Property Investors are Discovering the Value of Northern Cyprus Real Estate Investments

With the lower cost of living, unspoilt natural beauty and year round Mediterranean sun Northern Cyprus is currently attracting a wider property investment market.

Northern Cyprus is predicted to be one of the most exciting markets in Europe for growth. The world has woken up to the potential and as a result the amount of investment and the number of people looking to invest is at an all time high. It is one of the few remaining areas of the Mediterranean providing a first rate strategy for overseas property investors. This is made more attractive due to the exemptions on income tax, import duties, corporation tax and little or no council tax.

‘The money is pouring in. You can smell it,’ says one property agent with the Interior Minister, Ozkan Murat, says applications by foreigners to buy property have increased almost ten times over the last few years.

Last year, around 1,000 overseas investors bought property in Northern Cyprus; incredibly this figure is five times the number of annual sales during the 1990s. Suggestions and reports of an upturn and growth in the Northern Cyprus property market is to escalating steadily.

Mr Shah from the Investors Provident said: ‘There's a lot more to be had, it's a lot more unspoiled than the south. The south has been very commercialised by tourists, whereas the north has remained very untouched. It's a lot more picturesque.’

Foreign investors are buying large portions of developments with early indicators pointing to a long term upward trend. Property prices have risen significantly in the last 3 years but are still as much as 50% less than property in the south and therefore a huge opportunity for capital growth.

Cyprus Turkish Airways have applied to the British government for permission to allow direct flights from London to Ercan airport which will also bring a positive increase to the travel and tourism economic sector.

Escalating tourism figures are having a marked increase on Bosnia Property Investment Market

Tourism arrivals in Bosnia are up 20% with the country set to be the 3rd highest growth area by 2020.

Bosnia’s tourist arrivals, in the first four months of 2007 were up by 20% in comparison to the same period in 2006. A study conducted by The World Tourism Organisation predicted that the nation would have the third highest growth rate by 2020.

The country, after 12 years of war, has rebuilt itself and is attracting tourists from as far as Australia and New Zealand. A new series of adverts promoting Bosnia as a tourist destination is creating huge awareness under the slogan ‘Enjoy Life.’ “The ‘Enjoy Life’ campaign is already giving results and one of its main achievements is that people do not associate Bosnia with the war any more,” said Haris Basic, the head of Foreign Investment Promotion Agency.

Guesthouse owner, Emin Fatic, said that he did not expect to turn a profit for years after he opened in 2005. Instead, within three months, the money was “Rolling in.” Bosnia’s central bank has reported that tourism generated close to $625 million last year, when according to official statistics 500,000 tourists visited the country.

Foreign investors are rapidly becoming aware that they can buy relatively inexpensive property. Lord Paddy Ashdown paid £30,000 for a 5 bed-roomed lakeside property in 2002. The former political leader and International Community Representative in Bosnia, who has now put the house on the market for £135,000, is relocating to Bosnia’s ski resort of Mount Bjelasnica. Lord Ashdown commented that “We want to get a chalet up there. It is very cheap. Bosnia is where Croatia was a few years ago, and by getting in now we have a chance to catch the early part of the curve.” Adding to the evidence that Bosnia’s Property investment market is a profitable real estate strategy.

Jobs in Spain are not concentrated in Madrid and Barcelona according to recent studies

Recent studies have shown that high profile, professional Jobs in Spain are not just concentrated within Madrid and Barcelona and employment is more readily available in other geographical areas such as the Costa del Sol.

In a professional Spanish Job market, dedicated and hard working European Nationals are in very high demand. However this demand can be higher than the actual supply. Employers in Spain are now offering competitive salaries, bonus schemes and progressive development in a bid to attract high calibre personnel.
At present, the Spanish job market is robust, which makes working in Spain a very achievable reality. Wages can indeed be lower but the reduced cost of living and overall lifestyle is very attractive to Northern Europeans – especially UK and Irish Citizens.

International companies, offering jobs in Spain, opt to be very selective in their choice of candidates and in this environment the emphasis is placed heavily on ‘qualified’ and ‘experienced’ rather than ensuring fulfilment of head count. There are now more opportunities in the Spanish market for graduates and high grade specialists in all sectors as long as they have obtained the relevant work experience, have a range of computing skills and definite willingness to learn and show flexibility and adaptability.

However, knowing and discovering a country during a holiday season is not the same as experiencing life and work on a day to day basis. Life in Spain is fun, enjoyable but it is also about hard work.

Chris Dottie, Professional Recruitment Consultant adds: ‘In general, opportunities for foreigner workers are enormous especially for the qualified with the willingness to work. In my opinion Spain will need more than a million workers from abroad in the next ten years to fill the jobs in Spain and maintain the expanding economy.’

Lisa Bussell, H.R Director and General Manager of Obelisk International
‘As a top employer and organisation, Obelisk International consistently develops employees on a holistic level to ensure advancement and progression.’
Obelisk International believes in trust, loyalty, honesty and teamwork which can certainly add to the quality of our general working conditions. We also ensure that all of our candidates are perfectly suited to each role and add value to the company as a whole.’

Foreign Investment for Turkey Hits an All Time High of $6 Billion in January

Turkey sees a major increase in Foreign Direct Investment with a strengthened by a focus on real estate investment

Turkey saw an FDI of $6 billion in January this year, indicating a record inflow of capital compared to an FDI of $452 million for the same month of 2006. An official from the Treasury reported to say that the record inflow was due to the payments remaining from mergers and acquisitions from foreign investors in 2006.

Examples of the large investments are the purchase of Dış bank by Fortis, Finansbank by the National Bank of Greece, Turkey Economy Bank (TEB) by BNP Paribas and Telsim by Vodafone.    Financial officials underlined that investments experienced a major boom, particularly in real estate, and estimate that if the inflow is maintained, by the end of 2007 will be set to see more foreign investment figures broken.    Financial emphasize that an increase in FDI means that unemployment figures will be reduced as well as better financing of the current account deficit.

