Thailand ahead of the season: what is the current situation in the real estate market and how to prepare for high customer activity

Partner post with Ruslan Boichuk — founder of Search Estate real estate agency in Phuket.

What's the current activity level in your region and Thailand's real estate market overall?

Currently, demand for Phuket has slightly dropped, activity is shifting to Pattaya as major Bangkok developers move to such regions.

Why is Pattaya more interesting for them? Because they can build high-rise buildings. Phuket is less attractive but attracts higher-end tourist segments.

How do you prepare for the season?

As every year: hire more people through lead generation, optimize costs, and attract more international partners.

How was your August?

August went pretty well overall, and also well with you: we have leads and people planning to visit during season, so interest in Phuket remains, but not the hype like last year or the year before.

Is it true the season starts in October or has activity already begun?

Activity usually starts in September actually. People prepare ahead for Phuket arrival — this concerns both rentals and sales. In September people arrive and realize low season isn't a barrier for property purchase or rental here.

Should you start marketing campaigns early or can you wait and launch later?

Marketing and advertising campaigns should run year-round: maximum budgets during peak season and before it starts, minimum budgets during low season. This optimizes better and keeps advertising accounts warm.

What advice can you give to those wanting to close many deals from season start like you?

The only advice I can give to those wanting to close many deals like us — stay dedicated to your work, don't sell air, sell properties that really turn out to be good products. Then many people will return and buy from you again and again.