Total novice to investing abroad needs help

There were talks about good Bulgarian properties you can invest in. It’s true that there are a lot of places in Bulgaria that are open in the market. Visiting the country is actually a good way to find most of the good properties there.

The things to consider, if your main goal in finding a property in Bulgaria is for investment, is if it will possibly yield rental and if it will soon have a good capital appreciation.  Although there was an argument on whether it’s better to choose a place that is in the mainland or something urban, it is still up to you. It would really depend on how you look at Bulgaria. If it is a place you would like to migrate too eventually, then all the more that you need to be meticulous about it. Places to consider would be those near the markets, shops and medical facilities. These are the establishments you need to be close to when you are on your retirement age.

If you prefer to have Bulgaria as a holiday get away, then Bansko, Nesebar, Sunny Beach and the like are just the areas you need. These hyped regions are also the ones that will guarantee a rental yield. Another area that can pose a remarkable capital appreciation would be the large cities in Bulgaria. Areas like Sofia would really either a good investment or a good retirement place for you and your family.

If you have a low budget, you can also get reasonable properties in the rural areas of Bulgaria. Just be prepared to shell out some extra cash for renovations.  Be aware also that you may not have the chance to resell these properties again. If ever, it will be below the value you purchased it with.

To finish, if you plan to apply for mortgage when purchasing a property in Bulgaria, you need at least 40% of the TCP handy.

DAMN TITLE DEEDS! - Any answers???

There was a discussion about holding the title deeds of properties purchased in Cyprus. Although the regulations usually vary from country to country, sometimes from municipality to municipality; a good lawyer should be able to help you in this area.

When buying a property overseas, you need to know the basics. These would be precautionary measures like seeking independent legal advice before signing anything. There are also times when it’s better to ask other people who are very familiar in the market for key pointers. These people would know the best places to invest in. Of course, they should know since they have investments there as well.

Thus, if you are already caught in the web, you might as well get a lawyer you can trust. Don’t get me wrong, most lawyers can be trusted; but there are still those who will drain you to the max! Getting independent legal advice is really the way to go. Make sure that the lawyer is not from the developer or referred by the estate agent. It is better that the lawyer you get is not clouded with unbiased factors from the party you are seeking help about.

Thus, the thread actually has a good suggestion from a member; about what you need to instruct your lawyer to do. This is to have your lawyer go to the developer and secure a ‘release’ form from the direct financial institution who loaned you the money. The release form should state that the property you are purchasing is free of a mortgage. If your lawyer fails to get you this release form, it’s better if you do not go through with the actual purchase. Keep in mind that there is a very big chance that you will end up losing everything; if the property you are purchasing is already mortgaged.

Commercial Property in Southern Germany

There was a remark about properties in Southern Germany, especially in Konstanz. It is true that it is still a safe place to invest in; pretty consistent, as a matter-of-fact. It can offer higher and better yields than other France properties. Since Konstanz is in close proximity to Switzerland, this makes the area very susceptible to tourists and visitors. The historical sights and lakes in the area, is really something to look forward to. This growth in tourism is actually the reason why they have a consistent growth in their properties market.

Thus, other smaller German cities are expected to experience either a decrease or growth. It’s a bit uncertain and unstable. This is true, especially for the Eastern portion of Germany; which makes Berlin a good example.

With regards to commercial properties, it is best to research about this area. This is especially helpful in finding out about the tax implications. This way, you would know if depreciation is possible in this sector of Germany. This is usually set by the local authority. Of course, if the materials used depreciate in value, everything connected with it will depreciate as well.  You can only live by the fact that it still takes years before you see it as a major setback. Thus, it is said that in Germany, purchasers are more focused on the tax benefits they can get; rather than the capital appreciation of the property. This is more like keeping you property for about 10 years; and when you decide to sell it, you are no longer liable to pay the capital gains tax for any increase incurred.

Where to retire (value for money)?

There was an inquiry about particular areas one can retire in. Actually, there are a lot of good places in the world that you can migrate and retire to. If you’re looking for good value for your money, it is still a bit broad.

What you can do is to make a list of the places. Consider the climate, the people, and the type of location; along with the closeness to markets and the like. List down the things that you need in your retirement home and then have a separate list of what you want. Needs and wants are two separate criteria’s. There are things that you want, which you really do not need. There are also things that you need, that you tend to take for granted. It is best to keep a list that you can narrow down.