In 2004 FDI inflow was only $2.88 billion but hiked in 2005 to $9.65 billion or an increase of 239%. However 2006, set an all-time record with foreigners investing some $19.8 billion in Turkey. Property Investment and banking are some of the main drivers in this huge increase and interest in Turkey. FDI inflows as a percentage of gross fixed capital formation were 13.6 percent in 2005, higher than world average of 9.4 percent. Moreover, FDI stock in Turkey, in 2006, more than doubled in comparison to 2000 and reached $60 billion. The share of FDI stock in GDP has reached 16 percent in 2006, which is still unsatisfactory when compared to world average of 22.7.

Obelisk International Continues to Provide Key Property Investment News for Real Estate TV.

As emerging market specialists, who base their philosophy on the principles of: price, profit and performance, Obelisk International is well placed as sponsors for Real Estate TV’s the “Next Big Thing”.

As property investors take on a more global approach, the increased demand to provide informative, high quality and accurate data has become paramount. The ‘Next Big Thing’ not only puts the spotlight on emerging markets but also adds advice on property investment news and property reports that include: legalities, tax implications and mortgage matters within the up and coming areas, all of which is compiled by a panel of market professionals.

UK and Irish citizens, a large proportion of which have already acquired lucrative property at home, are now diversifying in the form of international property portfolios that offer high investment yields. Investors have increased their appetite for physical ‘bricks and mortar’ as opposed to real estate funds and are opening investments in flourishing new hotspots.

When buying overseas, property investors should not only regard ‘location, location, location’ but also ‘research, research, research’, to be one step ahead in the property market. Obelisk International recognises the importance of superior property research and offer free market analysis on both Real Estate TV, Real Estate TV’s website and via the Obelisk International website. Each country report comes with a carefully selected real estate opportunity with a wealth of information, specifically designed to give the investor a full visualisation of the potential long term and round trip profits with the added assurance that all projects have been given strict due diligence by professional, seasoned Project Managers.

For more information about Obelisk International’s forthcoming projects, contact our sales department +34 952 820 319 or sales@obeliskinternational.com

Press contact: Chris Green, Obelisk International. +34 952820 319 Or Visit our website: http://www.obeliskinternational.com/

Currency Experts predict opting for the Euro could lead to surge in Malta and Cyprus property investment

With Malta and Cyprus to adopt the Euro on 1st January 2008, currency specialists have predicted more investments will be made in the two islands. Both countries have now satisfied the stringent economic criteria of the EU and are set to become one of the newest entrants since 2004 to be allowed to have the Euro as currency.

Currency professionals, HiFX believe that the Euro, along with the strong economies and local cultures in both countries will make Malta and Cyprus property very attractive prospects for British investors.

According to HiFX data, the number of international enquires about buying in Malta and Cyprus has doubled in the last year, and this figure is expected to rise dramatically.

‘We predict the property market on both of the islands is to continue to grow due to a number of reasons,” explains Mark Bodega, Marketing Director of HiFX. ‘Purchasers like the legal system in Cyprus as it is easy to understand, being based on the English one. The Cypriot government also believes in looking after the environment as properties cannot exceed a certain height, density is monitored and green areas are planted within developments.’

The investment news continues to say that ‘Malta boasts far lower taxation than the UK and there are no annual council or property taxes and inheritance tax was abolished in 1992. Since joining the EU in 2004, the Maltese property market has shifted up a gear. As a result we are getting a substantial amount of enquiries from property investors seeking to purchase property to rent, and more discerning buyers looking for luxury properties and the excellent tax rates available to the higher tax payer’.

Global Real Estate strategies set to soar

Property experts CB Richard Ellis make clear forecasts for a robust future within the global real estate market and this is especially good news for investors.

A global strategy is nothing new for investors and the real estate market is fast turning toward this trend. Recent diversification within the real estate industry sector is resulting in investors experiencing exceptional levels of growth and high returns on their investment. According to the latest report from recognised property experts CB Richard Ellis this trend is set to continue.

CB Richard Ellis recognises some key aspects of the global real estate market as well as the principal products that attract these new breed of investors. The magnitude of growth in the global real estate arena is expected to be found in four facets: the overall number of investors to enter the marketplace; the total expansion in the number of investment opportunities currently available; the diversification of investment strategies and the fact that more real estate investment products are available. These areas of growth make global real estate highly attractive and add to the magnetic attraction for new and more-experienced investors.

Another reason that the global real estate market is set to soar is due to the steep rise in the number of institutional investors, the influx of international capital, especially in emerging markets, the growth of the economies of the BRIC group (Brazil, Russia, India & China) and the growing power of petrodollars flowing out of the Middle East and into global real estate markets.

Global real estate investment strategies are becoming more and more mainstream and for a multiple of reasons fuelled from an increase in cross-border transactions and investment funds.

As investors perpetually seek higher returns, new emerging markets become increasingly interesting. China, India, Philippines and Vietnam are leading the way for emerging markets in Asia. While the Americas especially, Mexico, Brazil and Argentina are also proving popular. Some of the less mature Eastern European markets remain of interest to investors albeit represents a small slice of the global real estate sector.

Another future trend to watch out for that will increase the real estate market in Europe is the significant changes occurring in ownership of property; away from more owner-occupied transferred to the hands of strategic investors.

Romania Proves that it is No Longer the Poor Relation in the European Union

Romania’s ever improving infrastructure along with the entry into the EU this year has spurred the country into a very strategic direction.

Channel 4’s ‘A Place in the Sun’ has ranked Romania at the top spot in the ‘20 Best Places to Make Money, 2007’ The analysis takes into account the overall value of the housing market and factors in the amount of money that can be made in terms of rental yields and profit. Bullish statements such as predicting Romania’s property market is to increase by 414% within the next ten years.

