PropertyProperty Articles

Don't worry, be happy

Long ignored by British property hunters, the Dominican Republic is really starting to come into its own, says Isobel Palmer

It has always been breathtakingly beautiful but sadly overlooked by the UK as a place to buy. Finally, after several years of healthy investment and growth, the Dominican Republic is beginning to achieve the recognition it deserves as one of the best-value Caribbean islands for property investors.

A steady stream of A-list celebrities has helped this tropical island gain prominence. They are seduced by white beaches, fertile valleys, swathes of desert and stunning peaks. Add to the mix some world-class golf courses, the biggest marina in the Caribbean and an average daily temperature of 80ºF and you begin to understand the draw.

Capital investments

Sydney has a rising population and access to some of the world’s best beaches, restaurants and career opportunities, so why wait to buy,
asks Jane Riley

With its balmy climate, stunning beaches and relaxed lifestyle, Sydney has always been a popular city, and with its population set to increase by 1.7 million by 2036, according to a 2009 NSW Government forecast, there is no chance its popularity will wane.

Being ranked by The Mercer Index as one of the top ten cities in the world for quality of life, and as the nation’s centre for commerce, it is no wonder Sydney attracts people from all over the world, nor that it has the most expensive real estate among Australia’s capital cities.

Crete's secret

In the face of a Greek financial crisis that threatens the euro, UK buyers are backing the region’s largest island, says Amy Grace

If you buy in Crete, chances are it won’t be an impulse decision or just another set of keys to add to a bulging portfolio. Most likely, you’ll visit, fall in love and simply have to buy into the lifestyle. Crete, the most southerly of the Greek islands, is a magnet for UK holidaymakers and expats who appreciate its short, mild winters and long hot summers, the low-cost, stress-free living, and the vast choice of property. Crete still has plenty of pockets of undeveloped land, rural hideaways, and ample opportunity to build your own, and some very competitive prices and deals.

Prepare to be tempted

Don’t leave it too long to invest in Cyprus – the property market is starting to move again, says Jackie Nicholls

It’s hardly surprising that so many people are looking to invest in Cyprus. With its slower pace of life and 340 days’ sunshine a year, the island is a favoured retirement location – but it’s also becoming increasingly popular with families.
What’s more, English is widely spoken and driving is on the left. Add to this an exceptionally low crime rate, no inheritance tax, low income tax rates (5% on pensions), mild winters, long, hot and dry summers – and you have a lifestyle that’s very appealing.

Chic and cheerful

malta02 It’s a buyer’s market, and if you’re tempted to pack your bags, lured by the sparkling crystal clear seas and low tax rates in this expat haven, you wouldn’t be alone, says Amy Grace

Not only were residents in Malta enjoying temperatures of nearly 20 degrees when the UK was snowed in last month, they were revelling in the knowledge that their tiny island, slightly smaller than the Isle of Wight and an hour ahead of GMT, has a superb quality of life, low crime rates, and a property market that has not experienced any drastic dips – most likely due to the fact that not too many Brits had joined the party during the last property boom in 2003 to 2004 and, consequently, there was no sudden mass exodus.