At a Glance: Pattaya property twice as popular as Phuket

by Charlotte Ashton World
Property in Pattaya is almost three times more popular than property in Phuket, according to TheMoveChannel.com´s latest At a Glance report.
The infographic, which depicts activity on the overseas portal over the last 12 months, shows that the Chon Buri hotspot accounted for one-third (32.9 per cent) of all searches for Thai real estate – almost three times as many as the city of Phuket (13.51 per cent).
Phuket and Pattaya have long rivalled each other for investors´ attention, but the latter’s beaches attracted more interest than the former’s nightlife in the 12 months from December 2011. Both cities dwarf the capital of Bangkok, which accounted for only 5.38 per cent of searches by buyers, making it the sixth most popular destination in the country.
When it comes to enquiries, though, the infographic paints a different picture, with Phuket responsible for the most buyer activity.
Property in the province of Phuket generated 44.1 per cent of enquiries, ahead of Chon Buri, which received 42.9 per cent.
Again, both areas eclipse Bangkok, which took just 0.18 per cent of enquiries, highlighting the dominance of the two tourist hotspots. Indeed, the closest competition facing the pair is the province of Prachuap Khiri Khan, which accounted for 5.22 per cent of buyer enquiries. The beach resort of Hua Hin is the main attraction in Prachuap, accounting for 10.91 per cent of searches on the site. But Patong Beach is not far behind, with Phuket´s island coastline responsible for 6.62 per cent of searches.
The At a Glance infographic also analyses investor behaviour on Google over the last year. Buyers most commonly search for “Thailand property” and “property in Thailand”, with activity steadily rising throughout 2012. “Houses for sale in Thailand” are the most popular type of property, which may come as some surprise given the number of condos on the market, but while house searches remained static from May 2012 onwards, searches for “Thailand apartments” showed signs of increasing.
Editor Ivan Radford comments:
“Phuket and Pattaya have been duking it out for years now on TheMoveChannel.com and the At a Glance infographic gives a clear picture of which is more popular: buyers are committed to purchasing property in Phuket, but the age-old appeal of a seaside home means that the majority still look to Pattaya first. The beach resort´s profile would have been boosted further by the fact that it remained unaffected by last year´s floods.”
“But that might change next year. In 2011, the province of Chonburi took the highest number of enquiries on the portal (39.1 per cent vs. 30.4 per cent), only for Phuket to steal the title this year by a margin of 1.2 per cent. Chonburi´s enquiries peaked in April 2012 before steadily decreasing, while Phuket´s enquiries remained steady throughout the year. Is it simply because Phuket had higher quality properties on the market? Or with the country´s housing market back at full speed after the flooding, are buyers finding a new favourite?
“Judging by the data so far, Phuket is currently on track to become 2013´s most searched-for destination in Thailand. Will Pattaya fight back? Either way, one thing that isn´t in question is the country´s popularity: enquiries for Thai real estate on TheMoveChannel.com have almost trebled since 2010 and with searches for property in Thailand increasing on Google, demand is only set to keep on climbing.”
Click here to see the full infographic – http://www.themovechannel.com/news/2c572e21-515c/
Notes to Editors
Founded in 1999, TheMoveChannel.com is the leading independent website for international property, with than 400,000 listings in over 100 countries around the world, marketed on behalf of agents, developers and private owners.
The website address is http://www.themovechannel.com and the office address is 24 Jack´s Place, Corbet Place, Spitalfields, London, E1 6NN.
Contact Dan Johnson on 0207 952 7650 for further information.

Investment Watch: Dominican deal rivals Spanish resorts

by World

One Dominican deal rivalled several Spanish resorts last month, reveals TheMoveChannel.com´s latest Investment Watch, as a beach development in Puerto Plata received almost as many enquiries as apartments in Murcia’s La Manga.