Emerging markets property developer, Plaza Centers NV, are capitalizing on commercial retail developments in Bucharest and have acquired 3 major acquisitions within the last 8 months. One of which is a 34,000sq.m project, to include a 16,000sq.m shopping mall, costing an estimated €16 million. In a statement for the company CEO - Ran Shtarkman said ‘we are very excited at the prospect of pushing our other schemes within our Romanian development portfolio forward as quickly as possible,'

In 2006, Nokia announced an estimated €60 billion investment plan for a new premises in the county of Transylvania. Real estate deals are already on the move within the area encouraged by the assurance of a 15,000 strong workforce and have elevated property prices from €1-€5 to €25-€45 per sq.m.

Other developers, both national and International are putting millions in the residential real estate sector within major towns and cities, in an bid to capture an eagerly anticipated boost in tourism and ever improving local earnings. Balms International Lawyers have pronounced that Romania has a good ‘5-7 years of continued growth’ and ‘one of the best opportunities in Europe’.

Obelisk International’s Second Phase Launch is heightened by Estrela do Atlântico’s New Contract Signing

Kaká has his eye on the ball for a profitable investment in Brazil’s real estate market.

Kaká, the Times’ world player of the year, Seria A player of the year, Copa American winner and Champions league winner with AC Milan said that ‘The choice for Natal, with certainty, is one of the prettiest cities in Brazil. It is an interesting part of our country and the closest proximity to Europe. This chance appeared for Natal and I used it to my advantage and believe the tourist potential and capacity of yield the enterprise has to offer’ Kaká proceeded to tour his apartment admiring the view of Ponta Negra Beach from the Estrela do Atlântico.

Obelisk International’s release of the second phase of the Estrela do Atlântico project in Natal, Brazil follows only a matter of weeks after the initial release of the project which saw all phase one units sold within 48 hours.

Obelisk International’s Sales & Marketing Director, Kevin Prior explained that ‘As a consequence of the unprecedented success represented by the ‘Phase One’ release of Estrela do Atlântico, Obelisk International felt that a secondary release was the correct evolutionary step to take. The project represents substantial value and provides not only exceptional growth potential but also, at 18% below comparative market values, a strong investor’s edge."

Natal has had years of good management and with the knowledge that tourism is its greatest potential, has drastically changed the state capital. Residents in Natal know how important the tourists are for the economy, which reflects on the warmth towards their internal and external visitors.

High quality developments like Estrela do Atlântico are very important to the structure of Natal and the trend is having a huge knock on effect on the type of services, all of which are catering for an ever increasing luxury tourism industry. In June 2009, Natal is to see another major boost in the capitals infrastructure and increased tourism, with the opening of South America’s largest and the world’s eighth largest airport which boasts an impressive investment input of $130 million.

For more information on global investment opportunities and to find out about Obelisk International’s latest projects, contact Obelisk International 0808 1600670.
Press contact: Chris Green, Obelisk International. +34 952820 319

About Obelisk International
Obelisk International is a real estate investment company providing global investment opportunities that offer security, tangible and impressive financial performance. Their service to investor is based upon three main principles, profit, and performance.

Obelisk International Analyses Investment Potential of Natal, Brazil

Plans for Natal's new international airport, set to be eighth largest in the world, confirm the city is firmly on the radar of the real estate investor.

Brazil has been creating extensive column inches recently due to its widely regarded status as an emerging real estate market worth watching. Within the country it has been Natal that has been a main focus of this attention and Obelisk International has been investigating why, as part of its standard due diligence into the feasibility of global real estate investment markets.

Natal is the capital of Rio Grande do Norte in the northeast of Brazil, famous for its outstanding natural beauty and the most temperate climate in the country. Indeed it is renowned for having the purest air of the Americas, and the second purest air in the world, second only to Antarctica (source: NASA). The region boasts 400km of beaches, natural reserves, more than 200km of rivers, the second largest urban forest park in Brazil, and vast expanses of sand dunes (Natal is known as the "City of the Dunes", with a 10,000 square metre Parque das Dunas and a famous landmark sand dune, Morro do Careca). All such attractions help to make tourism the most vital industry in Natal.

Travel and tourism in Latin America is expected to generate US$186.4 billion in 2007, growing to a staggering US$304.3 billion by 2017, according to research by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC). Brazil has the second largest tourism economy in Latin America after Mexico, growing at a rate of 7.2% (source: WTTC). While Rio Grande do Norte, and Natal in particular, is now attracting more and more international tourists, it has long been the holiday destination of choice for a large portion of the 186 million Brazilians.

The international tourist trade in Natal is set to be boosted further by the development of more than ten golf courses and the US$1.8 billion worth of investment into hotels and resorts. By 2009, the largest airport in South America, the eighth largest in the world, will be completed in Natal to help cater to the 5 million passengers passing through each year.

The recent surge of quality new construction in Natal is evidence of the rush to satisfy the growing demand from international purchasers, as well as the growing middle class of Brazil looking to move to the highly desirable city. Such demand is helped along by news that the Institute for Applied Economics Research recently reported that Natal is the safest of all Brazil's regional capitals when it comes to personal risk.

The infrastructure growth of the city and its region, along with a burgeoning tourism economy thanks to its untouched natural beauty and array of attractions all spell success for the real estate investor. David Martin of Obelisk International states, "As a company we have been aware for some time of the outstanding investment potential that Brazil, and Natal in particular, represents which was why we were keen to be able to present the right investment opportunity in Natal to our clients. The belief in this market was confirmed by the overwhelming response to our recent Natal project, Estrela do Atlântico, which sold out in only 48 hours."

About Obelisk International

Obelisk International offers investors opportunities for investment in various selected real estate projects from around the world. Their investors are offered involvement in ventures that create unrivalled opportunity, potential and ultimately, return on investment. The service they provide to investors is based upon three key aims: price, profit and performance.

