Service Apartments and SOHO Units in Miri: What 2026 Buyers Should Know?

In recent years, Miri has transformed from a quiet coastal city into one of Sarawak’s most dynamic property markets. With new commercial hubs emerging and urban lifestyles becoming more prominent, buyers are now exploring modern living concepts such as service apartments and SOHO/SOFO/SOVO units. According to the latest insights from the NAPIC Open Sales Data, transactions involving these property types have grown noticeably, especially in Bandar Miri and its surrounding commercial districts.

The shift is not accidental. As remote work becomes mainstream, tourism rebounds, and businesses expand into flexible workspaces, property seekers are gravitating towards units that offer convenience, security, and smart design. These modern spaces are reshaping how people live, work, and invest in Miri. For many property buyers in 2025, the question is no longer whether these units will grow — it is how quickly they will become the city’s new normal.

The Rise of Modern Urban Living in Miri

Walking through Bandar Miri today, you can feel the change happening around you. New buildings rise alongside established shoplots, and lifestyle centres buzz with restaurants, cafés, and co-working spaces. For many young professionals, this is the environment they have been waiting for: a mix of comfort, accessibility, and urban energy.

Service apartments and SOHO units fit seamlessly into this new lifestyle. These properties offer compact layouts, modern interiors, and amenities that cater to fast-moving city dwellers. Whether it is secure parking, gym facilities, swimming pools, or high-speed internet connectivity, the features are designed for those who value convenience above all.

The appeal also reaches students, expatriate workers, and long-term renters who prefer flexibility over traditional landed homes. This shift in preference explains why transaction activity for these units continues rising year after year.

Why Service Apartments Are Gaining Momentum

Service apartments offer something distinctive in Miri’s property landscape: a blend of residential comfort and hotel-like amenities. For many buyers, this combination makes the units highly desirable. A growing number of residents want homes that allow them to live comfortably without worrying about external maintenance or security concerns.

The appeal is further amplified by the desire for low-maintenance living. Families and professionals appreciate that service apartments often come with built-in building management teams, making upkeep effortless. This provides peace of mind, especially for owners who plan to rent out their units to tenants.

Moreover, service apartments frequently sit close to urban conveniences. Being located near supermarkets, hospitals, educational centres, and major roads offers an advantage that landed homes in outer suburbs may not match. In a city that is rapidly modernizing, location has become a critical factor in purchasing decisions.

How SOHO, SOFO, and SOVO Units Redefine Flexibility

While service apartments cater to traditional residential needs, SOHO (Small Office Home Office), SOFO (Small Office Flexible Office), and SOVO (Small Office Virtual Office) units speak directly to entrepreneurs and modern professionals. These units provide flexible usage rights, which means occupants can live, work, or run small businesses within the same space.

This flexibility resonates deeply with today’s workforce. Freelancers, online sellers, content creators, consultants, and startup founders appreciate having a multifunctional space that keeps overhead low. Instead of renting an office and a home separately, they can combine both under one roof.

This trend is influenced by the rise of digital professions and remote work. Many Sarawakians, particularly in urban areas like Miri, now operate online businesses or online-based careers. SOHO and SOFO units support this lifestyle by offering built-in office setups, adaptable interiors, and access to meeting spaces.

The Key Drivers Behind the Demand Surge

The popularity of service apartments and SOHO-type units did not happen by accident. Several factors contribute to the increasing demand, especially among young buyers and investors who want to maximize long-term returns.

• Proximity to commercial districts: Most units are located within or near Miri’s main activity hubs, making them ideal for individuals who value accessibility and reduced commute times.
• Growing tourism and short-stay markets: With Miri being a gateway to Mulu National Park and Brunei, short-term accommodations remain in constant demand, offering strong rental income potential.
• Rising preference for urban convenience: Younger generations prefer living near malls, eateries, co-working spaces, and entertainment hotspots, driving demand for centrally located units.
• Lower entry price: Compared to shoplots and landed homes, service apartments and SOHO units are more affordable, making them attractive for first-time buyers.
• High rental potential: Smaller units often experience quicker tenant turnover and shorter vacancy periods.

These factors combine to make service apartments and SOHO/SOFO/SOVO units a compelling choice for both homeowners and investors.