Spain remains the top property destination on the site, confirms the monthly report, which proves that apartments in La Manga are irresistible to buyers: the Las Lomas Village resort was the most popular listing in October 2012 for the third month in a row and has been a firm member of TheMoveChannel.com´s top 10 listings since June.

But while Spain dominated the chart, accounting for three of the top 10, last month introduced a surprise contender: the Dominican Republic. One-bed condos in a beachfront complex in Puerto Plata attracted the second highest number of enquiries on the site in October – the first time the country has ever appeared in the Investment Watch rankings.

The resort, located by the tourist magnet of Playa Dorada, combined holiday home appeal with 9 per cent guaranteed rental return to attract buyers´ attention, a package that competed head-to-head with Las Lomas´ fully-managed flats. Indeed, even with Spain´s discounted price tags, up to 50 per cent down on 2007 levels, Puerto Plata´s Palm View Resort was £1,003 cheaper.

Was it just a one-hit wonder? Simon Peck of Best Overseas Property, who are handling the Dominican Republic property, explains its appeal:

"The project continues to sell very well as it is unique for a number of reasons. Firstly, there is genuine 100% funding. Only £6,995 capital is required as a contribution to the closing costs. Secondly, the resort is already built so completion of purchases is generally around 2 months. Investors do not have to wait for a couple of years as they do on most similar resorts. The resort has enjoyed 73% occupancy over the last 12 months and is already 95% booked for this winter´s peak season. The Dominican Republic accounts for one third of all tourism to The Caribbean. Investors from over 20 countries are currently proceeding as the 100% funding is available to all nationalities, subject to status, and the investment with guaranteed returns is cash flow positive from day one."

TheMoveChannel.com Director Dan Johnson adds: "It´s no coincidence that both of October´s big players are offering 100 per cent funding. The battle of the resorts may rage on, but it proves that in this cash-strapped investment climate, the right finance package can make all the difference."
 

The top 10 investment properties for October 2012 are as follows:

 

 

Notes to Editors

Founded in 1999, TheMoveChannel.com is the leading independent website for international property, with than 400,000 listings in over 100 countries around the world, marketed on behalf agents, developers and private owners.

The website address is http://www.TheMoveChannel.com and the office address is 24 Jack´s Place, Corbet Place, Spitalfields, London, E1 6NN.
 

How to make a smooth move to the best place to live in Europe

by Charlotte Ashton World

Imagine sitting out on the terrace of your stunning apartment, enjoying a beautiful view of the sea accompanied by the cool summer breeze gently passing against your face. Is it any wonder then that this dream lifestyle is so highly sought after, with Portugal recently being voted the best place to live in Europe and 3rd best in the world according to a survey carried out by Natwest Bank.

The desire for a better life has led more and more people, particularly British citizens, to move abroad, with Portugal working hard to become an attractive destination for wealthy, highly qualified individuals who are prepared to invest and work in the country. As a result of Portugal’s charm and quality of life, the nation remains in the top 5 property destinations for property buyers according to data from overseas property portal, TheMoveChannel.com, ranking 4th in September 2012.
Ben Taylor, author of new book ‘Moving to Portugal’ comments,
“When it comes to moving abroad, Portugal has long ranked as a popular location, with many expats choosing The Algarve for its 300 days of sunshine per year, 200km of coastline and quality housing.
“Relocating overseas it is a big step and is something that needs a lot of consideration. For my wife and I, Portugal made the ideal overseas living destination with quaint villages, beautiful beaches and easy access to friends and family back in the UK. Moving here was one of the best decisions we ever made, but at times it was tough. Our book documents the life of two people who have been through the whole experience – we think the best advice comes from the people who have lived through it and came out the other end.”
For those thinking about relocating abroad why not take a look at Ben Taylor’s top ten tips to ensure a smooth move.
1. Choose the Right Area
There’s no such thing as too much research when moving abroad. Find out all there is to know about your chosen destination and consider the fact that a place that is perfect for holidays may not be so ideal for year round living.
2. Visit Several Times
You must see your intended new home at its worst as well as its best – this means visiting in the depths of winter as well as the heat of summer.
3. Research the Employment Situation
Never move abroad without knowing exactly how you are going to support yourself. Many dream destinations (including Portugal) are places where employment is extremely scarce. Don’t be one the many expats who returns home penniless after just a few months.
4. Join the Forums
You will find expat Internet forums for every conceivable destination. Join them, get involved, and get to know people who have already made the move. These people can be a great source of information and support.

