SOHO versus SOFO: What you need to know.

A happy July 2024 month my property owner/seller and investors!

Hope this month is going great for you and may the odd be in your favour :)

With the vast development of properties around Malaysia especially in Klang Valley area, I am sure you have stumbled upon terms like SOHO and SOVO. What does these terms mean and how does it affect your buying decision?

SOHO stands for Small Office Home Office. It is a type of property that combines both residential and commercial functions. This means you can live and work in the same space, which is ideal for entrepreneurs, freelancers, or anyone who needs a flexible and convenient lifestyle. SOHO units are usually designed with high ceilings, large windows, and open floor plans to create a spacious and comfortable environment.

SOVO stands for Small Office Versatile Office. It is a type of property that is purely for commercial use. It is similar to SOHO in terms of size and layout, but it does not have any residential features such as a kitchen or a bathroom. SOVO units are meant for businesses that need a small and affordable office space, such as startups, online shops, or professional services.

The main difference between SOHO and SOVO is the purpose and function of the property. SOHO is for both living and working, while SOVO is only for working. Therefore, the choice between them depends on your personal and professional needs. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:

1. Budget

SOHO units are usually more expensive than SOVO units because they have more facilities and amenities. However, they can also save you money on transportation and rental costs if you work from home.

2. Privacy

SOHO units offer more privacy than SOVO units because you don't have to share the space with other tenants or customers. However, you also have to deal with more noise and disturbance from your own work activities.

3. Regulations

SOHO units are subject to more regulations than SOVO units because they involve both residential and commercial aspects. You have to comply with the rules and requirements of both sectors, such as zoning, licensing, taxation, and insurance.

4. Maintenance

SOHO units require more maintenance than SOVO units because they have more appliances and fixtures. You have to take care of both your home and your office equipment, such as cleaning, repairing, and upgrading.

Some examples of SOHO projects in Malaysia are:

1. J.Satine SOHO - a new development in Setapak, Kuala Lumpur that offers studio units with modern facilities and amenities; 

2. Beacon Executive Suites - a freehold SOHO project in George Town, Penang that features smart home system and hotel-like services; 

3. Core SOHO Suites - a SOHO project in Kota Warisan, Sepang that is close to KLIA and Xiamen University Malaysia;

4. Tropicana Gardens - Edelweiss Serviced Residences, a leasehold SOHO project in Tropicana Indah, Petaling Jaya that is connected to the upcoming Damansara Utama LRT 3 station; 

5. Canopy Hills - a freehold SOHO project in Kajang that provides 38 facilities for recreation and relaxation. 

Some examples of SOVO projects in Malaysia are:

1. The Hub, a mixed-use development in SS2, Petaling Jaya, that offers SOVO units with flexible layouts and modern facilities.

2. The Pinnacle, a 38-storey tower in Sunway City, that features SOVO suites with panoramic views and access to amenities such as a sky garden and a gym.

3. The Vertical, a premium office tower in Bangsar South, that provides SOVO spaces with high-speed internet and green features such as rainwater harvesting and energy-efficient lighting.

I hope you have gained some insight of the differences between SOHO and SOVO properties. 

Happy hunting for your next gems!

Signing off for now, 

Ashlin REN01427