WHAT TO BUY - Association of International Property Professionals

Transcription

HOW TO BUY
OVERSEAS
PROPERTY
SAFELY
THE CONSUMER GUIDE FROM THE INDUSTRY BODY
AIPP is the industry
body for overseas
property. This is our
guide to helping you,
the buyer, purchase
safely overseas
Lindsay Hopkins
Chair, AIPP
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AIPP • CONTENTS
CONTENTS
4
The role of the AIPP
How the AIPP is working to help
you buy property overseas safely
23 Choosing the right mortgage
What finance options are there?
24 Understanding Taxes
A simple introduction to your
tax liability
6
What does this badge mean?
What the AIPP logo means for
buyers of overseas property
8
The role of the agent
Who they represent and
how they can help
26 How to let overseas
Make some money by letting your
property - how to go about it
and what you need to know
9
The role of the developer
What to expect when buying from
a developer
28 AIPP Awards
Which companies came out
on top in 2010?
10 Choosing where to buy abroad
Where on earth to buy? What to
consider to narrow it down
30 Code of Conduct
Read what our members
agree to follow
12 What to buy
Buying new-build, off-plan, resale
or fractional
32 “How and where would you
spend £200,000?”
We ask our members where
and what they would buy
16 Inspection trips
How to get the most from
your inspection visit
18 How much will it cost?
The real costs of buying and
owning an overseas home
20 Legal matters
The legal advice you need – the
lawyer and notary role explained
22 Transferring currency
How to save money on currency
exchange
34 “What is the best piece of
advice you could give?”
Inside tips from those
in the know
Welcome
from Lindsay Hopkins
As an industry association, AIPP was formed
to establish a professional framework and
a clear code of practise for companies
operating in the international property
arena. Part of our work is also to provide
education and guidance to the buyer of
overseas property, to help ensure that they
are informed and aware when pursuing the
purchase of property abroad. There is much
a buyer can do to help protect themselves
as they navigate this process, from seeking
independent legal advice to ensuring they
are fully aware of the financial implications
of their purchase.
With this in mind it is with great pleasure
that we publish our 5th annual consumer
guide and members directory. Over the
coming pages you’ll find much needed advice
on various aspects of the buying process;
things that you may not have thought of or
fully considered. Of course, we also highlight
the benefits of buying with AIPP members.
We hope you find this an essential
reference guide as you search for the ideal
property overseas, and whether it be for
investment or leisure, we wish you well with
your purchase.
37 AIPP Members directory
Find members in our A-Z listing
47 AIPP Member Profiles
See where these businesses
specialise and how they can help
58 Ten things you should never do
Avoiding the pitfalls of
buying abroad
Lindsay Hopkins
Chair
Association of International
Property Professionals
Property Professionals Ltd
St Clements House, 27-28 Clements Lane,
London EC4N 7AE
Tel: +44 (0)20 3207 9095
Fax: +44 (0)20 3207 9182
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.aipp.org.uk & www.aipp.ie
UK Company Number: 5677417
Copyright © 2010 by AIPP. All rights reserved.
AIPP CONSUMER GUIDE 3
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AIPP • THE ROLE OF THE AIPP
The role of
the AIPP
How this industry trade body is working to
help you buy property overseas safely
T
he Association of International Property
Professionals, AIPP, is a trade association
formed to improve business standards in the
overseas property market, and to reassure buyers that
they can deal with companies who share this aim. In
the absence of formal regulation in much of the sector,
the AIPP is an organisation of some 300 companies
worldwide who have come together and pledged to work
under a professional framework.
From estate agents and developers to lawyers and
currency exchange brokers, members of the AIPP have
voluntarily signed up to be bound by a code of conduct
and a disciplinary process, indicating the trust they
have in how they operate their businesses.
To answer the need of a growth industry, the AIPP
was formed at the beginning of 2006 to improve
the standards and accountability of real estate
professionals selling international property to the
British buyer. By encouraging best practice and
introducing industry standard training, AIPP works to
ensure that the overseas property industry operates
within recognised professional guidelines. Governed
by an elected Board of members, the organisation is
not-for-profit and has no agenda other than improving
the market.
To date we have covered quite some ground in
raising the bar of professionalism and bringing about
a culture of accountability to the industry we represent.
From best practice guidance and training, to significant
disciplinary action against companies found to be
in breach of our rules, our work has served both
industry and consumer alike. The Association will
continue in this vein, recruiting more and more
professional companies to widen our reach and
4 AIPP CONSUMER GUIDE
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provide a safer marketplace for the long-term.
Over the last few years the industry has faced
challenging times, with the global recession affecting
property markets the world over. During the boom
years, owning overseas real estate, either for leisure or
investment, was no longer the realm of the privileged
few; easy access to bank finance and emerging
markets offering low entry points made the purchase
of a home overseas possible for many. Unfortunately
the ‘gold rush’ was also somewhat marred by rogue
practices, over-supply, and – with the onset of the
recession – the all too common story of developers
going ‘bust’ before completion of their off-plan projects.
As we now start to emerge from the global downturn,
there is much the industry can do to ensure we move
forward with greater responsibility and more robust
trading practices.
Embarking on the purchase of a second home or
investment property overseas might be one of the
biggest financial and lifestyle decisions you will make,
and for the uninitiated the process can be daunting and
full of potential pitfalls as you negotiate through eager
sales pitches, language barriers, and unfamiliar legal
systems. There is however much you can do to ensure
your purchase is pain-free, and it is important that you
remember your responsibilities as a buyer. Remarkably,
a high proportion of people buying property overseas
do so without employing an independent lawyer to act
on their behalf in the transaction. It’s very unlikely
you’d purchase real estate in your own country without
a lawyer, so don’t even think about cutting this corner
when buying overseas. Remember, it is your lawyer’s
role to protect your interests throughout the purchase,
so no matter what anyone tells you, ensure you appoint
a qualified, independent lawyer before going ahead
with a proposed purchase.
Of course it’s not just a lawyer you’ll be dealing with
when buying abroad; there are a range of professionals
that you’ll encounter. Throughout the purchase process
you will want to feel confident in the service provided
by these companies, and we encourage you to look
for the AIPP member badge when buying overseas, as
a sign that a company has voluntarily signed up for
self-regulation to provide you, the buyer, with an avenue
of recourse if they do not stick to the professional
standards they have agreed to.
As an independent party acting solely to improve
standards across the industry, the AIPP has already
helped thousands of buyers purchase safely overseas,
with impartial guidance on the practical aspects of
buying a property in a foreign country, and valuable
assistance in cases where unfortunately things have
gone wrong. An important aspect of the AIPP’s work
is to help educate you, the consumer. If the buyer is
informed, has sought the right advice, and approaches
the purchase with their eyes open, they can significantly
reduce their chances of problems ocurring down the
road. Of course, no amount of research, advice, or
even regulation can guarantee against all problems;
that things won’t always go to plan is simply a fact
of life, and any investment necessarily carries some
form of risk. Buyers should recognise this from the
outset and take all possible steps to minimise the
chances of things going wrong. By taking the advice
on the following pages and ensuring you take care
to safeguard your interests, your purchase can be a
trouble-free and enjoyable experience. We hope you
find our guide an invaluable resource.
7/9/10 17:39:09
AIPP • WHAT DOES THIS BADGE MEAN?
What does this badge mean?
The AIPP logo doesn’t mean you can switch off and forget
about thorough research of your own. Here we explain what
membership means, what the AIPP can do for you and
importantly, what we don’t do
T
he AIPP member badge is a sign that a
company has been vetted and approved, and
that they have voluntarily agreed to follow and
be bound by our industry code of conduct (see pages
30-31 to read the full code). By using AIPP members
when buying overseas, you have reassurance that the
company must act professionally and recourse to the
AIPP if problems occur. The badge of membership is a
reminder to you, the consumer, that a company must
follow professional standards, and act with honesty,
integrity and transparency.
We require members to be trained
and licenced, where applicable
So what exactly do we do, and where does our
jurisdiction end?
We provide a forum for
the resolution of disputes
We vet and approve companies
for membership
AIPP has qualification requirements based on
professional experience and track record. To be admitted
into membership, a company must either be able to
demonstrate a 3-year trading history in the international
property industry, or, that the person (or one of the
people) running the company has sufficient previous
experience. We seek references in all cases to verify
previous experience.
What we don’t do: Buying from an AIPP member does
not mean you can simply close your eyes and hand over
your money. You have a responsibility to inform and
protect yourself when buying overseas, just as you would
in the UK. In all cases follow the advice in this guide to
help ensure that the buying process goes smoothly, and
that the purchase you are making is right for you.
All members have signed up to take part in industry
training, and in those countries where specific licences
are required in order to fulfil their role, members confirm
that they have these in place.
What we don’t do: AIPP does not provide licence
verification; we recommend that as part of your own due
diligence you ensure that if certain licences are required
these are in place.
As part of their commitment under AIPP’s code of
conduct, our agent and developer members agree
to resolve any disputes that may arise via AIPP’s
dispute resolution procedure, should the consumer
so wish. This procedure provides for the referral
of any dispute that may arise to legally binding
arbitration. This is a quicker and cheaper form
of recourse that pursuing a civil dispute through
international courts.
What we don’t do: AIPP membership does not provide
any ‘guarantee’ as to the services or products provided
by a member, and AIPP doesn’t have a compensation
scheme. If you find yourself in dispute with an AIPP
member as a result of any agreement or contract made
with them, this can be referred to our dispute resolution
scheme or alternatively recourse should be sought via
the appropriate legal channels.