A Closer Look at Miri’s Growing Property Hotspots

Certain areas in Miri illustrate clearly why these modern property types are flourishing. Bandar Miri, the city’s commercial heart, remains a stronghold for property activity due to its mix of retail developments, offices, and entertainment venues. Service apartments in this area are frequently purchased for rental purposes due to their high occupancy potential.

In addition, surrounding areas like Krokop, Pujut, and Boulevard have seen increased interest as they offer quick access to the city centre while providing slightly more affordable pricing. The convenience factor remains strong since many of these locations are supported by hospitals, schools, shopping complexes, and public transport routes.

Furthermore, development in areas like Marina ParkCity demonstrates the strength of Miri’s urban transformation. With waterfront attractions, new eateries, and modern residential towers, this area has become a symbol of lifestyle-driven growth.

Investment Appeal: Why These Units Stand Out

For investors, the appeal goes beyond lifestyle. The high tenant demand ensures stable rental income throughout the year, especially in units located near commercial zones or educational hubs. Students from Curtin University, young executives, and contract workers contribute to a consistently healthy rental market.

Another advantage is the relatively low maintenance cost. Unlike landed homes, which may require extensive upkeep, service apartments typically include building management fees that cover common area maintenance, security, and basic repairs.

Additionally, the compact size of SOHO and SOFO units means they are easier to furnish and maintain. Investors often find that smaller units yield higher rental returns when compared to purchase price, making them efficient income-generating assets.

Comparing Service Apartments with Traditional Landed Properties

Traditionally, Sarawakians prefer landed homes due to space and long-term appreciation. However, market dynamics are shifting. Urban populations now prioritize location and convenience over land size. This is reflected clearly in transaction patterns recorded through the NAPIC open data system.

Service apartments offer features that landed properties often cannot match: security, facilities, and walkability. Meanwhile, SOHO units offer something entirely new — the ability to incorporate living and working in a single space. For many professionals, this combination outweighs the appeal of a traditional home located further from the city centre.

Understanding Long-Term Growth Potential

Buyers who are considering long-term investments often evaluate capital appreciation potential. In Miri, service apartments and SOHO units benefit from rising urban density, improved infrastructure, and increasing business activity. As more companies open branches in the city and the workforce expands, demand for modern accommodation is expected to rise.

Population growth is another factor contributing to property appreciation. Miri continues to attract workers from rural regions, neighbouring states, and even Brunei. With this inflow comes a corresponding rise in housing demand, particularly near job clusters.

Retail and commercial developments also play a role. As new malls, office towers, and lifestyle hubs emerge, surrounding residential units typically benefit from higher valuations. Investors with foresight can position themselves well by purchasing units near developing areas.

Who Should Consider Investing in These Units?

Not every property type suits every buyer, but service apartments and SOHO units offer advantages to specific groups. Young professionals value the urban convenience, families appreciate the affordability, and investors enjoy the consistent rental income. Digital workers and small business owners benefit from the flexible usage rights provided by SOHO and SOFO units.

Foreign buyers who frequently travel between Miri and Brunei also consider these properties convenient, especially when located near the city centre. The ease of renting out these units when not in use makes them a practical choice for globe-trotting owners.

Even retirees have begun showing interest due to the convenience of elevator access, 24-hour security, and proximity to medical facilities. These factors contribute to the broad market appeal of modern high-rise living.

FAQs About Service Apartments and SOHO Units in Miri

Are service apartments in Miri a good investment?

Yes. They offer stable rental demand, especially in central districts and near educational institutions, making them attractive for long-term income-focused investors.

Why are SOHO and SOFO units popular?

These units provide flexible use as both homes and offices, appealing to digital workers, entrepreneurs, and small business owners who value multifunctional spaces.

Which areas in Miri show the highest demand for these units?

Bandar Miri, Marina ParkCity, Krokop, and Pujut have strong transaction activity due to their proximity to commercial and lifestyle hubs.

Are these units suitable for first-time buyers?

Yes. Their lower purchase price and modern facilities make them ideal for younger buyers entering the property market.

Where can I check official transaction records?

All property transaction data can be accessed through the official NAPIC Open Sales Data portal, which provides detailed insights across Malaysia.