and your first month's rent prior to moving in.Here’s a guide on how to choose the right Cambodian real estate agent for you.Most landlords will charge you for electricity. The typical rate is around US$0.25 per kilowatt. Read your contract before you sign. Some landlords may try to pad that. Make sure you understand your contract before you sign!An expat’s daily routineCost of living is quite low here compared to Western nations. A mid-priced meal for two costs less than $15 and street food can feed you for less than $5.Travelling around the country is simple. Even taking weekend jaunts around Southeast Asia is doable. The writers of this Cambodia expat guide have one piece of advice, however: be patient. Remember, it’s the journey, not the destination that counts.Staying put can be entertaining, too. Each city has thousands of restaurants and bars to try. What’s more, tons of people speak English here so you don’t need to know Khmer before you come. Learning a few key phrases is always helpful, however. You will be sure to make friends if you can speak the language.Buying groceries in the Kingdom can be fun and easy. If you feel adventurous, go to one of the many open-air markets. Prepare your haggling skills in advance; there are no set prices on anything.Missing something from back home? Plenty of chain stores around the country have Western food. Lucky, Super Duper, Thai Huot and Aeon will have what you are looking for.Going to and fro Within Phnom Penh, expats and locals mostly travel by hiring a tuk-tuk and motorbike taxis called motodops. Luckily, there are now ride-hailing apps like Grab (the Southeast Asia version of Uber) and its local competitor PassApp.With both of these, you can hail anything from an autorickshaw to a van. Even better, the app calculates the exact fare. No need to negotiate price!Many expats choose to buy a bicycle or small motorbike to get around. Traffic can be hectic, however, so ride at your own risk. You can drive anything below 125cc legally without a licence. And this Cambodia expat guide would be incomplete without reminding you to always wear a helmet.Hold on to your bagsYes, petty crime is fairly common in Cambodia. Nearly all of it comes in the form of bag snatchers. Thieves usually ride motorbikes and target those in tuk-tuks. So, keep wallets in a secure pocket and use backpacks instead of small purses.Learn more about home and personal security in Cambodia.No airlift necessaryCambodia does have international-standard hospitals and clinics. Most are found in Phnom Penh and include the government-run Calmette Hospital, Sunrise Japan Hospital, and the private Royal Phnom Penh Hospital. U-Care Pharmacy and Pharmacie De La Gare have the best reputations among expatsFor major issues, many recommend going to Thailand, Singapore or Malaysia. In these countries, care is still much cheaper than in most Western nations.It’s a Mecca for retireesCambodia is consistently in the top 20 on InternationalLiving.com’s yearly index of best countries for retirement. Retiring in weaker economies is becoming a global trend among heaps of expats.Meanwhile, the government has released plans to increase Cambodia’s attractiveness as a destination for foreign retirees. The proposed policies would give retirees the right to buy, rent or sell property in special residences.For a deeper dive, read our article on foreign ownership in Cambodia.A life of wonderWhy are so many people entranced with Southeast Asia? It’s unlike any other place on earth. Further, the lifestyle here is completely unique. Above all, when you talk to expats most will say it’s the wonderful people they meet who keep them here.You don’t have to be a fearless adventurer to make the move overseas, either. Cambodia is becoming more and more accessible every day. So, if you have that itch for travel don’t waste another day. Come to Cambodia and see for yourself what all the hype is about.Looking for real estate for rent in Phnom Penh  or real estate for sale in Phnom Penh?Need more guides? Check out other great resources such as Location Profiles and Investor Guides on Realestate.com.kh now!

A trip to Cambodia is unlike any other journey you’ve taken before. Every year, more than five million tourists visit “The Kingdom of Wonder.” In some ways, however, it’s still off the beaten path. For a closer look at the hard stats of tourism in the Kingdom, check out our Investment Guide 2019.As Cambodia’s capital and commercial centre, Phnom Penh receives the lion’s share of the country’s tourists. The city has shed its previously infamous reputation and is now a peaceful and welcoming country. To learn more about each of the capital’s districts, check out all of our Phnom Penh Location Profile.But, in general, here are your options for getting to Phnom Penh, staying here, and finding exciting things to do while you stay.How to reach Phnom PenhNo matter how long you decide to stay in Cambodia’s capital, you will probably arrive by air. The Phnom Penh International Airport, which is located some seven km from the city centre, is the Kingdom’s main airport. AirAsia has daily low-cost flights to Phnom Penh from Bangkok in Thailand, the Philippines’ capital of Manila, and Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur. The budget carrier Jetstar Asia has a daily route connecting Phnom Penh and Singapore. Emirates and Qatar Airways both over services to the Middle East with stopovers. Direct flights to and from China are now nearly ubiquitous as well.If you’re looking for a more affordable way to traverse the region, bus services are often the best option. Giant Ibis, Phnom Penh Sorya Transport, Kumho Samco, and Capitol Bus are some of the companies offering routes around the region.Where to stayThe sheer amount of rooming options in the capital can be daunting. It can be easier to decide on a district first and find something there to suit your needs. When it comes to visiting Phnom Penh, knowing what districts and where they are can make your visit a lot more convenient!Daun Penh is one of the best districts to stay in as it is home to Wat Phnom, the Royal Palace, the National Museum, and tons of great riverside bars and restaurants. Chamkarmon is the other big area for tourist accommodations. BKK1, often referred to as Phnom Penh’s foreigner quarter is in Chamkarmon. Russian Market can be a great area to find affordable rooms, and Chamkarmon’s Tonle Bassac area has plenty of boutique hotels.Here are the basic types of accommodations you will find in Phnom Penh from most luxurious to most affordable:Luxury hotels in Phnom PenhThese hotels will offer everything you could hope for as far as amenities. Pools, spa facilities, drivers, and deluxe rooms are par for the course here. Raffles Le Royal, Sofitel Phnom Penh, and The Great Duke (formerly InterContinental Phnom Penh) are some of the big names in this category and would likely make your visit to Phnom Penh more comfortable. Rooms at this level will usually cost around $200 to $300 per night.Boutique hotels in Phnom PenhBuilding space in the city can often be limited. Because of that, many smaller boutique hotels have popped up over the last decade. Frangipani Living Arts Hotel & Spa, Plantation - Urban Resort & Spa, and Sun & Moon Urban Hotel are some well-known names in the boutique hotel industry.In this category amenities and prices and vary quite a bit. Many offer pools or rooftop bars. Some can be found for as little as $25 a night and some of the larger ones will have rooms closer to $100 per night. AirbnbWell-seasoned travelers will be familiar with Airbnb, the app that allows people to lease out empty rooms or even entire apartments to visitors. As of the writing of this article, there were more than 300 offerings in Phnom Penh on Airbnb. The average price for accommodations on the app is $60 per night, but places as cheap as $10 or as much as $550 per night are also on offer.Using the app can be beneficial if you are looking for specific features such as a pool, breakfast buffet, or included parking.GuesthousesMany budget guesthouses in Cambodia get a bad rap for their bare-bones offerings. Great places can still be found on a shoestring budget, however. A dorm-style shared room can easily be found for around $10 a night. Many places will offer private rooms as well and can range in price from $15 to $40 depending on whether you want air conditioning or just a fan. With most accommodations in Cambodia, it’s possible to simply walk in and get a room. It never hurts to reserve a room ahead of time, however.What to see and doIf you want to learn more about Buddhism during your visit to Phnom Penh, you'll be glad to know pagodas, or wats, are dotted around the city. Each offers something a little different as far as architecture or landscape. Wat Phnom is where most tourists pay a visit. The Silver Pagoda, adjacent to the Royal Palace is also worth a visit.History is also inescapable in Phnom Penh. The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek Killing Fields are both must-see sites in the capital. Here you will learn all about the tragedies of the Khmer Rouge regime.The Royal Palace, National Museum, and Independence Monument are also spots that shouldn’t be missed. For those who want to architecture from the French colonial era, there is a guided tour of the best structures, including the General Post Office, Commissariat (Old Police Station), FCC Hotel, and Phnom Penh Railway Station.For the environmentally-minded, be sure to take a day to visit Tamao Rescue Center in nearby Takeo province. Tours there can be booked for $40 a person and include transportation.Shopping optionsWhile Bangkok may still hold the crown as Southeast Asia’s mall Mecca, Phnom Penh is catching up. Aeon Mall, the first of its kind in the country, now has a second location in the northern Sen Sok district and AEON Mall 3 in southern Meanchey district.Other shopping centres include Sorya Center, Makro Mall, Sovanna Shopping Center, Central Mall, and City Mall. For a taste of local shopping, check out Central Market, Russian Market, or O’Russey Market. If you’re looking for a Western-style convenience store, however, look for Super Duper, Lucky, or Circle K.Food and nightlifePhnom Penh has an excellent array of restaurants and other food establishments serving everything from local fares to Western dishes. Sovanna Restaurant is near Independence Monument and is a popular location for affordable Khmer food. Romdeng is good if you’re willing to spend a little more and eat elevated local dishes. Note, they also serve as a training restaurant for Cambodian youth.And the city won’t disappoint if you’re looking for vibrant