5. Think of the Practicalities
You must know all the details about healthcare, taxation, motoring and education. For example, someone moving to Portugal should know that healthcare isn’t an automatic entitlement (until social security is being paid), and that cars are far more expensive than in most other European countries. Research is the only thing that can protect against unpleasant surprises.
6. Decide what to Take
Shipping goods costs money, but so does re-buying things. As soon as you know you are moving, it is time to take stock and make some big decisions. Few expats look back and wish they had shipped more possessions – most find themselves with boxes still unpacked years later.
7. Consider Renting
If you own property in your home country, you can always rent it out on a temporary basis, and do the same abroad until you are sure you are making the right decision. There’s no need to burn all bridges.
8. Try more than one Area
If you do decide to rent initially, there’s nothing to stop you trying 6-12 months in a number of locations – perhaps you can’t decide between country and seaside living, so why not experience both?
9. Leave Cleanly
You can avoid plenty of hassle down the line by making sure your departure is organised – speak to the local tax authorities, obtain copies of medical records and set up mail redirections. You may, however, wish to leave bank accounts open, in case they prove difficult to reopen if you move back.
10. Learn the Language
It is said that you will never truly appreciate a country’s culture until you speak its language. Absorb yourself in the language of your new home and make every attempt to learn – it’s only polite, and your new neighbours will appreciate it.
For more top tips or information about the author, Ben Taylor, who describes himself as ‘an aspiring travel writer, competent cook, Microsoft certified techno-geek, music obsessive, and recent migrant from rainy London to sunny Portugal’ why not read his award-winning blog – Moving to Portugal (www.movingtoportugal.org), call +44 208 133 5244 or email ben@movingtoportugal.org.
To order the book in paperback (RRP £8.99): http://tinyurl.com/portugalbook
To order the Kindle version (RRP £5.45): http://tinyurl.com/portugalkindle

Ethical investment agency launches exclusive new South African renewable energy opportunity

by Charlotte Ashton World

In an attempt to meet the ever growing global demand for energy whilst at the same time considering the health of the planet, attentions are increasingly turning to the use of biomass as a source of renewable energy.

Producing products such as green charcoal, energy pellets and activated carbon, biomass, derived from a variety of sources including the bamboo plant, can be grown and harvested sustainably and burned efficiently to generate heat and / or electricity.

According to recent RISI and North American Bioenergy studies, it is anticipated that global demand for biomass will double within 2 years alone and within 5 years reach 37 million dry tonnes per year in Europe and 20 million dry tonnes in the USA. By 2020, the demand for biomass in Europe should reach 243 million dry tonnes with more than 77% of the overall demand coming from the energy sector.

Outside of the major Western markets, demand for biomass is also increasing and changing in the nature of its supply. In South Africa alone, which is highly coal dependant, there is a rapid movement towards the use of biomass for heat and power. Today 10.7% of primary energy demand in the nation comes from renewable sources but carbon reduction targets and economic need are driving the renewable energy sector towards a likely contribution of 47.8% of all primary energy needs by 2050.

So what is the best source of biomass? It makes sense that the world’s fastest growing land plant – bamboo – is quite simply the best source of biomass.

Marcus Vassiliou, Sales Manager of leading alternative investment agency, EcoInvestments, explains,

“Bamboo is an excellent base material for the production of ‘green charcoal’ or ‘bio char’. One species in particular, Bambusa balcooa has a higher calorific value when used in charcoal than many traditional wood sources and performs excellently when used as activated carbon, a material widely used in water filtration and air conditioning systems. It truly is a super-material.”

