Tampa Real Estate

Good GDP Growth and FDI is Boosting Istanbul Property Market

// August 10th, 2010 // Comments // Real Estate

Turkey is still bucking global trends with GDP growth rates of 12% generated for Q1 2010, Turkish banks increasing access to credit by up to 30% and now levels of FDI in Istanbul are up by 27% according to the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce (ITO).

Turkey’s second city and economic powerhouse, Istanbul, has evolved into a very attractive destination for international investors with the number of international investors planning to set up businesses or grow their operations in Istanbul by over 6% in the first half of 2010 (compared to the second half of 2009). The ITO released data also showed a 27.16% growth in the total value of these investments for the same period.

Steven Worboys, MD of the UK based Istanbul property investment experts, Experience International, comments,

“Istanbul has turned out to be one of our most successful property investment opportunities of the year. We have clients from not only the UK but South Africa, Australia, Ireland, Scandinavia, and the UAE all taking advantage of Istanbul’s significant housing shortage and investing in the domestic property market.”

In the first half of 2010 over 1,400 overseas investors established companies within Istanbul with the total value of capital investments made in this period up by a massive 44.68% compared to the last half of 2009.

As Worboys remarks,

“International investor confidence in Turkey and more specifically Istanbul remains high. Being located outside the troubled euro zone is very appealing and Turkey seems to have side-stepped the negative impact from neighbouring Greece.”

GDP forecasts for the remainder of 2010 currently sit at a healthy 6-7% and with additional support for candidacy from the British Prime Minister, David Cameron, on his recent visit, accession to the European Union seems ever more likely for Turkey.

Forinvestors considering investing in Istanbul then one particular real estate opportunity should not be missed.

No1 Knightsbridge currently offers 1, 2 and 3 bedroom luxury Istanbul apartments located in the up and coming suburb of Beylikduzu, on the European side of the city. At the moment Istanbul has a housing shortage of some 250,000 units a year and so rental demand is high. Only 20% of units are to be allocated to overseas buyers and can be purchased from as low as ?23,250 with 70% finance available for EU members.

For more details simply contact the experts at Experience International on +44 (0) 207 321 5858 or go to Experience-International.co.uk.

Mel Gibson rumoured to soon be the king of his own castle in Calabria

// July 19th, 2010 // Comments // Real Estate

Included in recent Italian media reports, Mel Gibson the Hollywood superstar is looking to buy a property in Italy’s best kept secret – the southern region of Calabria.

The Director of The Passion of the Christ became enchanted by the stunning scenery after filming in the nearby medieval town of Matera and according to the celebrity news site is looking for a more permanent residence in the area.

Keen to meet the alleged Calabria property requirements of this A-lister, the mayor of San Lorenzo del Vallo, a small town in the north of Calabria, has recommended a 600 year old castle with 13,000 sqm of surrounding land of which Gibson could enjoy.

And it’s not hard to see why he might be tempted. Located on the “toe” of Italy, Calabria is a region of extraordinary beauty with miles of picturesque pristine sandy beaches, perfect Mediterranean climate, transparent turquoise blue seas, dramatic mountains, wonderful lakes and rolling hills. Rich in culture & history, Calabria offers the traditional dolce vita and is a highly sought after second home region as well as relocation destination.

If you can’t quite afford an A list budget then don’t worry,prices for Calabria properties are still affordable with a wide range of completed turn key and off plan homes available.

A brand new development of apartments in the beautiful village of Lorica in the Sila Mountains called Porcino Silano have units available from as little as €87,000. Or if you require more seclusion and privacy then the Porcino Silano boutique 1 and 2 bedroom apartments located in the awesome Sila Mountains, only 300m from the lake, can be brought for the same price, only €87,000.

For more information about investing in Italy’s best kept secret – Calabria – then ask the experts at Experience International call + 44 (0) 207 321 5858 or go to Experience-International.com.

