Taking this advice on board, an investor therefore needs to think about where demand for property is strong and likely to continue growing, and they also need to consider property as a long-term investment commodity rather than an asset that will potentially turn them a fast profit if they are going to include it in their investment portfolio. Which is why, when Gordon Brown as the Chancellor suggested that people would be able to put residential property into their pension funds thanks to the invention of the SIPP, (self invested personal pension), there was great interest with 6 out of 10 SIPP savers saying that they wanted to buy property with their pension and use it for long-term investment gains. Unfortunately, when a u-turn came about and would-be pension investors were told they were now not allowed to buy residential real estate with their SIPP funds, many were left feeling angry and disappointed.

However, commercial property assets are still eligible for inclusion in a SIPP and there are some very attractive tourism based commercial projects available that are SIPP qualifying. These give investors who wish to diversify their pension, and certainly include an element of real estate within their long-term savings plans, a chance to profit from exciting property projects in different parts of the world in a tax efficient way. One SIPP qualifying property investment project is the Caracola Beach and Spa Resort on the stunning and exotic Caribbean island of Isla Margarita. The island is attracting significant increases in annual travel and tourism numbers, witnessing a property boom and is believed to be a strong location for potential investment success thanks to the underlying fundamentals supporting the ongoing development and enhancement of the location. The Caracola project qualifies for SIPP status because investors are able to buy individual or multiple units within the condominium hotel resort development for rental purposes – thus making the investment a commercial one. Greg Walters, Director of Off Plan Property Abroad explains the details further: “to purchase an overseas property through a self invested personal pension the property needs to be designated as a commercial entity. An apartment within a condominium hotel such as the Caracola Beach and Spa Resort therefore qualifies.

The benefit of buying a property in this way, i.e., through your pension fund, is that you have tax free purchasing power. Over-demand and under-availability of good quality touristic accommodation on the island of Isla Margarita also makes purchasing an apartment at Caracola a very compelling investment proposition, especially using redundant or at best stagnating pension funds.”In terms of the properties available for sale in this island paradise, they consist of one and two bedroom apartments which come with an insurance bond backed guaranteed rental income of 7% for 10 years. Purchases at Caracola are also packaged to give owners relief from income and capital gains tax, and all in all Caracola provides a superb investment opportunity in an increasingly attractive emerging market.

Any buyer will ultimately own a potentially high returning, capital appreciating, tax enhanced commercial property asset in one of the best beachfront locations in the emerging Caribbean, where onsite amenities for guests are five star and high-grade ensuring this development stands out for the long-term. Onsite facilities include multiple swimming pools, a beach activity area, spa, nightclub, fitness suite, duty free shopping zone, sauna, kids club, conference rooms, beauty salon, restaurants, bars and cafes.

Cape Verde, an archipelago of ten islands off the coast of Senegal enjoying a year round fabulous climate and boasting some incredibly stunning scenery, was a location lesser known until just four short years ago.  In the past four years the islands of Sal, Boa Vista and Santiago in particular have become known as idyllic holiday destinations and perfect second home locations – so much so that Cape Verde’s expatriate population is now greater than its local population.  Cape Verde has shown it has ambitions and plans to become one of the most economically stable nations in Africa, to make the most of its incredible natural attributes, to develop ethical high end and sustainable tourism and property industries.

Not only is the climate in Cape Verde stunning all year round, the islands are encircled with pristine white sandy beaches and tropical vegetation.  The waters that lap the shores of the islands are crystal clear and home to coral reefs and hundreds of species of exotic fish.  Various activities are available for holidaymakers and residents ranging from a whole array of water sports to outdoor pursuits on the rocky volcanic climbs of the islands’ mountainous areas.  There’s no denying that Cape Verde is steering a course towards continued economic advancement and improvement.  The type of property projects now coming to the market are appealing to a very discerning public – and yet, on the whole, the vast majority of real estate is still within financial reach of many of us because prices began from a low starting point, and despite 20% growth last year, there is still substantially more room for expansion as Cape Verde continues to develop and improve.

Take the new Dunas Beach Resort as just one example of a property project that embodies all that is new and exciting in the real estate industry in Cape Verde.  Built on a glamorous frontline beach position on the island of Sal it is within walking distance of Santa Maria.  The development offers residents everything from direct and private beach access to their very own frontline golf course.  An array of spas, swimming pools, shops, a gym, bars and restaurants are all available to development residents.  Properties on the development are 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments with 3 bedroom detached villas with private pools – all available with frontline views of either the beach or golf course.  Prices start from £89,950.00.