9/9/10 15:40:19
We investigate any complaint
that a member is not working in
accordance with AIPP’s rules
AIPP has a disciplinary procedure and any
complaint that an AIPP member has breached
our rules or code of conduct will be
investigated in accordance with this.
Sanctions that can be applied to
members found to be in breach of the
rules are reprimand, fine, suspension
or expulsion from membership.
What we don’t do: We are not able to
close down ‘rogue traders’, however we
can strictly enforce our code. By making
it commercially advantageous to be a
member, and commercially damaging
to be expelled from membership, AIPP
can provide successful self-regulation.
We provide impartial advice
and guidance to consumers
Part of our work is helping to educate
buyers of international property about
the processes and pitfalls when buying
overseas, and how they can help to
protect themselves in the purchase;
with this guide we hope to achieve that.
You can also visit our website or contact
us directly. We will do our best to assist
by providing general advice on buying
property abroad.
What we don’t do: AIPP does not buy or sell
property, and does not provide legal, financial
or tax advice. We leave this to our members.
To verify a company’s membership or to
search the most up-to-date membership list,
visit www.aipp.org.uk.
7/9/10 17:39:18
AIPP • THE ROLE OF THE AGENT
THE ROLE OF
THE AGENT
Friend for life, invaluable asset, smooth-talker?
The many guises of the overseas property agent...
E
state agents might not always enjoy
a fabulous reputation in the UK, but
when you buy abroad, it is even more
important to find a good agent.
Of course you can avoid using them
altogether, by buying direct from a vendor or a
developer, but a good agent can be the key to
finding your ideal property.
So, what can you expect from an overseas
property agent, and how do you find a decent
one?
For a start, the level of regulation differs
from country to country and often the sale of
property is unregulated. Some international
property agents are members of AIPP, and
bound by our professional code of conduct and
disciplinary process.
In certain countries, such as France
and America, property agents need to be
registered and will have undergone some sort
of basic training; in others every barman and
waiter thinks he is an agent. You’ve all heard
stories about dubious practices from agents,
but there are equally many great agents out
there who are the subject of many happy
buyers’ effusive testimonials.
Because you’ll be navigating unfamiliar
terrain and processes, and probably won’t
speak the language fluently, a decent agent
can be a great asset. They can act as an
informal translator for you, offer you support
and reassurance throughout the whole buying
process, and introduce you to the best the
local area has to offer.
Of course, remember that many agents are
acting for the vendor, in that their commission
will be paid by them and not you (do clarify the
fee scenario from the start), but a good agent
will also strive to provide the best service
possible to the buyer.
You could of course employ an independent
property finder or agent, who will be acting
purely on your interests, put this will cost you
(often 3% of property’s price, plus possibly an
initial search fee or retainer).
But, whichever you use, a good agent can
provide access to a wide range of properties
and save you time and hassle, so how do you
separate the wheat from the chaff?
Obviously a recommendation from a
satisfied buyer is a great thing, but this may
not be available, and you need to make your
own judgement call.
Start by registering with several agencies
and seeing what they produce when you tell
them what you are after.
How well have they listened to you when
they come back with some suggestions? Have
they stuck to your budget and specifications?
A good agent will spend time sitting down
with you to get to know you, and then guide
you round a series of suggestions. It’s always
wise to determine what you should expect
from them from the word go: just what will they
help you with throughout the whole process?
Will they provide ongoing after-sales support,
or will their role in the purchase end once
you’ve signed the purchase contract?
Do not be afraid of testing the competency
of an agent from the very start. Slick
marketing spiel is one thing, but how much
do they really know about the local market?
Do your research and ask specific questions
about taxes, healthcare, the rental market
etc. They should also be a source of local
knowledge, and a good agent should never
make you feel you are asking too many
questions.
If they don’t know all the answers, they
should at least undertake to find out the
information for you promptly.
As well as advising you on the mechanics
of the purchase process, a good agent can
also help guide you through alien bureaucratic
requirements such as setting up a bank
account, getting a tax identification number,
and explaining the role of the notary.
But do not forget that you should always
take independent legal advice; no agent can
replace the need for comprehensive advice
from a qualified lawyer, who is independent
from the agent and vendor, and acting only
in your best interests. Whilst your purchase
agreement will ultimately be with the property
developer or vendor, you may be asked to
sign a ‘reservation agreement’ with the agent
to secure a property from the market whilst
you consider the purchase contracts. This is
typical if purchasing ‘off-plan’. Never pay a
reservation fee without a signed reservation
agreement in place, and ensure that you are
fully aware of the terms, such as precisely
who that agreement is with and under what
conditions, if any, is the reservation
fee refundable.
Top Tips
• Ask lots of questions, and ensure
you’re clear on the agent’s role and
services from the outset
• Typically agents are acting for,
and paid by, the vendor. Clarify
the fee structure from the outset; in
some countries the agent’s fee is
split between the vendor and buyer
• Consider whether you want to
employ a buyer’s agent or property
finder who works for you, rather
than the seller
• In some countries, agents need to
be licensed. Check your agent has
the correct licenses, if required, and
where possible use a member of
the AIPP
• Before paying a reservation fee to
secure a property, ensure that you
have a comprehensive reservation
agreement in place which states
clearly the full terms of the
reservation
008 Role of an agent AIPP10.indd8 8
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AIPP • THE ROLE OF THE DEVELOPER
THE ROLE OF
THE DEVELOPER
P
roperty developers build and develop
properties, resorts and communities,
and often work with estate agents
who sell the houses and apartments on
their behalf. First and foremost you should
expect the developer to build properties that
as a minimum reach the building code or
regulations of the country where the property
is located. Don’t forget that regulations
and standards will differ from country to
country. You should also expect that full
planning permissions have been received, or
if buying off-plan prior to permissions being
granted, this should be made clear and your
agreement should state your rights to a
refund if permissions are not obtained. Your
solicitor can perform due diligence to ensure
all such paperwork is in place, and it pays
to be aware of the documents of which you
should be in receipt.
If you are buying off-plan (literally from
the plans, although you may be able to
visit a show house) which is the way many
properties are sold overseas, you should
expect the developer to provide a building
schedule for your property. The schedule
should be noted in the sales contract, which
is legally binding – although the small print
will often state any penalties should the build
over-run as it sometimes will. In the same
documents you should expect a schedule of
payment terms which, when you are buying
off-plan, will be phased over the build period.
For example, two payments of 30% with the
balance on completion.
The sales contract should also stipulate
where your deposit and stage payments will
be held and by whom. Ideally, you will want
the funds to be held in escrow, which is an
account over which the timing and direction
of release of the money, by the independent
third-party escrow agent, will be dependent
on certain build stages being completed, or
pre-specified conditions met. Your money
is therefore protected should the developer
go out of business. Lastly, any management
fees, and what they are for and include,
should also be outlined, though it is likely
that a separate management contract will
be drawn up for this.
Once you have signed a sales contract, you
should expect the developer to communicate
regularly with you. Most developers will
assign you a customer services person
who will keep you informed of the build
progress of your property. Invariably, you
will be directed to a website or blog where
photographs and written updates can be
viewed at your leisure. If you have any
concerns about how the build is progressing,
your customer services representative should
address them. Lastly, once your home is
completed, paid for, the deeds or notary
signed and you have the keys to the door, it’s
reasonable to expect the developer to make
himself available to address any ‘snagging’
issues to your satisfaction.
Top Tips
• Remember that your purchase
agreement will be with the vendor.
When buying new build or offplan,
it is the developer with whom you
will be entering into contract
• NEVER sign a binding purchase
agreement without seeking
comprehensive legal advice
• Your lawyer can perform due
diligence on the developer, such as
checking that they have planning
permission, land title, and any bank
guarantees in place
• Find out how the development
will be managed once complete,
and factor in ongoing
management fees
009 Role of a Developer AIPP10.i9 9
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AIPP • CHOOSING WHERE TO BUY ABROAD
?
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a
B
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Barbad
Turkey or Tenerife?
Choosing
where to
buy abroad
010-011 Where to buy AIPP10.indd10 10
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P
erhaps the most fundamental thing to
determine when deciding where to buy a
property abroad is why you want to buy it.
Only by having your priorities clear in your mind
will you begin to narrow down where best to buy.
When looking for a holiday home, you may think your
plan is pretty simple – a place in the sun to which you
can escape for some much-needed relaxation. But have
you asked yourself how many times a year, and when
you want to go? Will you need to rent it out to cover its
costs, and if so, for how much of the year will this be
practical? Climate will bear strongly on this.
Affordability is of course a key consideration, and
low property prices must be weighed against the cost
of travel to the property. Brazil and Malaysia may be
relatively cheap for beachfront villas but the flights to
reach them won’t be. Closer to home, you must think
about which carriers fly to a region, and the possibility
of them dropping their routes or going bust.
If you are treating the property as an investment as
well as a lifestyle choice, consider which areas show
good capital appreciation, and what the resale
market is like. Timing is important; exchange rate
variations will have a bearing on how much you
can afford in different areas of the world.
For those wanting to relocate or retire
abroad permanently, the decisions are usually
simpler: climate, cost of living, tax, and
quality of life tend to dominate choices,
if job opportunities or family links haven’t
already dictated the destination.
Mediterranean Europe combines
a benign climate with accessibility,
making Spain, Turkey and Cyprus
popular, whilst common cultural
ties and lack of language barrier
make America and Australia
top choices.