Contact

Press contact: Santiago Sanchez-Lozano, Marketing Manager, Obelisk International. +34 952820 319
Or
Visit our website: http://www.obeliskinternational.com/

Experts forecast property projects in Vietnam will continue to attract foreign investors.

The outlook for the Vietnam real estate market is very promising for overseas investors as the government announces a relaxation in ownership policy.

The Department of Tourism has estimated around 2 million foreign visitors will come to the capital city by 2010. Currently in Vietnam, there is a distinct lack of quality accommodation which has now created the impetus for investor involvement. The Department of Tourism has expressed a vested interest in creating a luxury, high-end market, fuelled by a vast rise in international business and tourism visitors.

Real estate FDI has increased significantly over the last two years and is expected to reach US$9 billion by 2010. So far investments have been coming in very strong from neighbouring countries but the market is still relatively untouched by the emerging market investor. Many of the developers have made investments within the first half of the year, one of which is Japanese firm who have ploughed US$500 million into a luxury 5 star hotel.

The country has only 14 golf courses catering for 5,000 resident golfers but with the increased number of foreign tourists coming to play in Vietnam, the appeal for this type of investment project grows on a daily basis. Developers are also constructing office buildings, beach resorts and hotels in the countries main cities, at a bustling rate according to the FIA.

The licensing of a deluxe resort project at Lang Co Beach in the central province of Thua Thien-Hue has also contributed greatly to the success of the real estate sector. The US$276-mil resort invested by Singapore's Banyan Tree Group is the biggest tourism project in the province and will certainly lead the way in the types of developments within the resort market.

The Development of Turkey’s Coastline is Emerging as an Exclusive Riviera

Turkey’s coastline has seen a remarkable change over the past decade into popular tourist destinations with an explosion in property and real estate prices.

Turkey’s Mediterranean coast has experienced significant change over the last 10 years resulting in what is seen today as bustling tourism destinations attracting visitors in their droves. Although the coastline has seen substantial property development it has managed to avoid some of the less appealing aspects that can accompany mass tourism as the towns have remained dignified along with their expansion.

Kalkan is an example of one of Turkey’s dignified towns that has managed to retain its charm, with its cobbled streets, its quaint harbour and old town, despite increasing development of new build properties over the past 6 years, which now sees the town spreading up into the mountain. The protection of the town’s charisma has aided the surge in property prices with four bedroom villas achieving prices of around £240,000 and other larger renovated old town properties reaching values as high as £500,000.

Other towns along the coast, with more stringent building regulations, such as Kas, are also commanding higher priced, up-market property – Kas is on average 10% more expensive than Kalkan – particularly due to the high demand of beachfront properties which are increasingly difficult to find.

But despite these high prices, the coastal towns of Turkey continue to attract the interest of overseas property investors, due to the original qualities that have been retained by these towns, and with the more traditional renovation properties and sea front locations, which command higher prices, of particular interest to foreign buyers.

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Commercial Property Developer IMMOEAST invests heavily in Poland

The Austrian based real estate developer concentrates funds heavily in the emerging Polish market.

IMMOEAST is expanding its real estate portfolio in Poland along with other Eastern European countries such as Hungary, Romania and Turkey in a bid to tap into a low outlay, high profit sector.

Two major investments have been announced and finalised, totalling a volume of € 63 million in top business locations in the capital city of Warsaw. The first of which is a project to convert 20,000 m² of land, within the heart of Warsaw, into a 17-floor office building by Q3 2009. The second newcomer to the portfolio will be a 15,000 m² office building which will house the likes of LG Electronics and Polish building group Warbud. These new assets sit along side with IMMOEAST’s previously acquired office building, purchased in 2006.

“These are genuine prime properties and fit ideally into our portfolio in Warsaw,” says Director General Karl Petrikovics. “With them IMMOEAST points up its leading position on the Warsaw office market.” With both of the recent acquisitions IMMOEAST’s portfolio in Poland has grown to 61 properties with total usable space of 2.2 million m² and a fair value of approximately € 1.3 billion. Measured in terms of usable space, with a share of 17%, Poland is the second largest investment location of IMMOEAST.

A few weeks ago IMMOEAST carried out its biggest capital measure to date, a capital increase in the range of € 2.84 billion with which a € 6 billion investment programme is being financed through the end of the 2007/08 business year. One third or € 2 billion of this has already been finalised.

US Property Market looking Very Buoyant for the British Overseas Investors

With the current 2 for 1 Dollar to Pound, real estate investment in the US is looking very favorable.

US property prices ‘now have an overwhelming advantage given the wide selection of homes available in many markets’, according to National Association of Realtors senior economist Lawrence Yun.

But many estate agents are saying the buyers’ market will not persist and are predicting US house prices should recover in 2008 with existing home sales picking up late this year and new home sales rising early next year.

With profit margins coming under pressure, homebuilders will limit new construction well into 2008, said Yun. ‘This should help the overall inventory level to move steadily into a more balanced state’.

NAR also expects existing home sales to total 6.1m this year and 6.4m in 2008, down from 6.5m last year. New home sales are projected at 865,000 in 2007 and 878,000 next year, compared with 1.05m in 2006. Housing starts, including multi-family units, are forecast at 1.4m units this year and in 2008, down from 1.8m last year.

Existing home prices are likely to rise 1.8 per cent to a average of £109,500 in 2008 after a 1.4% decline this year to £107,600. The median new home price should rise 2.2% to £120,700 next year following a 2.6 per cent drop in 2007 to £118,100.

’Markets that sharply reduce new construction in 2007 will generally experience respectable price increases in 2008’, said Yun. ‘Local conditions vary considerably, but with historically low mortgage interest rates this summer and sustained job gains, it could be a good time for first time buyers with a long-term view to test the housing waters’. The 30 year fixed rate mortgage is estimated to average 6.7% during the second half of this year, and fluctuate around 6.6% in 2008.

