London

£125,000

Royal Albert Dock Hotel, London

Obviously this sort of money will not buy you a penthouse flat in London, (Lonely Planet’s Top Destination for 2012), but if you are looking for a double digit return from a UK property investment then take a look at the Royal Albert Dock Hotel operated under the Holiday Inn Express brand.

Available at pre-launch prices, 22% below independent RICS valuations, the Royal Albert Dock Hotel capitalizes on the thriving London hotel market which PricewaterhouseCoopers identified as the best in Europe in 2010.

Located at Royal Albert Dock, just minutes from the financial centre of Canary Wharf and the entertainment hubs – the O2 arena and ExCel exhibition centre – the hotel should attract both business travellers and tourists alike and for a limited time is priced at £125,000 for a suite (with VAT paid by the developer). Investors can expect 7.5% NET yield rising to 10.5% by year five and up to 50% non status finance is available.

For more information contact Property Frontiers at www.propertyfrontiers.com.

Spain

Under £192,500

Mallorca

On the Balearic Island of Mallorca in Spain, leading house builder Taylor Wimpey España is marketing Phase III of Cala Magrana. This development has direct access to the sea, close to superb golf courses and is five minutes from the unspoiled fishing village at Porto Cristo.

Just 20 apartments have been released on Cala Magrana and they are likely to sell fast. All apartments are being built as two-bedrooms with air conditioning, designer brand fixtures and fittings and a sea view. All this for a price of just under £192,500 + VAT.

Contact Taylor Wimpey España at www.taylorwimpeyspain.com for more information.

France

Just over £144,000

The Village, a new active-living development in France

In the Dordogne, a brand new active-living village is being created. This ‘village’ is for those over 50 who want to live in an environment where every day was made for living.

A log cabin or resort style home will be built to the highest standard. With stunning views over the Dordogne and Vezere valley, owners will be able to enjoy the finest horse riding in France plus walking, cycling, canoeing and golf. And for the more adventurous, activities such as potholing, hot air ballooning and even hang gliding will be available. Or for a quiet day there is excellent fishing in the private lake.

The Village will also offer other entertainment, culture and sporting activities as well as superb on-site amenities such as tennis courts and indoor pools. Prices start from just over £144,000.

For more information contact The Villages Group at www.thevillagesgroup.com

Turkey

As little as £57,750

Istanbul

Turkey continues to be a good investment and the wise money is being spent in Istanbul where there is an acute shortage of rental property. Completed in January 2011 Kensington Residence comprises 1-, and 2-bedroom apartments in seven blocks of seven floors each. The properties have a very modern design and the very best in luxury on-site facilities.

Kensington Residence is located in the western suburb of Beylikduzu which has one of the strongest growth scenarios within Istanbul due to its proximity to the city centre. This is combined with the benefits of living in a well serviced environment away from the over-crowded city centre.

Price indicators show 30% growth on current projects from off-plan to completion in 18 months. A one-bedroom apartment will cost as little as £57,750 and 2-beds for just £95,950.

For more information contact Property Frontiers at www.propertyfrontiers.com.

 Albania

Under £205,000

Lalzit Bay, Albania

For an alternative European investment then you might like to consider Albania. There is a strong likelihood that property bought now will enjoy big returns as this country establishes itself as a global tourist hub.

The Adriatic resort occupies a fantastic position in the centre of the unspoiled natural beauty of Lalzit Bay. The resort is just 30km from the international airport with direct flights across Europe and 30km from the cosmopolitan capital of Albania – Tirana.

The resort will benefit from a beach club, sports and tennis club, indoor hydrotherapy pool as well as more traditional indoor and outdoor infinity pools situated around the resort. Shops and boutiques catering for all tastes and an excellent selection of restaurants are on-site offering a range of different cuisines.

For more information contact Lalzit Bay at www.lalzitbay.com.

IBIS Clubhouse and Pool

Ibis Club, Naples, Florida, USA

Apartments in IBIS Club are available from an unbelievable £35,000 and come with tenants already in place offering you returns of 7% – 9% NET from day one. Ibis Club is an upscale 134 apartment residential development. The community is built over 15 acres and features an attractive two acre lake, which affords lakefront views from a selection of units. Apartments are located on the ground and first floors. Apartments are available as 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom options and are priced from just £35,000.

For more information contact Property Frontiers on +44 (0) 1865 202700 or visit www.propertyfrontiers.com

Richmond House

Richmond House, Beylikduzu, Turkey

Located in the Istanbul district of Beylikduzu,  Richmond House provides elegant 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments that have been carefully designed to maximise their rental and resale potential.  Richmond House is superbly equipped with a high quality finish for today’s demanding professionals with a Jacuzzi, Fitness Centre, Cinema, Saunas and an underground multi floor car park. The nearby seaside area of Büyükçekmece (five minutes away) is very popular for being a favourite day trip and weekend break. Prices for a 1-bed apartment start from £50.000 and has a rent guarantee of 7.5% for two years £356.25 per month. Prices for a 2-bedroom apartment start from £65.000 and has a rent guarantee of 7.5% for two years £456.25 per month.