Fully appreciating the vast potential of bamboo as a source of biomass and the rapidly rising demand not only in South Africa itself but globally too, EcoInvestments has secured an exclusive opportunity for investors to purchase a biomass plantation lease.

Building upon the success that their partners enjoyed in Nicaragua in becoming the world’s largest owner and operator of commercial bamboo plantations outside of China, EcoPlanet Bamboo Southern Africa has undertaken thorough due diligence over the past 18 months to ensure that the optimum location has been secured to grow bamboo for biomass.

Working with highly experienced partners on the ground with a proven track record, this bamboo, which is already planted and thriving, will be harvested sustainably upon maturity to produce biomass which will be sold to the energy market. Plots are available from USD $20,000 per hectare with 22.6% annualized yields and 226% ROI forecast – an income of $65,295, over the 9 year and 10 month lease.

For more information about this new, excusive and ethical investment opportunity, contact EcoInvestments today on +44 (0) 20 3012 0306 or visit www.ecoinvestments.co.uk.
 

Top of the Props: Spain reclaims property crown

by Charlotte Ashton World

Spain has reclaimed its property crown, according to the latest Top of the Props report from TheMoveChannel.com. Following America´s unexpected victory in November, US property fell in popularity last month, dropping three places in the overseas portal´s chart.

That dip was all Spain needed to soar back to top spot, along with several other property stalwarts. After buyers seemed to flock to America to avoid Europe´s troubled markets, Spain, Portugal and France charged up the table, pushing America down to fourth. In total, the top three destinations accounted for just over a third of all enquiries on the site in December.

While US enquiries fell by 7.32 per cent, Spain´s popularity dropped by only 0.18 per cent. This steady level of attention, driven by low prices and the country´s reduction in VAT during 2011, reflects the continuing demand for Spanish property from lifestyle buyers.

Indeed, investors returned to old favourites France and Portugal too. France´s enquiries increased by 1.05 per cent to hold third place, proving that holiday home demand can still buck the Eurozone´s downward trend if the prices are right. Italy´s enquiries increased in December as well, but its smaller monthly rise of 0.65 per cent was still not enough to compete with November´s victor.

The end of 2011 also saw a last-minute rush of attention for Barbados and Morocco. The two new entries to TheMoveChannel.com´s Top 10 replaced Cyprus and Greece at the bottom of the table. Coupled with the rise of the United Arab Emirates, which jumped a hefty eight places to number 12, it suggests that despite Spain´s return to form, investors are still willing to look elsewhere to avoid Europe´s more troubled economies.

Managing Director Dan Johnson comments:

“As 2011 ends, the fluctuations in the Top 10 show the changing buyer demands in an uncertain market. Spain has always been a traditional choice for lifestyle buyers, as evidenced by the constant level of interest in the country. In fact, for the majority of last year, Spain was the most sought-after property destination on TheMoveChannel.com, so its return to the top spot seems an appropriate end to the year.

“Barbados and Morocco are equally attractive lifestyle choices that are free of Eurozone anxiety, but France and Portugal´s strong performance in December is a reassuring sign for more familiar property markets. As the New Year begins, we shall see if the popularity of these European countries will be strong enough to weather the economic climate in 2012.”

The perfect match: How Golf properties have bucked the trend and proved resilient for investors

by Charlotte Ashton World

Mediterranean countries such as Spain have been at the forefront of developing golf properties catering for a largely northern European market, one that wishes to combine golf with a pleasant and reliable climate. Indeed, for many savvy buyers, purchasing a golf property is usually a decision made more on the quality of life enhancements which add to the location´s value and desirability than about putting balls.

In Spain, while KPMG’s Golf Benchmark Survey reveals that under half (49%) of golf courses in Europe, the Middle East and Africa were profitable in 2010, properties on golf courses have still  fared better than other comparable properties on the coast in the face of economic hardship seeing properties without a golf environment decrease 30% – 35% in value in comparison to a 20%  maximum decrease in price for a golf property.

