Many people collect things for sentimental reasons, or because the items may become valuable in the future. As these items are accumulated, one's collection can say a lot about his or her personal taste.
But what about the wealthy, what do they collect? Billionaires around the world invest large sums of money not only in luxury items such as jewellery and sports cars, but also in high-end addresses. We can't really call them "homes," because sometimes the sole purpose these high net worth individuals acquire these residences is simply to add them to their collection.
Let's start with Bangkok, a capital that has traditionally been a popular real estate investment choice due to its strong yields. Over the past two years, property values have grown by 9% annually, due in large part to urban renewal projects and the construction of new BTS Skytrain lines.
Areas in central Bangkok such as Chidlom, Langsuan, Ratchadamri and Sala Daeng are considered prestigious addresses where many billionaires invest in real estate to add to their collection, or to make a profit in the future.
Sala Daeng, Bangkok
Land price per square wah: US$64,000 or 2.2 million baht
Sala Daeng is a gold mine for investors, as it is a residential area and central business district rolled into one. Properties here are great as residences, and make excellent leasing opportunities. Compared with other areas, what makes Sala Daeng attractive is its residential appeal. It is located near a BTS and an MRT station, as well as Lumpini Park, Bangkok's largest green space.
One of the most attractive projects in Sala Daeng is SALADAENG ONE, a super luxury condominium by SC ASSET. Located on Sala Daeng Soi 1, the condo facility is situated right in the heart of Bangkok's Central Business District and is surrounded by shopping centres. This makes it a perfect location for investment and an excellent addition to anyone's property collection.
Avenue Montaigne, Paris, France
Land price per square wah: US$98,000 or 3.4 million baht
Paris is the "City of Love" that many people dream of visiting. Avenue Montaigne is an upscale area featuring classic architecture and old Paris charm. This is also where many global luxury brands call home, including Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Fendi and Valentino. For those living in this area, it is not uncommon to see fashionable residents dressed from head to toe in chic name brand products. You can also spot top fashion icons strolling down the fashionable boulevards.
Avenue Princess Grace, Monaco
Land price per square wah: US$324,000 or 11.2 million baht
If your idea of leisure is sipping champagne on a yacht or watching a Formula 1 Grand Prix, you won't be disappointed in Monaco. This Mediterranean hot spot is the go-to place for a luxurious lifestyle, with glamorous destinations including the Monte Carlo casino, which is more than 150 years old. Houses here are situated on the surrounding hills, providing a sweeping and breath-taking view of the sea. If you want to purchase a Penthouse apartment here, be ready to spend about 10 billion baht.
Kensington Palace Gardens, London, UK
Land price per square wah: US$405,000 or 14 million baht
If you're looking for serenity and security in the heart of London, then Kensington Palace Gardens is your answer. These lush green streets are where many jet-setting billionaires call home. Some of the houses in this area have underground tennis courts, medical facilities, and even a car museum. Living is this prestigious area would make you neighbours with Madonna and Indian billionaire Lakshmi Mittal, who lives in a magnificent mansion.
Fifth Avenue, New York, US
Land price per square wah: US$106,317 or 3.68 million baht
One of the most expensive addresses in New York is Fifth Avenue, a glamorous boulevard lined with shops occupied by top brands. Fifth Avenue is where shoppers from around the world come to spend their money, and is also home to Empire State Building and Central Park. It shouldn't come as a surprise that this is among the most coveted areas by the Manhattan elite.
Paterson Hill, Singapore
Land price per square wah: US$162,000 or 5.6 million baht
Singapore is only a two-hour flight from Bangkok, but property prices are significantly higher. This is because Singapore is a wealthy country and home to many investors and business titans. Paterson Hill is a quiet and convenient residential area that is located nearby Orchard Road, Singapore's famous shopping street with many popular dining attractions. If you live in this area, you'll rub shoulders with the likes of Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin.
Pollock's Path, The Peak, Hong Kong
Land price per square wah: US$462,000 or 16 million baht
The price is as high as the name suggests. This is Hong Kong's most expensive area, where billionaires and wealthy English expats have lived since Hong Kong was governed by the British. This area is coveted because of its wonderful weather, scenic view of the Hong Kong skyline and beautiful mountains. It is also only 15 minutes away from Hong Kong's famous shopping areas.
These seven locales make up just part of the wealthy's collection. While the areas might be extremely expensive, billionaires around the world are willing to pay the hefty price, as the right address not only means an exceptionally high-class quality of life, but also makes for a wonderful investment. In some areas, properties can appreciate by hundreds of millions of baht in just a few years. The moral of the story is: if you're going to invest in something, make the most out of it.
Additional info:
SALADAENG ONE http://www.saladaengone.com/home
28 CHIDLOM http://28chidlom.com