Apartments are the most accessible entry into the Bali real estate market and the most logical format when you want to test the market with limited capital.
Until a few years ago, this format in Bali practically did not exist — the market was in a strong deficit of units offered for sale. Today, developers are building many complexes, hotels and residences, but demand continues to outpace supply in the most sought-after locations. That is exactly why apartments remain a reasonable starting format for an investor who does not want to commit large capital at the beginning.
What the Bali format looks like
Apartments in Bali are usually located in gated complexes or low-rise residences — buildings rarely exceed 4 floors, which creates a calmer atmosphere and often includes a rooftop terrace. The complex usually has a pool, security, a relaxation area and parking. Units start at around 25 m².
This is an important distinction compared to villas: an apartment is part of a managed environment, not a standalone property with a yard and pool. For an investor who does not live on the island, this is often an advantage, not a compromise.
Advantages of an apartment as an investment
- Lower entry point. The price of the presale (off-plan) stage can start from around $70,000–100,000 with proven developers — significantly more affordable than a standalone villa.
- Lower maintenance costs. Management costs for a complex from a management company are noticeably lower than maintaining a villa with a yard, pool and landscaping.
- Ready infrastructure. Complexes usually offer a pool, security and common areas — something private villa complexes do not always provide.
- Demand from digital nomads. A large share of those working remotely (from Europe, the USA and other regions) are looking specifically for an apartment with good internet, a kitchen and a workspace, not a villa.
- Option to choose a design. Some developers give the buyer the option to choose an interior design already at the presale stage.
- Suitable for resale. The lower entry price makes it easier to exit from a lower-stage position.
Indicative yield
With professional management and a good location, apartments in Bali move in a scenario of around 10–12% per year — after taxes, maintenance, insurance and taxes. This is a projection under certain conditions: a strong location, realistic occupancy and management by an experienced company. An apartment in a weak demand zone, even at a low price, can give a much lower result.
In Canggu and Ubud, demand for short-term rentals is the most stable, which makes these areas preferred for the apartment format.
How it differs from a villa
| Criterion | Apartment | Villa |
|---|---|---|
| Entry price (presale) | from ~$70,000–100,000 | from ~$150,000–200,000 |
| Maintenance costs | lower | higher |
| Infrastructure | shared (pool, security) | own (pool, yard) |
| Flexibility and uniqueness | limited configuration | high |
| Indicative yield | 10–12% | 11–16% |
Who they are suitable for
The apartment is a reasonable choice for an investor who wants to enter the Bali market without large initial capital, test the hypothesis with real income and decide later whether to move to a larger format. It is also suitable for those who prefer management without personal involvement and do not maintain their own yard or pool.
Review the portfolio or the individual categories — villas, new construction и investment projects — to compare the formats. If you are not sure which suits your goal, request an investment analysis.