Adriatic Coastline investment from £20k!!

In what may surprise many readers of the forum it seems that Albania may well be an up and coming "hot spot" within the new look Europe.  The thread is full of believable figures, not the kind of hard sell "must buy now" material, more of an "interest is growing" scenario.  However, there is still some dispute as to when the secondary property market will make an impact and whether properties aimed at the growing tourist market can be rented out during the year to at least cover finance costs.  An interesting if not unexpected market may be about to open up, but it seems that this will not happen over night.

While not one of the more commonly mentioned "hot spots" of Europe, it looks as though a compelling case for the country is starting to materialise.   It still seems that Albania  is being held back by its past reputation, and the heavy communist influence of old.  However, under the watchful eye of the EU the country seems to be slowly moving away from the past, and offers some interesting coastal investment opportunities.  While it may be a little soon to throw a significant amount of your investment funding into the Albanian property market, a small structured exposure to the area may well prove to be a good long term investment. 

How to find the most experienced & recognised agents selling property?

While this thread offers an array of comments, advice and opinions on the recognition of agents, it has in some parts descended into a fight between the agents and the investors.  In the midst of the various comments, there is some very informative information about an array of recognised agent associations, and ways in which you can ensure you are working with an established operator.  As more and more investment opportunities continue to appear overseas, it is vital that you know who is available to represent you.  It has to be said that the views and comments on the thread are honest and forth right, something which is very much appreciated by all contributors.

On the surface of it, this thread has descended into something of a squabble between the agents, recognised associations and investors, however there are some very valid points about getting the best out of the industry.  While it is understandable for some investors to be sceptical, there are ways and means of checking that your agent is long established and truth worthy, not one of the "here today, gone tomorrow" agents which have blighted the industry.  An interesting post which has, and will continue, to attract much argument and counter argument.  The thread makes for an enthralling read, and gives everybody the chance to defend themselves.

How to buy international real estate for the first time buyer

While perhaps targeted at the less experienced investor, this post offers a number of simple and helpful tips for us all.  The thread contains a very simple, well structured approach to investing, covering what you should and should not do.  The thread picks up on the fact that even some of the more experienced investors may fall into the trap of using non-independent solicitors when dealing overseas.  A simple review from a party unconnected with a development can often give a more balanced view, which can highlight some issues you should be aware of.  The thread is written in a simple, easy to understand manner which will catch the eye of many readers.

Even though this thread is targeted at possibly the lesser experienced of property investors on the forum, it does have some simple and informative tips for everyone to consider.  The use of independent third parties is one which should not be over looked, although unfortunately many investors do seem to over look this matter.  Lets not forget that as an investor you should hear more than one side of the investment story, and the more information you have yourself, the more informed decision you can make.  Having an independent third party with local knowledge could be priceless, and save you a fortune!

Dubai Property Investment Info

While this thread is dominated by the original contributor, and in some places has the look of a heavily commercialised thread, it is in fact very informative.  It has turned into something of a questions and answers session, and the information delivered is very detailed and informative - offering a number of different angles.  The thread is littered with words of caution, and the fact that the "buy today, sell tomorrow" market has all but gone is pointed out on a  number of occasions.   Dubai is an area which always attracts much attention due to the mass of riches on offer, but it is a market which you should consider with care.

How refreshing to see someone with an obvious knowledge of a particular market, going out of their way to answer a whole host of questions.  While obviously the thread is of a commercial nature, the answers to each question are both informative and honest - offering words of encouragement and caution in equal measures.  The original contributor obviously has an in depth knowledge of the market, and while you should always do your own research, this thread will give you a good head start if looking at the Dubai area.  While different views make a market, it is good to see reasoned arguments and claims backed up with statistics.

NE Brazil Full report

Unfortunately after what seems like a good start, this thread has descended into something of a heated disagreement between two parties who seem to know each other fairly well.  We have the collision of two very strong but very different points of view, each using their own experiences to paint totally different pictures.  The various comments have prompted a number of hostile responses, and we have seen one of the forum moderators intervene to calm the situation down.  In between all of the differing views, there are some decent facts about the country, prospects and what you can expect.  Where lies the truth? Somewhere in the middle of the vastly differing views.

While it is sad to see such an interesting thread descend into something of an on forum spat, it does highlight the pros and cons of taking all you read for granted.  While Brazil has been mentioned on a number of occasions, there are wildly differing opinions as to where and when is the right time to invest.  Thankfully the forum moderators have been able to intervene and calm down the situation, while also letting the various parties have their say.  Perhaps this type of thread is the really reason why forums are so popular, and while the tone is a little sharp in places, the information presented can be checked and researched by any reader.  An interesting, if at times bad tempered thread, which offers an intriguing insight into property investment in Brazil.