A young couple who travels to Bali every year has purchased a luxurious villa on an idyllic island for just $485,000.
Alexis Withers, 27, and her husband Luke, 28, have always loved visiting the popular tourist destination for its stunning surf breaks, affordable food and friendly locals.
So it was a natural next step when they chose to invest in a stunning two-bedroom villa – complete with two bathrooms and a swimming pool – nestled in the heart of Bingin.
The Queensland couple already owns four properties in Australia but decided to further expand their portfolio with a slice of Indonesian real estate.
‘Since we travel to Indonesia three to four times a year to surf and enjoy the local cuisine, it felt like a great opportunity,’ Alexis told Daily Mail Australia.
The villa is set to be completed in December 2025 – with the pair planning to rent it out for most of the year at approximately $495 per night, while reserving time throughout the year for themselves and their family to enjoy.
‘We would never move to Bali permanently, as we love the Sunshine Coast too much and we need to stay in Australia to effectively manage our business,’ she said.
The couple are the co-founders of Bitesoft Clear Aligners, a lucrative at-home teeth straightening business in Australia.
‘After owning the company for over six years, we’ve been fortunate to generate significant income, which we’ve reinvested into real estate,’ Alexis said.
‘Given the challenge of finding cash flow assets in Australia, we decided to diversify our portfolio and explore new opportunities.’
The couple purchased the Balinese villa mostly in cash, with a small portion financed through a personal loan using the equity from one of their properties.
In Bali, only Indonesians can own land. Foreigners can only secure a long-term lease when they purchase a home.
‘You still own the property while leasing the land for up to 28 years,’ she said.
‘In our specific contract, we have the right to request a 20 year extension around the 26th year. This extension is based solely on the land’s market value, which is determined by three independent real estate consultants.
‘The average valuation from these consultants will be the price that the landowners must accept for the extension.’
According to the couple’s property lease, they are ‘fully entitled’ to extend the lease of the land for up to 20 years at the agreed-upon price.
‘When you decide to request an extension, that’s the moment you can negotiate for an additional extension period beyond the 48 years you’ve already owned the property,’ Alexis said.
‘Alternatively, you can opt to have the property appraised and sell it along with the lease rights.’
The couple’s property is one of 12 premium Aluka private villas located within a gated community, along Bali’s southern coastline of Uluwatu.
The villa is situated next to one of Bali’s largest gyms, and just five minutes from Bingin Beach, renowned for its stunning sunsets.
Within a short 100-metre walk, tourists can expect some of Bali’s most famous restaurants and bars. It’s a prime location.
‘Overall, it’s definitely more affordable compared to major cities in Australia. We’ve found a range of options, from budget-friendly villas to more luxurious accommodations, all at lower prices than similar properties back home,’ Alexis said.
‘Although, renting long-term offers even better deals. The variety in housing styles and locations allows for flexibility based on individual preferences and budgets.’
The villa comes with onsite property management that handles everything for the couple, including check-ins, cleaning after guest stays and 24/7 reception support.
The pair mostly based on the Sunshine Coast where they run their business – but enjoy taking regular trips back to Bali whenever they can.
Alexis said the cost of living in Bali has been significantly lower than many Western countries, particularly Australia.
‘You can easily enjoy a meal for $2 to $10 at local eateries, but dining at a fancy restaurant might set you back around $150 for a meal,’ she said.
‘Groceries, transportation, and long-term rentals are generally more affordable in Bali, though prices will depend on your location and selections.’
For any Aussies looking to invest in Balinese real estate, Alexis emphasised the importance of hiring a reputable Indonesian solicitor.
‘Clearly communicate what you’re looking for and your budget; they can help you find the perfect property,’ she explained.
‘It’s essential to research hotspots where people are drawn to holiday. While the process can feel daunting due to it being in a foreign country, I highly recommend hiring a reliable Indonesian solicitor.
‘They can walk you through all the details and nuances you need to understand before making a purchase.’
