Phuket, Thailand -- (SBWire) -- 11/14/2011 --No matter which country you are buying property in, it's important to understand a little about the different areas. Find out which places suit your investment plan and lifestyle, and the sort of prices you should be paying.

So here is the second part of my guide to what each area of Phuket can offer you.

Today: South West Phuket (Patong & South of Patong)

Patong Beach
If you are looking for a reasonably priced, entry level apartment then Patong is one of the best places to buy.

As you probably know, its central location on the west coast means it's convenient for the airport (around 35 minutes). And its lively nightlife, bars and restaurants make it one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Island.

Patong is most popular with singles and couples on short breaks. Many prefer to stay in an apartment rather than a hotel, so rental returns tend to be good as occupancy rates are high.

You'll find a good range of smaller studios (around 30m2) and one bedroom apartments (about 60m2) for prices from 2,500,000 Baht (US$83,000) to around 6,000,000 Baht (US$199,000) - depending on location, size and quality.

You won't find many larger two bedroom apartments unless you buy off plan.

Sea view apartments are in short supply in Patong as most development is at sea level. But you can find a few on the northern edge of the town and further up the coast in Kalim.

Tri-Trang
Tri-Trang was off most people's radar until recently.

This small sandy beach is just 3km south of Patong.

The good thing about Tri-Trang is it's just a five minute drive from central Patong but has a peaceful, natural environment.

You should be able make some good capital gains if you buy the right property in this area.

Karon
Karon is an established seaside town with hotels such as The Hilton and Movenpick.

It wouldn't be at the top of my list for investment property, but it is ideal for a holiday home.

Most of the available apartments are set back from the beach by about 500 metres in high-rise blocks.

If you want an ocean view you need to be on the higher floors (obviously) and your view won't be great; a panoramic view of the town with a slither of ocean at the top.

Kata
Just south of Karon, Kata is a bustling seaside town which gets a little congested in the high season due to its narrow streets.

Many people find it quite charming, all the same.

Its two beaches, Kata Noi and the main Kata Beach, are regarded as amongst the best in Phuket. Of the two, Kata Noi is usually quieter.

Property development on the hillsides surrounding Kata started in the 1990's and land is now scarce.

So today it's hard to find new property launches in the area and villas are in short supply.

Kata is more expensive than Patong and Karon. But rental yields are good with high occupancy rates all year round.

Naiharn
Naiharn is the most south-westerly town in Phuket.

It's located in the centre of a national park so land near the beach is protected.

Many regard Naiharn as Phuket's prettiest beach; it has a wide bay with tropical rainforest on either side.

The area is quiet and popular with expats.

If you are looking for a retirement home or you intend to stay in Phuket for longer periods, Naiharn is worth considering.

You'll find plenty of foreign owned businesses; restaurants, bars, bakeries and shops. In fact, some people think Naiharn is a little too Westernised for them.

Property in Naiharn is mainly limited to villas and prices are reasonable.

You won't find any ocean view properties in Naiharn due to the national park, but you will find plenty of choice.

The downside to Naiharn has to be the distance from the airport; it will take you a minimum of one and a half hours to get there.

In summary, if you're looking for a reasonably priced investment property you should consider Patong and my top tip, Tri-Trang.

If you prefer something a little more upmarket, with good rental yields, look at Kata but be prepared to pay higher prices.

If you are considering longer stays or a permanent move, Naiharn is the place to be on the South West Coast. But, remember, it’s a long way from the airport and some consider it too Westernised.

If you want to know more, you can get a free copy of ‘The Definitive Guide to buying property in Phuket’ here - http://blog.phuketoceanvillas.com/the-definitive-guide-to-buying-property-in-phuket/

About Phuket Ocean Villas
Phuket Ocean Villas specialise in luxury ocean view property in Phuket, Thailand. We have a superb and extensive portfolio of luxury property in Phuket, available in breathtaking locations throughout the island, including new property, resale property and land.