The more adventurous
might head to the Far East
instead, motivated by the
ability to live a far grander lifestyle on their income
than they could do in Europe.
But don’t confuse what you want from a holiday
home with what you seek from a permanent home.
Some areas are buzzing all year round, whilst tourist
areas can be dead out of season; plus think about
how warm the winters are.
For pure lifestyle buyers, second homes are usually
sited where they like to holiday.
In Britain we holiday most in France and Spain making
these top destinations for overseas property buyers.
Spain’s property crisis may have deterred some buyers,
yet many realise that it will recover, and there are good
deals available for those ready to buy.
The recent popularity of non-Euro destination
holidays in the era of the weak pound – Morocco,
Egypt and especially Turkey – has also been reflected
in property-buying patterns.
If purchasing property solely as an investment,
distance from the UK will be less important. Think
about regions with high rental demand, either from
the local population or from holidaymakers. Tenerife,
Lake Como, Orlando, or city-break hotspots such as
Paris or Barcelona are some of the busiest for holiday
rentals websites. Finally, don’t forget to think about
your exit strategy: a region which is popular with many
nationalities rather than merely British buyers, plus a
strong local market, will generally mean an easier re-sale.
Top Tips
• Be clear about why you want to buy overseas; this will help determine
suitable locations for your property abroad
• Identify your budget and if relying on an overseas mortgage to fund
the purchase, consider that mortgage terms and availability vary from
country to country
• Do your research; ask lots of questions and explore different options.
Don’t rely on only one source of information
• If rental income is important to you, consider that some locations won’t
have year-round rental demand
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AIPP • WHAT TO BUY
WHAT TO BUY:
NEW-BUILD
T
he downturn in the world economy has created
renewed interest in buying new-build property.
Especially in countries such as Spain and
the USA, the banks, which underwrote much of the
borrowers’ and developers’ debt, have been left with
a stockpile of property, mainly new-build, which they
need to sell as quickly as possible to recoup their
lending. The banks are therefore prepared to cut their
losses by selling the properties, often at below build
cost, and for as little as 50% of their previous market
price in some cases.
Look out for companies and agents who are promoting
the sale of ‘distressed property’, a whole mini-industry
has sprung up around the phenomenon over the last 18
months. Most are legitimate, but be cautious and double
check that if they say they are authorised by, for example,
XYZ bank to sell its properties, check that they can show
you a document to that effect. Note, it is extremely rare
a bank will deal with you directly in the role of the estate
agent when purchasing a property, making a good agent
even more essential.
Today’s reduced prices are an obvious attraction of
purchasing a new-build property, but what are the other
benefits of buying this type of home? Unlike off-plan,
there is no chance of your property’s completion date
being delayed – as sometimes happens – but you still
benefit from a brand new property. When buying offplan it can often be difficult to visualise the completed
interior, building and indeed entire resort, whereas
buying new-build property means there are usually no
unexpected surprises about size, views or neighbouring
properties. However, do ask the developer if he plans to
build in front of your sea view – and ask your lawyer to
insist the sea-view is included in the sales contract.
Other advantages of a new-build property include
state of the art homes, usually with wifi etc, built
to high environmental standards – at least as high
as the building regulations in the country where it’s
located – with the latest security and safety aspects
incorporated in the house. Generally, buying a new-build
home means you’ll have very little extra outlay on top of
the purchase price, as many come furnished including
white goods, although be sure to check just what is and
is not included. Lastly, ensure your property comes with
a building guarantee – usually for 10 years – and have
your lawyer confirm the developer has proper insurance
to cover any liability to meet the guarantees.
012-015 What to buy AIPP10.indd 12
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WHAT TO BUY:
OFF-PLAN
B
uying a property off-plan, literally from a set
of plans or architect’s drawings, may not be
the norm in the UK but it is commonplace
overseas. It may seem to be a leap of faith – buying
something that you cannot see or touch – but the
advantage of doing so is a reduced price often by as
much as 30% of the built property price. Additionally,
there is the flexibility that buying off-plan offers. As the
property isn’t built yet, you can decide on fixtures and
fittings and, while most off-plan properties come with set
plans, in some cases you can alter the internal layout,
for example, reconfigure the size of a room, extend a
terrace, or increase the size of the swimming pool.
Price reductions of the scale mentioned are made as
an inducement to the buyer by the developer because
effectively the purchaser is paying the developer for his
own property to be built. Prospective off-plan purchasers
pay a deposit followed by several stage payments at
significant points in the build process, for example when
the foundations are laid and the roof goes on, then a
final payment on completion. The whole build process
usually takes between 18-24 months.
Many people made a good profit by buying off-plan and
selling the property once it was built at the higher price.
Very astute investors realised the potential of buying
a property off-plan and selling it prior to completion.
Firstly, in doing so they avoid paying completion costs
and secondly should they sell having made only one
stage payment, the capital outlay will only have been
the deposit and one stage payment. Known as ‘flipping’,
the practice worked in a rising market when capital
appreciation grew at 20% a year in many countries
worldwide in the mid-noughties.
However, in a slow or stagnant market such as we
are now experiencing, the capital appreciation is lower
and the risks higher. It may not be easy to sell the
property prior to completion and in such a scenario the
buyer will have to complete or default on the payments
made. It is certainly unwise to buy a property without
ensuring that you have the funds to complete on the
purchase. If a mortgage is needed, line this up in
advance and be aware that terms can be subject to
change. Also, there is always the possibility that the a
developer may go out of business. An important point
to check – or to see that your lawyer does – is that
bank guarantees are in place to ensure your payments
are guaranteed in the event that the developer is
unable to complete the project.
7/9/10 18:15:23
AIPP • WHAT TO BUY
WHAT TO BUY:
RESALE
T
he main benefit of buying a resale property
abroad is that it is already built – unlike offplan property, where there is a delay between
purchase and completion. So, once you’ve bought, you
won’t have to wait 18 months for the house to be built,
as you would with an off-plan purchase. While many
older homes may not have the facilities and design
standards of the latest apartments, resale properties
– particularly period ones – often have more character
and a better location than some newly built homes, as
well as an established infrastructure.
The purchasing process for resale properties varies
according to the country in which you are buying.
For instance, in some countries the agent’s fees are
divided between the buyer and the seller, rather than
paid by the vendor alone. In certain countries, such as
France and Italy, agents need to be legally certified to
sell property.
As with any overseas property purchase you’ll need
to employ an independent lawyer to check that all
necessary paperwork is in order with the property. The
lawyer will inspect the title deeds to check the vendor
actually owns it and therefore has the legal right to sell
it. An independent lawyer is particularly indispensable
in countries with complex inheritance laws where
assets are shared between several members of the
same family. In such cases, all family members will
need to give their permission for a property to be sold.
Also, an independent lawyer will check that there are
no outstanding debts on the property – in Spain, for
example, debts are charged to a property rather than a
person and a new owner could become liable for them.
Make sure you have a survey undertaken before you
buy. In many countries it may not be the custom to get
one done but it will ensure there aren’t any unforeseen
problems with the property that could end up costing
you a fortune in the future. The Royal Institute of
Chartered Surveyors (www.rics.org) has a list of
surveyors in Europe.
Also, before you sign the contract, check any local
planning restrictions that might prevent you from
making changes to the property, such as adding an
extension or building a swimming pool.
Lastly, don’t be tempted to take any short cuts or try
to beat the system. Be particularly wary of being asked
to pay for part of a property in undeclared cash, known
as ‘black money’. This would involve under-declaring
the purchase price of a property in order to reduce the
taxes paid on it. The process is not only illegal, it can
backfire on you when you decide to sell in the future as
you will have to persuade the new buyer to break the
law and under-declare the purchase price too – or you’ll
end up with a large Capital Gains Tax bill. It simply is
not worth taking the chance.
7/9/10 18:15:26
WHAT TO BUY:
FRACTIONAL
Purchasing a share or portion of a property
F
ractional ownership works by allowing buyers
to own a fraction of a property, rather than
owning it in its entirety.
What started with aircraft and yachts spread to
holiday homes about twenty years ago and has been
a big success in North America, with its highly developed
leisure industry.
It’s also enjoyed some success within Europe in
areas which can offer year-round occupancy, such as
golf resorts in the Algarve, popular city-break
destinations and Tuscan estates.
A fractional purchase can offer an attractive
alternative to buyers who are looking for a low entry
point, and the benefits of holiday ownership without
having to pay for “full” ownership and 52-weeks
maintenance.
Buying a fraction of a property – typically between
a quarter (for 13 weeks’ usage) and a twelfth (one
month) – means that the initial outlay is a lot less,
enabling you to buy fractions in different types of
property, in different locations.
It’s a formalised form of co-ownership that will not
produce the personal usage issues which buying with
friends or family can bring. But, equally, you will have
no control over the décor/upkeep of the property which
won’t suit everyone.
Also, be aware that a fraction, say a quarter, will not
cost exactly a quarter of the market value of a property
because administrative costs of running a fractional
ownership scheme – an essential service – pushes up
the price of each slice of the pie.
Such costs will also mean high monthly service
charges, so make sure you factor these into your budget.
Sceptics of fractional often either confuse it with
timeshare and the reputation this gained in the late
1980s, however fractional is NOT timeshare – or
a destination club – because you are buying a share
of the equity in a property, not only the right to use
the property for x-number of weeks a year.
You can sell on your fraction, but do check out
the exit strategy. Are there any contractual restrictions
on how and when you can sell?