nightlife, either. Small bars along street 308, dubbed “Bassac Lane”, usually attract the expat crowd. Alchemy Gastropub near Russian Market is another relaxing hangout.Looking for dancing and nightclubs? Head to the places along street 51 such as Pontoon, Heart of Darkness, or Reggae Bar where the tunes never stop. Don’t worry about getting hungry; the streets are full of carts selling late-night eats.Getting aroundThe traditional tuk-tuk is the most commonly available public transport option in the city. Most busy street corners will have a few parked waiting for customers. If you’re alone, single motorbikes, called motodops, are also willing to take you wherever you are going.Since negotiating prices for rides can cause stress, many people in the city are now using ride-hailing apps like Grab (Southeast Asia’s answer to Uber), its local competitor PassApp, or a new entry into the market, LM Cars - a car service app with a very professional setup. You can book anything from an autorickshaw to a van with these apps and the fare is already calculated. The city’s newly expanded bus routes run across the city, but can be difficult to navigate for tourists. Many adventurous travelers often choose to rent their own motorbike or bicycle so they can cruise around the city at their leisure. This isn’t for the faint of heart, however. City traffic can get a bit hairy, so ride at your own risk and always wear a helmet.EmergenciesCambodia does have respectable, international-standard hospitals and clinics. Most of these are found in Phnom Penh and include the government-run Calmette Hospital, Sunrise Japan Hospital, and the privately-operated Royal Phnom Penh Hospital, an affiliate of Thailand’s renowned Bangkok Hospital group.There are also numerous pharmacies and other establishments selling medicines around town. U-Care Pharmacy and Pharmacie De La Gare have the best reputations and are expat favourites.How many can say they experienced Cambodia?Realestate.com.kh is a site that focuses on the buying, selling, and renting of property. With that knowledge, however, we’ve got a unique perspective on what it’s like to live and even stay in the city temporarily. Cambodia is a country like no other in the world. The architecture, colours, and lifestyle don’t exist anywhere else. Because of that, a trip to the Kingdom is like no other trip you will ever take in your life.

Foreign direct ownership of land is prohibited by Cambodian law. However, there are legal mechanisms that allow foreigners and foreign entities to indirectly own and operate land within the Kingdom.Brief History of Land Ownership in CambodiaPrivate ownership of land only became possible in 1992 when the Cambodian Government passed the land law. The local Sangkat issue Soft Title to Cambodians, which is not a full guarantee of ownership and has thus been being exchanged in favor of the nationally-recognized Hard Title.In 2001 the new Land Law came into effect, further strengthening an individual’s right to property ownership and since then, many changes have been made in order to accommodate a more dynamic market that would benefit the economy and the people.It may seem like a lot to take in, but talking about the land ownership law in Cambodia doesn’t always have to be a heavy topic. Here, Realestate.com.kh breaks down things you need to know to be able to invest inland.Since the redistribution of land in 1992, ownership of land can now be held in Cambodia by means of the different titles available. These include hard titles, soft titles, strata titles, and LMAP titles. These serve as official proof of ownership in the Kingdom. But what’s interesting about Cambodian land titles is that even if some titles are recognized nationally, some titles are also only recognized at the local government level.Foreign ownership mechanisms for land in CambodiaThe Land Law of Cambodia prohibits foreigners from directly owning property in the country except through a strata title. But strata titles for residential units are only usually made in co-owned buildings and not land. Fortunately, there are ways foreigners have been able to secure land in Cambodia.Via a Khmer nominee or licensed trust companyThis method will require foreign investors to “nominate” a person with Cambodian citizenship to be the legal owner of the land to be purchased. A ‘trust agreement’ will be formed between the two entities wherein the nominee will agree to hold the property in their name. This method is arguably the most common form of owning land for foreigners due to its straightforward approach and low associated costs. However, it is not a method advised if an investor does not have anyone they can trust to hold their investment.Alternatively, investors looking to go down this route can do so through a licensed trust company in Cambodia. In January 2019, the Royal Government of Cambodia promulgated the Trust Law (the “Trust Law”) strengthening the regime of trusts in the legal system which commenced in 2013. Trust companies allow foreigners to legally own land in Cambodia in their stead. This method is advised for investors who are looking for a licensed service provider liable to legal authorities.Forming a land holding companyA Land Holding Company (LHC) can be formed by a foreigner looking to buy land through a joint venture with a Cambodian. By law, the foreigner has to take up the minority stake up to 49% while the Cambodian partner takes up the majority stake at least 51%. This may seem like a significant caveat for a foreigner looking to go this route, but control of the LHC may fully be granted to the minority stakeholder (the foreigner) through company bylaws, special power of attorney, or other legal instrumentations.The only real drawback of this approach is the cost of registration fees, administration costs, and tax burdens levied on the company and property.Government concessionLand concessions are a means to owning property as a foreigner under an agreement with government authorities. This allows foreigners to legally occupy, utilize and exercise rights over the land in question.The Cambodian government usually grants these concessions through Economic Land Concessions (ELC) and are usually allocated for agricultural and industrial developments. These concessions can be extended through a long-term leasehold. Investors must apply for ELCs through the Ministry of Agriculture, the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC), and local provincial authorities will then approve the application after investigating the social and environmental effects of the concession.Once initial approvals have been met, the application will go to the office of the Prime Minister where it will be endorsed to the Ministry of Agriculture and become a formal concession agreement. This process may take anywhere from 6 to 9 months.Marrying a CambodianAnother straightforward way of owning land that is not too dissimilar to the previously mentioned nominee structure. Foreigners married to a Cambodian are allowed to purchase land in the Kingdom, however, the name on the land title will only have the Cambodian spouse's name.If you wish to marry a Cambodian, Realestate.com.kh advises you to consult the Cambodian embassy in your home country or consult your home country's embassy if you are already residing in the Kingdom.Becoming a Cambodian citizenThe land ownership laws of Cambodia make the right to own land in their name exclusive to Cambodian citizens. Fortunately, like most countries, it is possible for a foreigner to acquire a Cambodian citizenship, making it arguably the most direct, and consequently, most secure way of owning land in Cambodia. If you wish to pursue this route, you can check B2B Cambodia's guide below.How to obtain Cambodian citizenshipSo, What Kind of Title Do I Need to Get?Hard titles are the strongest type of proof of ownership. It’s given by the Land Management and Planning Office. It contains information that’s recognized by the Ministry of Land and the cadastral office at a national scale. A transfer tax of 4% is paid when a property with a hard title is sold.A Strata Title is also a form of a Hard Title but is most commonly given on newer developments. Strata title holds that foreigners are not allowed to acquire a grounded unit and that foreign ownership is limited to 70% of units in any co-owned building.Soft titles are the most common issued titles in Cambodia. It’s registered and only recognized at the local government level and given by the district office.Land Management and Administration Project Title are considered the safest kind of land title because it uses GPS to allocate land plots. This accurately shows the boundaries of purchased land.How Do I Know What Type of Title I Have?Soft titles typically refer to three documents that can show proof of ownership. These are the application for land occupation, a local government acknowledging the letter of transfer, or a simple private sale-purchase agreement.An application for land occupation is the request made by the possessor of land to the local authorities. A letter of transfer that’s acknowledged by local authorities is a document of transfer that the Chief has acknowledged and signed. While the simple private sale-purchase agreement is an agreement made only between the buyer and seller.Hard titles also refer to three certificate types. These are the Certificate of Land Use and Occupation Rights, Certificate of Immovable Property Possession, and the Certificate of Immovable Property Ownership.Certificate of Land Use and Occupation Rights are called “chicken feather titles” because it has an image of a feather printed on them. This refers to titles issued to owners before the enactment of the land law.The Certificate of Immovable Property Possession is given if the land registration was initiated by an owner in an area where the systematic land registration hasn’t been conducted yet by the government. This is known as “sporadic land registration”. This document usually doesn’t have the map of the property included.The Certificate of Immovable Property Ownership is given after a systematic land registration by the government. Unlike the Certificate of Immovable Property Possession, it has a map showing the land’s location and boundaries.If you are unsure of what the different property titles are, you can learn more in our guide to property titles.Guide to Property Titles in CambodiaWhat if I Want to Get a Hard Title For Security?In a recent breakfast meeting organized by Sciaroni & Associates, Sereyrath Kiri -- an associate of the firm -- saying that soft titles can be made into hard titles via a sporadic land registration. Kiri also mentioned that the cost to do so depends on the location and size of the property.How Do Foreigners Legally Protect Their Land Ownership?Locals may be more secure in just getting a Hard Title and avoiding scams. Foreigners, on the other hand, will need to deal with a few more security details for them to safeguard their land. But it’s not as complex as people think.When a property is owned through a Khmer nominee, foreigners should enter a nominee agreement with the Cambodian citizen. The Khmer nominees should also grant foreigners a long-term lease. A mortgage should be made and registered on the title. Foreigners should also hold the original title. To prevent any misunderstandings in the event of an accident or death, the nominee should also prepare a will or supporting documents.Should ownership fall on a landholding company, it is important to enter into nominee protection documents. The company should be required to grant the foreigner a long-term lease. Similar to the first scenario, a mortgage should be taken and registered on the title, and a will or supporting documents should also be prepared.Like most countries, laws in Cambodia continue to evolve to accommodate the demand of both local and international investors. So, knowing these things and keeping yourself updated may keep you from a whole lot of trouble in the future and even bring you a proper return of investment.Looking to buy land in Cambodia? Click here