But what is it that draws many property hunters to the greens and fairways of a golf course?

Even though three-quarters of British buyers do not play the game, there are still a number that do, with KPMG’s Golf Benchmark study revealing that the number of players in Europe, Middle East and Africa has been growing at around 5% every year for the last two decades, highlighting the popularity of the game.

Meanwhile, in response to huge demand for golfing holidays, Spain has one of the widest selections of golf properties to choose from, many of which have developed into golfing ‘communities’, offering sophisticated outdoor living without the isolation. It is the ideal environment for the young, growing families and even those in retirement, simply because it offers community spirit, wide open spaces, access to a course, club houses, restaurants and other amenities with many communities offering special course membership rates and green fees to the homeowners and impeccable maintenance of the surroundings helping the property keep its value.

From a financial perspective, a property on a golf course can be a very sound investment. Golf is a game that can be played throughout most of the year, giving opportunities to generate a year-round rental income from the masses that demand a golfing holiday including not only the British but local Spaniards, Scandinavians and Germans. In particular in the last two years, people from northern European countries with other currencies stronger than the Euro have started to demand and buy golf properties along the Costa del Sol helping prices remain stable during 2010 and 2011.

Ignacio Osle, Sales and Marketing Director of leading house builder Taylor Wimpey de España, comments,

“Los Arqueros Golf and Country Club, an 18-hole course designed by the Spaniard Severiano Ballesteros who is considered one of the best players in the world, is one example of a quality golf course that has performed remarkably well.  We developed and sold during the last 11 years more than 1,200 apartments, villas and detached villas in Los Arqueros Golf Course. This year Los Arqueros celebrates its 20th anniversary and we are very proud to be in the official ranking of the Costa del Sol as the 3rd most popular golf course of 2011.”

So if you’re thinking about buying a golf property in Spain to perfect your swing or fill your pockets from rental opportunities why not take a look at what’s on offer:

Los Altos del Golf is a Taylor Wimpey de España development located in Andratx, Mallorca nestled in the heart of the golf course. It consists of 16 large detached houses split into 2, 3 and 4 bedroom properties. All the properties have generous proportions and offer either spectacular golf or sea views.

The development has been designed in the style of a small Mediterranean village with coloured façades, verandas, spacious terraces, gardens and 3 communal swimming pools. These properties are available now from €489.000. Contact Taylor Wimpey España today on 08000 121 020 or visit www.taylorwimpeyspain.com  for more information.  If you reside outside of the UK you will need to call 00 34 971 706 244.

La Quinta Golf & Country club brought to you from Spain’s leading internet based estate agency, Spanish Hot Properties affords 2 bed and 2 bath apartments and villas from €555,000 in one of the most important golfing centres in Europe and one of the most popular clubs on the Spanish Costa del Sol hosting the Ladies European tour from the 15th to the 18th September 2011 as well as the European Senior Tour from the 27th to the 30th October 2011. For more information contact Spanish Hot Properties on 0207 558 8355 or visit www.spanishhotproperties.com.

Lastly, award winning estate agent Barton Wyatt brings you golfing heaven at Arcos Gardens. Located in Jerez, Spain, Arcos Gardens range from 2 en suite bedroom townhouses with prime views to 3 bedroom villas and the luxuriously appointed 4 bedroom villas overlooking the 10th and 17th holes and surrounding countryside, with their own communal pools and golf membership worth €30,000. Prices start from €354,400 to €1,411,100. For more information, please contact Barton Wyatt on 01344 843000 or visit www.bw-international.com.

UN International Year of Forests 2011 raises awareness of renewable timber alternative – Bamboo

by Charlotte Ashton World

We make choices every day from purchasing a new set of wooden cooking utensils to printing that 5 page document you didn’t really need and while we make these seemingly simple choices we sometimes forget the high impact these decisions can have on our planet.  Indeed, it’s now time to look at the bigger picture, not only to better manage our rapidly depleting timber resources but to invest in natural and renewable timber alternatives.