Rocketing UK Interest Rates Prompt a Panic Selling of Property Funds

Since the beginning of the year returns on the UK property market funds have fallen sharply with investors fearing that they are no longer lucrative.

Property funds have attracted billions from investors in recent years, the likes of which have been encouraged by an escalation in prices that ultimately resulting in a tidy return, unfortunately those investors have been met with a reality check in the form of hiking interest rates. With the 5.75% base rate rise from the Bank of England, and many expecting a further increase to 6% it is not surprising that many investors are becoming increasingly worried in the market.

Deloitte adviser Roger Bootle warned rates could put Britain’s low inflation ‘more under threat than at any time in the last 10 years’. Amidst fears of an unstable property market, shares have seen a major 30% loss since January and with dividends at there lowest ever, JP Morgan Chase & Co have made suggestions that this already depreciating market has more room fall.

This month, two of Britain's biggest property funds, Norwich Union and New Star’s Property Unit Trusts’ shocked investors by slashing the value of their units. For the investors, it means that the funds will be reduced in value by 4.72% and 3.9% respectively. In a bid to stem panic withdrawals, this rate reduction has spread to other companies such as Prudential and Standard Life, who have also introduced price cutting penalties in a bid to retain investor funds.

While rates were low investors borrowed cheap money and ploughed it into property funds, pushing up values up to record levels. With £175 billion borrowed over the last 2 years, investors are pulling in their purse strings as they find it harder to pay off their debts.

With overseas property prices at an affordable and profitable level an impressive number of UK investors are turning to this market as opposed to UK REITS. Recent statistics revealed that British citizen have invested over £23 billion in overseas property in Europe with a hiked interest in the new emerging markets.

Changing environment set to transform homes for optimum energy efficiency

Environmentally-friendly, space-conscious homes are set to become commonplace with the increasing environmental pressures, changing demographics along with flexible living and working conditions pave the way for the development of family homes.

Alliance & Leicester have worked in conjunction with the Centre for Future Studies, to compile a report on how new homes will evolve in response to environmental demands. Results of the study detailed that climate change and the risk of flooding will dictate the type of housing we will see in the future and it will not be unusual to see houses built on stilts within high risk areas.

By 2027 environmentally friendly technologies will see many households reusing and recycling all of their water with the integration of solar panels, bio-fuels and wind power for energy. The much debated and highly controversial refuse collections may come to a complete end as households introduce there own refuse management systems. Development innovations could also include concaved roofs with allotment style gardens to provide food and aid in the collection of water.

Dr Frank Shaw, Director at the Centre of Future Studies, said: “Over the next 20 years the impacts of technology and climate change will bring about a renaissance in how we live at home. Our homes will always be our castles - but they will be significantly more energy efficient, cheaper to run, intelligent, adaptable and more environmentally conscious than the houses we live in today.”

Stephen Leonard, Director of Mortgages at Alliance & Leicester, said: “Radical changes to our homes will occur during the next 20 years with changing demographics and environmental concerns paving the way for a new breed of green homes. Government schemes have already been developed to promote sustainable building practice for new homes, which will mean less waste and more recycling, so expect this to be the beginning of a new era for home building.”

Overseas Property Investors tap in to Brazils Low Outlay, High Profit Emerging Real Estate Market

Brazil’s stable economy and higher salaries has lead to a considerable increase in demand for property, widening the housing deficit and prompting companies within the industry to revaluate their target segment.

The recent growth and stability of the Brazilian economy has created a new generation of residents who now possess, for the first time, the means to buy property. Previously poor access to credit facilities recording astronomical interest rates, combined with high unemployment, underemployment, low pay and general instability caused by regular economic crises, made property purchase unavailable to the working classes.

Since 2003, with the inception of the new president Luiz Inácio Lul da Silva, interest rates have been more than halved from an incredible 25% down to current levels of 12% and are continuing to fall, inflation is under control at a reasonable 3.1% and minimum wages and salaries are increasing and at a rate higher than the cost of living. The latter has translated to a significant portion of the population with a disposable income for the first time.

Demand is now the strongest it has ever been with a huge housing deficit desperately trying to catch up. Construction and real estate companies are now using the huge foreign investment that is pouring into the country, and as a result are building as fast as they can to meet the new ever increasing demand.

Caixa Econômica Federal, Brazil’s government-run and largest mortgage financier, estimates that 7.9 million new homes are needed of which 92% (7.2 Million) are required by the lower-middle income population. This is reflected in the change of direction of construction companies and developers. Rodbens, for example, are a local firm working in the lower-middle income segment, have planned to build 10,000 homes over the next four years representing an increase of 15 times their previous annual total. Cyrela, one of Brazil’s top developers with a portfolio of middle-high income luxury homes, have now redirected their focus to include the lower income properties in light of these recent changes in the market.

The expanding mortgage market is aiding this transition as more products become readily available. Today, it is possible to borrow up to 80% of the property’s value, over a 30 year period and with the option of fixed interest rates for the first time. This is reflected in the rising lending figures which have more than doubled over the last three years. A new law introduced in 2004 has aided the opening up of the mortgage market and makes it today one of the most modern mortgage systems in the world.

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First Time Buyers find alternative investments routes to climb up the UK property ladder

With the ever increasing UK property prices and interest rates, first time buyers are now turning to the overseas market to build up collateral.

Mortgage companies and property developers are now offering products such as extended mortgage terms, increased salary multiples and shared ownership in a bid to entice the first time buyers market in the UK.

This is all very attractive and may help people on their way but what price do they pay for being tied in to such schemes? The prospect of less disposable income, an increase in overall interest, higher legal fees and taxes along with the constraints of sharing a home with a housing developer is not greatly appealing.

Abbey National has reported that 17 million residents are unable to purchase in the UK with 6.9% unable to raise a deposit and in a report by Hiscox, over 24% of 18-24 year olds would consider investing overseas. In response to this new awareness, high street lenders are now offering first time buyers a mortgage to purchase overseas. These new products then place the ‘household name’ lenders in a very strong position against the international banks.

