Property Price Review; The Movers in Asia-Pacific

Property reports from Global Property Guide show that Q2 2007 property prices in the Asia-Pacific region are booming.

After an eight year low Singapore has recovered as the Asian leader in the property price growth index, with a massive 21% rise in Q2 2007 from a low 6% in Q2 2006.

Strong economic growth and a continuous inflow of funds from overseas Filipino workers, has inflated property prices in the Philippines from 8.5% in 2006 to 14% in Q2 2007. After a 15-year lull in property prices, Japan’s six major cities have seen both land and property prices surge by 7.8%.

The worldwide increase in the cost of construction materials has boosted house prices in Brunei over the past year by an overall estimate of 5%. The steady increase in both property and land prices begun in 2006 with business districts emerging as the best areas to buy.

High interest rates, which are linked to US rates, have not dampened property prices in Hong Kong. A 0.7% decrease in 2006 has been turned around to an 8.8% increase, which is set to rise further for the next quarter due to an interest rate cut in the US.

High interest rates put in place in November 2006, have not affected the Australian housing market as prices have increased yearly at a rate of 7% until Q2 2007 where prices rose to 9.5%. In addition, New Zealand's house prices rose by 12%, regardless of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand attempting to moderate the sharp increases. Mortgage interest rates however, shot up 10.54% in August last year, reflecting the highest rates seen since 1999.

Belize; a Caribbean Contender for Overseas Property Investment

One of the best-kept secrets of Central America; Belize’s tourism market is now the country’s second best money-spinner. The developing eco tourism now equates to 18% of the country’s income.

Although the country borders Mexico and Guatemala, Belize has an English speaking populace, and up until 1973, was known as British Honduras. Belize gained independence from the British in 1981 but has retained its membership as a Commonwealth state. The fact that all business is conducting in English adds to the attraction of foreign direct investment to the country, for both property investment and second-home buyers.

Belize boasts the second largest barrier reef in the world, magical Mayan ruins, and an array of jungles home to many endangered species such as the Manatee and Jaguar. The barrier reef protects over 386 Km of coastline and two thirds of the country is covered in bio-diverse, rich forests. The young, growing population of Belize stands at 300,000, still a relatively small nation.

An upsurge in tourist numbers has meant that property prices in Belize are rising steadily, but remains affordable. Property reports from local experts show a 15% annual increase in urban areas and a huge 30% along coastal areas. As a tax shelter, Belize also lends itself to a retirement market due to zero capital gains tax and inheritance tax, and extremely low property tax at 1% of the market value.

There are no restrictions on foreigners buying property in Belize and all negotiations and paperwork are in English. The only restrictions relate to the purchase of land exceeding half an acre within a town or city, or 10 acres within rural areas to which purchasers would require special permission.

The growth in tourism means that the demand for rental properties is on the up and local agents have estimated rental yields ranging from 4% to 9% with an income tax rate of only 1.75%. The government has also put in place some enticing incentives for local and foreign developers with emphasis on resorts, infrastructure and tourism services.

Property investment prices are dependent on what you buy and where you buy it. For example, a small house in a rural community would cost from $5,000, and a village home approximately $15,000. However, a villa in a luxury beach resort could cost in excess of $500,000.

For more information on overseas property investment, and to find out about Obelisk’s latest projects, contact Obelisk free on:
0808 160 0670 (UK) or 1800 932 514 (IRE)
Email info@obeliskinternational.com
Visit our website: http://www.obeliskinternational.com/

Press Office: Tel: 0808 160 1005 or email press@obeliskinternational.com

ADIT Nordeste Visits Obelisk® and Provides Insight on Brazil Property Investment

Luiz Felipe Cavalcante from the Association for Real Estate and Tourism Development (ADIT Nordeste) visits Obelisk to provide first hand insight into plans for the future of North Eastern Brazil property investment.

In a special visit, Felipe addressed the staff at Obelisk on the Brazil’s current financial status, tourism statistics, and the future for northeast Brazil. In his address, Felipe delivered some interesting figures specifically to the area, including local market statistics, financial stability in Brazil, the local area, and the local and international demand for Brazil property investment.

