Have you ever wondered if there’s anything more interesting to invest in real estate besides regular condos or houses? A new mega trend in real estate, “Wellness Living,” has recently emerged around the world. Thailand is one of the key destinations of this trend in Southeast Asia.

Global Momentum: Retirees Are Not the Only Target Group for Wellness Living

According to the Global Wellness Institute (GWI), the worldwide wellness real estate market was valued at $398 billion in 2022 and is projected to increase to $580 billion by 2025. This indicates that wellness real estate is a long-term trend that people around the world prioritize. This creates an opportunity for investors.

It would be undermined to assume that the major target for this market is the elderly or those nearing retirement age. Almost 50% of buyers in this market are between 30 and 50 years old. This group represents a working-age group who search for residences that can support their healthier daily life. They wouldn’t wait until retirement to start caring about their health. This group includes entrepreneurs and digital nomads who recognize that a good quality of life impacts their work efficiency and happiness. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated many people to pay more attention to both physical and mental health.

Four Key Factors Making Thailand in the Forefront in Wellness Real Estate Market

While the wellness real estate trend is growing rapidly worldwide, Thailand has distinct advantages that make it one of the most attractive destinations for investors. These key positive factors are as follows:

• Affordable Healthcare: Thailand is consistently ranked as a top country for medical tourism, offering quality healthcare at more affordable prices than many other Western countries. For example, a comprehensive health check-up at a private hospital in Thailand might cost only $200, compared to up to $1,000 in the US.

• Aging Population in Asia: Many countries are entering the aging societies. A large number of retirees are looking for quality and affordable housing options, and Thailand is a perfect choice.

• Government Support: For many years, Thailand has been a popular destination for foreigners, including tourists, entrepreneurs, and retirees. The government promotes this with various visa policies, such as the Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa and the Thailand Elite visa, making it easier to own property with residency rights.

• Competitive Property Prices: Compared to major cities like Hong Kong, Singapore, or Tokyo, real estate prices in Thailand remain highly competitive. Investing in wellness real estate outside of the city center, such as in Pathum Thani, is an attractive option for those looking for larger living spaces, situated in a natural environment, and providing comprehensive services at a great value.

More Than Price: Incentives to Attract Foreigners

For foreigners, choosing to live in Thailand is not just about affordability, but also about living in an environment that promotes physical and mental well-being daily. These are the key factors that attract foreigners to live in Thailand:

• Peace of Mind: Having healthcare services integrated into the community provides a sense of security when medical needs arise.
• Belonging: Living in a community that shares a similar mindset makes it easier to adapt and feel at home.
• Eco-Friendly Living: Wellness residences often include green spaces, gardens, and fresh air, helping people relax from the chaos of big city life.
• Smart Investment: With the increasing global demand for wellness residences, investing in this type of property is definitely a smart and valuable long-term decision.

Looking ahead, the wellness real estate market will continue to grow. Investing in wellness real estate in Thailand offers returns that go beyond financial profit, as investors also become part of a sustainable and wellness community. This is the return that smart investors can immediately see.