For more information please contact Gem Invest on +44 (0) 203 287 7440 or visit www.geminvest.net

Apes Hill Polo Club

Apes Hill Polo Club – Barbados

Luxurious semi-detached club villas have been designed with a modern yet classic plantation theme featuring solid mahogany doors and cream coral stone finishes, plantation shutters, high ceilings, large living and dining areas, and ample outdoor living.   Property owners automatically qualify for membership in the Apes Hill Country Club and can take advantage of becoming a member of the Golf Club. Apes Hill Polo Villas, 3- and 4-beds with plunge pools. From £1,000,000.

For more information please contact Barton Wyatt on 01344 843000 or visit www.bw-international.com

El Puerto

El Puerto II, Cala D’Or, Mallorca

Two bedroom apartments located on the south east coast of the island very close to the glamorous Marina de Cala D’Or. With three communal swimming pools available these properties are surrounded by outstanding natural beauty offering various other activities such as water sports, biking and golf in the local area. These properties are available now from €177,000 + VAT.

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.

Stewart Andersen for www.homesandtravel.co.uk

Seki Ski Resort is a brand new ski resort that is expected to attract a high number of ski enthusiasts because of its easy accessibility and the fact that these are virgin ski runs

Now however, Seki Ski Resort in Seki, near Fethiye, which is on the Turquoise coast of the Mediterranean, Turkey, has just been opened.

At 2,780 metres above sea level on the mountain of Erendagi, which is part of the mountain range called Toroslar, the ski resort is at just 1,920 metres above Seki.

There are three slopes; one for skiing and two for snow boarding and experienced instructors are available to give lessons while a cable car takes skiers to the height of the slopes.

There is also a hotel, with eight rooms, which should open in the next few weeks. In addition, there’s a hire shop for equipment and a restaurant with seating for 100 customers. A brand new ground station with a welcoming café, medical centre and ticket office has also opened.

“This has long been awaited in this beautiful hinterland of Turkey”, says Suleyman Akbay, MD of Oceanwide Properties. “The coastal resort of Fethiye is well known to many people as it is an active year-round town with a wide choice of shops, bars and restaurants and Seki mountain village is just over an hour’s drive inland.”

The ski slopes simply adds to the appeal

The traditional village has a town square, shops, mini-market and local taverns together with a weekly market. The brand new ski slopes are just 12 kilometres away and can be reached by car or the local dolmus (shared taxi) service.

This country location offers a great deal including year-round horse riding, climbing, rambling and fishing in Lake Girdev. Around two hours drive away is Antalya, which like Fethiye, enjoys a mild winter season.

Antalya too, has much to offer including major shopping facilities, souks, an attractive harbour with cafés and stalls spilling out onto the pavements plus a castle and nearby some stunning waterfalls cascading from the cliff face directly into the sea. All of this means that this region has much to offer and the proximity to the ski slope simply adds to its appeal.

Continued Suleyman: “Turkish people have always realised the beauty of this area and appreciated the gentle summer breezes that are a relief during the mid-summer heat of the lower regions. The opening of the ski resort will inevitably bring an even greater interest in the region which is why we are now marketing some brand new detached villas from £165,000.”

Seki Village

• 12 kilometres from new ski resort – Eren Mountain
• 45 miles from Fethiye
• 1½ hours drive from Dalaman airport (frequent flights from UK)

Available are three-bedroom detached villas with stunning views of a fertile valley (famous for growing apples), and the mountains in the distance.

The features include Jacuzzi, open fireplace to spacious lounge, air conditioning, solar panels, heating system. There’s a private heated pool, a garden with a BBQ and private parking.

The homes are selling off-plan now from £165,000.

The roads up to the ski resort are wide and easily passable. The main road into Seki is being widened and levelled by the local council as we speak (this one will be surfaced). From the centre of Seki the ski resort is about 10 kilometres away.”

Concluded Suleyman “We anticipate this region increasing in popularity with the advent of the opening of the ski resort. Therefore those investing now may well feel the benefits of the capital growth and rental possibilities.

“Locally, homes have been increasing on average over the last couple of years by anything from 7 – 20% depending on location. A rental return on a three-bedroom detached villa in the ski season should be around £1,200 per week.”

Oceanwide Properties is available at: www.oceanwideproperties.co.uk

“Three years ago we bought a brand new, three bedroom apartment in Uzumlu, near Fethiye, on the Turkish Mediterranean coast. We now love Turkey so much, its people, the weather and its low cost of living, we have bought a detached villa for our retirement,” says Roger Hawkins.