Gaining a basic understanding of property taxes in Cambodia is important for property owners, sellers, and buyers in the country. Knowledge of these important obligations will not only make transactions easier but also help everyone avoid unnecessary costs and penalties.This guide is designed to give you a basic understanding of obligations so you don’t go blind into Cambodia’s property market.Overview of Property Taxes in Cambodia:Cambodia has a 0.1% Property Tax applied on Immovable PropertiesProperty Taxes must be paid every year around SeptemberProperties below $25,000 (100 Million KHR) are exempt from Property TaxAgricultural land, industrial, and state-owned lands are exempt from Property TaxLocal tax offices have a valuation matrix called the Tax Base for specific property types and sizes within their jurisdiction, this factors into the final Property Tax that has to be paid.How much is Property Tax in Cambodia?Property taxes in Cambodia are officially referred to as “Tax on Immovable Property” (TOIP) and levies an annual tax of 0.1% on properties that have a value of more than $25,000 (100 million KHR). The term “Immovable Property” includes plots of land, infrastructure on land, and buildings.NOTE: Properties valued under $25,000 are exempt from paying the Property TaxProperty Tax is generally calculated by the following formula:(80%*(tax base)-$25,000)*0.1% = Property TaxSample calculation:Mr. Ivanov owns a reinforced concrete building with 3 floors with each floor having 15m x 25m of floor size. Mr. Ivanov consulted with the Property Valuation Commission and retrieved the following Tax Base relevant to the property:Land price per sqm$1,000Ground floor per sqm$250First-floor per sqm$200Second-floor per sqm$150 Mr Ivanov’s 3-storey building’s property tax can then be calculated like this:Land price25m x 40m x $1,000$1,000,000Ground floor15m x 25m x $250$93,750First-floor15m x 25m x $200$75,000Second-floor15m x 25m x $150$56,250 Tax Base of Mr Ivanov’s property: $1,225,000. Let’s take this Tax Base and apply the Property Tax formula.(80%*($1,225,000)-$25,000)*0.1% = $955 will be the Property Tax Mr Ivanov has to pay every year for his 3-storey building.What is a Tax Base and How is it calculated?A Tax Base is a price per square metre for a certain property type assessed by the Ministry of Economy and Finance. Here is a table of the Tax Base for properties located in Daun Penh, Chamkarmon, 7 Makara, and Toul Kork as of 2018:TAX BASE AS OF 2018TYPE OF BUILDINGPart of buildingBuilding age <10 years (USD/sqm)Building age >10 years (USD/sqm)Reinforced concrete frameworkSemi-permanent structureCondoReinforced concrete frameworkSemi-permanent structureCondoBasement$200$200$200$180$180$180Ground floor (E0)$250$120$600$200$100$500First floor (E1)$200$100$600$150$80$500Second-Fifth floor (E2-E6)$150$80$600$100$60$500Six-Tenth floor (E6-E10)$700$700$700$600$600$600Eleventh floor onwards (E11)$800$800$800$700$700$700 Registration Tax (a.k.a. Transfer/Stamp Tax)The Registration Tax (a.k.a. Transfer/Stamp Tax) is the tax paid for transferring property ownership or right occupancy of land that does not have a standing building on top. This is a 4% tax derived from the Tax Base of the property in question.This property-related tax is crucial to know if you’re someone looking to buy or sell property in Cambodia. Sellers are generally the ones shouldering the transfer tax, though it can go either way - this is best discussed in clear terms with whoever you may be transacting with.NOTE: Properties transferred to direct kin via inheritance are exempted from the Registration Tax. The relevant Prakas states “transfers between spouses, parents, and children, or grandparents and grandchildren, will no longer require this tax”Calculation formula: (Tax Base*4%) = Registration TaxSample calculation: ($100,000*4%) = $4,000 Registration TaxProperty Tax on Rental PropertyLocals and foreigners who own and rent out their properties need to pay Rental/Income Tax every year. A foreign investor who buys property here and rents it out needs to pay 14% of the gross rate annually while locals have to pay 10%.Property Tax on Unused LandThe Unused Land Tax is a 2% tax levied on bare plots of land with no building constructed and abandoned landed properties in cities like Phnom Penh. The Unused Land Tax is determined by the Unused Land Appraisal Committee (ULAC).How is Property Tax paid in Cambodia?Property Taxes can be paid via local tax office branches or through ACLEDA Bank, Canadia Bank, Vattanac Bank, or Cambodia Public Bank. For already registered properties, taxpayers will only need the tax payment receipt of the previous year or their Property Tax Registration ID.For unregistered properties, owners must contact the local tax office their property is in. The following documents will be required for registration:Tax Form PT01 - a form issued by the General Department of Taxation (GDT) that asks owners to outline the specifics of their property.Tax Form PT02 - another form issued by the GDT which serves as a tax application form.National ID Card, Birth Certificate, or PassportResidence Book or Family Book or Residency LetterOther documents may be required depending on the status of those involved in the transaction. We highly encourage seeking legal assistance for more specific matters.Capital Gains Tax in CambodiaThe Capital Gains Tax in Cambodia is a flat 20% rate. The Capital Gains Tax was promulgated through Prakas 346 in April 2020 and was initially to be enacted in July 2020. However, the advent of COVID-19 delayed its implementation to January 2022 to keep Cambodia's property market activity going throughout the pandemic.Contrary to what most people perceive: The Capital Gains Tax in Cambodia is not exactly new; businesses in the Kingdom have always paid capital gains. The material difference now is that it applies to individuals, especially those looking to sell immovable property a.k.a. real estate. A more thorough discussion of Capital Gains Tax in Cambodia can be found here.The Capital Gains Tax in Cambodia can be calculated in 2 different ways:Actual Expense Deduction MethodThis method takes the sales proceeds and subtracts the expenses the seller made on that property to get the actual Capital Gains Tax to be paid. These deductibles can be the purchase cost, consulting fees, registration tax, commissions, and even advertising. These actual expenses are deducted from the sales proceeds and 20% of the difference will be the Capital Gains Tax to be paid.There are more applicable deductibles so we highly suggest you keep tabs on the expenses you made in your property if you are planning to sell in the future.Determination-Based Deduction MethodThis method takes 80% of the sales proceeds and subtracts it from the whole sales value. The result will be the Capital Gains and 20% of it will be the Capital Gains Tax to be paid. This method is highly beneficial for property owners who buy low and are planning to sell high.Capital Gains Tax in Cambodia is expected to be enforced by January 2022. Once the law is in effect, we highly encourage keeping tabs on your expenses on the property to properly assess which method applies best in your case.Looking for property in Cambodia? Let us help!Article by:

Everyone needs to save money for buying property! But, in order to save for your new home, or to borrow for that home, you will need to budget for it. And this budget only gets harder as your family grows…The following are 4 basic budget tips that will help you keep more money in your pocket and get a handle on your household finances, thanks to Realestate.com.kh.First of all, list your monthly income, including everything that earns you money. List all of the costs you have to pay each month: Including rent, power, gas, car repayments, school uniforms, food etc. In short, anything that is a necessity in your and your family’s life.List all of the costs you can avoid from the previous list… This includes all things that are not necessary in your life, including entertainment, take away food, fancy new clothes, travel etc. This represents your “expendable income”: money that doesn’t always need to be spent! It is very important that you and your family are honest about what you don’t really need, if you are serious about saving.Now that you have defined what you HAVE TO PAY and what YOU LIKE TO PAY each month, you can control your budget for the next month by reducing your expendable income spending.Subtract your necessary costs from your total income to see what remains for the next month’s budget. This figure is the amount of money you can potentially save each month if you control your spending habits. Completing this exercise should help you review your spending patterns and make better financial decisions. The better your budget, the more control you can have over your monthly savings.   Ultimately, if you follow these tips, you will be surprised what money you can save to put toward a new home, or to manage home loan repayments. You should read How to Save Money When RentingLook for more information related to home loans in Cambodia? look for real estate for rent in Phnom Penh or real estate for sale in Phnom Penh? Check out Realestate.com.kh today.