For more information about the properties at Dunas Beach Resort and Tortuga Beach Resort & Spa, please contact Off Plan Property Abroad Limited on    0845 1309011    or email invest@offplanpropertyabroad.com.

News that the 2014 World Cup will be held in Brazil is set to entice a new wave of investors to the country, alongside infrastructure improvements.

The South American country was the only bidding to host the tournament, which was due to be staged on the continent under Fifa’s rotation system.

It is the first time the World Cup is being held in South America since Argentina hosted, and won, the 1978 tournament, and Brazil have won the tournament a record five times and hosted the World Cup once before, in 1950, when they lost 2-1 in the final to Uruguay.  Brazilian president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said, “Soccer is more than a sport for us, it’s national passion”.

Brazil is setting aside around £550 million to update its stadiums, including the Maracana in Rio de Janeiro which hosted the 1950 World Cup final.  This, along with numerous improvements to public transport and airports, will go a long way to putting Brazil firmly on the overseas property investor map.

Last year Brazilian house prices were said to have risen by between ten and 15%, with the north-east coast of Brazil offering some of the best property prospects.

This part of the country is popularly described as offering a Caribbean style atmosphere with its beaches, sunshine and laid-back vibe.

Click here for property investments in Brazil.

Marsa Alam Beach Resort, on Egypt’s southern Red Sea Riviera is home to year-round sunshine, pristine beaches, clear water and virgin coral reef.  Add to this low entry level prices, high rental yields, a bank backed 5-year 10% average rental gurantee, developer funded mortgages at approximately 60% loan to value, payment plans, an escrow account, a developer with a strong track record in high quality worldwide developments, direct flight access and a growing tourism market and it’s not hard to see why Marsa Alam Beach Resort is such an attractive overseas investment.

The development Marsa Alam Beach Resort lies just 45 km south of the Marsa Alam International Airport and 20km north of Marsa Alam town.  This perfectly located frontline development consists of 1,434 one- and two-bedroom apartments and two/three-bedroom penthouses, set in a beautiful gated 5-star resort with landscaped gardens (only 18% of the site are is being built on).  All apartments are ‘high-spec’ with individual outdoor space.  Prices for a one-bedroom apartment stat at just €29,500.  Other options include two-bedroom apartments (with rental guarantee) from €58,945.

The resort has its own 500m stretch of private beach as well as a coral reef – allowing even weak swimmers o non-divers easy access to the area’s colourful aquatic life.  There is a dive centre with instructors on site catering for those wishing to undertake their dive qualifications.  And for visitors who prefer to stay on top of the water rather than at depth, the resort will also offer fresh and salt-water swimming pools, a wide range of watersports and a marina.

Other facilities planned for the Marsa Alam Beach Resort include a wellness/fitness centre, tennis, mini golf and tour services for a range of water and desert activities.  The resort has its own restaurants,bars and nightclubs as well as shops, supermarkets and a medical/dental surgery.  And with the town just a short 20km drive away, a resort shuttle will be available for those wishing to explore the old fishing village of Marsa Alam, or sample local markets and Egyptian life.

Location and access

Marsa Alam is located in the southern Egyptian Riviera on the Red Sea approximately 300km south of Hurghada. 

The popularity of the region as a diving destination led to the construction of the Marsa Alam International Airport, which lies just 45km north of the resort and 65km north of Marsa Alam town.  With direct flights from London and many other European destinations now available, and with flight times direct from Europe to Marsa Alam takes under 5 hours, the area is seeing an explosion in tourism growth and development.  Construction is currently underway on an extension to the airport terminal, to cope with the increasing air traffic to the region.

For more information on Marsa Alam Beach Resort, please click here.

With its sea breezes, evocative turquoise waters, fabulous climate and laid back lifestyle, the Caribbean is a favourite relocation, investment and tourism region.  Whilst each of its locations and island destinations are distinctly different in many ways, the region as a whole offers a great deal of promise presently and for the future for those interested in property investment.

Caribbean Government Stability Inspires Investor Confidence

The Caribbean includes a collection of islands and continental countries that border along the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.  Whilst each country has its own distinct governmental system, this entire region is generally described as stable with regard to government.  Many Caribbean destinations are independent democracies, some are members of the British Commonwealth and a few are considered territories of other countries such as the United States.  The refion’s countries are active on the worldwide front, with some belonging to the United Nations and other regional and international organisations.  The stability found within the region is very encouraging for investors and holidaymakers alike.