This year was declared the International Year of Forests 2011 by the United Nations to raise awareness of responsible management, conservation and sustainable development of all types of forests. This has seen governments, international and regional organisations as well as civil society organisations form national groups and elect environmental focal points within their country to aid organisation of activities in support of the International Year of Forests 2011.

According to the UN, around 130,000km² of the world´s forests are lost due to deforestation each year, a devastating reality for the estimated 1.6 billion people that depend on forests for their livelihoods. Some 300 million people live within them while forests also provide habitats for about two-thirds of all species on earth. Deforestation of rainforests is predicted to account for a biodiversity loss of as many as 100 species per day according to The World Bank.

With this in mind, the sustainable management of forests is becoming ever more pressing with countries across the world now pledged to do all they can to improve the situation in light of the UN initiative. For instance, the Government of the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea has established a plan for reforestation and plantation of its entire land by 2012 while other countries have been organising events throughout the year as a way of promoting their particular objectives. England for example will be holding a ‘Forest Discovery Day’ on September 11th across the nation where people will be given the chance to meet rangers and learn about sustainable forestry followed by a mass tree hug while Australian schools held a tree planting day earlier this month and the USA enjoyed a national Get Outdoors Day Big Tree Challenge back in June.

Although the International Year of Forests 2011 will play a major role in improving environmental awareness, with the global market for timber so vast having doubled in the last six years it is paramount that alternative timber supplies be utilised as well.

In the sustainable resources sector, bamboo is fast becoming the best alternative to addressing global, social and environmental concerns over traditional timber with the bamboo market currently at $5bn a year, growing to a predicted $20bn by 2015. Utilising bamboo in everyday applications makes perfect sense with its quick growth, excellent strength and durability, environmental benefits and around 3,500 commercial uses including food, construction material, flooring, furniture, charcoal, paper, medicines and textiles to name a few.

Ray Withers, Director of Property Frontiers which markets the world’s first asset backed bamboo bond explains,

“With global warming on the horizon becoming one of the most important issues our generation will be faced with, bamboo plantations present a far better alternative, as people shun traditionally felled wood products in favour of the environmentally friendly choice.”

It is forecasted by Yale University that one hectare will produce over 109 km of bamboo pole in 15 years; consequently leaders in the alternative investment market, Property Frontiers believe that investing in bamboo will suit environmentally conscious investors looking to have a positive social and environmental impact as well as benefit from a high return rate.  As the most exciting of any timber investment, Property Frontiers are offering a world first – The Bamboo bond, giving a secure and rewarding SIPP eligible bamboo investment in Central America with fixed annual returns starting in year 1.

With a minimum investment of $16,500 investors buy a 15 year asset backed bond. This bond entitles them to fixed payments over the 15 year period that reaches a maximum of 55% per year! At the end the principal investment is repaid meaning that the highest returning bond priced at $50,000 returns over 500% during the term. This return is fixed and secured against assets of the US Bamboo plantation company to protect investors in the unlikely event of a default. 

This green investment in Central America is a perfect investment opportunity with a variety of significant advantages, helping investors build their ‘green’ credentials and make substantial returns from a lucrative and growing market whilst helping to lessen environmental degradation across the globe.

For more information on investing in this bamboo alternative please contact Property Frontiers on +44 (0) 1865 202 700 or visit www.propertyfrontiers.com.
 

With a 54% increase in flight searches, Estonia ranks as number 1 emerging summer destination for British travellers

by Charlotte Ashton World

As always, this time of year sees hoards of Brits setting off overseas in search of that much needed sun, sea and relaxation with the traditional destinations of Spain and France usually proving most popular. However, it appears that a greater number of intrepid travellers are now looking past the ‘usual’ vacation hotspots in search of something different.