Roger and Sally first started visiting Turkey for their holidays about five years ago. A choice of flights from East Midlands and Birmingham, near their home town of Newark, Nottinghamshire, encouraged visits to a virtually unspoilt coastline and countryside. “It has only been in the last few years the Turkish Government has realised the tourist potential and created a mini-boom in visitors”, says Roger.

The apartment they bought is in a pretty village with views over the spectacular mountains which are often snow capped in winter. About 40 minutes drive takes you to a small ski resort and 45 minutes to Dalaman Airport. The apartment is extremely spacious with three double bedrooms. In addition there are beautiful balconies and use of a communal pool and landscaped gardens.

“Although we bought it as a holiday home we have had the added bonus of being able to let the property easily and in the high season can receive around £250 per week. In fact, currently we have a six month let on the property which has been an additional benefit”.

Add to this the exceptional cost of living with a council tax of around only £80 per year and money goes a lot further which is why the Hawkins felt it was perfect for retirement. The village, where they have now bought a three-bedroom villa with a large pool, is unspoiled.

With a population of around 2,000 it is an active community with plenty of shops and restaurants and also a number of British ex-pats (at least 40 to 50 couples), so they have an excellent lifestyle while living among the friendly Turkish population.

Concluded Roger, “With austerity measures coming in to the UK, it will be wonderfully restful to move away and enjoy a totally relaxed lifestyle. It will open up the whole of the Mediterranean in terms of visiting other countries. Kos and Cyprus are so close they can be reached by ferry and of course. with a number of airlines flying directly to the UK, visits home are easy and relatively cheap.”

The Hawkins property is currently being marketed by Oceanwide Properties a company offering expert advice and assistance to UK buyers, with offices both in the UK and in Turkey. Specialising in the Mediterranean coastal areas of Turkey, which appeal very much to the British, their website offers a wide range of properties from £37,000 to around £350,000.

“Properties in Turkey offer exceptional value for money and with excellent capital growth of around 12-30% in the past 12 months, depending on location plus good rental returns, interest is growing rapidly helped in many ways by the curb on high rise homes, ensuring that the coastline retains as much as possible its natural beauty”.

Uzumlu apartment

Situated in Uzumlu with fabulous views over the valley and mountains, this three bedroom, 2^nd floor apartment, is just a few minutes walk from the centre of the village. The first floor boasts a very large patio that is shared with the other apartments. There is a covered car park with reserved parking. The property offers three double bedrooms, one with en suite, fully tiled bathroom and all have large balconies. There is also a family bathroom and the fitted kitchen is open plan. There is a very low charge for the maintenance of the communal pool and garden.

Offers are invited over £55,000. The property has been reduced for a quick sale.Oceanwide Properties has an office in the UK and another in Turkey. For more information, go online at www.oceanwideproperties.co.uk or call 0845 520 3030

The international city of Istanbul is attracting attention from tourists and property investors alike

Soyak, one of the largest residential real estate developers in Turkey is utilising Turkish agency Spot Blue to bring their Istanbul developments to the international market. After the recent announcement by Moody’s to upgrade the economic status of this ‘robust’ country from stable to positive, now is the prime time for this Top 500 Turkish company to move beyond local markets.

Soyak’s reputation and the demand for their properties by the domestic Turkish market is such that it is now able to offer UK and international buyers the opportunity to invest into the growth market of Istanbul and Turkey. For every property that Soyak builds there are 20 people enquiring for ownership, so where does the international buyer fit in? Despite the domestic market’s high demand for properties there are many local buyers who prefer turnkey homes allowing the opportunity for international investors to step into this hungry market.

Robust public finances

Turkey’s reputation has grown considerably over recent years, the currency (Lira) is more stable than it’s ever been, the country boasts a solid banking system and robust public finances and at a time when some members of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) are facing financial difficulties, Turkey has been praised for its economic stability.

The credit rating agencies have backed this strong Eurasian force with two upgrades already during the global economic crisis with another expected from Standard & Poor’s in the near future. A rating of Ba2 and double-digit economic growth for the second quarter of 2010, making it the world’s third fastest growing economy for April – June, behind only Singapore and Taiwan. Further upgrades to investment status are almost a certainty.

Beyond the real estate sector big brands are investing in the country:

• Bosch has announced plans to invest EUR 100 million this year in new technologies
• Italian tyre manufacturer Pirelli, with an annual turnover of EUR 40 billion, is celebrating its 50th year in Turkey and has announced that it will be producing the Formula One racing tyres in their Izmir plant
• German drugstore chain Rossman, which enjoyed sales of EUR 2.9 billion in 2009, has just entered the Turkish market and plans 250 stores by 2015
• British companies are getting a piece of the action too from the globally recognized brands of Vodaphone, Tesco and HSBC to Black Stone who are spending USD 200 million building a cement factory on the Turkish Black Sea coast.