When you are looking for the best tenants for your property; regardless of the term of the tenancy, it is necessary to ensure you have a well-prepared property and legal lease document for your prospective tenants.Below are several major things to include in your lease agreements when creating or signing a residential tenancy agreement, thanks to realestate.com.kh:What Is a Lease Contract?A lease contract is a formal document that properly identifies the landlord (lessor), tenant (lessee), and the leased property. This document further states the lease term and rental fee, and detailed terms and conditions of the lease agreement.Who Should Be in the Lease Contract?When it comes to obtaining a lessee,  it is strongly recommended that you draw up a written agreement. This legal contract needs to be completed by the lessor and lessee so that both parties are 100% clear on what their rights and obligations are.This contract also allows and specifies the tenant to temporarily use the property of the owner, legally, in exchange for paying a rental fee to the owner. It is essential that both parties keep a copy of this agreement to refer to when in doubt.In the contract, both parties can set the clauses to protect themselves if any circumstances were to change for either the lessor or lessee and how this should be remedied if these circumstances arise.The Lease Agreement Should Contain:Both parties must sit together and write up clearly what they expect from each other. These include:The description of the property (which describes the current location and overview of the property);●     The names, signature, or thumbprint and addresses of both parties;●     The current rental fee and reasonable escalation in the future;●     The rental payment term (monthly, quarterly, or yearly);●     The deposit amount;●     The monthly payment amount;●     The lease period;●     The notice period for termination of contract;●     The renewable term and condition;●     The lessor's obligations;●     The lessee's obligations;●     The renovation permission;●     The number of residents;●     The tax obligation (In general responsible by lessor, but can be altered according to the discussion).All other costs must be paid by the lessee (waste collection, public light, electricity & water bill) unless otherwise negotiated in the rental agreement.Create an Inventory ListAn inventory list aims to describe all the furniture that is presently existing inside of the property (including photos) before the tenant moves in. This is critical to ensure both parties know what is present in the property - and especially for the lessor to ensure no furniture or chattels are removed without permission or opportunity for redress.The lessor also needs to list down any current defects and the agreement of both parties whether the lessor or lessee must take responsibility to have them fixed. This is generally the responsibility of the lessee. Generally, this is made in a separated document.Ultimately a contract between a lessor and lessee is critical in setting out the obligations of both parties to ensure there is no confusion about any aspects of the tenancy. It will also enable both parties protection if there was any dispute arises.Looking for property in Cambodia? Let us help!

Borey homes are the most popular and affordable in terms of the Cambodian living standards, preferred by Khmer home buyers across the country. The Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction have said that there are approximately 50,000 units of borey homes expected to enter the market supply for buyers every year until 2030. In the meantime, the demand remains extremely high - and borey developers are rapidly trying to keep pace with market, pushing further and further toward the outskirts of major cities to provide more affordable and unique projects.But please remember that not all borey’s are created equal; and before buying a home within a borey, it’s important to know the legal considerations in order to avoid any problem after you buy.Below are documents you must review with the borey developer before you sign any purchase agreements or lay down any deposit, thanks to realestate.com.kh:Hard Title:You have to look at two classifications of hard titles when dealing with borey home purchases. The first is the hard title for the whole borey development. This is called a master title - and will cover the entire piece of land on which the project sits. The second to check are the hard titles that are subdivided for each residential unit included in the borey. After buying the property, the buyer can transfer this title to their individual possession. These are called individual titles. A legitimate Borey development should be able to produce both of these hard titles to potential buyers. If they can’t show this to you when you ask, don’t put any money down until they do.Development Company Registration:Don’t be afraid to ask for a letter of company registration from the developer. As a rule, development companies must register themselves to gain approval from the involved ministries to be a legally able to start the construction work. However, construction is not always a sign that they’ve been approved. Ask to see their company registration just to make sure both the project and the developers can proceed legally. This will save you any stress in future! Learn more about land title transfer process in Cambodia.Master Plan Approval:This is an important piece of paper you need to keep track of. The Master plan (for the whole project) is approved by the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction. Generally, it must be approved before construction begins. It should show you exactly how the development has been planned, whether a big or small project, and a reliable developer will be able to provide you with it - or at least show you a copy.Construction License:The construction company for the Borey goes through a thorough background check with the Ministry of Land Management. Boreys must apply for a single registered construction company that  is  building the residential units and infrastructure to ensure consistency, adequate quality and necessary amenities throughout the development. Once the Ministry has checked all of these factors, they then issue a license to the construction company. Request to see this license before you sign any agreements. Recently the Ministry of Economiy and Finance to crack down on Construction licenses.Borey License:The Ministry of Economy and Finance releases the license for the Borey once everything is in order. This means that the developer has satisfied the requirements of the Government in terms of quality, design, sales plans, and documentation.Before the issuance of the license for any project development, the ministry evaluates through its checklist to find out whether the development has a clear and strong source of income, capital, collateral, hard land title, and other assets that support their project. This means the development can legally be called a “borey” and you can have full ownership rights on purchase. Note that some developments might use the word “Borey” in their marketing whether or not they have an official Borey License - so please check this document before you buy.Are you looking for real estate  for rent in Cambodia? Start your search on Realestate.com.kh today, Cambodia’s online property market! Or learn more about real estate scams to avoid in Cambodia. Learn more about Investing in Cambodia, Foreign Ownership in Cambodia & the Cambodian Expat Experience!