Close Ties with Europe Makes the Caribbean Very Attractive to Real Estate Investors

The Caribbean’s many different islands and countries have long held very close ties with Europe.  Some destinations here carry a distinctly British flavour whilst others have been touched by Spanish, Dutch and French influences.  Considering the long-standing relations over the past few hundred years with Europe, holidaymakers and investors within the Caribbean find English is spoken fluently in many destinations, and Spanish and French are also common tongues.  The European roots found within many Caribbean destinations lends to a sense of familiarity and helps investors feel confident in their purchases, whilst making holidaymakers fell right at home.

Economic Stability among Caribbean Destinations Inspires Property Investor Interest

Whilst the economic stability of each individual country does vary, the region as a whole is quite stable.  Many destinations here are experiencing moderate to quite favourable annual GDP growth.  The economy within the Caribbean is heavily dependant on tourism, which is sustained and constantly growing.  With regard to GDP growth, Belize for example is experiencing a growth rate of about 3.1%, Cost Rica more than 10% and the UK’s Cayman Islands more than 6%.  The economy of the overall region is driven not only by tourism but also agricultural products, fishing and some industrial operations in the continental countries.  The region’s stability on the economic front is encouraging to property investors here.

Investment Hotspots Found Throughout the Caribbean Encourage Property Investor Excitement

From Belize and the Dominican Republic to Barbados, many of the small countries of the Caribbean are of strong interest to investors, holidaymakers and expatriates.  Belize, for example is experiencing a major rise in development, tourism and expatriate migration.  With home site in the Hopkins and Sitte Point regions costing less than USD 90,000, Britons are finding this tropoical paradise enables their money to spend incredibly well for example.  Throughout the entire Caribbean region property investors looking for buy-to-let, second homes or fast resale potential will find the opportunity is high.  With its sustained tourism and ever-growing relocation popularity, the Caribbean encourages investor excitement.  Many destinations offer a great deal of opportunity for investment growth and returns.

Easy Access to the Caribbean Makes Holidaymaking and Investing Easy

Travelling to and from the Caribbean is quite an easy proposition for Europeans and North Americans.  Most countries offer very favourable entry requirements, and low-cost flights from some major European cities are making travel to the Caribbean affordable.  Americans too enjoy very easy and cheap access to the Caribbean, and what’s more, much of America’s cruise line industry is focused on Caribbean destinations.  Low-cost, short flights are also available from America.  The combination of European and American access ease bodes very well for investors looking for buy-to-let potential and even resale.  Americans, for example, are noted for buying second homes in the Caribbean and many holiday here year in and year out.

Many Caribbean Countries Desire and Encourage Foreign Investment, Making Property Markets Attractive

Most Caribbean countries encourage and welcome foreign investment.  Belize, for example, has made it quite easy for investors to purchase their own piece of paradise.  With favourable property laws, favourable immigration regulations, similar systems of government and organisation and common language found in many destinations throughout the Caribbean, property investors here are typically quite confident in their purchases.  Whilst some locations are easier to buy in than others, much of the Caribbean is very investor-friendly.

Incredible Climate and Caribbean Sights Encourage Tourism Which Works to Investors’ Advantages

The sights and the climate of the Caribbean are legendary.  From the turquoise waters and pristine white sandy beaches to the ancient ruins and historic European naval yards and beyond, the sights found within many Caribbean countries are like non other in the world.  Each country offers its own distinct appeal, but rest assured, investors within the Caribbean are virtually guaranteed there are plenty of attractions to pique holidaymaker and resale buyer interest no matter the destination.

Strong Tourism Industry in the Caribbean Makes Investors Pleased with the Potential

Tourism figures vary depending on the country or destination in question, but investors in the Caribbean region are assured of a strong, sustained and growing tourism industry.  According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, the annual growth rates are quite encouraging.  Barbados is expected to see growth of 4.1% per annum through the year 2017; Belize, 3.8%; the Dominican Republic, 3.4%; Jamaica 2.7% and Antigua, 3.8%.  Keep in mind that millions of travellers the world over visit the Caribbean each year, so these growth figures are starting from already high levels in most destinations.  The strong and continued interest in the Caribbean region by holidaymakers is very encouraging for investors interested in buy-to-let and even resale potential.