Data taken from the Top 10 Emerging Destinations for British Travellers survey compiled by price comparison website Skyscanner shows that the small Baltic nation of Estonia saw the biggest rise in interest compared to summer 2010, with a 54% increase in flight searches. Indeed, the Estonian capital of Tallinn, voted this year’s European Capital of Culture appears to have helped attract a greater number of British tourists interested in finding out more about Estonia, considered to be one of Europe’s best kept secrets.

Skyscanner’s Travel Editor Sam Baldwin states: “It’s great to see lesser-known spots receive well-deserved interest and Skyscanner’s data may be indicative of a growing trend to visit places off the beaten track.”

Alan Forsyth, Director of highly respected property investment agency, Property Secrets comments,

“The Skyscanner data perfectly highlights that emerging markets like Estonia will in time, become hot picks for tourists around the world. Estonia has so much to offer including charming seaside towns, pretty villages and a surprisingly cosmopolitan culture and has certainly begun to place itself on the tourism radar seeing a 41% increase in the number of UK visitors with a record number welcomed in the first half of this year. I am over the moon that the beautiful Baltic nation has finally made its presence felt.”

With this in mind, Property Secrets has been insightful enough to recognise the lucrative nature of Estonia’s emerging tourism market and in turn demand for accommodation; in keeping with the nation’s focus on eco developments Property Secrets has a unique and truly sustainable development on offer.

Fully planned and carbon negative, Keble House, built in the beautiful residential complex Oxford Park and priced at only €107,307, with 20% covered by the developer, is the first of its type in Europe, offering a 2 bedroom natural wood terrace house with front and back garden and parking only 30 minutes’ drive from the border of the capital Tallinn.

The Oxford Park complex is the only new community development in Europe to plan its own independent renewable heat and electricity source (allowing it an A+ rating), based on clean biomass renewable energy, supplying all the properties through a smart grid, putting it well ahead of similar developments in the UK.

With a 5 year rental guarantee at 5% of purchase price this is the perfect opportunity to reap the rewards from Estonia’s emerging tourism market by investing in a beautifully sustainable property.

For further information please contact Property Secrets on +44 (0) 115 985 3963, email info@propertysecrets.net or visit www.propertysecrets.net.

 

New direct flights set to boost the Paris of South America in 2011

by Charlotte Ashton World

 The “Paris of South America”, Buenos Aires, is set to receive a boost this year as a new daily non-stop service from London, operated by British Airways, will commence from March 27th.

 

Previously BA flights to the capital of Argentina involved a connection in Sao Paulo but due to passenger demand a new direct flight will be introduced making it even easier to reach South America’s second largest metropolitan area.

 

In the decade since the economic crisis of 2001, Argentina has worked hard to establish economic prosperity, boasting five straight years of 9% GDP growth through 2007 and impressive GDP of 8% for 2010.

 

The nation’s booming economy, primarily based on agricultural and natural resource exports, manufacturing and telecommunications has attracted significant levels of foreign direct investment. Labelled by the Financial Times as “China’s New Investment Frontier”, Argentina has seen levels of Chinese investment go from millions to US$ 2.45 billion in the last decade. 

 

In addition the tourism sector is also rapidly expanding; the Argentine Ministry of Tourism expected more than 5 million foreigners to visit the country in 2010, 15.5% more than in 2009, generating revenue of US$470 billion.

 

This increase in tourism numbers is in turn having a positive effect on Argentina’s housing market. Identified as a “future high growth luxury residential market” by the Knight Frank Global Property Wealth Survey 2010 and one of the “most favourable destinations” for hotel investment in 2011 by Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels, the South American hotspot of Argentina offers a wealth of opportunity both for domestic and international property buyers.

 

Demand for high quality accommodation around Buenos Aires is particularly high with country clubs proving popular both as retreats for city workers but also permanent residences in their own right. Offering the best of both worlds, country clubs such as the 5* Camino Real Polo & Country Club located just 35 minutes from Buenos Aires, allow residents to enjoy the true Argentinian countryside, first class on-site amenities and easy access to the city for work.

