HABITAT GROUP emphasizes LIFESTYLE INVESTMENT as the holiday home sector expands, driven by buyers looking for second homes as backup accommodations during COVID-19. Sales in June 2020 surged threefold, with projected transfers for the year exceeding 2.5 billion baht, reflecting a growth of over 220% from the previous year.

Mr. Chanin Vanichwong noted that since the beginning of 2020 until April, the lockdown during April - May 2020, as per government policy, forced the company to adapt to the situation and launch promotions to drive projects again in June. The promotions were more appealing, allowing customers to make purchases without leaving their homes. He believes that small hotels focusing on good hygiene can still thrive.

- Best Western Premier Bayphere Pattaya achieved a 90% transfer rate and sold out 100% by June 2020.
- Bluephere Pattaya recorded 100% sales with a 70% transfer rate.
- X2 Pattaya Oceanphere achieved 100% sales and transfers.
- Wyndham Atlas Wongamat also recorded 100% sales.
- Ramada Mira North Pattaya had 70% sales.

For projects in Bangkok:
- Leroy Ruamrudee 1 sold one unit valued at 205 million baht.
- Walden Asoke achieved 80% sales.
- Walden Sukhumvit 39 reached 60% sales.
- Walden Thonglor 8 recorded 30% sales.

The backlog for projects in both Bangkok and Pattaya totals 3.5 billion baht.

Overall, Mr. Chanin stated that the company continues to focus on developing projects for lifestyle investment. They will consider investments based on suitability and apply stricter criteria for investment decisions. Plans for next year include expanding residential project developments to meet changing customer demands in the future.

“This crisis is unlike those in the past. We believe we will continue to face such volatility. It is uncertain whether there will be a second wave of COVID-19 in the next six months. Therefore, to keep the business moving forward amid such fluctuations, in addition to preparing personnel and effective financial management, a flexible business plan is the way to navigate this crisis,” Mr. Chanin remarked.

In terms of past achievements, HABITAT GROUP has invested in developing seven real estate projects for investment in Pattaya, with three already operational as hotels: The Ville Jomtien, X2 Vibe Pattaya Seaphere, and X2 Pattaya Oceanphere. They are set to open two more locations in 2020: Best Western Premier Collection Bluphere Pattaya and Best Western Premier Bayphere Pattaya.