Buying property in Bali is like picking between nasi campur and steak. Both fill your stomach—but give a very different experience.
When people say “I want to buy a house in Bali,” many times they actually mean a villa. But a house and a villa are not always the same. Especially here in Bali.
Let us explain, simply.
What is a House in Bali?
A house is usually for local people. It’s basic. Often part of a neighborhood, no pool, maybe no garden.
Think of it like a home cooked meal—practical, humble, and affordable.
You’ll often find houses in Denpasar, Gianyar, or inland areas.
A house in Bali can cost under $100,000, sometimes even less.
Also houses in Bali sometimes located in a dense neighborhood. So privacy is not a thing there.
But:
Harder to rent to tourists
Less lifestyle appeal
More for long-term living
What is a Villa in Bali?
A villa is made for lifestyle. For expats, digital nomads, and tourists. It is best for foreigners because a villa kinda follows western style houses.
It’s more like a resort-style home:
Private pool
Enclosed or open living room
Modern kitchen
Instagrammable look
In some villa development, it will be in gated community.
Most villas are in areas like Canggu, Seminyak, Uluwatu, or Ubud.
A good 2-bedroom villa can cost $200,000–$400,000, depending on location and design.
So What’s the Real Difference?
| Feature | House | Villa |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Local living | Lifestyle & rental |
| Design | Simple | Modern, stylish, pool |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| Rental Income | Low or none | High (8–12% rental yield) |
| Buyers | Locals | Foreigners, expats, investors |
A house is like a scooter.
It takes you places, saves fuel.
A villa is like a Vespa—stylish, fun, and turns heads.
Why It Matters for Buyers
One thing to note is foreigners buying house/villa in Bali – do not hold the titles, but rather a leasehold with extension.
So it’s always best to buy villa instead of just regular houses. You can also rent it out on Airbnb, or make money from tourism, a villa is better.
Tourist areas in Bali bring over 6 million foreign visitors per year (BPS Bali data 2023). That’s why villas near beaches or rice fields stay booked year-round.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a cozy home or an investment property—we’ll guide you step-by-step.