Turkey Property Increasing Popular with Brits

// July 13th, 2010 // Comments // Real Estate

The Turkish General Directorate of Land Registry has just released data showing that demand for Turkish property is not showing any signs of slowing with a record 32,000 Britons now owning property in Turkey.

The past couple of years have seen people buying second homes especially along the stunning Mediterranean & Aegean Aegean and Mediterranean[/spin] coastlines. With foreign investors purchasing twice as much property than they previously did in total over the past 79 years since the founding of the Republic, the data reveals. European buyers in particular have been drawn to Turkey due to the affordable property prices, low cost of living and direct access fromthe UK. The trend of foreigners seeking to buy property in Turkey is increasing.

Steven Worboys, MD of Experience International, the Turkish property experts, comments,

“We have certainly seen the Turkish property market gain momentum and get stronger. Overall, the number of overseas property buyers has increased by almost 30%, from seventy three thousand in 2008 to 104,000 today with the UK market being the biggest group of investors.”

Over 63 million sqm of property, classed as ‘immovable assets’ by the Turkish Land Registry, is owned by foreigners with Britons possessing the biggest percentage at 6 million sqm, the Germans the 2nd with 3.5 million sqm and Greeks at 3 million sqm.

The province of Mu?la, located in the south-western corner, on the beautiful Aegean coast, is a particularly desirable location with nearly 5.5 million sqm of immovable assets owned by overseas buyers.

As Worboys remarks,

“Mu?la province, home to the popular towns of Bodrum, Fethiye & Marmaris, encapsulates everything that overseas buyers look for. It’seasy to see why more than 14,000 Britons own property here. Warm translucent waters, golden sandy beaches, international airports providing easy access, good infrastructure and plenty of amenities on hand, on top of affordable, spacious properties constructed to the highest standards – Turkey has plenty to offer everyone.”

One major influencer which has has a positive impact to the Turkish property market is the increase in availability of finance. Up to 70% LTV mortgages are now readily available throughout the country and this combined with Turkey’s position outside the euro zone means there is zero currency exposure as many property prices are fixed in Sterling.

Kusadasi property is always very attractive with overseas buyers seeking a tourist destination and also properties such popular are the luxury hilltop residences of Royal Heights in Bodrum which can be purchased from only ?97,592 or further up the coast, towards the tourist hotspot of Altinkum, completed studio, 1 and 2 bedroom apartments in the Seahorse Residence can be snapped up for as little as ?31,600 with only a 10% deposit required. It’s obvious to see why Turkey property is so attractive, great destinations, good styles and quality of buildings, and great prices.

For additional details about buying property in Turkey, download your free Turkey Today magazine at Buy-Turkey-Property.com/ or contact Experience International on + 44 (0) 207 321 5858

Pre-release Investment Opportunity – Holiday Inn Canary Wharf Hotel Rooms

// June 25th, 2010 // Comments // Real Estate

The hotel market in London remains one of the strongest in Europe outperforming Rome, Berlin, Madrid, & Amsterdam.

The global hotel brand, Holiday Inn has identified the high demand for quality accommodation in central London and is therefore partnering on a new high yielding hotel room investment opportunity.

Holiday Inn Canary Wharf
Operating under the Holiday Inn brand, the hotel will be the flagship hotel in Canary Wharf for the globally renowned Intercontinental Hotel Group.

Currently you can secure a unit pre-launch at 30% below RICS valuation therefore providing security against any short term price fluctuation and reaping rewards from the anticipated capital growth forecasts. RICS is the UK body responsible for professional conduct and qualification of Chartered Surveyors

Prime location in one of Europe’s premier financial districts
The prime location on West India Dock Road and directly opposite Westferry Road DLR station further enhances the credibility of this development and when completed the hotel will become an iconic landmark in this prime financial district of the city.

Watch the video which outlines the opportunity.

The 4* Holiday Inn Canary Wharf will be up and running towards the end of 2011 and as an official Olympic partner, Holiday Inn Canary Wharf will be a feeder hotel for the much anticipated games.