David Cameron on his official visit to Turkey in July, praised the Turkish economy stating that: “Turkey is Europe’s BRIC,” (referring to the four leading emerging nations Brazil, Russia, India and China) and called for increased trade ties with the UK.

The new property development of Halkali Soyak

But it is the construction industry that is leading the way in the economic revolution. This sector posted a 21.9% growth in the second quarter of 2010. And it is the tangible asset of property that attracts British investors. Given that many British investors have been hurt in the recent financial downturn, it’s essential that the numbers should add up for an investment and they need to know they can trust the developer.

Julian Walker, MD of Spot Blue comments: “Soyak is obviously a very serious option for any property investor and we are delighted to offer their latest Istanbul development to the British market. Soyak has been in operation since 1961.

“In 2009 they held total assets of USD 800 million and the company ticks the box for financial credentials. In all, Soyak sold over 50,000 housing units and now British investors have the opportunity to purchase their piece of the growth market of Turkey with a developer they can rely on.”

Residential areas

Halkali is one of Istanbul’s emerging residential areas and it is in this location that Soyak are launching a development of 2,000 high rise studios, one, two and three bedroom units with facilities including: tennis, volleyball, basketball courts- a fitness centre, children’s playground, 24 hour security and swimming pools. Prices start at £45,000 (€52,187) to £200,000.

Julian Walker continues: “Halkali Soyak is an outstanding investment opportunity with such a reputable developer, the properties are built to high standards and the increasing demand from the local market provides an exit strategy. Seventy per cent off-plan mortgages are also available with only £1,000 deposit. With the current buzz in Turkey from global corporations down to the property investor, we certainly don’t expect these properties to be on the market long.”

For more information on investing in the cosmopolitan city of Istanbul with developers Soyak, contact Turkish property experts Spot Blue on 020 8339 6036 or visit www.spotblue.co.uk

The interior of a Seaview property

In 2003, Cumberland Properties decided to build investment and holiday homes in and around the Bodrum Peninsula in south-west Turkey that offered five star holiday resort quality, comfort and amenities.

In the intervening seven years the company has gone from strength to strength, addressing the growing need in the area for high-quality properties with architectural appeal.

One high-end property development, Seaview Regency, is now completed with a second, Woodland Regency, due for completion this autumn and a third, Valley Gardens Regency, currently under construction. A luxury, stand-alone ‘Yalı’ is also being constructed in Istanbul.

Ideal for investment, holiday/retirement home or permanent residence, all Cumberland Properties’ developments are located near amenities and beaches. In addition, Cumberland Properties has an excellent after-sales service.

As the company has grown, so too has the popularity of Turkey, as a destination for both holidaymakers and ex-pats. Its natural beauty and wonderful climate combined with the relative strength of the pound against the Turkish lira now attracts over 1.2 million UK tourists each year.

The Bodrum Peninsula in particular has seen its visitor numbers soar. There really is something for everyone, from rustic fishing villages and idyllic secluded bays to the energetic bustle of Bodrum itself. The latter has established itself as one of Europe’s premier hotspots, with its beach clubs, stylish marina and designer stores.

The Properties

Woodland Regency

This 5.4-acre site is set in the midst of a serene forest of established olive and pine trees. Its rural feel belies its location in the village of Konacık, just five minutes from the centre of Bodrum – ‘the Marbella of Turkey’ – and the stunning beaches of Bitez.

Woodland Regency consists of 20, two-storey buildings, which in turn make up a total of 62 units. These range from one- or two-bedroom apartments to beautiful three-bedroom, three-bathroom, semi-detached villas.

Prices start from just £72,000; even more remarkable are the low monthly service charges. Owners can expect to pay only £60 a month for a one-bedroom apartment, a fraction of the cost associated with similar properties in countries such as Spain.

Interiors are finished to the highest standard with Corian kitchen worktops, natural travertine or Kalesinterflex flooring, Jacuzzi baths and air conditioning throughout.

Outside, Woodland Regency is equally as impressive, boasting two spectacular swimming pools and a fabulous Club House comprising a bar, fitness centre, sauna and, of course, Turkish baths!  There is even a putting green, perfect for all levels of golfers, from the occasional amateur to the keen enthusiast.

Guide prices: from £72,000 to £225,000

The kitchen/dining area of Woodview

Valley Gardens Regency

Also under construction by Cumberland Properties in the Bodrum area is the Valley Gardens Regency, which offers the peace and quiet of rural living, coupled with the luxury of secluded beaches just minutes away. Comprising just 18 apartments in nine blocks of modernist-inspired homes, this is a real barefoot luxury concept.