Felipe comments, ‘Alogoas is the only state that has areas and property available within a short distance from the airport. Our priority is for five and six star developments rather than cheap mass development.’

‘Projects, specifically in Maceio, are sustainable and respectful to the environment; nature and development working side by side. The area is a natural disaster free zone so is also safe and secure.’

‘Alogoas state has been a primary national tourism destination for over 30 years and is a popular second home destination. In 2006 the province received 992,349 local tourists and 76,072 international visitors making northeast Brazil property investment a viable option.’

In a recent statement, Felipe commented on Obelisk stating, ‘We are pleased with Obelisk’s interest in the Brazilian market and its vast potential. We have witnessed that Obelisk not only searches for the best partners and projects, to optimise clients’ returns. We believe that these are the main factors necessary for offering excellent opportunities in Brazil to the international community, and consider them a key factor in the further growth of the real estate market in North Eastern Brazil.’

‘Brazil offers excellent opportunities for growth in tourism-related real estate development. The professionalism of domestic players in the sector, a strong and transparent regulatory framework, and a robust macroeconomic environment offer unparalleled opportunities for foreign investors. Because of this, we believe that Europeans will soon begin to capitalize on the great potential of Brazil’s tourism and real estate markets’.

Tim van Dijk, Project Manager at Obelisk comments ‘We are very proud to receive an accolade from such a prominent figure in Brazil. Felipe has furnished us with some invaluable detail into the historical and the future data of North Eastern Brazil, which not only confirms our own research but also gives all staff at Obelisk an extra edge in the longstanding future of this market. The local and international resale and rental market in Northeast Brazil is huge due to the high demand, as well as an outstandingly beautiful place to own property.’


‘Brazil for one is certainly no exception to our rule of a successful strategic market for both investors and lifestyle clients, in particular for those who are buying in multiples. The early, astute property buyer can benefit greatly from Brazil property investment in cities such as Maceio, an internal tourism playground and a firm favourite for Brazil’s second homebuyers. Tourists can now fly direct from northern Europe into the expanding international airports.’

About ADIT
ADIT’s major role as a non-profitable organization is to verify credibility and security for international investors. Members include renowned national and international companies working in conjunction with influential government officials to attract foreign capital for development of the area.

About Obelisk
Obelisk offers clients the opportunity to invest in specially selected real estate projects from around the world. Clients are offered involvement in ventures that represent unrivalled opportunity, potential and ultimately, return on investment. The service they provide to investors is based upon three key aims: price, profit, and performance.

For more information on Brazil property investment, and to find out about Obelisk’s latest projects, contact Obelisk free on:
0808 160 0670 (UK) or 1800 932 514 (IRE)
Email info@obeliskinternational.com
Visit our website: http://www.obeliskinternational.com/

Press Office: Tel: 0808 160 1005 or email press@obeliskinternational.com

Obelisk® International Reports on Security in Overseas Property Markets

Security of a property venture is a crucial factor when making investment decisions, and although emerging markets present some extremely profitable returns, there are some unique challenges.

Emerging markets offer the best possible returns from property investment and present a myriad of interesting and exciting opportunities from around the world.
With rapid growth rates, impressive capital appreciation and rental yields, Obelisk reports that these markets provide highly lucrative investments when compared with earnings in more traditional markets.

However, there are a number of actions to minimise any risks, leaving the property investor the freedom to sit back and enjoy the rewards.

Kevin Prior, Investment Director at Obelisk comments, ‘Countries that welcome foreign property investment promote positive actions such as favourable tax conditions and full ownership laws.’

‘The stability and growth of a country’s economy, as well as government reforms and the attitude to foreign property investment is highly important. Understanding a country’s purchase process covers all fiscal and legal aspects, and provides advance knowledge of any costs involved for a foreign purchaser.’

For off-plan projects, a comprehensive due diligence report (DDR) should include the review of the developer’s legal and financial records. The legality of the project will also be ascertained ensuring full licenses and permissions are in place.

