Abstract:
The study aims to investigate the management strategies of low-cost townhouse projects in Phathumthani since 2011 as well as the problems encountered regarding management. It then goes on to propose possible solutions to those problems. The researcher chose to collect information through survey questionnaires and interviews with selected groups of samples including managers of the housing projects and representatives from the 10 real estate development companies. These companies have had experience in managing more than 5 housing projects in recent years, are properly registered according housing laws and are not listed as public limited companies. Data collected from the questionnaires and interviews provided general information about these real estate developers along with their strategic plans, problems and obstacles. This information was then used in the analysis process. The results of this study show that in terms of property management, these townhouse developers pay close attention to optimal resource utilization with capital being the key driving force in running the business. Based on the information obtained for this study, these developers can be grouped into three categories according to the type of funding they have. They are the self-funded developers, developers who take out property development loans from banks, and developers who both invest their own money and take out loans from banks. Each of these developers, however, faces their own challenges. The challenge faced by self-funded developers is poor organizational management which includes the lack of a long term resource management plan while developers with bank loans have to deal with the problems of time limitation and lack of staff. For developers who are self-funded and take out loans from banks, the problem lies in the financial resource management for each housing project. Based on the study of problems and obstacles in resource management of low-cost townhouse projects, the researcher proposes that these developers need to implement strategic planning, management plans, and proper control systems for their housing projects. It is believed that with these strategies, the future of the low-cost townhouse projects can be very promising.