Property

Indonesia, an archipelago made up of over 17,000 islands and 38 provinces, is a nation that exemplifies the phrase "Unity in Diversity." Home to more than 270 million people, Indonesia boasts a staggering array of ethnic groups, languages, and cultures, each with its own unique customs, traditions, and communication styles. From the bustling streets of Jakarta to the serene rice terraces of Bali,...

As I watched the movers pack our belongings, I still couldn’t quite believe that we had lived in Jakarta for a total of eleven years. Our first posting was from 2009 to 2014, and the second from 2018 until August this year. Our daughter was eleven when we first set foot in this vibrant city, and now she’s a working adult. The country and its people have made a significant impact on our lives, changing...

Indonesia, an archipelago made up of over 17,000 islands and 38 provinces, is a nation that exemplifies the phrase "Unity in Diversity." Home to more than 270 million people, Indonesia boasts a staggering array of ethnic groups, languages, and cultures, each with its own unique customs, traditions, and communication styles. From the bustling streets of Jakarta to the serene rice terraces of Bali,...

  Cultural Norms in Indonesia: From Hand-Kissing to Family Obligations When I first moved to Indonesia, I was immediately struck by the warmth and hospitality of the people. Over time, I discovered that behind this hospitality lies a deep respect for traditions and customs, some of which are uniquely Indonesian. From the way people greet each other to how they celebrate weddings and birthdays,...

Culture is more than just a word; it’s the essence of who we are. For me, culture has always been a central part of my life, deeply woven into my identity through the diverse heritage of my grandparents—Indonesian, Japanese, German, and Swedish. Growing up amidst this rich tapestry of cultures, I experienced firsthand the challenges and beauty that come with navigating different beliefs and...

1.Communication is KEY! English-Speaking Agents Are Crucial One of the main challenges when renting in Indonesia is the language barrier. While many Indonesians have some level of English proficiency, language barriers can still pose significant challenges, especially in real estate negotiations. Finding an English-speaking agent who understands your needs is crucial to ensure smooth communication...

Now that you know what to expect and how the market works, what’s next? The question is whether you should hire a local property consultant to assist you or if you have the time to do your own research and explore Indonesia’s real estate market platforms. First and foremost, keep in mind that most real estate platforms here are in Indonesian. So, unless you’re fluent in the language and know...

GOOD NEWS! Jakarta has an oversupply of luxury apartments and condominiums! Having lived in Europe for most of my life, where high-rise apartment buildings are often associated with lower-income housing, I was surprised to find that this is not the case in Jakarta.  I was amazed by the skyscrapers and the high quality of what are considered luxury condos in Jakarta. All luxury apartments come with...