The outcome of the DDR will highlight anything that could affect the seller prior to completion, as well as at latter stages. It is important to ensure correct legal guidance is received throughout a property purchase. No overseas property investment should be undertaken, without a lawyer who is proficient in local laws and processes.

Prior continues, ‘Using internationally recognised constructors, developers and agents who possess a visible portfolio, are experienced, and hold a highly regarded reputation within their field, can be a good indication that those companies will fulfil their obligations. This also allows a concrete insight as to final quality levels through evaluation of previous workmanship of these companies.’

Another consideration is foreign currency. Historic data will help establish any fluctuations and provides some insight into any risks. It is essential to obtain the best currency exchange advice and assistance possible. A foreign exchange specialist will cater for clients individual circumstances and recommend tailor made options. Stage payments are relatively common when buying off-plan so it is prudent to forward plan by fixing an exchange rate for a specific future time, therefore avoid currency fluctuations.

All Obelisk projects have been through a comprehensive DDR issued by highly recognised international lawyers, as well as extensive market analysis carried out by in-house professionals.

Projects are also chosen for the reputation of the architect, construction, development, and management partners; it is of the uttermost importance that the collaborating companies are highly regarded, accountable, and have a long-standing reputation for carrying projects to completion with the highest possible quality standards.

Where foreign currency is involved, Obelisk recommends a foreign exchange specialist to ensure clients are correctly advised on the most prosperous options available.

About Obelisk
Obelisk offers clients the opportunity to invest in specially selected real estate projects, from around the world. Clients are presented overseas property with an unrivalled opportunity potential and ultimately, return on investment. The service they provide to clients is based upon three key aims: price, profit, and performance.

For more information on overseas property investment, and to find out about Obelisk’s latest projects, contact Obelisk free on: 0808 160 0670 (UK)
or 1800 932 514 (IRE)
Email info@obeliskinternational.com
Visit our website: http://www.obeliskinternational.com/

Press Office: Tel: 0808 160 1005press@obeliskinternational.com

British Public View Property as Safest Investment

New reports show that British consumers see property as the safest place for their money.

New property research compiled by the BBC has shown that 53% of those who took part in the research project said that owning property is far safer than physical cash.

The BBC’s programme, The Truth About Property, confirmed that UK residents have more confidence in property notwithstanding the current market slow down in the UK.

In spite of this, some investment professionals believe that cash is a better bet, as long as banks remain liquid. Nevertheless, the British government have not been entirely successful in their campaign to calm public opinion since the near collapse of Northern Rock. Northern Rock is the first British bank in almost 150 years to suffer from any internal or external effects. However, the US ‘credit crunch’ forced the company to take a huge cash loan from the Bank of England.

On the back of the shaky UK property market, a large number of investors are choosing to place their confidence in overseas property investments. Foreign exchange company HiFX, have reported 23% of UK residence are having problems meeting their mortgage repayments every month and 16 million people are actually considering emigration to sunnier climes in a bid to escape financial worries.

Investing in foreign shores such as Brazil, Bulgaria, and Thailand is impacting greatly on property prices, especially in those countries that offer a low cost of living, which attracts a large number of British tourists. Mark Bodega, director at HiFX commented: “more and more people are no longer considering it as a luxury but a necessity."
About Obelisk
Obelisk offers clients the opportunity to invest in specially selected real estate projects, from around the world. Clients are offered involvement in ventures that represent unrivalled opportunity, potential and ultimately, return on investment.
The service they provide to investors is based upon three key aims: price, profit, and performance.

For more information on overseas property investment, and to find out about Obelisk’s latest projects, contact Obelisk free on 0808 160 0670 (UK)
or 1800 932 514 (IRE) or email info@obeliskinternational.com
or visit our website: http://www.obeliskinternational.com/

Press Office:Tel: 0808 160 1005press@obeliskinternational.com

Billionaire Joe Lewis Bids Big for Bulgarian Property

AIM listed Bulgarian Property Developments (BDP) is amid a take over bid by Windsorville Investments, backed by billionaire Joe Lewis.