If you're looking to sell or rent out your home, it's crucial to make sure that it is in the best possible condition to attract potential buyers or tenants. First impressions matter, and having a well-prepared property can make all the difference in securing the best possible price for your home.In this article, we'll provide you with a few tips to consider before opening your doors to potential buyers or renters.Clean upAvoid disappointing your visitors with a messy or smelly first impression of your home. Cleaning is the most important thing to do before opening your home to sellers or renters. If you don't want to do it yourself, hire professional cleaners to do it for you. It's a small investment with a strong return.In addition, pay special attention to bathrooms, kitchens, general living areas, and backyards. Make sure there are no dirty dishes, unclean bathrooms, or dust where there shouldn't be. Creating a nice smell before visitors arrive with fresh flowers can help create a welcoming first impression.RepairsWhen intending to sell or rent your home, you need to check and repair minor issues such as door hinges, doorknobs, locks, faucets, appliances, water heaters, gas cookers, lights, drainage (especially if you want to sell a house in the rainy season), and toilets. If you can find these issues now, get them repaired immediately before your buyers or renters see them. If the buyers or renters find them before you, they may use them as reasons to lower your home's price.RenovationA renovation is a good option if you want a better price for your home, especially if you are targeting ex-pats to rent or buy your property. These types of buyers may want a more contemporary style than most Cambodian-style homes. Prospective buyers or tenants tend not to complain about the price if they see your home equipped with modern design and decoration, which at least gives the appearance of a higher-value home. In Phnom Penh, unrenovated flat houses in BKK2 and BKK3 can be found with a rental price from $700 to $1,000 per month. After the renovation, the same flat houses can rent with prices starting from $1,200 to $1,400 per month. Valuation ServicesGetting a valuation letter certifying your home's true value also contributes to a higher sale price. A professional real estate valuer has a specific skill to value your home price depending on the actual market conditions. A quality valuation will convince the buyer of the objective value of the property and give them trust in the transaction.The real estate valuation agency will evaluate your property based on your home's detailed and definite information and comparative market prices, and then issue a valuation report for owners to use as proof to show buyers or tenants.  For the valuation report, you will be charged at least $150, based on the type of the property and how detailed the report is. You can apply for a valuation from a professional valuation firm now on realestate.com.kh. Now, the official commission and valuation are officially applied.You can also check more on how to calculate the valuation fee here! If you are renovating your house, it is also a good idea to do a valuation before the renovation begins - and then again after you have completed the renovations. That way, you know clearly the value you have added with the improvements. You can also ask the valuer during the first valuation what changes they suggest to increase the value of the home - and then this advice can direct your renovations.    Stay up-to-date on the real estate industry in Cambodia and get real-time updates on real estate news as they happen. Download the Realestate.com.kh App now!

You really shouldn’t sign any rental agreement without a thorough check of any property, in any country! But there are some extra considerations which are especially important in Cambodian rental agreements that you may not have considered. Here are a few tips to consider before you sign any Cambodian lease agreement.Extra costsYes, you will pay your rental rate every month - but you will also be charged extra costs of utilities and other services monthly. The extra costs might include maintenance, waste collection, gas, water and electricity bills, security services, internet, and car parking. The costs will be low or high depending on the type of rental property and the business practices of your landlord. Some of these costs may be included in your rental fee - but if they are, they will be specified clearly. So it's really important to double-check these inclusions.  If you rent a house in borey, you will likely need to pay an additional monthly maintenance fee, cleaner’s fee, security guard fees, and public light charges. Depending on the borey you are renting in, these fees might cost you between $20 and $50 per month.  Condo or apartment maintenance fees generally range from $0.50 to $2 per square meter depending on what this service includes. In addition, living in a condo or apartment requires you to pay for a car parking space, which ranges from $50 to $60 per month. Again, some rental rates will include both of these fees - but it's always best to check.In Cambodia, be wary of landlords adding in fees at extra cost. For example, in central Phnom Penh electricity is generally charged to apartment tenants at $0.25 per kilowatt - however, the rate direct from the company can be less than $0.20 per kilowatt. Some landlords will try to charge substantially more than this too.   Always bargainYou are a renter; you always have the power to negotiate the lease price with your landlord!Don’t be afraid to do so and don’t always depend on your real estate agent to do this for you. Remember that some real estate agents are not only acting in your interests; they act on behalf of the sale, and their commission will be higher if the final agreed price is higher than what it could have been. With this in mind, don’t be afraid to push your agent - and make sure you are working with an agent you can trust. You can find the best real estate for your needs.If you are applying for a long term rental, 1 year or over, you can use this as a negotiation point to lower your monthly rate. Also, while the landlord may not be flexible on the monthly rental price, you may still be able to push them for additional services or home furnishing/appliances for free as contract sweeteners. An upfront advance on your first few months’ rents may also be an enticing bartering point for landlords looking for a fast cash injection in the short term - but ensure everything is receipted correctly or they might catch you out later! Now, you want to look for property for rent in Cambodia, it's always available.Read the contract  Always check the ways in which you can be liable for a breach of your contract and what is and isn’t mentioned in the contract, for example having pets or parties, extra equipment included or furniture, who pays for extra service, and repair services, deposit payment, terms, contract renewal and proactive professional management (for condo renting or apartment renting).That’s to make sure you know what the landlord in question expects of you and what you expect of the landlord before you agree to stay. If something is missing, get it put in the contract before you sign because verbal agreements are next to unenforceable in Cambodia.Little ThingsCheck the faucets, door hinges, locks, doorknobs, powerpoints, appliances, water heaters, and gas cookers before agreeing to rent! Most of the time these things look perfect until further investigation – but if you catch minor problems now, you can ask the landlord to fix them before the agreement is settled.  Stay up-to-date on the real estate industry in Cambodia and get real-time updates on real estate news as they happen. Download the Realestate.com.kh App now! Article by:

A western-style kitchen with modern and high-quality products in a luxury condominium. Supplied.Cambodia has many types of properties suitable for investors seeking residential property investments; such as villas, flats, shop​​ houses, apartments, and condos. However, finding the right properties for the right tenants can be time-consuming if you don’t have an understanding of the current rental market supply and demand. Here are some handy tips from Realestate.com.kh on things to consider before buying a rental property for future returns in Cambodia.Target tenant versus target rental returnsIt is vital that you know who your target tenants are: Cambodian or expatriate. They are two very different targets with different tastes and financial means.If you target local middle-income Khmer families, you may consider buying a flat house in a Borey project in the suburbs or a shophouse in the inner city with both residential and retail capacity. Expect lower returns for these properties than you might get from foreigners renting condos or villas - but expect more security in this income; as demand for these properties is high compared to supply. The living room of a flat house within a Borey project in Phnom Penh. Supplied.You might consider affordable houses like a flat house with purchase prices between $70,000 and $100,000. Buying a flat house in the suburbs of Phnom Penh will earn anywhere between $350 and $550 per month in rental returns.For renovated one and two-bedroom flat houses around central Phnom Penh, you can earn between $450 and $550 per month. As a general rule in Cambodia, affordable rental properties tend to attract more tenants than expensive ones.However, if you aim to get higher rental returns, you can buy a shophouse in a prime location in central Phnom Penh such as Daun Penh, Chamkarmon, or along a major wet-market where purchase prices are around $3-$4,000 per square meter. You can then rent this space for an average of $1,500 per month. This is because a shophouse has a high potential for retail businesses, especially if it has corner parking spaces.If you want to target foreign nationals for more lucrative rental returns, you should consider buying a condo or high-end villa in the heart of the city for anywhere between $120-$700K. This can bring you between $1000 - $4000 per month in rental returns, depending on quality, location, and amenities.With a heavy supply of condos entering the Phnom Penh market, however, it's advisable to focus on location, quality, and other unique features to make sure that your asset will actually generate the rental returns you are seeking.Inspect the past rental returns of similar properties closely, and get advice from more than one agent and/or developer.Do you want to know more about Cambodian property valuations?The living room with a sleek interior design within a high-end condominium. Supplied.Alternatively, look at budget condos (around $40- $80K purchase price) in the less-central districts of Phnom Penh as these types of properties are able to be rented by Cambodians working in the city, although at a smaller monthly rate than expats are willing to fork out. But these assets should have a safer rental return.Look for bargain condos in