There is a choice of two- or three-bedrooms, which can be further tailored to a client’s specific needs. Upper floor apartments benefit from a sloping glass roof covering most of the living area. All bedrooms include floor-to-ceiling glass doors and a large terrace. Outside, a spectacular raised-level infinity pool with Jacuzzi and children’s pool, landscaped gardens and a tennis court provide the comforts you would expect to find in a luxury hotel.

Guide prices: from £120,000 to £140,000

Seaview Regency

Seaview Regency is a recently completed boutique development of just 19 elegant and stylish three-bedroom, two- and three-storey villas, of which 13 are detached. The properties are located on a gently sloping hill overlooking a jewel of a bay called Küçükbük, near Gündogan, 15 miles from Bodrum. The villas face onto private gardens, a communal pool and a valley planted with citrus orchards, which in turn leads down to one of the peninsula’s only sandy beaches. As the development’s name suggests, each villa has uninterrupted views of the breathtaking Aegean Sea.

Guide Prices: from £190,000 to £245,000

Yalı Seaside Residence

Set on the banks of the Bosporus are exclusive period properties steeped in history. Known as ‘Yalıs’, most were built during the 19th century, but some date back to the 18th and 17th centuries. Today Yalıs are rare jewels to view, and even rarer to own, with only 620 in existence and no permission to build any more.

Cumberland Properties are currently renovating one of these original residences. When finished, it will be a stunning example of exceptional-quality, high end Turkish property.

Every aspect of this elegant 530m² property will be finished to the highest of standards. A charming garden will lead up to the front door, which will open up to reveal a sweeping flight of stairs. The lounge will offer spectacular views of the Bosporus, framed by the famous traditional windows with wooden shutters. The house will also boast a games room, home theatre and separate maid’s quarters.

Price on application.

Cumberland Properties – an eco-friendly developer

Cumberland Properties are constantly looking at ways to improve as an eco-friendly home provider, by considering issues like re-usable materials, resource conservation and waste recycling.

In the very first stages of development, its site planners and landscape architects work together closely to preserve as much as the existing flora as possible. When drawing up a site layout, special consideration is paid to the location of existing trees and plant life and plans are adapted where necessary.

During the construction process, Cumberland works on ways of reducing its waste, whether by re-cycling onsite materials or composting organic matter. The workforce is housed locally to help lower the inherent carbon cost of travel and wherever possible, building materials are obtained from local sources, an example being the Travertine flooring.

Well-designed and laid out homes maximise the use of natural light and create healthy living environments. During Bodrum’s hot summers, a well sealed and insulated home allows climate control systems to operate efficiently, whilst in the winters, only minimal heating is required.

An exterior view of Seaview

One of Cumberland’s subsidiary projects has been the establishment of a greenhouse and nursery to provide long-term sustainability. Here almost 20,000 flowers, shrubs, trees and herbs are currently being grown simultaneously. Palm trees from seeds, banana trees, daisies, basils, cacti and roses are the more recognisable names, but the majority are local flowers and plants which help the company achieve a constant stream of blooms in its gardens.

Five Reasons to Buy in Turkey

• Top Place to Invest

The Financial Times voted Turkey into the Top 10 Investments for 2009

• Inexpensive Property

On average, prices are 30% cheaper than the Spanish equivalent.

• Cost of Living

The cost of living in Turkey is up to 60% cheaper than the UK. In addition, Turkey has very low property taxes, and no capital gains tax after five years of ownership, a substantial saving for any investor

• Market Stability

The Turkish market has been hit by the downturn despite sales holding up well last year and prices have remained relatively static. Global financial management and advisory company Merrill Lynch estimates a 3.5% economic growth rate in Turkey for 2010, predicting that it will make a quicker recovery than other countries in Europe thanks to relatively minimal damage in the banking sector

• Strong Rental Potential

Turkey recorded an increase in visitors last year: over 27 million people from around the world flocked to Turkey during 2009, an increase of 2.8% on 2008. A property in Turkey therefore offers high capital growth rates and annual rental yields of between 6% and 10%.

For more information, contact Cumberland Properties 020 7586 7179 or go on-line to www.cumberland-properties.com

Crystal Heights

Turkey has enjoyed significant growth over the past couple of years and is now a permanent fixture on the international property scene, some may say at the expense of other more traditional destinations such as Spain. This non-eurozone country has capitalised on its attractive climate, stunning Aegean and Mediterranean coastlines, low cost of living and ease of access to the UK with 73,000 overseas nationals (Turkish Statistical Institute) already calling Turkey home.

It’s not only demand for holiday homes which is fuelling Turkey’s property boom however; savvy investors are turning their attentions to rapidly growing cities such as Istanbul where the significant housing deficit presents opportunity.