Currency speculator Joe Lewis, who is actually better known for his financial involvements with football clubs Tottenham Hotspur and Rangers, is now banking on the property development market in Bulgaria, further adding to his multi billion-pound fortune.

This month has also seen the cockney born tycoon grab a stake in Wall Street’s biggest investment bank, Bear Stearns, ploughing £70 million into the Bulgarian property market. Now operating from the Bahamas, Joe Lewis, whose estimated net worth stands at a reported £2.8 billion, aided Windsorville Investments to the offer of “not less than 64p per share” for the Bulgarian company.

Founded in 2004 BDP entered the AIM listings in January 2005 and raised £4.2 million. He went on to raise a further £32.9 million after a share placing in June 2007. BDP focuses predominantly on property development in and around the top five cities in Bulgaria.

The country is proving to be very popular for property investment in both the residential and commercial markets, with various big players relocating a proportion of their operations to Bulgaria due to the exceptional value for money.

About Obelisk
Obelisk offers clients the opportunity to invest in specially selected real estate projects from around the world. Clients are offered involvement in ventures that represent unrivalled opportunity, potential and ultimately, return on investment. The service they provide to investors is based upon three key aims: price, profit, and performance.

For more information on overseas property investment, and to find out about Obelisk’s latest projects, contact Obelisk free on:
0808 160 0670 (UK) or 1800 932 514 (IRE)
Email info@obeliskinternational.com
Visit our website: http://www.obeliskinternational.com/

Press Office: Tel: 0808 160 1005 or email press@obeliskinternational.com

Qatar Rental Rates Increase 20%-30%

Rental rates in Qatar have increased by an average of 20% to 30% in 2006, with experts predicting they will remain high due to supply vs. demand ratio.

With property reports, stating current demand is outweighing supply, buy-to-let property owners in Qatar are pocketing huge rental yields, and this trend is set to continue until supply equalises.

The rise in rental rates has followed a liberalisation in real estate law, which has been designed to encourage residents to own property as opposed to rent, yet many residents are investing in property to capitalise on the lucrative rental yields that can be earned.

The economy in Qatar is without a doubt one of the strongest in the world and with a population of only 838,000, the country registered the highest income per capita in the world in 2006. The Government has initiated several measures to liberalise laws in a bid to attract investment into various economic sectors such as real estate, tourism, and finance. The high rental rates have also had an effect on the country’s inflation rate, which is now among the highest within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

In order to attract foreign property investment specifically, the Government relaxed foreign ownership laws. This has led to an increase in investments into not only property investment but also tourism, the financial market, oil, and gas sectors; the major increase in economic migration to the country is further boosting the country’s rental market.

New regional and international companies who have relocated to Qatar have had a direct effect on the demand for quality residential units. Overseas property buyers can currently purchase real estate in designated freehold areas, which are West Bay Lagoon, Pearl Qatar, and Al Khor Resort. Eighteen other areas are currently available on a leasehold basis for a period of 99 years.

About Obelisk
Obelisk offers clients the opportunity to invest in specially selected real estate projects from around the world. Clients are offered involvement in ventures that represent unrivalled opportunity, potential and ultimately, return on investment. The service they provide to investors is based upon three key aims: price, profit, and performance.

For more information on overseas property investment, and to find out about Obelisk’s latest projects, contact Obelisk free on:
0808 160 0670 (UK) or 1800 932 514 (IRE)
Email info@obeliskinternational.com
Visit our website: http://www.obeliskinternational.com/

Press Office: Tel: 0808 160 1005press@obeliskinternational.com

Obelisk® International’s Presence at MIPIM Asia

As part of Obelisk’s commitment to bring only the best projects to clients, the Obelisk Project Team will be attending MIPIM Asia conference in Hong Kong. The conference is 2007’s most important event in the Asian property investment and development calendar.