areas like Toul Tum Poung (TTP) also known as Russian Market, Steung Meanchey, or Toul Kork. Local renters are happy to live in these areas of the city, close to their workplaces or schools.Sen Sok, Chbar Ampov, and Chroy Changvar are also seeing many new development projects popping up, and buying rental property in this area as residential property investment is likely to get good monthly returns from locals or expats.This is also an asset that will appreciate in the coming years if you consider reselling. Make sure you get the appropriate property title so that your ownership is guaranteed.Now that you have a better idea of property investment opportunities, you get started by checking out our list of Phnom Penh residential properties for sale.Location and SafetyTenants, especially expats, tend to consider safety and security when they decide to rent a residential property.Boeung Keng Kang, Tonle Bassac, Toul Kork, Daun Penh and Toul Tum Poung are among the most secure locations in central Phnom Penh. But for Cambodian nationals, location is second only to price; therefore, they seem less concerned about security compared to foreigners.Furthermore, you should buy rental properties in areas with amenities such as schools, hospitals, restaurants, entertainment services, and convenient access to business and commercial establishments.Make sure you are investing in an area where there is a high and sustainable rental demand in the future.Real estate agent adviceFinding a good real estate agent before buying a rental property is crucial for you as a buyer because the real estate agent will guide you towards the right sector of the market for your needs and financial means.In addition, the real estate agent is aware of the history of a property - and its actual potential for rental returns. They will be able to help you lease the property if you want a full-service approach to your investment.Stay up-to-date on the real estate industry in Cambodia and get real-time updates on real estate news as they happen. Download the Realestate.com.kh App now on both iOS and Android.Article by:

In Cambodia, purchasing a property for the first time can be an overwhelming task. If you are a first-time home buyer, you should consider the following points before you make any financial commitments.Purpose of  the new home:  Different types of houses will bring you and your family different advantages and disadvantages.If you just want a house to live with your family, consider a villa home. Villas offer a lot of space for your family to grow, and a relaxed and private setting. If you intend to buy a home from which you can generate income through opening a retail shop, consider a shop house in a location where you can find consumers. These types of properties allow you both residential and commercial purposes. However, if you really value a location in the central city and want to live a more modern life, you can consider a condo unit. The extra benefit of a condo is that you should be able to rent it into the future, if you decide not to live in it yourself.If you are planning on a profitable resale, you can consider buying a property off-plan (under construction) in a new development project. New Borey projects in the suburban areas usually have high potential for reselling in coming years. Or, if you have more money to invest, you can consider a new condo unit for higher returns when it comes time to resell. However, keep in mind that often these properties won’t be ready to live in right away, and also make sure your choose the right developer with the correct licenses and history.Location of your first home:Purchasing a home at the very heart of the city sounds like a good idea thanks to its fundamental infrastructure and utilities. However, with almost all property prices within central city reaching their peak in recent years, and worsening traffic congestion during rush hours, most new home-buyers (in particular, middle-income class Khmers) are preferring to buy in the suburban areas of the city, at lower prices.The outskirts of Phnom Penh and other urban centers of Cambodia are an untapped area where there are offerings that have high potential for small businesses, commercial centers, population growth, and property price growth. At present, housing projects are shifting towards the suburbs to push the area to become more attractive and populated. Whether you buy to live, do business, or resell, you should look for a good location adjacent to markets, schools, hospitals, and other amenities. Location is an extremely important consideration for any property investment.Budget plan:Preparing a budget plan for your new home is very important for your future expenses. With a clear budget plan, you will be well prepared for your current and future payments. Without a regular income, you may run into problems after your first home purchase. If you’re planning on these costs in advance, it will make it easy for you to decide how much money you should and can borrow money from the bank.Home loan application:Most homebuyers in Cambodia usually do not have enough money to pay outright. This is why they turn to the bank for loan options to pay for their new home. Different banks will offer different types of home loans at various interest rates. However, when you get a home loan, you will be bound by the bank’s terms, including the interest rate charged on that loan. After qualifying for a home loan, you will be required by the bank to submit collateral, income confirmation letter, identity card and proof of a guarantor. For this reason, it might be best to consider your loan limits before you select your dream home.Another option is to pay directly with the developer (if it is a new project). In this case, the interest rate on home loan may be higher than that of the former option - so be careful before you sign up.Extra costs:In fact, purchasing a new home does not mean that you pay only for your property’s price. You also should think about other extra costs in addition to the property’s value. There are a number of fees involved you need to know when you buy a property. Those costs or fees include ownership transfer tax, legal fees, property tax, title verification, loan processing fee, application for registration, property insurance, real estate agent’s fee, and ongoing costs.  Learn more about the details of these extra costs on realestate.com.kh today.Read more great Home Loan and Mortgage Advice, on Realestate.com.kh today! Or, if you are ready, apply for a home loan on Realestate.com.kh today!

When signing on the dotted line for rental properties, small very important details are oftentimes overlooked. But you should remember that your final lease agreement might not include many important elements that will ultimately make or break a rental agreement.We have put together a pre-signing checklist for you to consider before signing a rental agreement in Cambodia.How is the landlord?Always do a background check of your landlord in Cambodia to make sure everything is above board. This need not be a difficult one or necessarily very official. Neighbours and grocery shop owners in the vicinity are often the best sources that can help you ascertain your prospective landlord’s nature and his ownership over the property.Also, you should check how far or close he or she lives from the rented apartment. A landlord who is too 'nosey' can sometimes be equally as bad as an extremely laid back one.A lot of good apartment rental experiences are ruined because of landlords - so work out whether or not yours is a keeper. Also, try to speak with past tenants. The landlord may be able to provide the contact details of the last tenant. Try to contact them - and get the down-low on the property and the landlord before agreeing to sign on (how quick they were to respond to fixing items, rent increases etc).Meet the neighboursSimilar to the above regarding landlords, a bad neighbour can ruin your rental experience. Try to meet your neighbours before finalising the housing agreement and find out whether they will have an overbearing influence on your life.Consider their set-up too - is it a family living beside your house, noisy students, many kids and pets etc? This will make a difference to your living experience once the contract is signed - so find out beforehand. Visit at nightVisit the area where your new residence is located in the evenings to check its safety and for any noise issues.A neighbourhood that’s calm during the daytime can turn into a very noisy place at night time. Does a KTV open next door after 7 pm? Is the entrance to your prospective home will-lit? Do you feel safe in the new area? If you don't, you can bet your family won't.Is your pet allowed?Find out your landlord’s stance on having pets. Many landlords don’t allow pets, so finding a pet-friendly residence and landord can often be a challenge if you own fluffy friends.Consider the local commuteTry and get to work, or school, from the new home - before agreeing to live there. Many times, commute related research is merely based on the rough distance between your home and end destination.Walkthrough, or cycle, or ride on your moto on the travel route and see how easy and efficient it really is.Visit our extensive list of properties for rent throughout Cambodia.What are the costs?Most rental rates are exclusive of extra monthly charges. Monthly maintenance, waste collection, gas and water rates, electricity bills, bond payments, etc. can add to the monthly rental price significantly – so make sure you inquire about all extra expenses while you are viewing.Try to confirm them in the rental contract before signing. Expect to pay no more than 1000Riel/$0.25 per Kilowatt for electricity, $5 per month for water charges & trash collection and $5 per month for TV cable connection.Read the contractIt seems like a no-brainer. But read your rental agreement with care and attention to detail. Learn the ways in which you can be liable for a breach of your contract, for example having pets or parties – different landlords’ stipulate different reasons for being allowed to throw you out, so make sure you know what the landlord in question expects of you before you agree to stay.Everyone hagglesAlways bargain the price with your landlord no matter how it makes you feel. Learn how to haggle. The same goes for your real estate agent.Remember, that while your real estate agent is acting in your interests to some degree – they are ultimately acting on behalf of the sale, and their commission will be higher if the final agreed price is higher. If you are applying for a long term rental, one year or over, use this as a bartering tool.Also, while the landlord may not be flexible on the monthly rental price, you may still be able to push them for additional services or home furnishing/appliances for free as contract sweeteners.An upfront advance on your first few months’ rents may also be an enticing bartering point for landlords who looks for a fast cash injection in the short term, but ensure everything