An article in ‘A Place in the Sun’ detailed a prospective first time buyer, who had purchased an apartment in Brazil, in a bid to raise capital for a home in the UK. The rental income proved to cover the mortgage repayments but more importantly the property valuation increased by 15% within a year. In the same article Simon Conn of CFS said that “it’s relatively easy for young people to buy abroad, the eligibility criteria is currently the same as those buying a second home abroad. Affordability can be in their favour as they don’t have existing mortgage commitments”

Obelisk International Announces the Launch of its Latest Investment Venture at Seven Lakes, Bulgaria

Obelisk International is proud to announce the launch of its latest eco-friendly project at Seven Lakes, Bulgaria in collaboration with the CarbonNeutral Company.

The Seven Lakes development is Obelisk International’s most recent project to be released to its clients on Monday 16th July. The venture offers a unique opportunity to be involved with a development that not only represents a strong investment but is also environmentally friendly and actively reducing carbon dioxide emissions throughout the entire process from its design to completion. Owners are presented with a property investment offering a healthy quality of living whilst maintaining harmony with the surrounding environment as well as adding value to the end product.

The developer of Seven Lakes, Profile Group, has partnered with the CarbonNeutral Company, the leading brand in the world for action on climate change, demonstrating a diverse portfolio of clients with over 10 years experience within the carbon market. The CarbonNeutral Protocol is an international best practice divided into three stages in the form of the climate change program; stage one measures the CO2 emissions created throughout the business activity, stage two identifies methods for reducing CO2 emissions, how it will be carried out and when, and stage three involves offsetting those unavoidable carbon dioxide emissions to maintain a carbon balance in the environment.

Today, investors recognise the cost of CO2 emissions and analyse carbon assets and liabilities as earnestly as any other item on a company’s balance sheet. More and more investors are choosing companies that promote an ethical and ecological approach to business, or rather are rejecting those companies who do not consider their environmental and social impact within their core strategy. If investors feel that climate change is not being strategically managed by a company, it will be reflected in the market value of the end product.

Seven Lakes is a secure gated development of 73 2 bedroom and 3 bedroom detached villas, occupying a strategic location within the Rila Mountains, renowned as one of the most healthy and unpolluted atmospheres in the world, and situated on the outskirts of a prominent spa town of natural warm mineral pools. The location of the project is next to the first Nicklaus design golf club and spa, 200 meter to an immense spa complex, only 15 minutes to the Borovets ski resort and 45 minutes to the capital city Sofia and its international airport.

The Seven Lakes project supports Obelisk International’s own philosophy and commitment to being environmentally responsible and minimising carbon dioxide emissions reflected throughout the company’s operations.

For more information on Seven Lakes and to find out about Obelisk International’s forthcoming projects, contact our sales department
+34 952 820 319 or sevenlakes@obeliskinternational.com

About Obelisk International

Obelisk International offers investors opportunities for investment in various selected real estate projects from around the world. Their investors are offered involvement in ventures that create unrivalled opportunity, potential and ultimately, return on investment. The service they provide to investors is based upon three key aims: price, profit and performance.

Contact
Press contact: Santiago Sanchez-Lozano, Marketing Manager, Obelisk International.
+34 952820 319

Brazil’s Winning Economic Stability is Fast Attracting Overseas Investors to the Property Market

The outstanding strength of the Brazilian economy, significantly low property prices and huge relative capital appreciation over recent years is driving Brazil to be one of the top emerging markets for property investment.

The Brazilian property market is fast becoming a popular investment destination for overseas investors due to the massive benefits of low property values and the fast strengthening Real, gaining nearly 10% so far in 2007, thanks to the county’s increasing economic stability and investment inflows. This, combined with a significantly lower cost of living than many traditional property investment locations, allows for a more luxurious lifestyle and the still large areas of the country unexplored by foreigners, are drawing attention on property investors radar.

Despite the relatively low property values in Brazil, the growth of house prices over the last few years has been recording impressive performance with an average increase of 20% per annum, placing the country at the top of the property investment league table. Investors may look to Brazil for their next investment move particularly as early entry into the market takes advantage of the high level of capital growth that is expected over the coming years.

Foreign investment into Brazil has grown at an increasing pace hand-in-hand with the county’s economic growth. Foreign direct investments reached $3.47 billion in April up from $2.78 billion the previous month. These strong inflows are reflected in Brazil’s balance of payments with the current account surplus recording the highest ever figures in April of $1.82 billion an increase from $817 million in the previous month and exceeding average forecasts (of 21 economists in the Reuters poll) of $1.5 billion.

The Daily Mail Overseas Property supplement recently remarked that emerging markets in particular are presenting some excellent opportunities for investment, some of which are beginning to overtake more traditional established investment markets in terms of return on cash invested.

Brazil offers a fantastic lifestyle with a superb all-year round climate and the increasing number of charter flights from the UK will surely see demand for the purchase of second homes and the rental of holiday lodgings significantly increase. This is supported by Obelisk International’s recent launch of the Estrela do Atlantico project, in Natal, Brazil, where all available units were sold out within 48 hours. Obelisk International is committed to a global search to present only the most lucrative quality investment opportunities to their clients.

About Obelisk International

Obelisk International offers investors opportunities for investment in various selected real estate projects from around the world. Their investors are offered involvement in ventures that create unrivalled opportunity, potential and ultimately, return on investment. The service they provide to investors is based upon three key aims: price, profit and performance.

Contact
Press contact: Santiago Sanchez-Lozano, Marketing Manager, Obelisk International.
+34 952820 319
Or
Visit our website: http://www.obeliskinternational.com/

Malaysia’s strong economy to see a 6% growth this year

The continuation of high government spending, along with strong domestic demand Malaysia is fast becoming a “Tiger Economy” with Key Business and Government figures working towards solid economic improvements.