Another thing key to a successful scheme is in the
track record of the developer and management company,
and whether the latter can maintain occupancy levels
to keep the scheme buoyant financially.
To buy safely, use a lawyer who has expertise
in fractional ownership.
7/9/10 18:15:34
AIPP • INSPECTION TRIPS
Inspection
trips
I
nspection trips can be a very effective
way of looking for a property to buy abroad.
An agent or developer organises your flights
and accommodation over a couple of days – often
at discounted rates – and arranges an itinerary of
suitable properties to view.
Usually you are chauffeured around, looking at plenty
of properties and getting lots of local information.
The idea is that you can find out as much as you
need to make an informed decision about buying, as
well as getting a feel for the local area.
But inspection trips have gained rather a tarnished
reputation since the boom years, when some people
treated them as enjoyable little freebies with no real
intention to buy, or agents produced overly ambitious
itineraries and/or a 48-hour barrage of hard-sell that
completely backfired.
The fact is problems generally arise if buyer and
“host” have different expectations so it’s wise to
know what’s entailed before you sign up.
Before you go, research the area, average prices
and build up a list of questions to ask.
There’s no such thing as a free lunch so if the trip is
heavily subsidised, naturally the agent or developer will
be doing their best to sell to you. Pay your way and
you’ll keep greater control of the situation.
Likewise, don’t treat it as a cheap mini-break, it’s a
working trip so expect a packed schedule, and keep a
clear head to make the most of your time. Would taking
Hard-sell horrors, pointless freebies
or the best way to find a property?
The truth about inspection trips
a cool-headed friend/relative help your decision-making?
If you wish for spare time to look around yourself or
breathing space to make decisions, make this clear.
Ask for an itinerary in advance, and find out what
costs are covered - some might be refundable if you buy.
It may sound fundamental, but do also check that the
person on the ground will be able to speak English fluently,
or this may limit their usefulness.
Make sure you make your priorities clear so your time
won’t be wasted: do you only want to see townhouses in
a certain budget range? New-build or resales? Which areas
are of interest?
Don’t forget an agent is only going to show you their
properties. Making appointments with the competition
won’t go down well if you‘re on a freebie so, again, if you
want to get a broader picture, pay your way.
When you’re on the trip, always keep sight of your two
main objectives: gathering as much information as possible
during viewings prior to making an offer; plus getting a
feel for market values so you can judge whether an
individual property is fairly priced.
Take a digital camera to record different properties, and
make notes as you go along. You may think you will be able
to remember them, but it’s amazing how 10 properties in a
morning can blur together.
It would also be useful to take a tape measure
and a compass so that you can check for
yourself room dimensions and the
property’s orientation. A local map
016-017 Inspection Trips AIPP10.16 16
7/9/10 18:21:23
can also be very useful to orientate yourself if you are
being whizzed around on a whistle-stop tour.
If you feel you are being rushed, say so: it’s up to
you to seize the opportunity to glean as much
information as possible.
Things to check when looking around the property
should include: will the layout suit your lifestyle? Is there
sufficient storage space? Do the appliances work?
(Feel free to turn on taps, cookers, showers etc.)
How does the air con/heating operate?
Outside the property, you might think about
what parking there is, check the boundaries, what
is involved with the pool upkeep, and what security
features there are.
Just as you might do when viewing a property
in the UK, you should try and see the property at
different times of day if you are genuinely keen on it, as
well as talking to neighbours if possible, and checking
out the immediate vicinity. When buying off-plan you’ll
be unable to inspect the property itself, but it’s still
important to visit the site.
If you reach the point of wanting to make an offer,
don’t be pressurised into making a decision before
you get home; and don’t be bamboozled into using
their legal advisor.
It’s up to you and you only to get the most out of
your trip – and many trips are hugely enjoyable and a
great success – in the company of a local expert.
Top Tips
• Do your research before you go and
make sure the agent is clear about
your requirements
• Ensure that the terms of the trip and the
expectations of both you and the agent,
are agreed in advance
• Expect a tight schedule and ask for an
itinerary before leaving the UK
• Take notes and pictures as you go
• Ensure that no pressure is applied to sign
a binding purchase agreement during
the trip. If you do want to go ahead with
the purchase there and then, ensure that
you have appointed an independent
lawyer before leaving the UK, and that they
will be available to discuss the contract
before signing
016-017 Inspection Trips AIPP10.17 17
7/9/10 18:21:31
AIPP • HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?
HOW MUCH
WILL IT COST?
I
t’s easy to get excited when you
spot a “bargain” in the window of an
overseas agent. But before you whip
out the chequebook, remember that on top
of an advertised purchase price, a property
transaction abroad comes with extra costs,
and buyers on a tight budget should be
aware of this the moment they start their
property-hunt.
These additional buying costs can range
from around 5-15% of the purchase price,
depending on where you buy – in Spain, for
example, 10% is a good ballpark figure to
use. That said, if you’re buying direct from
a developer, you may find that some – or all
– of these costs are included in the purchase
price. Just be sure to get in writing precisely
what costs you will be liable for and always
pay for your own independent lawyer.
In the case of a typical resale transaction
018-019 Buying Costs AIPP10.indd18 18
though, there are a number of fees and
taxes that you should expect to pay.
Firstly, while in the UK the vendor pays
all of their agent’s fees, it’s normal in some
European locations for buyers to pay agent’s
fees. Typically these are around 3%, although
in some cases, such as in France, they can
be split with the vendor, and there is room
for negotiation.
Again, unlike in the UK, in most European
countries you’ll have to pay notary fees.
Notaries are legal representatives of the state
and as such fees for their services should be
a standard amount in each country.
Paying for an independent lawyer, while not
an obligation, is an absolute must, just as it is
when buying in the UK. Legal fees are typically
1-1.5% of the purchase price but usually there
will be a minimum charge of around €1,500
(so if you bought a €50,000 property, you
would pay €1,500, not €500 in legal fees).
As a new owner, you’ll also need to pay
to have your property registered at the local
Land Registry, and then there are the
taxes to consider. At the very least
you will usually be liable for an equivalent
of stamp duty but your lawyer will advise on
other tax obligations. Many countries have
taxes particular to them, such as the charge
for “military clearance” in Turkey. Usually
new properties come with the equivalent of
VAT – check whether this is included in the
advertised purchase price.
If you’re getting a mortgage on your new
property, you’re likely to be charged mortgage
arrangement fees, typically between £900 and
£1,500 depending on the property.
Other incidental costs could be for a
surveyor – especially important if you’re buying
an old property – and for translation services,
although you can get around this by using a
bi-lingual lawyer.
Your lawyer should advise you on all of
the above and ensure that any invoices you
receive clearly state what they are for – if
an invoice is a nicely rounded off lump sum,
without a clear breakdown of how that sum
was reached, it’s worth querying. Here are
some typical purchases with associated
buying costs.
7/9/10 18:28:43
SPAIN
FLORIDA
TURKEY
Property: Two-bedroom townhouse
Property: Four-bedroom villa
Property: Four-bedroom villa
Location: Valle de Alenda
development, 15 minutes from
Alicante airport
Location: Orlando, 20-minute drive
from the Disney theme parks
Location: A small development
near Fethiye
Amenities: Living room, kitchen,
dining area, and patio area
overlooking the pool and spa
Amenities: Three bathrooms, a newly
fitted kitchen, off-road parking and
communal pool
Purchase price
$170,000 (£108,970)
Purchase price
£105,000
One-off purchase costs
(with a mortgage):
(with a mortgage):
Deposit (30% of purchase price)
$51,000 (£32,690)
£31,500
Closing costs (5% of purchase price)
$8,500 (£5,449)
Mortgage arrangement fees
£1,220
Legal fees (1% of purchase price)
$1,700 (£1,090)
Buying costs (Stamp duty, notary fees,
land registry, military clearance,
legal fees)
£10,500
Amenities: Air-con, furnished
kitchen, private garden, communal
swimming pool
Purchase price
€173,500 (£142,200)
(with a mortgage):
€52,050 (£42,700)
Mortgage arrangement fees
€4,800 (£3,930)
VAT (IVA – 7% of purchase price)
€12,145 (£9,950)
AJD (Stamp duty – 1% of purchase
price)
€1,735 (£1,420)
Legal fees (1% of purchase price)
€1,735 (£1,420)
Total purchase costs
$61,200 (£39,229)
Land registry
€520.50 (£427)
Typical mortgage option:
Capital and interest repayment
mortgage of 70% LTV ($119,000 /
£76,280) with an interest rate of 6.25%
and a 30-year term.
€73,853 (£60,558)
Monthly mortgage repayment
$732.70 (£470)
Notary fees
€867.50 (£711)
mortgage of 70% LTV (€121,450 /
£99,500) with an interest rate of 2.19%
and a 30-year term.
€460.53 (£377)
£43,220
mortgage of 70% LTV (£73,500)
with an interest rate of 4.05% and a
20-year term.
£452.69
The above are illustrations only. Prices indicated may have changed since publication and
the information supplied is only a general guide. Always seek professional advice before
buying abroad.
Exchange rates used: £1=€1.22; £1=$1.56
018-019 Buying Costs AIPP10.indd19 19
7/9/10 18:28:50
AIPP • LEGAL MATTERS
Legal
matters
A lawyer does the same job as a notary
– true of false? False. You need to use both
when buying abroad – here we explain why
A
lthough you might not be familiar with the
term through buying a home in the UK, a notary
(or notary public as they are officially known)
is an essential part of the purchase process in most
places abroad.
