I’m an Aussie and I bought a villa in Bali for $485,000. Groceries, transport and even fancy meals are so much cheaper – but these are the rules you need to be aware of

A young couple who travel to Bali every year have bought a luxury villa on an idyllic island for just $485,000.

Alexis Withers, 27, and her husband Luke, 28, have always enjoyed visiting this popular tourist destination for its beautiful surf breaks, affordable food and friendly locals.

So it was a natural next step when they chose to invest in a beautiful two-bedroom villa, complete with two bathrooms and a swimming pool, located in the heart of Bingin.

The Queensland couple already own four properties in Australia, but decided to further expand their portfolio with a piece 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 expected to be completed in December 2025 – with the couple planning to rent it out for around $495 per night for most of the year, while setting aside time for themselves and their family to enjoy throughout the year enjoy.

“We would never move to Bali permanently as we love the Sunshine Coast too much and we need to stay in Australia to manage our business effectively,” she said.

The couple co-founded Bitesoft Clear Aligners, a lucrative at-home teeth straightening company in Australia.

“After owning the business for over six years, we have been fortunate to generate significant revenue, which we have reinvested in real estate,” Alexis said.

“Given the challenge of finding cash flow assets in Australia, we have decided to diversify our portfolio and explore new opportunities.”

The couple bought the Balinese villa largely in cash, with a small portion financed through a personal loan using the equity in one of their properties.

Only Indonesians can own land in Bali. Foreigners can only sign a long-term rental contract if they buy a house.

“You still own the property while renting 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 age of 26. This expansion is based solely on the market value of the land, which is determined by three independent real estate advisors.

‘The average valuation from these consultants will be the price that landowners will have to accept for the expansion.’

Under the couple’s lease agreement, they have “full rights” to extend the lease of the land for up to 20 years at the agreed price.

“If you decide to apply for an extension, that is the time when you can negotiate an additional extension period beyond the 48 years you have owned the property,” says Alexis.

‘You can also choose to have the property appraised and sell it with the rental rights.’

The couple’s property is one of 12 premium Aluka private villas located in a gated community, along Bali’s southern coastline of Uluwatu.

The villa is located next to one of Bali’s largest gyms, and just five minutes from Bingin Beach, known for its beautiful sunsets.

Within a short 100-meter walk, tourists can expect to find some of Bali’s most famous restaurants and bars. It is a prime location.

“Overall it’s definitely more affordable compared to the big cities in Australia. We found a range of options from budget-friendly villas to more luxurious accommodations, all at lower prices than comparable properties back home,” said Alexis.

‘Although long-term renting offers even better deals. The variation in home styles and locations provides flexibility based on individual preferences and budgets.’

The villa comes with on-site property management that handles everything for the couple, including check-in, post-stay cleaning for guests, and 24/7 front desk support.

The pair are mainly based on the Sunshine Coast where they run their business, but enjoy regularly traveling back to Bali whenever they can.

Alexis said the cost of living in Bali is significantly lower than in many Western countries, especially Australia.

“You can easily enjoy a meal for $2 to $10 at local eateries, but dining at a fancy restaurant might cost you around $150 for a meal,” she said.

‘Groceries, transport and long-term rentals are generally cheaper in Bali, although prices depend on your location and choices.’

For all Australians looking to invest in Balinese real estate, Alexis emphasized the importance of hiring a reputable Indonesian lawyer.

‘Communicate clearly what you are looking for and what your budget is; they can help you find the perfect home,” she explained.

‘It is essential to investigate hotspots where people are attracted to holidays. Although the process can be intimidating because it takes place abroad, I highly recommend hiring a reliable Indonesian lawyer.

“They can walk you through all the details and nuances you need to understand before making a purchase.”