The increasing demand for luxury properties such as condominiums in Malaysia is due largely to the nation's socio-political stability, accommodating policies and a positive image globally. In an interview with Malaysia’s The Star, Mervin Chow from OSK Investment Bank said that “On a regional basis, Malaysia was easy for foreigners to buy property, whether condominiums or landed housing.”

“Many Asian countries prevented foreigners from owning land as well as restricted them in buying apartments or using leasehold arrangements but Malaysia allows foreign investors to own or invest in residential units without having to seek the Foreign Investment Committee's consent.” Mr Chow said

In furthering his comments Mr Chow added that “The luxury residential market in Malaysia is still relatively affordable compared with some other Asian countries. The property price gap in Malaysia has widening further, especially in the luxury condominium sector, which makes Malaysia's luxury condominiums an attractive proposition. For many years, Singapore has had a high volume business travel inflow, so makes it makes this comparison even more attractive.”

Justin Wood, the Corporate Director of Economist Intelligence Unit said “The Government’s focus on the development services sector, as well as incentives in the financial, property investment and corporate sectors, were also factors towards positive growth.” adding that Malaysia “had progressed from a low income country to a high income one, with foreign direct investment accelerating growth”

In conclusion Malaysia’s economic growth and increased earnings, property investment is sure to provide an excellent opportunity for high rental returns especially from the high level, long term executive sector.

Obelisk International puts Climate Change at the Heart of its Property Investment Strategy

Obelisk International brings ecologically sound investments to the forefront of the property market

In recent years the terms ‘Kyoto Agreement’ and ‘climate change’ have become more mainstream news for the general population rather than the segregated green factions. As a consequence of this newfound public awareness, previously unwatched sectors of Industry are drawing greater attention to their environmental impacts. The construction industry, both actual construction works as well as the manufacture of building materials, impacts heavily upon the environment according to a report from the Association for Environment Conscious Building (ACEB) stating that buildings have a major impact on the earth’s biosphere with 50% of UK’s Co2 emissions (excluding air industry) produced by buildings and 10% of global emissions from cement manufacture. This presents a key opportunity for the industry to clean up operations to take the lead in influencing the entire industry and is crucial for the health of our environment.

In the first major policy commitment of his campaign, Gordon Brown announced plans for five new "eco towns" with up to 100,000 low carbon or carbon neutral homes. In his comments Gordon Brown stated "It is quite new in the dimensions, it is quite new in also the imagination I think we have in combining the environment and the gains we can make in the environment with housing." This gives a clear indication to the industry that there is support for eco-friendly and cost effective housing and provides strong encouragement for developers to create innovative eco-friendly designs by using renewable resources.

“Ensuring more efficient and careful use of building materials has an added bonus within construction as the action reduces costs” says Stephen Prior from Forest Carbon. “New buildings offer the opportunity to improve materials and designs using sustainably grown timber frames and walls that are more environmentally friendly and in many cases are classed as carbon neutral in comparison to modern materials. The construction industry, perhaps more than any other, is well placed to take the lead on playing an influential role in reducing the causes of climate change, both through its own actions and through the influence it can bring to building designers and clients. He added that “Carbon off-setting has major role to play, with construction companies exploring the off-set market to find schemes that match their objectives and business model.”

At Obelisk International we pride ourselves on the way we conduct our business, in an environmentally responsible manner. As a direct consequence of our unique approach to a Global Industry, Obelisk International’s operational procedures enable us to reduce our emissions and more importantly the impact on the environment. Obelisk International believes that this environmentally responsible model sets the standard and includes:

High quality E-Format Investment Brochures
Obelisk International do not encourage or indulge in superfluous inspection trips
Obelisk International suppress the production of Co2 emissions due to the exclusion of an extensive fleet of company cars
Obelisk International operate a non shop window policy
Obelisk International is able to deliver this pure approach and ensure meticulous due diligence and investment tangibility.

Obelisk International is proud to be involved in a unique opportunity in Bulgaria known as Seven Lakes. The development provides clients with an excellent investment that also uses eco-friendly construction methods. The developers of Seven Lakes have worked in conjunction with The CarbonNeutral Company to offset emissions caused by construction and to bring a balance between convergence and contraction of Co2 gases. All of the major material for this development is locally sourced to avoid extensive shipping and transportation costs and to drastically reduce the pollution caused by long distance, fuel consuming travel.

The Seven Lakes development is situated within the breathtaking Rila Mountain range with one of the finest ski resorts and Golf Club & Spa in Bulgaria. The golf club features the first Nicklaus Design course in South East Europe and will meet the standards of both the PGA and Royal St Andrews. The facilities will include an 18 hole course, a practice range with six short par 3 holes and a short 9 game area, a clubhouse with restaurant, member’s room, pro shop, general store and a spa centre. There are also a provision for shopping centres and restaurants to be built within the surrounding area.

In line with Obelisk International’s unparalleled commitment to quality and excellent returns, Seven Lakes demonstrates exceptional quality and eco-friendly standards whilst being an astute, secure and viable property investment. The Rila Mountain area boasts a vast array of tourism all year round and as such will provide a consistent, high value rental income. In addition to external tourism, the capital of Sofia generates prolific internal tourism to the area and will capture the high end, luxury holiday market. This extraordinary opportunity will encompass dependable growth with the added assurance of a minimal impact on the environment.

For more information on Seven Lakes and to find out about Obelisk International’s forthcoming projects, contact our sales department
+34 952 820 319 or sevenlakes@obeliskinternational.com

About Obelisk International

Obelisk International offers investors opportunities for investment in various selected real estate projects from around the world. Their investors are offered involvement in ventures that create unrivalled opportunity, potential and ultimately, return on investment. The service they provide to investors is based upon three key aims: price, profit and performance.