In the UK, you can register the property transaction
with the Land Registry without an official witness –
or notary – but this is where we differ from most
other countries.
A notary is required in all European countries
(and many others too) to draw up and witness
contracts such as affidavits and property deeds.
Although often signed up by the vendor, they are
licensed by the state as impartial witnesses, and
are the only professionals who are legally qualified
to complete a property transaction.
020-021 Notary & Lawyer AIPP10.i20 20
10/9/10 13:55:15
The costs of using a notary are typically listed as part
of the average buying (or closing) costs in a particular
country (as a percentage of the value of the property).
They can vary from 0.1% to nearer 2% in certain
countries, whilst a lawyer’s fees will generally be another
1.5 to 2%.
But a notary does NOT perform the same role as
an independent lawyer, who will advise you on wider
aspects of the purchase and act in your interests.
So, even if you are told by an agent that you do not
need to use an independent lawyer – and indeed, you
don’t legally need one – ignore them. It could be the
biggest mistake you could make, especially if trying to
cut costs.
So how do their roles differ?
Notaries are legal executives appointed by the state
to rubber-stamp and oversee all property transactions,
and to ensure that appropriate taxes generated by the
transaction are paid. Note that some notaries will insist
on you having a translator (or bilingual lawyer, see
below) present, although this is highly advisable anyway
so that you know what you’re signing.
As official government witnesses, they put the
transaction on public record and ensure that the vendor
and buyer are who they say they are (by checking ID).
They will ensure that all the correct processes are
observed when the title deeds are drawn up, but will not
tell you if the contract’s terms are unfavourable to you.
For this, you must use an independent property
lawyer. Not using one is madness when you think you
are operating in an alien country, with unfamiliar legal
processes, in a language you probably don’t speak
very well.
So, protect yourself by employing a bilingual
lawyer who specialises in the purchase of property by
foreigners in that specific locality.
You need someone who can do the legal legwork
in preparation for the signing of contracts so that
you are completely au fait with the terms prior to the
appointment with the notary.
Your lawyer will obtain and translate the relevant
documents for you, and they can also advise on
potential issues in that region (especially land
ownership/planning permission problems) to look into.
Your lawyer can perform full research, or due diligence,
on your behalf.
Thus they will check the planning licences and that
the property is legally built, free from any liens (legal
claims on a property by a third party) and encumbrances
and advise you on inheritance law.
When appointing a lawyer seek recommendations
from other buyers, or contact the AIPP, to find someone
who is completely independent.
Your lawyer will also act as a facilitator between
the seller’s and buyer’s banks, estate agents, and the
notary offices. On the day that signatures are exchanged
before the notary, your lawyer will check the draft of the
deeds, which are drawn up by the notary’s office.
He or she will also coordinate payments and the
cancellation of charges, usually the mortgage. And once
the notary’s role has ended, your lawyer still has work
to do, including satisfactory compliance with tax affairs
and making sure the title deeds are registered at the
Land Registry.
Despite slight variations in different countries as to
their precise roles, a notary acts on behalf of the state
and the law, while a lawyer acts on behalf of his or
her clients. Using a qualified and independent lawyer
helps protect you in the purchase, prevents fraud, and
provides legally binding security and, ultimately, peace
of mind that the property you’ve bought is legally yours.
You should not think about buying property overseas
without one.
Top Tips
• ALWAYS seek comprehensive, independent
legal advice when purchasing property
overseas
• Ask you lawyer to advise you on the
purchase contract before signing, and
perform due diligence such as checking
planning permissions and land title
• Consider the costs of a lawyer as an essential
part of the purchase. It could prove much
more costly to proceed without one
020-021 Notary & Lawyer AIPP10.i21 21
10/9/10 13:55:48
AIPP • TRANSFERRING CURRENCY
Tranferring
W
hether you’re buying a
second home abroad or you
live overseas, at some stage
you’ll need to transfer money between
the UK and another country, from one
currency to another.
Your high street bank will offer to send
your pounds to an overseas bank account,
converting them into euros or dollars
along the way, but there is another option
– currency brokers. Currency brokers are
specialists in foreign exchange markets
– they’re also known as FX brokers – and
as such are better suited to transferring
money overseas than banks.
By buying and selling large amounts
of foreign currency on behalf
of clients, currency brokers
typically beat exchange rates
offered by banks by up to 4% – a
saving of up to £4,000 on a
€120,000 transaction. Also,
unlike banks, it is usual for
currency brokers to charge no
commission – although this
can depend on the value of the
transaction – and waive banking
fees. When clients open an
account with a currency broker
they are allocated a personal account
handler, thus avoiding the “call centre”
environment of banks.
Currency brokers have a range of
solutions, or contracts, to suit different
client scenarios. The spot contract is the
most basic and commonly used solution
and lets you fix an exchange rate with
your broker on the spot. Although spot
contracts let you buy currency as you
need it, they are not recommended if
you have a strict budget to stick to.
Instead, for those who prefer to budget
carefully – and protect themselves
against fluctuating exchange rates –
currency brokers offer forward contracts.
These are a type of ‘buy now, pay later’
solution that allow you fix an exchange
rate that will apply when you need to
transfer currency some time in the future,
usually up to two years.
If you’re not risk averse and wish to
take a gamble on rates improving, then
you could opt for a stop loss order or limit
order. The former will protect you against
adverse exchange rate movements and
secure your currency if it falls below a
pre-agreed rate; the latter is placed at
the top end of the market to secure
currency at a specific price that may not
be currently available. These types of
contracts allow you to aim for a higher
rate while providing protection should
markets move against you.
Finally, currency brokers can set
up regular payment schemes for you.
Examples include transferring pounds
into euros on a monthly basis to cover
overseas mortgage repayments or
transferring a UK pension to an overseas
account each month.
The FSA
In November 2009 currency brokers – officially classed as Money Services
Businesses (MSB) – became regulated by the Financial Services Authority
(FSA). This move should give peace of mind to consumers who previously
were nervous about entrusting their money with an unregulated money
services business. Now, depending on their monthly turnover, currency
brokers must either be ‘registered’ or ‘authorised’ by the FSA. However,
companies that have been trading for a specified period – so have a
proven track record – have a grace period to become authorised or
registered. Whatever their current FSA status, all currency brokers must
comply with FSA regulations.
022 Currency AIPP10.indd 22
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AIPP • CHOOSING THE RIGHT MORTGAGE
CHOOSING THE
RIGHT MORTGAGE
I
n the wake of the 2007 global financial crisis,
banks worldwide have become more cautious
about mortgage loan ratios. Where once 90%
loans were available on the purchase of a foreign
property, nowadays 60-70% loan-to-value (LTV) is the
norm. The result is you will be required to find the
balance of 30-40% to fund the purchase. Also, since
the financial crisis, borrowing criteria has become
more stringent generally. Self-certification largely no
longer exists, and the self-employed will find it trickier
to obtain a mortgage, especially when their latest
accounts are not readily available.
The main options to finance a purchase of an overseas
property are:
• Obtain a mortgage directly from a large UK or
international bank, which offer loans in a number
of currencies and may also have affiliate
branches overseas;
• Use a specialist overseas mortgage broker;
• Borrow directly from a local overseas bank in the
local currency (although many now have branches
in the UK);
• Raise a new mortgage against equity in your UK
property to buy overseas entirely or use the released
cash as a downpayment. Be cautious here, as
depending on how much you borrow, if house prices
fall in the UK you could end up in negative equity.
be wise to seek the advice of an independent
financial adviser.
However you choose to raise a loan to buy a property
abroad, don’t over-stretch yourself financially, and
be realistic about how your mortgage repayments
abroad could affect your overall outgoings in the UK.
Always keep a little bit of money in reserve, for those
unexpected months when things are a little tight, or
your rental income dries up. Lastly, bear in mind, that
finance availability and criteria is subject to change.
If you are relying on mortgage finance to fund your
purchase overseas, it is wise to explore the options at
an early stage and seek up-to-date, specialist financial
advice about the options available.
Top Tips
• Consider how you will fund your purchase from the outset. Seek
specialist advice, and don’t commit to a purchase without being sure of
how you will finance it
• Exchange rates can affect the affordability of your mortgage
repayments if borrowing in a foreign currency. If you intend to let
out your property, it’s sensible to charge rent in the same currency
as your mortgage
• Take extra care when buying off-plan. Your property may be 18 months
away from completion, by which time lending criteria and availability of
finance may have changed. Check whether the mortgage forms part of
the purchase agreement
The currency you decide to borrow in is likely to have
a bearing on which of the above routes you choose.
It is critical to get this right, especially as currency
exchange rates are so volatile. For example, if you
intend to let your property in euros, you should be
making your mortgage repayments in euros to avoid
having to transfer money. But it may also make
financial sense to make mortgage repayments in the
same currency as your salary, usually sterling if you
live in the UK. To decide which is best, you’ll need to
assess which is your priority, and which will cost you
more in the short- and long-term. In most cases, you’d
023 Choosing a mortgage AIPP10.i23 23
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AIPP • UNDERSTANDING TAXES
Understanding
Taxes
024-025 Taxes AIPP10.indd 24
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T
axes are unfortunately inevitable. There are
four main categories that may come into play
in property: transaction (purchase) taxes,
operating taxes, profit taxes, and VAT – although VAT is
generally charged only on the purchase of a newly built
property and not an existing one, in most of the few
countries where it is levied at all. Other taxes that you
might run into include wealth tax and inheritance tax.
