Property investment cut amid weak demand

Residential developers in three eastern provinces slowed new investments last year in response to weak demand, driven by high mortgage rejection rates among local homebuyers.

- KANANA KATHARANGSIPORN

Vattanapol Pholchivin, president of the Chon Buri Real Estate Association, said many residential projects in 2024 recorded zero sales, as banks tightened mortgage lending, weakening purchasing power.

"Though interest rates remain low, household debt is still high," he said. "Absorption rates for homes priced 3 million baht or less were nearly zero, as potential buyers failed to secure mortgages."

Mr Vattanapol, who is also managing director of Chon Buri-based developer Maneerin Property, said his company launched only one project with fewer than 100 units in 2024, compared with 5-6 projects featuring thousands of units three years ago.