Buying Property in Bali: A Step-by-Step Guide for International Buyers

Why Buying Property in Bali is Gaining Global Attention

There’s something about Bali. It’s not just the beaches or the sunsets — it’s the whole vibe. The slower pace, the sense of community, the feeling that life doesn’t have to be so rushed. That’s why more and more people from around the world aren’t just visiting Bali — they’re buying property here.

Whether it’s retirees looking for a peaceful second home, digital nomads wanting a place that feels stable, or investors chasing strong rental returns, Bali is now firmly on the global real estate radar. And in 2025, the buzz is louder than ever. New villas are popping up, demand from travelers is strong, and the combination of lifestyle + income potential? Hard to beat.

Can Foreigners Buy Property in Bali? Legal Landscape Explained

This is where most people get stuck. Can you actually buy property in Bali if you’re not Indonesian?

Technically, no — foreigners can’t own land in their name. But here’s the good news: there are fully legal ways to make it work.

• Leasehold: You can lease a property for 25–30 years, and often renew the lease when it ends. You don’t own the land, but you have full control over it — you can live there, rent it out, renovate it, the works.
  
  
• PT PMA (Foreign-Owned Company): If you’re thinking bigger — like running a business or building your own property — you can set up a PT PMA, which allows you to lease land with “Right to Build” rights. It takes more setup, but it’s totally legit and gives you stronger footing.
  
  

Bottom line: foreigners can buy in Bali — just not the way you might be used to back home. You’ll need a good legal advisor, but once you’ve got the right structure, it’s smooth sailing.

Step-by-Step Process to Buying Property in Bali

Here’s how it usually plays out — no corporate lingo, just what actually happens:

1. Start Browsing
   You’ll probably start like everyone else — scrolling listings online, dreaming. That’s good. It helps you understand pricing and what different areas feel like.
   
   
2. Know What You Want
   Are you looking for a place to live? A villa to rent out? Or a mix of both? Figuring this out early helps everything else fall into place.
   
   
3. Pick Your Legal Route
   Decide whether leasehold is enough or if you’re going to set up a PT PMA. If you're not sure, talk to a local lawyer — they’ll help you decide.
   
   
4. Find a Good Agent
   This part matters. You want someone who knows the local scene, understands the legal stuff, and isn’t just chasing a commission. A great agent will save you from a lot of headaches.
   
   
5. Do Legal Checks
   Once you find something you love, your notary or lawyer will check land certificates, zoning permissions, and make sure everything is clean.
   
   
6. Contracts & Payment
   You sign, you pay (usually through an escrow account), and your notary registers the agreement officially. That’s when it starts to feel real.
   
   
7. Move In or Rent It Out
   Once the paperwork’s done, the property’s yours to use — live in, rent, renovate, or just enjoy on your next trip.

Types of Property You Can Buy in Bali

Not everything is a villa, though let’s be honest — villas are the most popular option. Here’s a quick overview:

• Villas: The dream. Open-air kitchens, private pools, tropical gardens. They can be modern, traditional, or somewhere in between. Perfect for living or renting out.
  
  
• Houses: A little more low-key and often in local neighborhoods. Great if you want something more affordable or longer lease terms.
  
  
• Apartments/Condos: Still a growing market, but slowly becoming more available, especially in Seminyak and Kuta.
  
  
• Land: You’ll need a PT PMA to go this route, but if you want to build from scratch, this is how to do it.
  
  

If you’re thinking about ROI, villas win. Bali’s rental demand is solid, and a well-located villa can pay for itself over time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid as an International Buyer

This is where people get into trouble. Don’t let the dream blind you to the reality:

• No Legal Help: Trying to save a bit by skipping a lawyer or notary is a bad idea. Always have someone on your side.
  
  
• Lease Terms Confusion: Some people sign leases without understanding when and how they can renew. You must get this in writing — and reviewed.
  
  
• Bad Agents: Some agents are just looking for a quick sale. If they’re rushing you or dodging questions — walk away.
  
  
• Chasing Bargains: Cheap properties often come with complications — no permits, unclear titles, bad locations. Always do your checks.
  
  

Take your time. Ask questions. Get everything verified. It’s your money and your future — protect both.

How to Find the Right Property Agent in Bali

A good agent doesn’t just send you listings — they explain the process, help you avoid scams, and stay by your side until the deal is done. Here’s how to spot a solid one:

• They’re registered and transparent about commissions
  
  
• They’ve worked with foreign clients before
  
  
• They know the neighborhoods and aren’t afraid to say, “This one’s not worth it”
  
  
• They give you the full picture — legal documents, zoning info, everything
  
  

If someone is pushing you to decide quickly or doesn’t answer your questions clearly, they’re not your agent.

Final Thoughts: Is Bali Real Estate Still Worth It in 2025?

Honestly? Yes. It’s not as “cheap” as it used to be, but the value is still incredibly strong — especially compared to places like Portugal or Thailand.

Tourism is steady, demand for rentals is high, and the lifestyle here is unmatched. If you do it the right way — with a good lawyer, the right agent, and a bit of patience — buying in Bali isn’t just doable, it’s one of the smartest moves you can make.

Thinking about buying in Bali?
At Leylines.com, we make the process simple, clear, and safe. Whether you're looking for a quiet jungle retreat, a beachfront escape, or a solid investment, we’re here to help.

👉 Visit Leylines.com and let’s talk about your next step.