Transaction taxes are charged in one form or another
in most countries. Although they may be called many
different names, for example, stamp duty, transfer tax,
or purchase tax, they are essentially one and the same
– a tax levied by the country’s government when you
purchase a property in its domain. The amount charged
varies from country to country. In some countries the
tax is only charged on resales and not new properties.
However, often when this is the case VAT is charged on
new build property. Don’t forget that taxes are controlled
by the government and not the agent or developer, and
these can be subject to change.
In most countries, property owners will additionally
pay operating taxes, usually an annual real estate tax,
similar in purpose to the Council Tax in the UK. In Spain
the tax is known as the IBI. Based on the valor catastral
(the official rated value of the property), IBI is paid by
every homeowner regardless of residential status. As a
municipal tax, the amount payable varies by location and
property size, but can be in the region of €1,000 per
annum for a three-bedroom house in a coastal region.
Unlike income tax that is declared, the IBI is charged
to property owners in the form of a bill.
Profit taxes are almost always known as Capital Gains
Tax (CGT). This comes into effect when you sell an asset
and make a gain or a profit. In many countries, the tax
is charged on the gain between the purchase and sale
price, less an allowance for any repair/improvement
work you have undertaken – and for which you have
receipts. Some countries do not permit any allowances
for renovations, though.
Almost all do, however, apply some form of sliding
scale to the amount of CGT charged. In Turkey, for
example, CGT is not charged in the country once
you have owned a property for more than four years.
Elsewhere the amount charged reduces year by year
– known as taper relief – until it is effectively nil. In
France, for example, the amount payable reduces to nil
after 15 years. Outside the EU, there may be different
levels of CGT applied (and allowances) for residents and
non-residents for tax purposes.
Mistakenly, many investors believe that if no CGT is
levied in the country where the property they are selling
is located, there will be none to pay. Such a situation
would only be applicable if you were a tax resident of the
country in question. If you are a tax resident in the UK,
you are taxed on your worldwide income i.e. any money
you have earned abroad is included and taxed at the
applicable rate.
You will probably pay CGT or a similar tax in the
country where the property is located because a
withholding tax is applied in many countries when you
sell an asset. Examples include Spain where the seller’s
solicitor must withhold 3%, and the US where the
purchaser must withhold 10% of the purchase price
and hand it over to the US tax authorities.
Rest assured that in all likelihood you will not pay tax
twice – in the country where the property is located and
in the country where you are a resident for tax purposes
– because the UK has double taxation treaties with more
than 100 countries. In these cases, the amount due in
the UK will be adjusted to take into account the amount
paid abroad.
Inheritance tax and wealth tax vary in their
interpretation country by country. Many countries do
not have a wealth tax, the UK included. Inheritance tax
is sometimes a matter over which you can have say, by
drawing up a will in the country where the property is
located, stipulating how the asset should be disposed.
Lastly, there is sometimes a tendency to defray (or
even try to avoid) tax issues, but you’d be mistaken to
do so. Unless you want to be considered fraudulent
– and HM Revenue & Customs are extremely vigorous in
their approach to tax evasion – you will have to pay tax.
The good news is that if you are pro-active – that
is, you seek specialist tax advice before you set about
purchasing property overseas – you may be able to put
in place legal strategies that lessen the amount of tax
ultimately payable. Always seek specialist tax advice.
Top Tips
• Consider the tax implications from the outset
• Seek specialist advice from your lawyer or
tax adviser
• Taxes are government controlled; especially
when buying off-plan, check whether any
changes are in the pipeline that may come
into effect before your property is completed
• Don’t forget to consider inheritance tax,
and whether you need to draw up a will in
the country of purchase
024-025 Taxes AIPP10.indd 25
7/9/10 18:32:56
AIPP • HOW TO LET OVERSEAS
A
HOW TO
LET OVERSEAS
Renting out your holiday home can help pay
its costs or even bring you an extra income.
But what are the secrets of success?
few years ago, a large proportion of our holiday
homes stood empty for great portions of the
year, gathering dust and losing us money.
But, as the popularity of rental properties over
package hotels has soared, holiday homes can be
investments as well as luxuries.
Renting out your overseas property can help with the
mortgage repayments and upkeep costs, or even earn
a good little income if chosen and marketed wisely.
However, bear in mind that if you want to buy
somewhere with rentals your top priority, your choice
of location, size, and type of property will all need to
be researched carefully, compared with somewhere
you already own for lifestyle/personal reasons.
Generally, certain types of property rent best because
they have year-round appeal. These include apartments
in popular city-break destinations – such as Barcelona,
Paris and New York – as well as those in tourist resorts
with year-round sun, such as Magaluf, Palma or the
diving hotspots of the Red Sea.
Golfing developments can also rent well for three
seasons of the year, and mountain resort homes can
fare well if they capture both winter and summer
tourism markets.
Access is also key. A transfer time of 90 minutes
or less to the nearest airport is a plus, and don’t forget
that what might seem charmingly out of the way to
you, might not appeal to your guests.
The type of property is also relevant. Two-bedroom
properties are generally the most sought after, but in
family oriented areas such as Central Orlando, three-bed
villas can do best; and in ski resorts, one bedroom with
lounge sofa-beds can be just as popular.
New-build properties are generally easier for upkeep,
and those on communal developments can offer
amenities as selling points; those that have a private
pool command a premium. Do check renting regulations
if you live on a communal development, though.
026-027 Lettings AIPP10.indd 26
7/9/10 11:55:08
If you own a villa in a holiday resort area, easy
access to the beach can be a key selling point, but bear
in mind that your rental periods are likely to be restricted
to the summer season, unless it gets year-round sun.
Research the rental market and check out the
competition: are there any gaps in the market for
types of property, or, equally, areas that are saturated
by supply? What kinds of rates are being charged for
properties like yours? Can you give it some kind of
USP to make it stand out against the competition?
The standards of rental properties are now much
higher than they used to be – it’s no good filling it
with granny’s cast-off furniture, you need to keep it
neutral, simple and uncluttered.
Offering child-friendly extras, bikes to borrow,
or discounts at local businesses can all help.
Why not compile a welcome pack for your guests
including local attractions and restaurants as well as
practical information like taxis and medical services.
Word of mouth recommendations create repeat
bookings, and the offer of last-minute discounts can
help if you’re struggling to fill a gap.
Marketing and managing your property yourself can
be hard work – and impossible at times if you don’t
have a local person on hand to deal with key handover
and potential problems – so factor in management
costs which can be up to 30%.
Marketing your property is equally crucial, using
good quality photographs, user-friendly website(s),
adverts in local businesses and word-of-mouth.
Using some of the largest property-rental portals is
hard to beat as the internet is most people’s first choice
when seeking a property. Setting up your own website
too, can be relatively cheap. However you could also
use a good agent – try to find one through personal
recommendation – if you are dealing in long-term lets.
Finally, don’t neglect the legal/financial side too.
Have you got relevant insurance for the type of letting
you are offering? Are there any safety precautions
you need to abide by (pool safety, for example)?
Think about which currency you want to receive
rental income in, and use a local bank account to
pay local staff.
Find out about the local tax rules, and always keep
on top of changing leglislation. How will your property
and income affect your UK tax position? Most EU
countries have double taxation agreements set up with
the UK and you can deduct certain expenses and tax
allowances from your rental income. Take professional
tax advice to avoid any problems.
Top Tips
• If you’re counting on rental income to help pay your mortgage,
do thorough research of the rental market in advance
• Budget conservatively, remembering that the property may be
vacant for long periods
• Remember that it’s very difficult to manage the property yourself
from the UK, so factor in management costs
• Seek tax advice regarding the rental income generated
026-027 Lettings AIPP10.indd 27
7/9/10 11:55:18
AIPP • AWARDS
AIPP Awards
What they’re all about and why these
industry accolades are important to you
Sue Ash, Board
member and 2010
judge, presents
Monopoly Property
Group with their
award.
T
he AIPP Awards recognise and reward
best practice among its members,
and are about so much more
than industry back-slapping and thank-you
speeches. The Awards are not-for-profit, and
independent judging ensures that winners
have demonstrated attributes and performance
levels that leave them top of the class.
Importantly the awards are not about why
one villa may be better than another, or which
apartment represents the best investment
opportunity, it’s all about customer-care and
what services are provided by the company
with their clients in mind.
Launched successfully in 2008, our
independent awards programme focuses on
the standard of customer service offered by
agents and developers, identifying excellence
and professionalism at the same time as
AIPP Award winners 2010
Best Agent - Small
Best Agent - Medium
Best Agent - Large
UV10
Didim Sun Properties
Property Frontiers
Best Developer, Central & Eastern Europe
Best Developer, Western Europe
Best Developer, Africa, Asia & Australasia
Minoan Homes
TM Real Estate Group
Monopoly Property Group
028-029 AIPP Awards AIPP10.indd 28
7/9/10 18:35:49
setting new benchmarks for the international
property sector. And what could be more
reassuring than knowing you are dealing with
a company that has shown itself to put its
clients first and go that extra mile?
The AIPP Awards 2010 were made free
to enter, encouraging all agent and developer
members to put their businesses under the
microscope and see how they compare
with other companies in the same sector.
We wanted to create an awards programme
that everyone could enter – popular,
accessible and a genuine reflection of
the best in the market.
For the judging criteria we put ourselves
in the position of you, the international
property buyer, posing the crucial question:
“What exactly should I look for in an agent or
developer to reassure me they will deliver?”