Obelisk will be part of an exclusive audience within the convention's participants that will allow them to meet with the world's top developers, and view the leading and most innovative projects within Asia. The 3-day event in November will provide the best, world-class real estate investment opportunities, up-to-date news, projects, and trends from within the industry.

Tim van Dijk, Project Manager at Obelisk comments, “The MIPIM is an excellent opportunity for Obelisk to gain further insight into the future regional developments, within Asia. MIPIM Asia not only provides us with the knowledge on what is happening right now but also how the Asian regions will evolve, within the next 2-3 years. This face-to-face approach will allow us to network and build relationships with key, high-level partners, in this profitable market.”

MIPIM Asia is seen by the property industry as an innovative market tool, to bring together thousands of delegates from the international community to provide education for investors, advisors, and developers. The conference will allow leading property professionals to accelerate their developments in Asia’s fast growing property investment areas.

Thibaud Paquin, Development Manager Asia at Accor Asia Pacific comments, “Accor was very happy to participate in the 1st MIPIM Asia in Hong Kong. The quality of our contacts was above expectation and MIPIM Asia allowed us not only to comfort existing relationships, but also to meet new people. We look forward to the 2007 edition!”

MIPIM Asia will bring new investment opportunities, in relatively untapped markets, such as the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Korea. At the exhibition, conference and summit, the investment sector will be given pertinent information about where, when and how to invest in the region.

Tim van Dijk concludes, “The presence of both international and regional developers who will be negotiating financial and project terms for real estate operations all of which are emphasising on high ROI potential. We are guaranteed to have access to a wide range of lucrative development possibilities.”

“This will therefore equip Obelisk with an invaluable edge and will further help our strict property research and assessment criteria. We will have a greater understanding of the regional property investment markets and who is shaping the future of those markets. At MIPIM, Obelisk will be able to discover the most recent innovations and developments.”

Click here to view further information on MIPIM Asia.






About Obelisk
Obelisk offers clients the opportunity to invest in specially selected real estate projects, from around the world. Clients are offered involvement in ventures that represent unrivalled opportunity, potential and ultimately, return on investment.

The service they provide to investors is based upon three key aims: price, profit, and performance.

For more information on overseas property investment, and to find out about Obelisk’s latest projects, contact Obelisk free on 0808 160 0670 (UK)
or 1800 932 514 (IRE) or email info@obeliskinternational.com
or visit our website: http://www.obeliskinternational.com/

Press Office:Tel: 0808 160 1005press@obeliskinternational.com

Maceio is New Hotspot for Brazil Property Investment

As the largest city in the province of Alagoas, Maceio is emerging as the ‘Next Big Thing’ in Brazil property investment says Obelisk.

Maceio is forecast for significant growth in travel and tourism, promising to become a top destination for Brazil property investment. High quality developments are on the increase adding to Maceio’s strong and dynamic real estate market and the thoughtful planning of the urbanisation of Maceio, is expected to push up property prices in the near future.

Tim comments, “We are very excited about the city of Maceio in terms of profitable property investment. As a newly discovered gem in the Brazil property investment market, the existence of a substantial domestic and growing international tourism, maintains the economic stability and presents a promising investment climate for the buy-to-let investor.”

The Guaxuma neighbourhood in Maceio is a quiet and exclusive area, characterized by outstanding beaches and luxury family villas. It was recently given approval for occupancy by the city zoning board, which plans to organise development of the area preserving the quality of the local environment.

The charming yet sophisticated city of Maceio has an established infrastructure and a variety of public services including high quality medical services, leisure, and sports facilities, along with a superb variety of bars, restaurants, nightclubs, and concerts providing lively nightlife and entertainment.

The city caters well for both internal and external tourism and the convention centre draws both long and short stay business travellers, who provide continuous inflow of occupancy within the city’s hotel and rental accommodation.

Maceio is regarded as one of the best coastlines in northeastern Brazil, and according to globalsurfers.com, is considered to be the second best beach break in the country. One of the main attractions is the natural clear lagoons which are found all along the coast, providing excellent conditions for all types of water sports.