As the room rates go up so will the value of the property will also increase. This will be an important factor that drives the financial growth of the investment over and above the normal growth rate in the area. As the property generates a higher income it becomes more and more valuable and saleable every year.

Owning a hotel room in the Holiday Inn Canary Wharf is a hassle free investment enabling you to benefit from attractive yields and capital growth and returns achieved from the attractive London Hotel Market.

For more information go to HolidayInnCanaryWharf.co.uk to access the investor report.

New French Leaseback Magazine Launched Is Essential Reading For Property Investors

// June 24th, 2010 // Comments // Real Estate

To satisfy the demand for more information about French leaseback property, Focus on France, the new 32 page magazine has been created.

France investment property is proving increasingly popular.

“Leaseback has been a major feature inside the French property scene for many years and is now becoming popular with British and other investors.”FrenchEntree, 2010“British property buyers searching for second homes overseas are ditching more exotic locations and once again flocking to France. Buyers are taking advantage of lower property prices and, faced with a struggling pound, cheaper euro mortgages.” Holiday Lettings, 2010

More than 100,000 people from the UK already own property in France and leaseback properties are in high demand as they offer freehold ownership, income guarantees and personal usage.

But how does the leaseback system work?

Where is the best place to buy? What returns can be expected?

Focus on France, published by French leaseback experts, Experience International, is your essential guide to French leaseback property and answers all the questions potential buyers may have.

“Focus on France is an essential guide for anyone interested in leaseback property in France.

It contains clear explanation of the sale-and-leaseback model, up-to-date news, independent expert advice and buying guide.

Also included are the most popular areas to invest and the most attractive leaseback properties on the market”, comments Steven Worboys, Publisher and MD of Experience International.

The new 32 page magazine is complimentary for people interested in Investmkent property in France and includes:

Why are leasebacks such a safe bet? by the Editor of What House? Magazine

The latest property market information

The ten top motivations to invest in France

Where to buy? Location focus on Provence, the Alps and SW France

Buying Guide

Hot properties – guide to the best leasebacks available today

To receive your complimentary Focus on France Leaseback magazine today go to frenchleaseback.org or phone on + 44 (0) 207 321 5858.

New French Leaseback Magazine Launched Must Read For Property Investors

// May 26th, 2010 // Comments // Real Estate

With the high demand for more information on French leaseback property, the new 32 page Focus on France magazine has just been launched.

More than 100,000 Britons already have property in France and leaseback properties are highly sought after as they offer freehold ownership, guaranteed income and personal usage

But how does the model work?

Where is the best place to invest?

What ROI can be expected?

Focus on France, published by French Leaseback experts, Experience International, is your must read guide to French leaseback property and covers all the questions potential buyers may have.

“Focus on France is a must read guide for any one interested in purchasing a leaseback property in France. It contains a clear explanation of the sale-and-leaseback model, up to date news, objective expert advice and buying guide. Also included are the most popular areas to buy and the hottest leaseback properties on the market”, comments Steven Worboys, Publisher and MD of Experience International.

The French Leaseabck magazine is complimentary for potential French property investors and features:

Why are leasebacks such a safe bet? by the Editor of What House? Magazine

The latest property market information

Top ten reasons to buy in France

Where to invest? Location focus on Provence, the Alps and SW France

Buying Guide

Hot properties – guide to the best leasebacks available at the moment

To request your complimentary 32 page French Leaseback Magazine today go to frenchleaseback.org or call + 44 (0) 207 321 5858.

Why so Many Investors are Safe With a French Leaseback Property

// May 22nd, 2010 // Comments // Real Estate

Investing in a property overseas can be an excellent method to accumulate financial freedom.

But before parting with your cash, an investment strategy should be developed.

Where should you purchase a property?

What risks are you willing to take?

Many emerging property locations, which were so popular during the height of the global property boom, have now fallen out of favour with most property buyers, due to the high-risk, high-return, boom-bust nature of investing in these kind of markets.

A lot of investors have now returned to buying property in safer traditional markets, where the economy has more history and strength and the risks are far lower.