is receipted correctly.Safety firstRegardless of what your agent tells you, be personally responsible for you and your family’s safety when considering any new rental property. Walk around the neighbourhood of any property you are considering renting, speak with neighbours (and other tenants if it is a shared building) and come back to the area at night-time and make sure no hidden threats appear when the sun goes down.Also, always consider the potential for flooding. A 24-hour review is necessary to note any noise hazards too – there may be construction in the afternoon that you never noticed at the morning viewing, or a nightclub could open at night next door.For a little extra attention before agreeing to the rental contract, you can truly understand the pros and cons of the property.Little Things: Check faucets, door hinges, locks, doorknobs, appliances, water heaters and gas cookers before agreeing to rent. Most of the time these things look perfect until further investigation - but if you catch minor problems now, you can ask the landlord to fix them before the agreement is settled.Read more about the expat life in Cambodia in our guide!Is it bug-free?Keep your eyes peeled for any signs of a bug infestation. It is not uncommon and it’s easy to miss signs that your new home is shared by a family of cockroaches, termites, mice or other pests. Unless it’s a critter co-lease you’re looking for, find out before it’s too late.Photo evidenceBefore agreeing to the bond payment, take photos of every room in the house while it is empty. In these pictures, make sure you evidence any pre-existing damage to the property.This way, when your contract eventually ends, the landlord has no grounds to deduct wear and tear damages from your deposit that in fact, that you weren’t responsible for. What is your rental duration?Rental rates can climb 10% to 15% annually in Cambodia, especially in the urban and tourism centres. And as new buildings offering all types of modern amenities continue to enter the rental market, these prices will continue to rise.So, a long-term lease will save you from a price hike when the lease term ends and you are no longer able to find an apartment of the same value for the same price. Signing a long-term lease will also grant higher negotiating power because the landlord knows you will stay for a longer period of time. It also pays to be a good and reliable tenant as this may result in minimal increases.If you end up securing a lease for longer than you are able to stay in Cambodia, check with the landlord to see if they would allow sub-lease agreements. This will give you the opportunity to finish your lease agreement payments through a sub-lease with a short-term tenant.Alternatively, the landlord may allow you to transfer the entire lease to a new tenant that you have found.Looking for a place to rent? Let us help!Article by:

If you’re planning to sell or rent your property, make sure you avoid the following property sale mistakes to ensure you attract the most buyers and renters and get the best price for your property.Poor exterior paint choice:Don’t try and sell a highlighter green house. Consider re-painting your property using a conservative colour scheme. This will allow it to appeal to a wider audience. Look for a good quality exterior paint, which makes your house look as new as possible and avoid this classic property sale mistake.The overgrown garden:An overgrown yard or garden suggests that your whole property has been badly maintained and will make a bad first impression – an obvious but all-to-common property sale mistake. Try to cut bushes and trees, tidy your lawn, plant some hardy plants and re-mulch for a fresh clean look.Too much mess and clutter:Buyers want to see and buy your house – not your things! So avoid a property sale mistake and don’t leave them lying around! Even houses that are decorated well can have too much clutter when it’s time to sell. The bigger your house seems, the more attractive it will be. Buyers want to feel the house or apartment has space, and will accept their furniture and their sense of style. So be prepared to de-clutter, move furniture or make your decorations more neutral.The shadow seller:Make sure you give your agent and their buyers plenty of space and privacy while viewing your home, and certainly don’t follow them around the house. Buyers want to imagine living in your house and that’s really hard to do while you and your family is waiting outside, or inside.Lack of storage:Buyers look for plenty of storage in any property. So, avoid leaving any overstuffed wardrobes and cupboards in the house because this will show the prospective buyer that there isn’t enough room in the house for all of your things – or their things! A final top-tip, use mirrors in small rooms to help the space appear bigger! Avoiding the above property sale mistakes ensures your home will be easier on the eye, the nose and the nerves of any prospective buyers or renters – and will have them making you an offer in no time!Dirty and smelly digsYour house needs to be cleaner than it’s ever been while it’s for sale. When making the decision to sell your property, get help from family, friends - or professional cleaners if need be. Pay special attention to bathrooms, kitchens, general living areas and backyards. No dishes or messy kitchens. Clean and fresh is the best smell when selling. Regardless of how great your home appears, if visitors are immediately confronted with overwhelming or unpleasant odours when entering a home, the likelihood that a sale takes place is extremely slim.Don’t list POA – Or No Sale PricePotential buyers generally read the home’s description and expect to see a listed price. As such, we strongly recommend that you include a price on any listing. If a home features a long list of unique details but lacks a sales price, buyers tend to think the home is very expensive or potentially overpriced. Make it easy for someone to investigate your home further by providing as many details as possible – including a list price.Nobody likes a reluctant sellerIt is not unusual for an individual or a family to become attached to a home. Especially when the residence is filled with great memories. However, once you make the decision to sell, you must keep the objective of a sale in the forefront of your mind. Try your best to keep emotions in check. Step back, and allow your real estate agent the freedom to perform their job.Lousy AgentGiven that real estate is an unregulated profession in Cambodia, you undertake thorough research before choosing an agent to sell your home. You can start you research on our Realestate.com.kh Real Estate Agent Directory Page. Consider if an agent makes themselves readily available to buyers. Agents who seem to rush clients, or seem distracted, do not have the interest of the buyer or seller at the forefront. Likewise, determine if the agent seems professional, honest and genuinely desires to make a sale. A dud agent could well be your number one property sale mistake, but with Realestate.com.kh this will never be an issue!Want to read more articles like this? Get on Realestate.com.kh today, the best source of information for property buyers and sellers in Cambodia.Looking for real estate for rent in Cambodia or real estate for sale in Cambodia?

Mortgages are an essential consideration for most people buying, selling, or simply owning a home. While the concept of borrowing from a bank or lender appears simple - home loans can be a lot harder to understand than you might first think. Realestate.com.kh is here to help you understand mortgages in Cambodia!What is a mortgage?A mortgage is a loan, quite simply, with your house and land used as security for that loan. That means, if you don't pay back the loan in the prescribed time frame, the lender (usually a bank) has the right to foreclose your home.Foreclosing means taking possession of a mortgaged property when the mortgagor fails to keep up their mortgage payments. Basically, the bank takes your home and sells it to settle the debt. The loan is secured by a “lien” (in other words, the "mortgage") against the property in question (your house and land). The lender still doesn't own the house, you do. But if you can't pay, they have the lien with your house as their collateral/security. You still have full ownership rights - yet subject to the mortgage. When looking for your first mortgage is it most important to consider two things:1. What you can actually afford?2. What you can borrow?Why are these two questions different? Because, the lender/bank is never going to look at how much you spend in a month on partying with friends, or movies and dinner, or how happy you'll be with a big payment.In reality, they may well be willing to loan you considerably more than you think you can spend on your home mortgage. You must consider this seriously - because only you know how much flexibility your lifestyle and spending habits have, which ultimately determines how much you can afford when searching for a new home.If you miscalculate this - you risk not being able to satisfy payments and ultimately losing your new home.You can also access the latest editions of the Credit Consumer Index Report published by Credit Bureau (Cambodia) Co Ltd (CBC).If you are unsure of what the different property titles are, have a read of our guide. A lender/bank will look at your income, and future income potential vs. your proposed debt, as well as your bank savings and credit history. Having considered these factors, the bank will then determine how much of a risk you'd be for the lender/bank to take on and issue a loan.Meanwhile, they look at the value of the house you want to buy, and potential future value, and compare against the interest rate of the loan you'll be getting. After this analysis, the bank/lender arrives at a loan amount that they consider a healthy risk.If all things go to plan, this loan amount will match (or potentially exceed) what you need to satisfy your down payment and the final price of the house you want to purchase.What are the components of a mortgage?There are three basic components to any mortgage. These are the home loan amount, interest rate, and loan term.The loan amount: The loan amount is the principal amount that you want to borrow. Banks in Cambodia generally give a loan of up to 70% of the property value.The interest rate: The interest rate is very important to understand! It is the percentage of annual interest that you have to pay on the total loan amount. It can be a fixed rate, a flexible rate, or a combination of both.The loan term: The loan term is the duration/length of time that you take to completely repay the loan. Loans generally range from 15 to 30 years in Cambodia.If you combine the principal loan amount and the interest amount, you will then know the overall loan amount. Most home loans are usually repaid via monthly instalments. The repayment comprises two parts or portions:One part is for the repayment of the principal amount. The other part is for the