In June 2007, Abraão Moura, President of the Brazilian Travel Agents Association confirmed that despite recent investments in Maceio including, the airport extension, new convention centre, and infrastructure improvements, tourism must remain top priority aiding to the appeal of Brazil property investment in Maceio.


In 2004 a US $100 million investment was made for the development of the Zumbi dos Palmares International Airport included a new passenger terminal and extended runway systems. The airport currently operates domestic flights all across Brazil with an increasing number of international flights which in 2006 hiked passenger numbers up to 870,000. The extension of the airport means it is now able to receive a substantial number of direct international flights from Europe and the United States.
Additionally, it is the only international airport in the northeast with available land up to 100 km from the airport, prime for real estate and tourist development.

Tim vanDijk Project Manager at Obelisk adds, “The northeast of Brazil is the closest point to Europe from Latin America, with flight times only around 7 to 8 hours from central Europe. This makes it one of the nearest truly exotic locations for Europeans. Due to the stable weather conditions and extended season of the area, Maceio also enjoys the benefits of year-round tourism.”

A substantial portion of the 186 million Brazilians choose the northeast region as their destination of choice and have done so for decades. Increasing numbers of international tourists come to take advantage of the idyllic and relaxing natural beauty of the coastline, the extensive tourist attractions.

For more information on Brazil property investment and to find out about Obelisk latest projects, contact: Obelisk International on 0808 1600670 or email info@obeliskinternational.com or visit our website http://www.obeliskinternational.com

Brazil Property Investment Consistently Rising

Increasing tourism, foreign direct investment, and land prices are all consistently aiding profits for Brazil property investment.

Brazil’s tourism industry is booming with a 134% increase between 2002 and 2005. Going forward, the government is focused on reaching a target of 9 million tourists each year. With more and more people visiting the country, the demand for short-term rentals is also increasing, further stimulating demand for Brazil property investment.

A large number of quality resorts and developments are currently under construction in and around the north east coast, more notably in Natal and Maceio. However, there is still a shortfall in the housing market, with demand outstripping supply, equating to a shortage of approximate 8 million properties.

However, in a bid to tackle the shortage, the governments ‘growth-acceleration package’ includes a housing and infrastructure investment of US $236 billion for the next four years. This demand has already elevated property and land prices considerably, and Brazilian officials have certainly welcomed the influx of foreigners choosing to holiday, live, or invest in Brazil property investment.

Rolf Hackbart, President of Incra comments, "Foreigners have fuelled a real-estate boom, buying farmland along Brazil’s expanding agricultural frontier and second homes along the north eastern coast,"

The Mayor of Luis Eduardo Magalhaes, Oziel Oliveira, recently highlighted that a number of foreign people have set up farms in the area, thus aiding an ever-increasing economic growth with produce and improving land values. He added that he was aiming to attract more foreign investment, the proceeds of which could go towards improving and expanding the region's transport network.

Mr Oliveira commented: "This was land that was practically all savannahs or grasslands which is now being occupied and has brought an economic benefit for us all."

“Brazil property investment is a strategic addition to a property portfolio. As a tourist’s playground, the rental potential of property in Brazil is tremendous, due to the year round market. The interest from overseas investors has certainly boosted the exposure to overseas property ownership and along with the government’s tourism backing Brazil property investment is certainly a very lucrative market”

For more information on Brazil property investment and to find out about Obelisk’s latest projects, contact: Obelisk on 0808 1600670 or email info@obeliskinternational.com or visit our website http://www.obeliskinternational.com/

Bulgarian Property Investment profits from ‘Super Borovets’ project

In a ‘ground breaking’ ceremony this week, performed by Georgi Parvanov, the President of Bulgaria turned the first piece of earth to the new development of ‘Super Borovets’, puts eastern Europe’s largest ski resort in the forefront for Bulgaria property investment.

The oldest ski resort in Bulgaria, in the Rila Mountains, is to receive a major facelift. Boasting one of the healthiest climates in Bulgaria, Borovets stands at 1,390 meters above sea level in stunning alpine forests. The resort’s winter ski tourism already has a long running season, and with the planned facilities, it will also cater for a long summer tourism trade.

