Chiang Mai holds claim to be one of the most liveable cities in Asia and is gradually becoming as popular as Phuket, Samui and Pattaya, in fact it was voted 9th in a recent Asia-wide poll. It has been touted as one of Thailand’s best places to settle. A major trend to affect property in Chiang Mai is the influx of foreigners choosing to settle in Chiang Mai. It is perhaps the laid back, unhurried atmosphere, impressive history and culture, cooler weather and lovely nature areas nearby that attract the outsiders. The large expat community is supported by clubs and organisations, and the locals are grown accustom to dealing with foreign preferences.
Chiang Mai has a well established real estate industry; the city is supported by a professional network of agents, although you will find few of the sophisticated developers that typify the property market in Phuket or Samui. They do actively target foreigners and are experienced with both condo and house sales. Property in Chiang Mai is considerably cheaper than other major centres in Thailand, but the market is far less dynamic. The Chiang Mai real estate industry has grown very confident in recent years as this Northern Capital has prospered and produced an ever increasing Thai middle class. It is generally regarded as cheaper, less touristy and less congested than Bangkok or Phuket.