If you are looking for warmth, find a place close to the equator. If you are a golf enthusiast, find something near a golf course. If you love water sports, look for a place near a lake or the ocean.  Finding a place is not as easy as it may seem. You really need to take a lot of things into consideration. This is especially true if you have diabetes or similar diseases in the family. Of course, you need to find a place near a medical facility or pharmacy.

Once you have a list of possible areas, you can do research about these places. You can also ask around. You can also try to visit some places in your list. Thus, going there and checking the area is really the best way to know if it is a place that can work for you and your spouse.

A little help required...

There was an inquiry about the Kus or Altinkum areas in Turkey. Altinkum is a beautiful area along the coast of the Aegean Sea.  It is a famous tourist destination that boasts of its sloping sand beaches and crystal waters. ‘Golden Sands’ is the literally meaning of Altinkum. At every end of this beautiful resort, you will find its crescent beaches. It would start from the harbor up to the headland promontory.

The crystal waters of this beach would seem a bit shallow for a few hundred meters. This makes it very ideal for non-swimmers; and children, that are supervised, of course. You will also find sunbeds for tanning purposes. There are also pedaloes and canoes for hire on the beach. Other water activities are available onsite as well.

Nightlife is the most awaited spectacle in Altinkum. You will find numerous bars and restaurants in the area. Entertainment and delectable cuisines abound. There are also a lot of historical sights you can see in the region.

To look for a good developer in the area, it is best to ask a local to refer you one. It is also best to visit the area and get in touch with its municipality regarding the regulations that they have in purchasing properties there. This way, you will become familiar about their properties sector and you would know the necessary papers you need to provide. Make sure that you understand their regulations before you make that final decision. This will help you avoid having any regrets in the future.

Malta & Gozo?

There were inquiries about 2 Maltese islands. Malta is a densely-populated nation; which is comprised of an archipelago of about 7 islands. Among the 7, only 3 islands are inhabited. Its exact location would be along the Mediterranean Sea and about 7 miles of Sicily’s southern portion. This makes it close to both Southern Europe and North Africa.

Since it has a very crucial location, Malta was influenced by several cultures. This would include the Romans, Sicilians, Byzantines and Phoenicians among others. The island has a rich history, which can be traced back to the Knights of St. John; along with the famous Biblical shipwrecking incident of St. Paul. This is why Roman Catholic is the religion being practiced in Malta.

Gozo, on the other hand, is one of the Maltese islands. It is, in fact, the 2nd largest island in its archipelago. Unlike the other islands, Gozo or Isle of Calypso is more on being a rural community. It boasts of it natural landscapes, especially its amazingly scenic hills. Its nickname was derived from the Greek mythology’s Odyssey; where-in a nymph Calypso controls the Ogygia Island. It is said that Odysseus was a so called prisoner of love in the island for about 7 years. The modern day Ogygia is now being regarded as Gozo.  

Gozo can be reached through ferry boats. This is the only way to get there; especially when transporting goods and for tourism purposes. It was said that there was a supposed bridge being built to connect Gozo to mainland Malta. This was stopped because of protests from the Gozitans. There was also an actual helicopter service for the two islands but it was also ceased.

As indicated, Gozo is more of like the conservative type. Malta is more attuned to the visitors and tourists going there. If there are properties being sold on either of the islands, it is best to go there directly and check with a local there.

Has anyone bought property in Taiba (Fortaleza)?

There were talks about Taiba (Fortaleza). As you all know, Taiba is situated in the northern portion of Brazil; more or less about 60 kilometers of Fortaleza’s western portion. It is a beautiful, though small, fishing community that boasts of its stunning landscapes, clear waters and year round superb climate. The airport is just an hour away.

The area is very well known for its surfing spots; as well as its kite surfing and windsurfing activities. This is particularly possible because of the windy ambiance that they have. Other water sports are available in the area.

Taiba is the perfect vacation get-away for you and your whole family. You will enjoy the stretch of charming beaches they have; along with the cultural and historical areas preserved from generations. Their rich history will amaze anyone who goes there. The people are very hospitable and nice also.

It is no wonder that Taiba (Fortaleza) is emerging in the market these days.  The price of the units there are still reasonable enough. It is still cheap. Thus, with the increasing demand and popularity, the prices of the units may eventually increase. The rental yield is also considered good.

What makes it a very good investment is that it promises a capital appreciation and high rental yield in the future. Aside from this, the cost of living in the region is still cheap. This is an advantage for you because the cost of maintaining your unit is cheap also. This won’t drain your wallet so much.