The unrivalled location of Borovets places it way ahead in terms of accessibility, with only a 45-minute transfer time from Sofia International Airport. The beautiful town of Samokov is just 12 km down the road, with the capital city Sofia only 72 km away, reached in less than an hour and ideal for tourism, making Borovets a profitable location of Bulgaria property investment.

Following a recent announcement from budget airline easyJet, will open up in Bulgaria from 6 November this year, many investors are now flocking to the area to take advantage of property investment opportunities.

The Super Borovets Project will expand the current resort of Borovets, planning to turn it into one of the best resorts in the world. Since the announcement of the Super Borovets plan, property and land prices have risen sharply, but prices are still under 40% compared with some neighbouring countries. Rental yields and the long tourism season should also make Bulgaria property investment a very lucrative option.

The resort has long catered for foreign tourists of all ages for many years; boasting good infrastructure, 24 hour Mountain Rescue Service, Medical and Dental services all within the resort. Borovets itself is full of bars, cafes, restaurants, nightclubs and discos.

Bulgaria is now considered to be one of the greatest emerging markets for worldwide property investors and according to world officials; Bulgaria property investment boom is set to last.

For more information on Bulgarian property investment opportunities and to find out about Obelisk’s latest projects, contact:
Obelisk on 0808 1600670 or email info@obeliskinternational.com
Or visit our website http://www.obeliskinternational.com

Obelisk International Creates New, Dedicated Client Services Department

To expand on Obelisk’s complimentary services, the company now provides a unique Client Services Department, dedicated to the diverse needs of each individual client.

The main objective of the new Client Services Department is to ensure continuous and productive communication between the client and key personnel within Obelisk.

Lisa Bussell, General Manager at Obelisk comments, “The optimum goal of the department is to provide 100% for our clients. As an open and progressive company, we feel that a long standing relationship with a client can be greatly enhanced by listening to their experiences and feedback on our performance.”

Key performance indicators for this new department will include a maximum two-hour response time to all email or telephone correspondence, received from Obelisk clients. In particular, clients are invited to provide feedback on the company’s performance, responsiveness and general standards of service.

“By taking overseas property investment one-step further, we would like both new and existing clients to let us know what services they would like us to expand on in the future.”

The response to the pre rollout announcement has been very positive. An example of one clients comment reads, “Obelisk already has an excellent client service; this should move things to first-class.”

Bussell continues, “We feel that attention to detail makes all the difference to our clients, who not only expect us to provide expert guidance in building a lucrative property portfolio, but also deserve a tailor-made service.

About Obelisk:
Obelisk offers clients opportunities to invest in various, carefully selected real estate projects from around the world, including sought after, established regions and more dynamic, emerging markets.

Clients are presented with the opportunity to invest in projects that represent unrivalled potential and ultimately, return on investment. Obelisk's projects and services always centre on price, profit and performance, and have a policy of only recommending projects to clients in which they are prepared to invest themselves.

For more information about Obelisk and overseas property investment opportunities, contact, Obelisk on 0808 1600670 or email info@obeliskinternational.com

Research Required on Properties Marketed as ‘Frontline’

Frontline coastal properties are highly sought after due to their prime location, but Obelisk warn that ensuring a property is indeed ‘frontline’ makes all the difference when it comes to lucrative property investment.

Most experienced property investors know that a successful real estate investment means finding the right properties, in the best locations and entering the market when prices are still competitive. Knowing that nothing can be built in the future to spoil the view is essential, especially when buying a property with sea views.

Many investment properties especially ‘frontline’ beach properties can fall prey to land developers purchasing the exclusive land in between the beach and the existing first row of properties. If this land is developed, blocking the all-important sea view, the ultimate price to pay could be devaluation of the investment.

Obelisk’s Investment Director, Kevin Prior comments "Being selective is a key factor in a lucrative overseas property investment, and particular attention to detail is a prerequisite when dealing with the emerging markets. Frontline should mean on the beachfront and certainly not behind a coastal road or set back, leaving the property open for further developments and blocking the sea views".