Existing housing stock

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 rapid 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.”

Due to elevated market prices and limited availability of land within the central business districts, developers are now turning their attentions to the thriving suburbs of Istanbul, constructing modern, western style residences aimed to meet the demands of the burgeoning middle classes.

The town of Beylikduzu, for example, located within Büyükçekmece county on the European side of the Bosphorus, is where the new Crystal Heights apartments and duplexes will be constructed. Crystal Heights affords a strategic location close to the two major motorway routes into central Istanbul, 20 minutes from Ataturk International Airport and awaiting a new metro-bus link and metro system connection yet only 10 minutes from one of the most popular seaside resorts of the city.

A view over Büyükçekmece

As Worboys comments: “Beylikduzu has one of the strongest growth scenarios due to its proximity to the city centre combined with the benefits of living in a well serviced environment and away from over-crowding. The population of this suburb is expected to grow three fold within the next five years to over one million inhabitants, further strengthening the perfect investment environment for growth and excellent rental returns.

“The contemporary styled residences of Crystal Heights offer modern conveniences with first class on-site amenities including rooftop swimming pool, fitness centre and underground parking.”

As with other areas of Turkey, purchasing in Istanbul is straightforward with no restrictions on foreign ownership of property and up to 70% mortgage finance available. Prices remain affordable with apartments in Crystal Heights available from £45,000 (fixed in sterling) for example. Capital growth is currently estimated at 15% and rental yields of up to 10% per annum expected (Crystal Heights offers a two year rental guarantee of seven per cent p.a. which is bank bonded on completion of purchase).

For more information about Istanbul, contact Experience International on 00 44 (0) 207 321 5858 or visit www.istanbul-property.com

Top 10 Reasons to Invest in Istanbul

1. Jones Lang LaSalle rated Istanbul as the 18th largest city in terms of GDP

2. Increasing FDI with multinational companies such as Sony Ericsson, Vodaphone, HSBC and Tesco setting up offices and creating an excellent long-term rental market

3. 55% of all trade in Turkey is generated from Istanbul

4. Thriving city of 14 million people, 17.8% of Turkey’s population

5. Istanbul is the European City of Culture 2010

6. Rental yields of 7% – 10% are being witnessed

7. Demand for housing far exceeds supply with the gap estimated at 250,000 units p.a.

8. Foreign investors can exit into a local market of first time homebuyers

9. Construction of a third international airport was announced in 2009 on the European side at Silivri

10. Government-led plans to decentralize the city with massive investment in infrastructure and public transportation

But crisis or no financial crisis, Turkey’s pleasant Mediterranean climate, unspoilt scenery and low cost of living – factors which have attracted over 74,000 foreign property buyers, including more than 22,000 Britons – look set to begin drawing British property buyers in ever increasing numbers again in 2010.

Turkey has managed to weather the global slow-down fairly well. Due to strict regulations, the country’s banking sector has been spared the direct effects of the credit crunch and despite a major slowdown, the Turkish economy looks set to move out of recession next year.

Being outside the Eurozone, Turkish property represents excellent value for money, particularly as prices in most of the large resorts have dropped significantly since their peak in 2007.

A villa at Akkaya Gardens

Increase in market activity

“In what is now a buyer’s market, there are certainly some bargains to be found, although purchasers should still be looking for high-quality property, which will offer the best investment long-term,” says Dominic Whiting, editor of the Buying in Turkey guide, www.buyingin.co.uk. “Looking forward, there is much to be optimistic about and I expect a steady increase in market activity from spring 2010 as the tourist season starts, and global economic conditions and consumer confidence in the UK improve.”

The Turkish tourist industry has experienced remarkable growth over the past few years, particularly when compared with other Mediterranean destinations such as Spain. The country received more than 24 million international tourists in 2009 with year-on-year figures up despite the economic gloom. A record 2.1 million British tourists visited in the first nine months of the year, making Turkey one of the top holiday destinations for Britons. Official forecasts are upbeat, with tourist arrivals expected to top 30 million in 2010 according to Ertugrul Gunay, the Turkish Culture and Tourism minister.

Investment is still being channelled into the development of the coastal areas, albeit at a slower pace, as part of government plans for Turkey to become one of the world’s top five tourist destinations by 2023. On the ground, this means new airports, roads, golf courses, marinas and hotels, which will widen the country’s appeal for property buyers, as well as tourists. The 600-berth Didim Marina, completed by Dogus Holdings in May 2009, is a good example, with new marinas opening in Cesme and Dalaman in the next few years.