Contact
Press contact: Santiago Sanchez-Lozano, Marketing Manager, Obelisk International.
+34 952820 319
Or
Visit our website: http://www.obeliskinternational.com/

Obelisk International highlights Eco-Friendly development for the conscientious & ethical investor

A new real estate investment project by Obelisk International provides low impact developments for a profitable return.

The project managers at Obelisk International have taken great lengths to source investment properties that are lucrative as well as adopting an environmentally friendly approach to the construction and development. Climate change and global warming is in the news almost on a daily basis and with heightened interest in ecotourism, many countries, particularly developing and emerging countries, are now investing heavily in a bid to capture the eco-market.

A study produced by the World Wildlife Fund in 2006 concluded that the increasing Co2 omissions will eventually deplete our much needed biological resources. The report continued to say that if omission levels continued to rise we would ultimately need three planets to support the population. In a statement, Hilary Benn, Secretary of State for International Development said. "We have to work with all countries to combat climate change, and getting an agreement on a carbon emissions goal is vital". He also brought home the message that an increase in Co2 from the worlds industries are contributing to the earths global warming.

Sir Richard Branson, who recently made his second island purchase in the Caribbean, has plans to turn it into a carbon neutral environment within nine months. All buildings on the Island will be constructed from local sustainable materials and powered by natural resources. "If I am going to be out there trying to get other people to get their houses in order, I've got to get my own house in order," he commented. He is now promoting ways in which the travel industry can achieve a balance between protecting the planet and sustaining profits

Obelisk International, through it’s comprehensive due diligence and research commitments has unearthed a development, in Bulgaria, which meets the eco-objective perfectly. Seven Lakes is situated within the beautiful Rila Mountains, a location which provides a clean, healthy and unpolluted atmosphere. With this in mind, care has been taken to ensure that local materials, which require minimal transportation, are sourced to include local stone and wood. The developers are working closely with the market leading CarbonNeutral Company to reduce the Co2 omissions to work against climate change and harmful green house gases. In addition Seven Lakes observes the guidelines set out by the World Wildlife Fund.

The Seven Lakes development boasts assurance of high quality, state of the art technology, a healthy environment, excellent potential for capital growth and outstanding rental opportunities. Seven Lakes is a well situated development for numerous activities including golf and ski resorts in particular, which are all within close proximity. Added to this the Seven Lakes development is located within commuter distance of Sofia and as such open to the lucrative executive weekender and second home market created by Sofia’s development as base camp for many powerful Multi-National companies.

Sales & Marketing director of Obelisk International Kevin Prior commented“. The AECB (The Association for Environment Conscious Building) recently stated that CO2 emissions from buildings represents 50% of the UK’s total (excluding airlines) this illustrates the impact that developments such as these can have on an environmental level. Not only will the project represent a strong investment opportunity for it’s buyers but it will also demonstrate an ethical approach to profits”

For more information on global investment opportunities and to find out about Obelisk International’s latest projects, contact Obelisk International 0808 1600670.

About Obelisk International
Obelisk International is a real estate investment company providing global investment opportunities that offer security, tangible and impressive financial performance. Their service to investor is based upon three main principles, profit, and performance.

Obelisk International Launches Its Latest Condominium Project at Pattaya Heights, Thailand

Obelisk International is proud to announce the release of their newest property investment venture at the Pattaya Heights project in Thailand, partnering with the Iguana Company and Chandler and Thong-EK.

The Pattaya Heights project presents a unique investment opportunity to purchase outstanding condominium units, currently in high demand from foreign buyers as up to 49% foreign freehold allows direct foreign ownership of units, a rarity for the overseas buyer in Thailand, and providing a sound exit strategy for any investor.

Pattaya Heights offers 114 deluxe condominium units within two identical seven storey buildings. Designed to combine the opulence of a resort within a stylish city location, it is the first condominium development in Pattaya to have two “infinity edge” roof top swimming pools boasting outstanding unrestricted views of the Pattaya Bay. Occupying a strategic location within what is recognised as the most secure neighborhood of Pattaya and only 5 minutes to the commercial heart with some excellent restaurants, shopping, entertainment and superb coral sand beaches.

In line with Obelisk International’s commitment to bring only the highest quality real estate investments to investors, the company is proud to introduce its partnerships with the Iguana Company and Chandler and Thong-EK on the Pattaya Heights project.

The Iguana Company is a professional Thai property developer and constructor combining over seventy years experience in property development. The company’s initial activities constructing private villas and purchasing second hand condominiums for reformation to European standards, has today extended to designing and constructing their own exclusive condominium projects providing outstanding design and construction to the highest quality. For the Pattaya Heights project, the Iguana Company offer a comprehensive property management service to ensure Obelisk International clients are able to maximise the rental potential of their investments.

Internationally recognised Chandler and Thong-EK have been operating in Thai business and finance legal practices for over thirty years, and are distinguished for their extensive consulting experience throughout a number of disciplines including corporate, commercial and financial transactions. The International Financial Law Review (IFLE) has awarded Chandler and Thong-EK the “Thai Law Firm of the Year” for seven consecutive years, highlighting the company’s excellence in its field. Situated in the heart of Bangkok, the company is part of an established network of professional lawyers, present in financial centers and foreign jurisdictions around the world. This outstanding excellence, breadth of experience and inherent due diligence demonstrated by Chandler and Thong-EK supports Obelisk International’s commitment to provide only the most secure investments for our clients.

The outstanding opportunity presented by the Pattaya Heights project lead Kevin Prior, Obelisk International’s Sales and Marketing Director, to comment; “In line with our dedication to provide only the highest quality investment opportunities to our clients this latest project further illustrates our unflinching commitment. I would entirely expect Pattaya Heights to replicate the astounding demand demonstrated most recently in the Estrela do Atlantico project where all availability sold within a 48 hour period.”

About Obelisk International.

Obelisk International is a real estate investment company providing global investment opportunities that offer security, tangibility and impressive financial performance. Their service to investors is based upon three main principles: price, profit and performance.