Case Study: Matt & Amanda
Six months ago, we traded the hustle of city life for the serene allure of Lombok, Indonesia. Driven by a burning desire to escape the rat race and build our own slice of paradise, we set out on what we thought would be a straightforward journey. But reality, as it often does, had other plans.
We stepped into our first brand new rental villa, feeling like pioneers in this tropical haven. But the honeymoon phase was short-lived. The first monsoon rains arrived, and with them came a terrifying realization: our "dream villa" was literally sliding down the hill. The ground beneath us was shifting, and our carefully laid plans were crumbling faster than a sandcastle in a tidal wave.
Undeterred (but shaken), we moved into another villa. This time, the nightmare continued. Holes gaped in the walls like gaping wounds, mold clung to the kitchen like a sinister parasite, and the pool, a supposed oasis of tranquility, was a constant source of frustration. The water was a murky green, the showers reeked of something unholy, and maintaining a semblance of cleanliness felt like an endless uphill battle.

We were on the verge of throwing in the towel, ready to pack our bags and flee back to the familiar comforts of home. But then, fate intervened. We met Scott, a seasoned Australian Master Builder with a pedigree that spoke volumes. Forty years of experience, honed to perfection over fifteen years of developing projects right here in Kuta Lombok, radiated from him.
Scott's passion for building wasn't just talk; it was evident in every detail. From the meticulous safety measures implemented on site – those bright yellow hard hats weren't just for show – to the rock-solid foundation being laid, we knew this was no ordinary construction project. This was a testament to true craftsmanship, a commitment to excellence.
We decided to document our journey, the triumphs and the tribulations, to create this guide. Our goal? To help you avoid the costly mistakes we made, to navigate the complexities of investing in Indonesia with confidence and unlock the true potential of this incredible island.