Improving air access from the UK will be another important factor promoting the Turkish property market in 2010. Defying global economic turbulence, low-cost Turkish carrier Pegasus Airlines reported a doubling of passengers in 2009, with 17 flights from the UK to Turkey next year, including new direct services from London to Bodrum and Dalaman; Manchester to Antalya and Dalaman, and Birmingham to Antalya and Bodrum. Easyjet will be continuing its recently launched flights to Dalaman and Bodrum from London and Manchester next year. While Jet2.com has announced low cost seat-only flights to Dalaman from the airline’s new base at East Midlands Airport and Thomas Cook has added weekly flights from Exeter to Dalaman to its existing services.

Area focus

Dalaman

Dalaman is an area to watch in 2010 as it has avoided the over-development of the larger Turkish resorts. It has some wonderful scenery, great beaches and lots of activities, like white-water rafting, hot springs, yachting and walking, which give it a broad appeal. The Dalaman Hilton Golf & Spa Resort, with its 18-hole course, is opening in the summer.

Easyjet (www.easyjet.com) and Pegasus ( www.flypgs.com ) fly into Dalaman’s large international airport from Gatwick and Manchester; with Flyglobespan (www.flyglobespan.com) operating weekly flights from Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Curbanoglu, (0845 355 5625, www.curbanoglu.co.uk) have apartments from £61,200 and villas and luxury bungalows with private pools from £136,000 in the beautiful rural area of Akkaya, which overlooks a lake and unspoilt mountains just 15 minutes from Dalaman town and the international airport. The unspoilt valley is being turned into an exclusive residential and holiday community with communal facilities including a stream-side restaurant and bar, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness centre, sauna, tennis courts – all spread over 100,000 acres of beautiful woodland and meadows.

Lakestone Villas

For more information about Turkish property or to view a selection of some of the best Turkish property contact Buying in Turkey, Tel: 0845 351 3551, www.buyingin.co.uk

Buying in Turkey

Buying in Turkey is the UK’s leading independent guide to buying and owning property in Turkey. First published in 2005, the 140-page guide has helped hundreds of people purchase villas, holiday apartments, investment properties and retirement homes in Turkey. Available for free download from www.buyingin.co.uk

© Stewart Andersen and Stewart Andersen’s Property Blog, 2009. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Stewart Andersen and Stewart Andersen’s Property Blog with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

House prices in Switzerland have increased this year by more than 4%, according to figures from the Swiss National Bank.
Single-family homes increased by 4.5% in the year from January 2009, and resale rental apartments rose 4.3%.

A 3-bedroom duplex apartment in Ovronnaz, Canton Valais, Switzerland

Andrew Hawkins, head of international at Chesterton Humberts, believes these increases stem from: “A controlled market where ownership is highly regulated and a corresponding level of supply and demand. Switzerland didn’t have a price boom, unlike markets such as the UK or Spain.
“The continued interest from non-resident foreigners has kept house prices rising at a manageable amount. Also, as the economic crisis hit, locals transferred overseas investments into the more stable local property market, driving prices up at a steady level.”

Foreign property laws
While Switzerland has traditionally been difficult to buy into because of the federal government’s system for issuing permits, from 2010 each canton will have the power to set its own foreign property laws.
“Giving cantons the responsibility for making their own property acquisition rules is a positive for foreign buyers,” says Andrew. “We expect faster transfer times for property titles, making property ownership easier and therefore more desirable, so we expect that prices will continue to steadily increase.”

Fully furnished chalet, Vercorin, Canton Valais, Switzerland

Chesterton Humberts sells a range of property in Switzerland, including:

•    A three-bedroom chalet designed in traditional Swiss style, with modern interiors. This chalet is located in one of the highest spots in Vercorin and offers unparalleled views over the Rhone Valley from Sierre to Sion. The chalet has two terraces, including one with Jacuzzi. Price: CHF 2,000,000 (approx. UK£ 1,118,637).

For more information, call: Chesterton Humberts – Tel: 020 3040 8210 or on-line at: www.chestertonhumberts.com

Post Office launches new international bank to bank money transfers

Transferring money between UK and overseas bank accounts is set to become significantly easier following the launch of the new Post Office® Overseas Property Money Transfer service.

The new service offers customers peace of mind by enabling them to fix at a favourable rate of exchange for up to a year, giving valuable protection against volatile currency fluctuations. And because the Post Office offers this service online, people can transfer money from the comfort of their own home to wherever they need it to be in the world.

Anyone needing to transfer money to an overseas bank account can benefit from the service. It’s ideal for:
•    Repayments on a foreign mortgage
•    Deposits or costs associated with buying, selling or maintaining a property abroad and paying utility bills
•    Bringing money back to the UK after sale of an overseas property
•    One off payments such as a wedding venue or emigration
•    Regular payments – transfer pensions, salaries or even school fees, removing the hassle and expense of frequent individual transactions from a bank.