Diverse Geography and Balmy Climates Makes the Caribbean and its Countries Distinct Destinations with USPs for Property Investors

Whilst most people think of the Caribbean and instantly visualise palm fringed white sandy beaches and the sea with a turquoise tint, there is much more to this region than just beaches.  Within the Caribbean the geography also includes lush rainforests, mountains, rivers and waterfalls, volcanic craters, hills, marshland, caves and more.  The diversity found within the region appeals to holidaymakers, second-home buyers, expatriates, retirees and investors.  The climate throughout the region does vary a bit, but for the most part it is tropical and quite pleasant with warm sea breezes making even the warmest of days a pleasure by European standards. 

Favourable Exchange Rates Enable European Money to Spend Well on Caribbean Property

The exchange rate with the Euro and British pound does vary from destination to destination, but Britons in particular typically find their money spends incredibly well in the Caribbean region.  In places like Belize for example, the rate is roughly four to one.  Some countries offer an even more favourable exchange.  As the property markets within the Caribbean continue to hold strong and some new investment hotspots come online, European investors are finding the opportunity within the regions is quite high and their money goes very far.  This bodes incredibly well for investors who want good returns.  The Caribbean is a region of extreme potential for investors interested in buy-to-let yields and realising maximum resale values.  As more interest is focused on this part of the world, the sustained tourism industry and natural draws of the Caribbean are combining to make investing here very attractive.

From its beautiful coastlines to its mythical landmarks, Greece is a country whose history and legends have ignited the imaginations of many around the world for centuries.

Greece’s Stable Government Lends Itself to Bolstering Property Investor Confidence

Greek’s parliamentary democracy has been in place since 1975.  Whilst the country has experienced strained relationships with some of its neighbours from time to time, its relationship with most European countries is quite strong.  The overall stability in the region and its strong government very much inspire property investor confidence.

Greece’s Longstanding European Union Membership Inspires Confidence in Investors, Holidaymakers and Expats Alike

Greece has been a member of the European Union since 1981.  Its standing in the organisation and its adoption of the euro both work well to inspire investor confidence.  The common currency with much of Europe does ease the buying process in Greece for property and makes it simpler for many Europeans to handle financial transactions.  Whilst Brits still have to deal with exchange rates, the overall economic stability and strength of relations between Greece and the UK inspire property investor confidence and make investment attractive.

Low Buy-In Prices Make Greece Very Attractive to Investors

The cost of investing in property in Greece is extremely attractive.  The buy-in prices right now are under GBP 40,000 for off-plan purchases.  Resale villas and flats can even be found in the GBP 20,000 range in some areas.  Even in Athens where the prices tend to be higher, it is feasible to find very attractive flats for well under GBP 50,000.  Keep in mind that higher-end properties do fetch higher-end prices of course.  The potential for growth in the property market in Greece remains quite high as well.  Rental yields are estimated in the 7% range in popular areas such as Athens and Crete.  The reasonable buy-in prices and attractive rental yields combine quite well to make buying property in Greece attractive.

Comparable and Favourable Cost of Living Makes Greece Very Attractive to Holidaymakers, Expats and Investors

Whilst the major Greek cities such as Athens tend to cost a bit more interms of living expenses, the overall living expenses for residing in Greece are considered below Northern European prices.  Major purchases on things such as automobiles are much more expensive, but the basics of living are not.  This is very good news for retirees and expats who want to cater to them.  Outside of the major cities expats report savings of as much as 30% over Northern Europe on the basic necessities of living.

Ease and Affordability of Access Raise Greece’s Appeal for Property Investors

Getting to Greece from European countries is generally not a problem at all.  With very easy access for EU citizens and reasonable airfares from major airports all over the world, travel to Greece is attainable for many.  To make this even more so the Greek government has recently made an appeal to low-cost carriers to make accessibility even more attractive.  Rigth now, an airfare from London to Athens is about USD 400 for a roundtrip which isn’t terribly high.  The ease of accessibility is very appealing for holidaymakers and expats.  This of course is good news for investors with buy-to-let strategies in mind.  The accessibility is being taken advantage of by holidaymakers.  The Greek tourism industry is valued at an estimated USD 51.8 billion for 2007.  Demand in Greece is anticipated to grow by nearly 4% per annum through to 2017 according to the World Travel & Tourism Council as well. 