repayment of the interest.If you want to know which are some of the best banks in Cambodia- read our Ultimate guide to banking for foreigners in Cambodia.How do I speed up my loan repayment?Don’t automatically decrease your repayments just because the interest rates fall. For many loaners, as soon as bank fees and interest rates decrease, and minimum repayments are lowered accordingly, this immediately means a happy camper - with more money in the pocket and less for the bank.However, this is short-sighted. Instead of pocketing the cash, if you keep your repayments at the same level when the interest rates are falling - because this is a prime opportunity to reduce your principal with each payment and make faster progress satisfying your total loan in the longer term.As opposed to seeing it as a time to relax your repayments – you should see it as an opportunity to get ahead of the bank and pay back your principal faster.Test out an “offset account”If it is possible for your loan, try using an offset account. A mortgage offset account is directly connected to your mortgage and the payable interest on your mortgage month to month will be calculated by deducting what funds exist in your offset account against your loan.To clarify, here’s an example: if your total mortgage is $200,000 and your offset account currently has $5,000 in it, you will only pay interest on the remaining $195,000. An offset account allows you to save interest while still allowing access to your savings if needed.For investors, offset accounts are also useful for the preservation of mortgage tax-deductible benefits.Refinance and get a better run for your moneyMaybe you have worked out that your current mortgage is not suitable for your needs and financial circumstances. If this is the case, you need to change your loan quickly before it seriously hurts you.If you are not sure your current mortgage is right for you, it is best to consult a professional finance broker before it is too late. A well-attuned broker will negotiate with your lender about fees for additional repayments, refinancing, or any other necessary measures to help you save on your loan.A good broker should identify the perfect terms for you and then negotiate the best rates for that plan.Make smaller mortgage repayments, more regularlyIf you make more payments, naturally these payments will be smaller. But more regular payments, even if they are smaller, will mean ultimately you can pay off your loan faster because you will lessen your interest repayments in the long term.If you currently repay your mortgage on a monthly basis, try changing to fortnightly loan repayments. Now, your monthly mortgage repayments might equal $2,000 per month, for example. If you can instead pay $1,000 every two weeks, by the end of the year you would have made significant savings on your interest costs and will be a little bit closer to satisfying your overall loan repayment.Take measures to pay back a little bit more each timeRemember, your “minimum repayment” is exactly that: it is the least possible amount you need to repay each month. So, for most mortgages, there is nothing stopping you from paying more than the minimum necessary payment.It doesn’t matter if you pay extra regularly, just when you can afford to now and again is still worthwhile. Even a little bit here and there can add up and eventually reduce your mortgage.When you receive bonuses, tax returns or other monetary gifts you should seriously consider putting this expendable income into your mortgage repayments before it disappears into thin air.Stay up-to-date on the real estate industry in Cambodia and get real-time updates on real estate news as they happen. Download the Realestate.com.kh App now!Article by:

Buying a new home to live in is a necessary thing for everyone in Cambodia, especially in Phnom Penh as most of them are renting but considering buying one for their family. However, buying a new home does not mean that you spend only on the base price of the property - you also have to spend on additional costs associated with the property. Therefore, it is vital that you be aware of extra costs associated with a property purchase in order not to have any unpleasant surprises. Below are several necessary tips on “additional costs” to help first-time homebuyers manage their budget plan for a new property in the event that you are unaware of it. Those additional costs include home loan application and legal fees, ownership transfer tax fee, home insurance fee, real estate agent’s fee, interest on home loan, application for registration and title verification fee, property tax fee, and ongoing costs. Home Loan application and legal fees When purchasing a home, most buyers in Cambodia usually do not have enough money to pay outright. Therefore, they will look for home loan options either with a company project or banks to buy one. However, If you choose a bank loan, you usually get 70% of the home value you are going to buy.Nhoep Nimol, a senior housing loan officer at Canadia Bank, said: “If a homebuyer applies for a home loan, he/she will be charged some fees to cover the charges incurred for valuation and processing of the loan. Then he or she has to pay 1 percent of total loan to the banks.”Ms. Nhoep added: “in the meantime, homebuyers will also have to pay $250 dollars to a lawyer for legal service which includes loan operation, legal advice, property check, and legal processing.”Interest on home loanIf you do not have enough money to buy a home and rely on a bank for a home loan, remember that you have to pay the interest on a home loan every year until the end of the contract. Bank loan terms can range up to 20 years, depending on the decision between homebuyers and the banks.Ms. Nhoep explained that if customers decide to get a bank loan, they need to pay interest which ranges from 8% to 10% per annum. Furthermore, homebuyers are required to submit collateral, hard title, and an income confirmation letter to the banks before qualifying for a home loan.Ownership Transfer tax feeIt is mandatory that homeowners pay ownership transfer tax during the transaction a.k.a. Stamp Tax.  If you choose to buy a home in the Borey project, you will find it easy as the company has a master hard title to be issued to each homeowner. But homeowners have to pay 4% for this ownership transfer tax.Mr. Seng Sopheak, Chief Operating Officer at cplagent.com, said: “you need to pay 4% for the ownership transfer tax. In addition to the 4% transfer cost, buyers also need to spend about $1,000 to the cadastral office which is tasked with the overall operational processing of issuing the title.”“Usually, it takes around 12 weeks to complete the transfer of hard titles done at the cadastral office. A hard title, an ownership certificate issued by the Cadastral office, is the most secure form of ownership and recognized at the national ministerial level as well as at the Sangkat and district level,” added Mr. Seng.At present, due to the economic effects of COVID-19, the 4% Stamp Tax exemption for properties under $70,000 has been extended to 2023.Home insurance feeAlthough a relatively new concept in Cambodia compared to other ASEAN nations such as Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand, home insurance is gradually spreading in Cambodia with more and more insurance firms starting their operation in the kingdom.Home insurance is currently not obligatory for homebuyers in Cambodia. But some developers such as Borey Peng Houth require their customers to buy home insurance when they buy a home from their project.Commenting on this, Mr. Seng explained that home insurance is crucial to every home buyer in Cambodia as he or she will not have to keep a lot of reserves for all types of risks possibly affecting his or her property. For home insurance fee, it depends on the size and value of the home: If the home price is above $100,000, the homeowner must pay $100 or higher per year and If the price is under $100,000, the homeowner must pay less than $100 per year.In any case, if you get a loan from the bank, Cambodia’s Ministry of Finance and Economy cooperate with banks and requires home buyers to buy home insurance of at least $70 per year.Application for Registration and Title Verification FeeDone at the District Land Office of the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning & Construction, you must pay a cadastral transfer fee of KHR 600,000 in order to insert the name of the new owner on the legal documents. Moreover, you also have to pay the title verification fee. According to Prakas 995 dated December 28th, 2012, checking for potential liens or encumbrances under a title will cost you around $12.50.Property taxLike other countries, all the immovable properties in Cambodia need to be paid annual tax; however, it will only apply to the properties with a value of $25,000 and above. According to the Prakas of the Ministry of Economy and Finance, the property tax is collected annually at a rate of 0.1% of the value of the property.To know how much you have to pay for your property tax, there is a clear formula for calculation on it. The property tax is computed by taking 80 percent of the property’s total value, subtracting $25,000, and then multiplying that by 0.1 percent.The property’s value is obtained through a government valuation, depending on several factors such as data collection on relative properties in the market, quality, and location. This tax equally applies to both Cambodian and foreign national who owns the property in Cambodia.Real estate agent’s feeIt is common practice for the seller to shoulder the commission for the agent. But this is not set in stone and there have been instances when buyers pay the agent's fee. It is advised to settle this matter in writing between the buyer and the seller.Mr. Seng explained that in Cambodia real estate agency charges a commission fee of 3%, usually from the seller. But in some cases, buyers also have to pay the commission fee of 3% when they want to buy property from someone. This occurs when the seller is unwilling to sell the property, but the buyer is willing to buy and asks for the agency to persuade the seller to sell their property.Property Management feeThose ongoing costs are usually paid monthly to support daily living including maintenance fees, repair costs, and bills such as internet, electricity, and water. Maintenance fees are paid by homeowners for the upkeep of the building. This fee varies between Borey home and condos/apartments.Mr. Seng says, “For borey home, the maintenance fee includes cleaner, security guard, and public light in the project area. It will be charged between $20 and $50 per month. For a condo, the fee ranges from $0.50 to $2 per square metre. In addition, living in a condo requires you to pay for parking space which ranges from $50 to $60 per month. Furniture and any future renovations can also be regarded as ongoing costs.”Ongoing costs for condos are usually covered in management fees.Looking for a new home in Cambodia? Let us help!