In recent weeks, there has been a marked increase in real estate interest in areas bordering Ho Chi Minh City. Data from Batdongsan.com.vn indicates that regions such as Binh Duong, Ba Ria - Vung Tau, and Dong Nai have seen a surge in inquiries, reflecting a positive response from investors to news of potential administrative mergers.
Since the release of the merger proposal, cities like Thuận An and Ben Cat in Binh Duong have recorded an astonishing 26% increase in real estate interest, making them the highest in the area. Di An followed closely with a 23% increase, while Dau Tieng and Bau Bang also experienced rises of 19% and 10%, respectively. In Ba Ria - Vung Tau, Phu My led search interest with 22%, followed by Xuyen Moc at 21% and other areas like Ba Ria and Chau Duc. Meanwhile, in Dong Nai, Vinh Cuu and Nhon Trach saw impressive numbers as well, with respective interest levels of 42% and 41%.
Mr. Dinh Minh Tuan, the Director of Batdongsan.com.vn for the Southern region, remarked that this phenomenon is a direct response to the merger proposal and reflects a booming investor interest in the potential of these regions. The Emerald 68 residential project, developed by Le Phong Group and Coteccons, serves as a prime example, reporting a steady increase in bookings due to its strategic location and pricing advantages.
Located just 800 meters from Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh, The Emerald 68 offers high-end apartments with complete legal documentation at competitive prices ranging from 48 to 60 million VND per square meter, particularly attractive considering similar properties in Thu Duc are priced over 100 million VND per square meter. Moreover, effective promotional strategies mean buyers pay only 20% upon purchase, with attractive financing options including a 70% bank loan at zero principal and interest for the first two years.
According to the real estate consultancy firm DKRA Realty, interest in The Emerald 68 has risen significantly, particularly among clients from Ho Chi Minh City. Analysis shows that in the past decade, Binh Duong has experienced steady growth, showcasing a sustainable real estate price appreciation, while neighboring regions have been recovering from an initial downturn with recent price increases of 20-30%. This data illustrates the underlying potential that investors are keen to capture amid the administrative changes.
In light of these developments, representatives from the Vietnam Association of Realtors (VARs) noted that increased property prices and transaction volumes were trends historically linked to such planning announcements. Investors often exhibit a fear of missing out, or “FOMO,” which fuels their eagerness to act quickly in this dynamic market. Mr. Tuan emphasized the potential ramifications of the merger proposal, stating, “The market responds quickly to news of new development plans.”
However, on March 23, 2025, the Ministry of Interior of Vietnam announced a temporary suspension of various tasks associated with the reorganization of administrative units. This pause follows earlier directives regarding the merger of provincial and commune levels, which are said to be under review to ensure they comply with broader governmental strategies related to administrative efficiency. The ministry emphasized that this decision will allow local governments to reassess their planning frameworks more effectively.
This information underlines the necessity for careful navigation through the upcoming administrative changes. Investors are reminded that while there are opportunities for substantial returns in real estate, particularly in these newly merged zones, they must also remain vigilant. Mr. Tuan warns that “the price level increase not only depends on the merger information but is also influenced by many other factors such as infrastructure, employment needs, and local economic foundations.”
Looking ahead, economic analysts predict a continuation of price increases in various segments of the real estate market throughout 2025, albeit with cautions in segments like resort properties which are slowly recovering from past downturns. The consensus through industry surveys indicates that apartment prices will see moderate increases close to 10%, whereas the affordable to mid-range housing market might surge more significantly by rates of 20-30%.
As Vietnam braces for these structural changes, the integration policy is expected to spark significant transformations, particularly in the real estate market. Local governments are tasked with ensuring that the interests arising from these merges translate into coherent growth strategies. The focus will remain on optimizing investor conditions and improving property accessibility for the public, reinforcing the role of real estate as an engine for economic growth.
Once these plans are set in motion, the potential benefits include enhanced urban development, improved infrastructure, and increased investment vibrancy, all of which will hopefully lead to a thriving and sustainable marketplace in Vietnam’s real estate sector.