Entrants are judged on the due diligence
processes they employ in advance of selling a
new development, as well as how transparent
they are in their marketing. We look at successful
delivery on promised service levels and identify
companies that do for their clients exactly what
they say they will.
Ombudsman for Estate Agents and
Chair of the independent judging panel,
Christopher Hamer said: “In my view awards like
this contribute to higher standards of business
operation and most importantly, customer care.”
The AIPP Award winners 2010 were announced
in March in front of an industry and consumer
audience at A Place in the Sun Live! at London,
Earls Court.
“The judges were
impressed by the high
quality of many of the
entries and it was
encouraging to see that
members are taking to
heart the ethos of the
AIPP and delivering high
levels of customer care
and service.”
AIPP Board Member and
2010 Awards Judge, Sue Ash
Congratulations to all our award
winners, 2010.
Best Developer, The Americas
Most Transparent Marketing Campaign
Grup Immobiliari Natal Brasil
Halcion Homes
Best Developer, Newcomer
Most Outstanding Example of Customer Service
Best Staff Training
Kapital International Investment
Rivermead Global Property
Property Frontiers
028-029 AIPP Awards AIPP10.indd 29
7/9/10 18:36:01
AIPP • CODE OF CONDUCT
ASSOCIATION OF INTERNATIONAL
PROPERTY PROFESSIONALS
CODE OF CONDUCT
1. General
1.1. Members shall adhere to the
highest standards of honesty and
professional integrity both in their
dealings with the public and in their
dealings with each other.
1.2. Members shall conduct their affairs
with integrity and dignity.
1.3. Members shall, in particular, refrain
from misleading statements and
exaggerated claims in their dealings with
sellers, buyers and potential buyers.
1.4. Members shall take all possible steps
to avoid conflicts of interests and shall
decline to deal with any transaction where
such conflicts arise.
2. Sales
2.1. Members shall, if they are developers
or sales agents, make it clear that they
are or represent the Seller of a property.
In any other case the Member must make
clear their status and whose interests
they represent.
2.2. Members shall always recommend
the use of an independent lawyer for
international property transactions.
2.3. Members shall not require potential
buyers to sign binding preliminary
purchase contracts without giving
them reasonable opportunity to reflect
on the contract and to obtain legal advice.
Nothing in this rule shall prevent a Member
securing the immediate signature of a
reservation contract or similar under
which a property is removed from
the market for a defined period
upon payment of a modest deposit
and which does not irrevocably commit
the buyer to the purchase of the property.
030-031 Code of Conduct AIPP10.i30 30
7/9/10 12:25:03
3. Legal
6. Dispute Resolution
3.1. Members shall comply with all applicable
local laws, including tax laws.
3.2. Members shall accept responsibility for all
acts of their staff.
4.1. Members shall comply with this Code of
Conduct and with all rules made by AIPP.
4.2. Members shall respond promptly to
correspondence from AIPP.
4.3. Members shall, upon request by
AIPP, provide AIPP with copies of
any document relating to their
dealings with any other person or
their business practices which in the
opinion of AIPP may be necessary in order
to establish the Member’s compliance
with his obligations under this code
or in connection with the Dispute
Resolution Procedure.
6.1. All Members shall refer any disputes arising
as between Members to the Dispute
6.2. All Business, Franchisee and Franchisor
Members shall at the outset of their
relationship with a seller, buyer or other
customer notify them of the existence
of this Code of Conduct and of the Dispute
6.3. If any dispute arises between a Business,
Franchisee and Franchisor Member and any
seller, buyer or other customer the Member
shall again draw their attention to the
existence of the Dispute Resolution
Procedure and supply them with a
copy of it.
6.4. If the seller, buyer or other customer
wishes to do so the Business, Franchisee
and Franchisor Member shall agree to
invoke and be bound by the Dispute
5. Training
7. Applicability
5.1. All Members, unless exempted by the
Board on the basis of their proven
previous experience, shall within 6
months of being accepted into
membership satisfactorily complete
the AIPP Basic Training Course.
5.2. [This provision was suspended on
19th March 2009 until further notice:]
All Business Members must within 12
months of being accepted into membership
have at least one relevant representative
satisfactorily complete the AIPP country
specific training courses relevant to the
areas in which they intend to deal
with property.
5.3. [This provision was suspended on
19th March 2009 until further notice:]
All employees of Business Members
engaged in sales activities must, within
4 months of taking up their appointment,
pass an internal or external Basic Training
Course approved by AIPP.
7.1. This Code of Conduct, unless the context
otherwise requires, shall apply to all
aspects of the Members’ activities in
connection with International Real Estate
including development, marketing, sales,
resales, third party introductions and
property management.
7.2. This Code of Conduct shall not limit any
greater rights that a non Member might
enjoy under local law or otherwise.
4. Relations with AIPP
030-031 Code of Conduct AIPP10.i31 31
7/9/10 12:25:09
AIPP • HOW AND WHERE WOULD YOU SPEND £200K?
“How and where would you spend
£200,000
on overseas property right now?”
here in
w
s
r
e
b
m
e
m
r
ou
d
e
k
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to buy...
e
os
h
c
ld
ou
w
y
e
h
t
ld
or
the w
“For £200,000 look for a stone farmhouse
in the “Green Spain” of Asturias, or a luxury
villa on the outskirts of Seville, the capital
of Andalucia. For coastal cosmopolitan
excitement, Marbella and the city of Valencia
are both hard to beat.”
Martin Dell, Kyero.com
“For an investment, I’d go for a
property in Australia. For lifestyle
and a home, you can’t beat Costa
del Sol for climate and facilities!”
Campbell D Ferguson,
Survey Spain
“I would create a diverse
investment portfolio. An
astute property investor could
make a £200,000 budget stretch
quite far and I would include a mixture of fractional & full
ownership, off-plan and completed property, some tailored for
long-term rental income, some for short- to mid-term resale
at a profit, which will further allow new investment property
to be purchased and add to the portfolio. I would consider
a variety of emerging and established property markets, but
stay away from those which have the potential for property
over-saturation, or where purchase and income taxes are very
high or where government and economy are unstable.”
Graeme Johnston, Successful Investor
032-033 What for £200k AIPP10.in32 32
7/9/10 18:38:24
“Property prices
in Crete have
remained relatively
stable. £200,000 will
buy you a 2 bedroom
detached home plus a 1
bedroom detached property,
which is tremendous value. As the
UK gradually comes out of recession it’s a great time to
invest, as property prices in Crete will rise over the near
future due to the advent of better access. EasyJet are now
flying from the UK into both Heraklion and Chania Airports,
making the island even more accessible and generating
ever more visitors. Historically this means increased
demand will drive property prices higher.”
Pauline Saunders, Snobby Homes
“This depends on what I was buying for.
Buying for my own personal holiday use now
is very different from buying to live retire
or invest somewhere. Having said that I
was born in Spain and have chosen to work
with Spain so would find it strange to buy
anywhere else, with the possible exception of
France, which I visit on a regular basis!”
Peter Esders, Chebsey & Co
“That would go a long way in Brazil! The first
£20,000 I’d spend on a 500m² freehold
plot at Shamballa Resort in São Miguel do
Gostoso. This famous kitesurfing town has
seen substantial growth recently and to me
this is a surefire investment. The remainder
I’d plough into property destined for Natal’s
local middle class market. I could pick up three
apartments in a privileged city hotspot and either
sell at a profit or take regular rental income of
around 10% net pa.”
Samantha Gore, UV10
“My best buys right now are two countries
which still have unpolluted cost
lines: Croatia, or for the more
adventurous, Albania, which is a
glorious and safe country which
is not yet fully developed.”
Bernard Ellis,
Croatia Acquisitions
“For me it’s Turkey - an emerging
property market hot-on-the-lips of
many investors, as well as an
excellent holiday destination.
Turkey offers property at
competitive prices, ideal for
those who can no longer
afford traditional holiday areas.
Turkey boasts one of the world’s
fastest-growing economies, with
inflation being at its lowest for over
37 years. Those who have bought
property in Turkey are already seeing
good returns; conservative estimators say 1015% increases year-on-year. EU accession talks began
in October 2005 and many property investors see this
as a potential long-term benefit. Whilst the current
economy worries affected the market, Turkey seems
to have ridden the recession well, and it’s a great time
to take advantage of the huge number of affordable
properties on offer.”
Sue Gardiner, Romance of Turkey
“For me there’s a simple answer to this question
– this is the time to invest in a French
leaseback property. You receive
an instant rebate of the 19.6%
VAT charged on new build
French property because
the government is keen to
encourage more holiday
accommodation. You
can get close to 100%
mortgages because the
banks regard the VAT as part
of your personal contribution,
and your rental income is
guaranteed regardless of void periods
for at least 9 years and is inflation linked. The
management company does all the work of cleaning,
repairs and maintenance and also pays the insurance,
the taxe d’habitation (council tax equivalent) and the
utility bills, plus you get free or heavily subsidised
holidays as part of the deal. France is one of the
safest countries in the world and, if long haul travel
ever becomes prohibitively expensive as it surely will,
you can get there by train and ferry as well as by short
haul flight. In terms of where to invest, France is a
big country but I would focus on Paris, the Alps or the
south coast for maximum long term capital growth.”
Graham Rowan, Leaseback
032-033 What for £200k AIPP10.in33 33
7/9/10 12:53:51
AIPP • WHAT IS THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE...?