Beachfront property has long been a favourite with both local and foreign property buyers and of course the tourist. Due to the location, this type of property generally commands a premium price, and largely exceeds normal capital appreciation and yields.

Obelisk’s new project, Kavarna Bay Resort has a natural landscape, which ensures that every property will enjoy stunning south facing sea views. The complex is in a highly prestigious location within secure grounds and boasts extensive, luxury facilities including a unique glass elevator, which descends directly onto the beach.

Mr Prior concludes, "Kavarna Bay offers Obelisk clients the opportunity to purchase a beachfront property which lends itself to an excellent resale market and a consistent year round rental market, with the added assurance that nothing can be built in front of the resort".

For more information on overseas property investment and the Kavarna Bay Resort project, contact: Obelisk on 0808 1600670 or email info@obeliskinternational.com or visit our website: http://www.obeliskinternational.com/

Obelisk International Launches New Website

4Obelisk is proud to announce the release of the company’s new website at http://www.obeliskinternational.com/, providing clients with a clear, user-friendly interface.

The new website continues to provide clients with an extensive information portal in order to aid investment decisions, supporting Obelisk’s philosophy to communicate accurate, clear-cut and up-to-date information.

The site now provides clients with tangible high spec images of Obelisk’s new project, Kavarna Bay Resort in Bulgaria, and going forward, this new image feature is set to continue. The production of high-impact web images and property development footage provides an immediately deployed visualisation, which gives the client a realisation of their investment.

The site still contains all of the key elements that Obelisk clients expect, such as a searchable and comprehensive database of valuable and constructive reports and articles. The News and Media sections continue to provide regular, updated information on global property investment activities including a comprehensive listing of current press releases, full news archive, and press cuttings from broadsheets and notable websites, including the Financial Times and The Telegraph who have quoted from Obelisk’s reports. A dynamic and comprehensive list of developments, global research, and information sources provide Obelisk clients with up to the minute accurate and relevant information.

Operations Coordinator Santiago Sanchez comments, "The next phase of web development will include the creation and introduction of various, rich multimedia to make the site more dynamic and interactive. We have achieved a great deal but there is still a lot more to do and I am very excited about some of the items we are planning to deliver to our clients in the very near future."

For more information about Obelisk and overseas property investment opportunities, contact: Obelisk on 0808 1600670 or email info@obeliskinternational.com or visit our website: http://www.obeliskinternational.com/

Mexico’s Tourist Trade Excellent Draw for Property Investment

Obelisk reports that low property prices, close proximity to the US, high tourist figures and potentially high yields all equate to excellent property investment conditions in Mexico.

With a GDP of US$8,500 per capita, Mexico is one of the world’s most thriving economies and as reported by Goldman Sachs, Mexico is predicted to become the fifth largest economy by 2040.

In terms of tourism, Mexico’s beaches on the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea attract over 22 million tourists each year. The country has 27 UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Chichen Itza, which has recently been named as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The biodiversity of Mexico, with over 200,000 different species also attracts nature and ecotourism, as well as possessing a strong culture derived from the Mayas, Aztecs, Toltecs and Olmecs that date back almost 3,000 years.

Mexico’s export trade is also expanding, enticing foreign companies to relocate, due to its strategic location to Asia, Europe and the Americas, and the country’s free trade agreements, all of which amounts to 1 billion customers or 75% of the world’s GDP. Mexico has already seen 165 Taiwanese companies setting up operations in the country, adding to employment and boosting consumer spending.

Director General of Mexican Trade Services Edmundo Arceo comments ‘There are well-established laws and regulations, including property rights and investment laws that offer transparency and certainty.’

In order to continue promoting Mexico as an advantage point for foreign investment, the Mexican government has released investment news of a strategy called ProMexico, a dedicated government institution with the mission to increase exports to attract foreign investments, and to coordinate strategies aimed at promoting Mexico abroad.

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