Take France for example.
The recent global credit crunch had a lesser impact on the country’s economy, ensuring that it was the first Country in Europe to break out of last years recession.

The buy to let market in France, particularly the French leaseback, is reportedly attracting particular interest from property investors from around the world, due to the low-risk, hands-off, nature of this long-term French property investment vehicle.

France Leaseback Properties
The French sale-and-leaseback (propriete allege) system was introduced by the French government back in the 1980’s to increase the number of vacation homes available in the country.

This investment vehicle presents you with an opportunity to purchase a home and then lease it back to a management company, often for a typical term of nine to eleven yrs (extendable up to 18 years) in return for a rental guarantee of three to six percent.

During the leaseback period, the management company is responsible for letting the property, as well as furnishing, maintenance and paying all bills. You will therefore benefit from a guaranteed rental income and potential capital appreciation throughout the duration of the leaseback agreement.

There is also the added incentive that most leaseback properties in France qualify for a 19.6% VAT rebate from the French government.

A Stable Investment
For people seeking a France investment property the idea of guaranteed rental income, good predicted capital growth, VAT exemption and an established mature market, suggests no doubt that French leaseback properties look a safe bet for investors.

Visit Frenchleaseback.org for your Free magazine

French Leaseback Properties Still Flying Off The Shelf!

// April 4th, 2010 // Comments // Real Estate

It would suggest that after the recent recession as the market finds its confidence that property investors are going back to basics and selecting traditional, safe and secure investment locations in which to purchase their properties.

France, which has been popular since the 1960s at the degining of the second home era, in particular is seeing renewed investor attention with French leaseback property a key element in the decision to purchase.

So what makes French Leaseback property such an attractive investment?

1. Low deposit required

With the current instability of the euro and poor performance of the pound, investors are eager to minimise their exposure to currency fluctuations by investing in properties with a low deposit. Off-plan leaseback investment properties like the soon to be launched Marseille property can be brought with a low deposit and a wide range of mortgages available with finance of up to 100% available.

2. Guaranteed rental income

A key feature of the leaseback scheme is that the owner can generate income by purchasing the freehold property outright and then leasing it back to a management company who are experienced and already well established in the tourist management, maintenance and rental of the specific property and resorts for a minimum 9-year period (renewable). In return owners receive a guaranteed index-linked return per annum, irrespective of the occupancy rate of the property.

3. Personal usage

Leaseback property owners can enjoy the best of both worlds – guaranteed rental income and personal usage. Investors can select a leaseback formula that includes weeks of stay at their property every year for a slight reduction in the guaranteed rental income. These weeks may also be used in other equivalent apartments in any of the other properties managed by the management company.

4. VAT rebate

French Vat rebate, currently at 19.6%, on a new build property price is an excellent incentive for investors. This government backed tax break enables investments to be effectively made at below market value and if held for 20 years the VAT is not required to be paid back.

5. 40 year track record

In a time when the security of an investment is paramount, investors can take reassurance in the 40 yr track record of sale and leaseback devised by the French Government. Created as a low-risk long term investment, the leaseback method operates within a set framework and is now a very well a well established buying practice.

Steven Worboys, MD of French property experts Experience International, comments,

“We have had an increase in demand for French leaseback properties especially those in key tourist locations such as the Alps. Our investors want to ensure that their investments are not only secure but that their properties are delivering income as well as personal usage. Leaseback properties perfectly meet these requirements.”

A wide range of leaseback properties are available to purchase in desirable destinations including a new French ski property leaseback in Sainte Foy, as well as properties in Avoriaz, Megeve, Marseille and Biarritz through Experience International. Contact one of the French leaseback property experts on +44 (0) 207 321 5858 or visit experience-international.com for more information or to view the range of properties currently for sale.