 

As Steven Worboys, MD of Experience International, who is exclusively marketing the hotel suites available at Camino Real, comments,

 

“Investing in aparthotels remains a popular choice for investors due to the high returns available and hassle free management. Combining this booming asset class with a growing economy such as Argentina is surely a recipe for success!”

 

Hotel suites at the 5*Las Rosas hotel at Camino Real are selling fast. Set within the 770 acre Polo & Country Club, lake view hotel suites are available from £87,500 with up to 18.8% projected NET rental yield. 60% 10 year non- status developer finance is also available along with two weeks annual stay with free polo lessons.

 

For more information on investing in Argentina and the Las Rosas aparthotel contact the experts at Experience International on +44 (0) 207 321 5858 or visit www.experience-international.com

Inspection Trip Survival Guide – 5 Essential Items You Shouldn’t Leave Home Without

by Charlotte Ashton World

Most people wouldn’t dream of buying a home in the UK without seeing it; walking through each room, inspecting the quality of the build, researching the local area and its amenities. But what happens if the home you want to buy is located hundreds if not thousands of miles away, overseas? The solution? An inspection trip.

Thousands of potential overseas property buyers go on inspection trips each year, be they organized privately or through an agent or developer. They are designed to offer buyers the opportunity to experience the culture of the country they wish to buy in, meet with local property experts who know the market and buying procedures and view properties which meet their requirements.
Steven Worboys, MD of overseas property experts Experience International, comments,
“Inspection trips are a key part of the overseas property buying process. We believe that knowing and understanding the market you are buying in is essential and so we encourage our clients to visit not only the development(s) they are interested in but the surrounding areas, meeting with the local residents and property professionals.”
So if you are thinking about going on an inspection trip then follow Experience International’s Survival Guide and make sure you don’t leave home without these 5 essential items:
1.       Digital camera – Record your memories of not only the properties you’ll view but the local areas you’ll visit. Take both internal and external high resolution pictures as well as any items included in the price and views from the property. Don’t forget the spare batteries!
2.       Comfortable shoes – Although you will be met by a local representative and usually driven between developments and around the local areas, there will be some walking involved. Make sure you wear appropriate footwear so you can fully explore properties with basements, garages or rooftop terraces. Sometimes the hidden gems lie off the beaten track.
3.       Compass – Get back to basics and check for yourself the orientation of your desired property. For tecchies the ever useful iPhone has a built-in compass however the classic Boy Scout model will do just fine for those technophobes out there. Top tip – try and visit properties at different times of the day to get a true picture.
4.       Key questions – Inspection trips present the perfect opportunity to ask anything and everything about a property, its location, the developer and the buying process. Before you go, jot down some key questions to ask such as does the project have full planning permissions in place? Can I see other projects the developer has completed? What exactly is included in the price? What are the service charges and ongoing costs? Who is the lawyer who will represent me? What is their experience and can I meet them? What finance is available, on what terms and with whom?
5.       Your cheque book – It is by no means expected but common place for buyers to reserve the property of their dreams on an inspection trip. If you are serious about buying then make sure available funds are in place before you visit to secure the unit. There is normally a 14 day cooling-off period, where the reservation fee is refundable if you change your mind.
Steven Worboys continues,
“From the feedback we have received from clients, the vast majority have found our inspection trips to be invaluable when buying their homes overseas. We adhere to a strict “no hard sell” policy, simply listening to and meeting our clients’ requirements, making the buying process as simple and stress-free as possible.” 
Inspection trips are regularly organised by Experience International to Turkey, Egypt, Italy, Cape Verde, Portugal, Madeira and USA and are usually 3 or 4 days in duration with clients covering the costs of their flights although accommodation, airport transfers and some refreshments are subsidised.

For more information on booking an inspection trip the contact Experience International on + 44 (0) 207 321 5858 or visit www.experience-international.com.