Good Hua Hin property advice is not always about pushing people to buy. Sometimes, the best advice is to wait, rent first, or walk away from a property that does not feel right.
This month, I’m taking a step back from my usual focus on market trends to explain why, at certain times of the year, I sell less than others. I’ve been working in Hua Hin property for more than 20 years and have been fortunate to be very successful, but I will not sell something I would not be proud to own myself.
Why good Hua Hin property advice matters
Recently, I worked with an expat who had posted online with a very clear set of criteria. Within 30 minutes, he had received around 50 comments filled with links, photos and, frankly, irrelevant offers that had nothing to do with what he had asked for.
These are not agents. Hua Hin has only a small number of agents who genuinely listen and understand what people want, whether they are looking to buy or rent.
During the past high season, I predicted slower sales as the Thai baht was too strong and advised a number of buyers to wait. Euro buyers were less affected and were able to pick up some good deals, while Australian buyers would have been unwise to purchase at that time due to the significantly weaker Australian dollar.
As a result, my sales were lower than those of others who tend to push through deals without properly considering the buyer’s situation, both now and in the future, when they may want to sell the property.
I focus on buyers who take their time, explore properly and make informed decisions. In some cases, I even suggest that buying may not be the right move and that renting could be more practical, at least initially.
That said, in most situations I still believe buying is the better option, particularly for those who have a strong connection to living here and who want to build something for the future. Done correctly, it can lead to solid long-term gains and the development of a strong property portfolio.
At the same time, those who rent long term are often perfectly content. Some may feel they missed the opportunity to invest, while others have reached a stage in life where they simply want to enjoy their time without financial concerns. Perhaps they have no direct heirs and are happy living as full-time retirees. I respect that lifestyle and always offer support to help them settle, just as I do with buyers.
Of course, once this reaches social media, there will be comments from short-term renters saying that no one does well in Thailand. That simply is not true.
It is a different lifestyle. Small rented rooms, eating out for every meal and socialising most evenings may suit some people, and there is nothing wrong with that. But it is not the same as living here long term. It is closer to an extended holiday.
The idea of “try before you buy” has changed significantly over the years. When I started in 2005, fewer than 5% of renters went on to buy. Buyers were different then, often using equity or cash, and with favourable exchange rates, they purchased without much hesitation.
Today, people are more cautious, and I would say around 50% now rent before buying.
If you do rent first, choose somewhere you could realistically see yourself living long term. Get used to everyday life beyond the centre of Hua Hin and try not to rely too heavily on social media or expat groups.
These groups often meet regularly and can influence opinions, but much of the information shared is inaccurate, especially when it comes to legal matters and lifestyle expectations.
It reminds me of something I used to say: you stub your toe at one end of the road, and by the time the story reaches the other end, you’ve broken your leg. Misinformation spreads quickly and can influence the decisions of buyers, renters and visitors.
To finish, I always say the same thing. Hua Hin is a great base, and Thailand is a great place. I never get bored here. I take short trips every month or so, using Hua Hin as a clean, safe hub to explore the country. You can spend years discovering new places without ever leaving Thailand.
Thinking of buying in Hua Hin?
Feel free to contact me directly in the comment section below. I’m always happy to offer straightforward advice.
Andy
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