The Philippines, Asia property hotspot, is set to increase by 10%

// March 5th, 2010 // Comments // Real Estate

While the Philippines is a country consisting of over 7000 beautiful tropical Islands. However it is the major populated locations like Manila, Quezon City, & Cebu which have a consistently growing educated work force especially in the Information Technology skill set and because of this fact an increasing number of businesses are establishing head quarter, offices and outsourcing work and projects to the Philippines.

as well as some of the popular island locations like Boracay for example also attract visitors of all kinds from around the world.
Investors who are seeking to earn money from Asia property be it commercial, residential and or the touristic property demand have now identified that the Philippines is a very interesting opportunity.

This among other factors mentioned in a recent press conference have suggested that the property market in the Philippines will increase by 10% this year.
’Real Estate services firm CB Richard Ellis Philippines sees an uptake in the property market growing by at least 10 percent this year pushed by liquidity, election spending, bank lending and the enactment of the REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) law.

In a press conference, CBRE Philippines chairman Rick M. Santos, said the growth would be across the board but it would be led by office followed by residential and retail. It was also mentioned that although the growth is office led the tourism sector would also see the development of more hotels and resorts and the emergence of entertainment complexes. Source: IRMA ISIP – Property market to grow by at least 10%.

In our opinion it is the touristic property investment opportunities that are appealing to a large number of foreign property investors that are seeking both financial gains and enjoyment from the properties they are investing in.

An example of this type of Philippines property investment is the Continent Fairways investment opportunity on the tropical Boracay island which has proven very popular as the investment privides a high guaranteed rental income provided by the management company of around 20% combined with excellent personal usage, owners can use their properties whenever they desire but the amount of usage they take will of course be taken from the amount of rental income they receive.

Video of Continent Fairways Investment Opportunity

An investment property like Continent Fairways is attractive as it removes all of the cost and work involved in managing and renting the properties for the initial investor. The investors benefit from a high guaranteed rental income as well as usage and the expected capital growth. For more information about Continent Fairways visit www.continent-fairways.co.uk

Why invest in Crystal Heights the new Istanbul property opportunity?

// February 27th, 2010 // Comments // Real Estate

Istanbul property is now predicted as the place to invest for 2010. Istanbul is known as the gateway from west to east and as so can offer western society and security as well as the promise of the east’s captivating cosmopolitan culture and exciting environments.

The latest Emerging Trends in Real Estate Europe Report just released by Price Waterhouse Coopers and the Urban Land Institute rank Istanbul, European Capital of Culture, number 1 in City Development Prospects in 2010.

Turkey investment property has been attractive for the past few years now but a high percentage of the developments and marketing in the overseas property industry was more orientated towards the holiday lifestyle homes on the Mediterranean coast and has investors from around the world.

This non eurozone country has capitalised on its warm climate, stunning Aegean and Mediterranean coast, low cost of living and ease of access to the UK with 73,000 overseas nationals (Turkish Statistical Institute) already calling Turkey home.

We would like to highlight that Turkey’s property boom is also due to rapidly growing cities such as Istanbul where the significant Istanbul property market deficit presents opportunity.
As Managing Director of Experience International, Steven Worboys, comments,

“The success of Istanbul’s property market is a simple matter of supply and demand. Due to the fast growth of the city (some 400,000 new inhabitants arrive each year to work or study) the existing housing stock has reached capacity. It is estimated that 250,000 new homes per annum are required until 2015 according to the Real Estate Investment Trust Association to meet the demand generated by foreign as well as domestic investment.”
Istanbul is the established economic powerhouse of Turkey, with some of the most attractive investment opportunities available.

Crystal Heights Istanbul
Crystal Heights is an apartment tower of 337 luxury contemporary styled 1 & 2 bedroom apartments and duplexes and a great example of one of the latest and most attractive Istanbul investment properties available. Investor can get involved for a low cash outlay of only ?13,500 (fixed in sterling) with the 70% available finance. Crystal Heights provides a 7% p.a. guaranteed rental for two years protected on completion in 2011 through collateral from the rental management company. the average rental income in Istanbul is around10% and as the development is top quality and demand in high investors can expect similar if not higher rental incomes from the property after the first 2 years guarantee.

For more information about this development and to download a complementry invester report please visit www.istanbul-property.com.