Greece’s Legendary Geography and Climate make it a Favorie for Investors, Expats, Retirees and Holidaymakers

From the historic home of the gods on Mt. Olympus to its beautiful Aegean, Ionian and Mediterranean sea coastlines, the beautiful Greek landscape appeals to many holidaymakers, expats and retirees.  The country’s climate is considered ideal by many people who prefer warmer, milder weather patterns; Greece enjoys mild, we winters and very warm, dry summers.  The geography and climate help make Greece stand out as a tourism destination, which also appeals to investors wiching to target the nation’s tourism industry for their returns.

Greece’s Incredible History Keeps its Attraction Level High with Property Investors

The Greek culture is one of the oldest and most widely studied and fabled in the world.  From its arts and literature to its governmental philosophies and beyond, Greek history and culture has impacted countries all over the globe.  Interest in the country, its culture and history remains incredibly high.  This bodes well for its sustainable tourism draws.  With college courses and indeed complete lines of study dedicated to the study of ancient Greek history, the appeal of the nation has long been in place.  This is very good news for investors who are interested in catering to the holidaymaking market.

Favourable Tax Structure Makes Greece Very Attractive to Investors

The Greek government is working very hard to stabilise its property market and put programmes in place to protect buyers from unreasonable prices that have hurt other attractive markets.  Once such protection is a new capital gains tax set at 20% if property is resold within the first five years.  The number decreases to 10% after 5 years and 5% after 15.  Whilst this is not attractive for investors with buy-to-flip strategies, it is good news for those who are looking at strategies that involve holding purchases.  The concern of the Greek government with regard to keeping its property market stable is very encouraging for buyers and does inspire confidence in terms of sustainable and stable growth.

Ease of Relocation Makes Greece Attractive to Retirees, Expats and Investors

Greece welcomes foreign property investors, retirees and expats.  EU members are allowed to buy in the country and live in Greece permanently.  Visas and residence permits are required for stays longer than three months.  Whilst investors are welcomed, Greece does not look kindly on speculation.  The country has established rules that dissuade over-exuberant international buyers.  The overall landscape and atmosphere however, do make Greece quite attractive to buyers, expats, retirees and holidaymakers.  The buy-to-let potential and buy for eventual resale potential is high.  Early penalty taxes for flipping property too quickly do not make this particular strategy very attractive in Greece.

Greek’s Legendary Atmosphere and Friendly, Spirited People Make the Country Very Inviting Overall

Greek culture has been legendary for its warm, friendly nature since Homeric times.  The Greek people welcome holidaymakers, expats and investors interested in their culture.  Their friendly, spirited nature makes visitors feel welcome and wanting to return.  This is very encouraging for investors who want to appeal to holidaymakers and who require a sustainable base of interest.

From its beautiful coastlines to its mythical landmarks, Greece is a country whose history and legends have ignited the imaginations of many around the world for centuries.

The country’s constant holidaymaking appeal and affordable property market make it very attractive to investors with a variety of strategies possible.

Growth in Brazil continues full steam ahead, creating even better prospects for investors and potential overseas property buyers.  One thing remains constant; the country’s policies to maintain high standards in eco-tourism and development laws, while keeping a close eye on irregularities to the latest rules and regulations.  David Beckham’s planned academy has passed the government’s strict scrutiny to provide an interesting contribution to the Natal area.

A recent project to be approved by the authorities is Mr David Beckham’s very own Football Academy.  British newspaper, The Daily Mirror, announced earlier this week the former England captain’s decision to launch a Beckham-branded football centre in Cabo Sao Rogue, near the popular tourist destination of Natal.  The project is due to be completed in 2014, coinciding with the FIFA World Cup in Brazil, and will boast a mini-stadium, small sports complex, training facilities and accommodation. The academy is sure to become a major attraction for tourists worldwide, suitably boosting this area’s fast growing investment climate.

Meanwhile, the Brazilian authorities are scrutinizing all licenses granted on new developments in a bid to ensure internal environmental policies are met.  The first international eco-resort to be put under the microscope is “Grand Golf Natal”.

Local newspaper, ‘Tribuna Do Norte’, explains that State prosecutors have requested IDEMA (Institute for Environmental Protection) to declare void the pre-license agreement for the development.  Prosecutors became suspicious upon receiving a report from IDEMA, created in just over two months, that neither explains the environmental impact of the resort, nor gives details on water supply to the development, or appropriate ways to treat waste.

Brazil is evidently implementing efficient and real changes in its development policies.  With the corruption of such policies a difficult prospect, the Brazilian environment is ensured a protected future.    This sets the path clear for fantastic new eco-friendly infrastructures, such as the Beckham Academy to boost visitor numbers and rental returns.