Relocating to Bali is a dream for many, but navigating its property market can feel overwhelming. As the founder of Our Year in Bali, I know how hard it can be to find clear, trustworthy information that cuts through the confusion. That’s why I was thrilled to sit down with Tom Butler, co-founder of REID (Real Estate Information Data), Bali’s only independent property analytics provider.
Whether you’re planning a permanent move, looking for a holiday home, or exploring a smart investment, this guide will help you make confident, well-informed decisions. You’ll discover practical tips on ownership options, pricing trends, emerging hotspots, and why turning to reliable, independent sources like REID is so important in Bali’s unique, fast-evolving market.
Why Bali’s Property Market Is Unique
Unlike mature markets such as Australia or the UK, Bali’s property market is less regulated and highly fragmented. There is no single government registry with transparent sales data. Instead, buyers often rely on agents or developers whose information can be inconsistent.
Recognising this gap, Tom and his team at REID built a platform to consolidate grassroots data directly from agents, developers, government sources, and even travel rental platforms. Their goal? To give buyers and investors credible, unbiased insights so they can make informed decisions.
Freehold vs. Leasehold: What You Need to Know
If you’re planning to buy property in Bali, you’ll hear two main terms:
- Freehold: Just like traditional ownership in Western markets. Foreigners can own freehold property, but only via a foreign-owned company structure called a PMA, which holds a slightly different title (HGB).
- Leasehold: A long-term lease, typically 20–30 years (average around 26 years). It’s cheaper and simpler to enter, making it popular among foreign buyers.
REID’s data covers both types, giving a clear picture of pricing, availability, and trends.
Market Trends: Steady Growth and Evolving Demand
According to REID’s analytics:
- Rapid Supply Growth: Bali’s property market has expanded quickly, with new supply increasing 30–40% annually in recent years.
- Steady, Sustainable Price Increases: Leasehold property prices have risen 3–5% year-on-year, showing consistent, stable growth rather than boom-and-bust cycles.
- Shift in Property Preferences: Demand has moved away from traditional 3-bedroom villas on large plots toward smaller one- and two-bedroom properties, ideal for Airbnb and holiday rentals.
- Tourism Rebound Driving Demand: In 2023, foreign arrivals surged by 20%, with record levels of domestic tourism supporting strong rental yields.
- Greater Diversity of Buyers: Not just investors—families planning permanent moves, retirees, and digital nomads are all driving demand across different locations and price points.
- More Professional Developers Entering the Market: A clear shift toward experienced developers delivering higher-quality builds, better amenities, and stronger compliance with zoning and sustainability goals.
Hotspots: Where Is Everyone Buying?
Bali has long been known for its classic, well-loved hubs like Seminyak, Ubud, Canggu, and Berawa. These areas remain extremely popular, offering a tried-and-true mix of lifestyle amenities, dining, shopping, and reliable rental demand.
- Seminyak continues to attract buyers who want established infrastructure, beach clubs, restaurants, and consistent tourist interest.
- Canggu and Berawa have been the epicentre of Bali’s boom for the past decade. They offer excellent facilities, international schools, co-working spaces, and a strong community of expats, digital nomads, and families.
- These mature markets remain appealing for investors and residents alike, with strong rental yields and reliable demand, but they also tend to have higher price tags and increased competition.
REID’s location reports also highlight three particularly interesting emerging areas that are seeing rapid growth and unique positioning in the market:
Bukit Peninsula
- Encompassing Uluwatu, Bingin, and Ungasan.
- Booming with one- and two-bedroom villas and apartments.
- Median Leasehold price- $245kUSD
- Popular with a younger, lifestyle-driven demographic.
- Offers stunning clifftop views, surf beaches, and an expanding range of cafés, restaurants, and wellness amenities.
Pererenan
- Just north of Canggu.
- Median Leasehold price- $343kUSD
- Has evolved into a premium market with boutique villas, high-end dining, and an upscale vibe.
- Attracts buyers seeking a balance between lively Canggu energy and more curated, quieter surroundings.
- Zoning and planning aim to preserve its distinctive character despite rising demand.
Nyanyi Beach / Nuanu Area
- North of Canggu, drawing families and lifestyle buyers.
- Median Leasehold price- $305kUSD
- Anchored by Nuanu, a master-planned 40-hectare development with schools, green spaces, and community amenities.
- Favours larger family villas and long-term living over short-stay rental models.
- Offers a more serene, community-focused alternative while staying connected to Bali’s popular west coast.
Spotlight on Sanur: The Underrated Gem
While newer hotspots get much of the hype, Sanur on Bali’s east coast offers fantastic opportunities:
Steady price growth (~3% annually)
- Median Leasehold price- $331kUSD
- Excellent infrastructure (wider roads, sidewalks)
- White-sand beach and long boardwalk
- Major new amenities, including Bali’s largest shopping mall, an upcoming marina, new international schools, and an international hospital
Sanur appeals to families and retirees alike, with a more laid-back, community feel. It’s a mature, reliable market that many overlook.
Sustainable Development: An Evolving Focus
Tom also shared insights on sustainability in Bali’s property sector. The government is paying closer attention to zoning and permitting, with crackdowns on non-compliant projects. Meanwhile, more developers are adopting eco-friendly designs and materials, though this is still evolving.
As the market matures, sustainability is expected to become a bigger priority.
Why Data Matters for Buyers
Whether you’re buying your first Bali home, making a long-term investment, or setting up a holiday rental, making an informed decision is essential. Bali’s market can be confusing, but data helps you:
- Understand price trends
- Compare leasehold and freehold options
- Assess risks and opportunities in specific areas
- Avoid overpaying
- Plan for rental yields
REID offers location reports from $79 USD, making them an accessible first step for anyone considering Bali property.
BONUS for our community:Get 20% OFF REID’s Bali Location Reports with code OYIB2025
Final Advice
If you’re thinking about buying in Bali, Tom’s advice is simple:
“Always remember why you want to move to Bali—hold onto that vision. But don’t get swept up in the romanticism. Ask the same questions you would in your home country. Be curious. The answers are out there, and with the right guidance, you can make an informed, confident choice.”
At Our Year in Bali, we couldn’t agree more. Our mission is to help you navigate this journey with clarity and confidence, so you can truly enjoy your new life in Bali.
Interested in diving deeper?
Check out REID’s website for location reports, data dashboards, and resources to help you explore the Bali property market.