The Post Office Overseas Property Money Transfer service offers competitive exchange rates, with 0 per cent commission and no hidden charges, plus it will reimburse customers for any charges that the destination bank may impose, meaning that customers can expect to save hundreds of pounds a year*.

Buying in bulk

Sarah Munro, Post Office head of money transfers, said: “Until now, many users of international bank to bank money transfer services have found it to be an expensive business, with limited options for small transfers.  They have often been unable to capitalise on the great rates offered by currency specialists because they weren’t buying in bulk.  And they were also at the mercy of volatile currency markets, making it harder to get the most from their money.

“The Post Office Overseas Property Money Transfer service offers customers the ability to fix at a competitive exchange rate, giving them peace of mind for up to a year, which is a real advantage in current markets.  We calculate that with 0% commission and our competitive exchange rates we will be saving customers a serious amount of money if they’ve just sold their house or are paying a deposit on a new property.”

For anyone wanting to make a cash money transfer abroad, the Post Office still provides the MoneyGram service. This offers cash transfers to over 176,000 destinations worldwide from any one of 11,500 Post Office branches.

Anyone wanting to find out more about Post Office Overseas Property Money Transfer should go to www.postoffice.co.uk/moneytransfers or by calling 0800 180 4702. Transfers must be a minimum of £500 and are limited to £10,000 online. There’s no transaction limit for transfers made over the telephone. The Post Office Overseas Property Money Transfer service is provided by HiFX PLC.

Based on a monthly transfer of £700 over a year customers could save £528 by going to the Post Office:
High Street Bank
Monthly Transfer fee £30 = £360.00
Post Office
No charge

High Street Bank
Commission 1.5% = £126.00
Post Office
No commission

High Street Bank
Receiving charges up to 0.5% = £42.00
Post Office
No charge

High Street Bank
Total bank charges £44.00 = £528.00
Post Office
Free

Golf fanatics flock to Turkey

Turkey provides some of the newest and most exciting courses, many being championship level and most within easy reach of each other. Golfers have realised the tremendous benefit of 300 days of sunshine a year with the average temperature even in December, of 16 degrees centigrade.

Now the European Challenge tour will be played in Turkey in 2010 at the Carya Golf Club which was established in 2008 and in Belek the World Amateur Golf Championship is to be held in 2012.

Turkey was awarded “Best Golf Destination in Europe 2008” by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) putting Turkey ahead of other European golf hotspots including Spain and Scotland. “This is largely due to Belek, the home of championship golf in Turkey”, says Robert Nixon, executive director, Nirvana International. “This is a beautiful region enhanced with beautifully maintained, top quality golf courses, making it a golfer’s paradise”.

Ideal for renting

Taking Belek as a prime example of golf courses available, there’s the Tat Golf Club, The Gloria Golf Resort, The Robinson Club, Nobilis, Cornelia Nick Faldo course and Papillon Golf course which is a new Colin Montgomerie Golf Course. In addition there is Kaya Eagles Golf club and Lykia Links Golf and of course the National Golf Course.

NIRVANA golf 7 Gem Golf Villas

It’s worthwhile considering the possibility of owning a property there. You could buy as part of a syndicate or for personal use and of course, such a property in a prime location is ideal for renting when not in personal use.

Belek is an ideal spot for relaxation and is famed for its pine trees which fill the air with a glorious scent with plenty to do including yachting, windsurfing, scuba diving, walking, bird watching and exploring the area’s rich history. The mountains too are easily reached and there is even the opportunity to go skiing 120km away at Saklikent Ski Resort.  There are also some superb beaches dotted along this coastline.

Currently being offered is an exclusive development of brand new homes at Gem Golf Villas in Belek located in the heart of championship golf in Turkey and just 500 metres from the National Golf Club and close to the Sueno Golf Club.

Year round flights

There’s a choice of two different house types (Villa A and B) all immaculately presented and built to a high standard. Villa A has a slightly bigger floor area than Villa B. 14 of the villas are offered with a shared pool with seven of the homes having private pool and parking. The development is surrounded by attractive landscaped grounds. There is 24-hour security on site and Gem Golf Villas is close to Belek beach, mini market and shopping mall. Belek town is 2 km from the resort and offers many shops and restaurants. Antalya is 30 minutes drive. There is a shuttle bus service for transfer to golf courses, beach or Belek town centre. Antalya Airport, which provides all year round flights to and from the UK, is just 25 minutes drive away and transfers are provided.

Gem Golf Villas, Belek.

Prices

Detached villas with four bedrooms and two bathrooms (1 en-suite)

Type A – some with private pool start from £200,000

Type B – villas with shared pool start from £180,000

Contact Nirvana International on: 01189 744 950/955 or at www.nirvanainternational.com

Nirvana International is a member of AIPP and NAEA International incorporating FOPDAC.