“WHAT IS THE
BEST PIECE OF ADVICE
YOU COULD GIVE SOMEONE THINKING
ABOUT BUYING PROPERTY OVERSEAS?”
AIPP members give you their very own
‘top tips’ for buying property abroad...
“Be ready to buy; “agreements in principle” for finance are
harder to achieve nowadays. In Spain, property is selling
for less than it can be built at the moment, so that holiday
home is now affordable. You need to know what you can
and cannot afford before looking and getting carried away;
a prepared buyer is a relaxed and contented buyer! Only
use accredited agents and have your deposit ready, but not
in your pocket!”
Steve Long,
RightBuy Homes
“Use an AIPP member who specialises in the
country and area of your choosing and listen to their
advice. Set a budget you are comfortable with and
stick to it. View properties within your budget and that
suit your requirements. Make sure, as far as possible,
that there will be a future market for whatever you buy,
so you have an exit strategy. Above all, it’s your money,
buy the property you want and enjoy it.”
Carol Chant,
Dream Homes Orlando Ltd
“Use a professional organisation with extensive
knowledge of the overseas property market. Check out
their credentials, meet with them face to face in order
to establish your target market and ensure that they are
members of the AIPP and other professional bodies.”
Adam Woolley,
The Worldwide Property Group
“If you are looking for a holiday
home overseas, visit the location
first and make sure it is somewhere
you enjoy and has enough to keep
you coming back year after year.
If you are investing in property, do
your research: find out who the
property you are investing in will
be sold to and how much demand
there is for property in that area.
Use the internet to find out as much
as you can about the people you are
dealing with, from the agent to the
developer and the end user. Buy only
what you can afford to spend now.”
John Broad,
Grup Natal Brasil
“When considering buying into a fractional ownership
real estate scheme, ensure that the developer has
provided a robust legal structure to give ample
consumer protection and peace of mind during
ownership. Ensure that you do not hand over
reservations or deposits at the time of selecting your
overseas home as you are entitled to a 14 day cooling
off period. And, if your development is not complete,
ensure that your payments are held in a secure escrow
account providing protection should your development
not be completed.”
Nick Turner,
The Registry Collection
034-036 Insider Advice AIPP10.in34 34
7/9/10 18:40:51
“In the cold light of day, in the UK, make a list of the
important criteria you are seeking in a house. Set
an absolute budget which you can well afford, and
remember purchase costs are invariably charged over
and above the price of the house. When you arrive at
your destination, check your list against every house
you view to see how each one measures up. Never let
your heart rule your head. Be wary of heavy discounts
and deals; they may not be all they’re cracked up to
be and could cost you in the end. Never hand over any
money there and then. Make sure you have a cooling
off period to enable you to make sure you’re making
the right decision.”
“Before you make a commitment, think about your
exit strategy. Take time to do your own market
research and to understand the area. Try to buy
where the local population also buy, and proceed
only when you are satisfied that the property is
competitively priced, and is in an
area where you can easily resell.”
Martin Dell,
Kyero.com
Pauline Saunders,
Snobby Homes
“My top two tips would be thorough research
and instructing a qualified, competent lawyer.
However, a greatly overlooked factor is “always
remember your investment goal”, whatever it
may be, whether capital profit from resale, or
long-term rental income. Don’t be swayed to
purchase a property that will not suit you and
not allow you to achieve your aims. You will
benefit over the long-term, even if it takes a
while to find your ideal investment property.”
Graeme Johnston,
Successful Investor
7/9/10 18:40:55
AIPP • WHAT IS THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE...?
“It is no surprise that my number one piece of advice is to
use an independent lawyer when buying a property abroad,
just as you would do in your own home country.”
Peter Esders,
Chebsey & Co
“Buying overseas is quite different from buying at home
in the UK; some countries do not have a proper land
registry system and you could find yourself the owner
of a piece of paper but not the real property! I strongly
advise to use a solicitor no matter the country, to be
sure that you buy in safe hands.”
Matthieu Cany,
Acumen Properties
“Don’t buy abroad without an independent specialist
international lawyer reading all the paperwork first,
and don’t be fooled into signing any paperwork or
handing money over beforehand, unless it is a fully
refundable fee of only a few hundred pounds. If the
agent tells you it is the last one or that the deal is
only open for today... move on, as there are always
better deals in the current marketplace.”
“First, look at the rental market; many people advise
to rent somewhere for 6 months before you buy and I
would agree if buying an overseas property to relocate
to either full- or part-time. If buying more of a holiday
home, first look at both holiday lets and long-term
rentals in the area. Even if you’re not buying a holiday
home with the sole view of renting it out, times can
change, and what can be a dream home full of family
and friends in the good times can quickly turn into a
financial drain with the property empty for up to 52
weeks of the year. This needn’t limit your choice as all
types of property from rural fincas to new build studios
can rent well if there is a good rental/management
company nearby and demand in that area.”
Guy Tolhurst,
Intelligent Partnership
“Before you buy, instruct a building survey by an RICS
Chartered Surveyor as you would in UK. It can save you
£1,000’s and avoid much grief. There are many working
in Europe and elsewhere.”
Campbell D Ferguson,
Survey Spain
Stefano Lucatello,
The International Property Law Centre LLP
“Visit as many places in the country where you wish
to purchase as you can before making your selection;
you will know when you see the place you like. Think of
how convenient it is to reach from the nearest airport,
the cost of air fares and the travelling times. Check
the yearly weather records, and consider the amenities
which you would like to have. Restaurant menus and
prices are a good guide to the type of visitors. If buying
an apartment, check what arrangements there are
for maintenance and what the ongoing costs will be.
If buying a house, find out what arrangements can be
made for the property to be looked after when you do
not use it, or while you are letting it out. Remember
in hot countries gardens grow fast and need constant
care as do swimming pools. Get a good reputable
lawyer who is a member of a local law association to
represent you.”
Bernard Ellis,
Croatia Acquisitions
“As obvious as it might seem
I would strongly recommend that
if you are seriously thinking of
investing your hard earned cash
overseas that you give yourself the
best opportunity of success in your
search by using honest, experienced,
and professional agents. I would
also strongly recommend that
you choose an agent who has
extensive knowledge within
the country, region or area in
which they are promoting these
properties for sale. I would ask,
why would you choose NOT to
use a member of the AIPP?”
Rob Watchorn,
Deal Hunter Spain
7/9/10 18:41:01
AIPP • MEMBERS DIRECTORY
AIPP
MEMBERS DIRECTORY
This list of members is correct at time of
going to print. New members are joining
all the time. For a constantly updated
membership list and to verify a company’s
ongoing membership, please visit our
website: www.aipp.org.uk
F
Founder Member
037-047 Member Listings AIPP10.i37 37
10/9/10 13:03:27
MEMBERS
AIPP Members are listed by:
Trading and/or Company name
Main office location
ASAS Pan Gulf for Real
Estate Investment
Contact telephone
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Beiraneves - Sociedade de
Mediacao Imobiliaria,
Uni Lda
Website address
+966 1 473 6311
Portugal
www.asas-re.com
+351 232 949 537
www.beiraneves.com
1Casa Estate Agency
Spain
Alexander James
(Properties) Ltd
Asem Overseas
Properties Ltd
0800 081 1939
UK
UK
Belmore International Belmore Developments Ltd
www.1casa.com
+44 (0)1623 883 890
+44 (0)1325 358 080
Ireland
www.ajpspain.com
www.asemconstruction.com
+353 1 297 3394
Alpha Panareti Public Ltd
Assetz International Ltd
A World Overseas House Apart Ltd
Cyprus
UK
Between Friends Ltd
+357 2691 0888
+44 (0)161 456 4000
Cyprus
UK
www.apcyprus.com
www.assetz.co.uk
+35 7268 1 1155
www.aworldoverseas.co.uk
Alpine Angels Mercatorial Ltd
Azahar Properties
Acumen Properties Ltd
UK
+34 962 129 633
Black Lion Property
Services - Sakir Karaaslan
UK
+44 (0)1225 442128
www.azaharproperties.com
Turkey
+44 (0)20 7428 4971
www.alpineangels.net
A
www.belmoreinternational.com
www.latchipanoramacy.com
+44 (0)1423 552220
Spain
+90 242 844 1345
www.2blacklions.com
Ancient Sands LLC
Azur Assistance - P.A.C.A.
Properties Ltd F
Aegean Blue Ltd
Egypt
UK
UK
+44 (0)207 873 2034
+44 (0)20 7801 3250
Bohemian Estates
International sro
+44 (0)845 838 5108
www.ancientsandsresort.com
www.azurassistance.com
Czech Republic
Andrew Potter Ltd
www.bohemianestates.com
www.acumen-properties.com
+420 222 220 866
www.aegean-blue.com
AGS Properties (UK) Ltd F
UK
Azure Property
International Ltd
UK
+44 (0)844 330 2512
UK
+44 (0)20 8144 4994
www.uniteddevelopers.co.uk
+44 (0)20 7925 1714
Bolt Property Group - Bolt
Investments Group SL
www.azureinternational.co.uk
Spain
www.agsproperties.com
AIP Homes - Aurora
International Properties Ltd
Aphrodite Resales - EPP
Signature Property
Promotions Ltd
UK
Cyprus
+44 (0)208 991 2380
+35 77000 9012
www.aiphomes.com
www.aphroditeresales.com
Akbuk Resort Group Ins
Taak Ltd Sti
Arroyo Investment and
Property Services SL
UK
Spain
0845 230 5210
+34 950 449 158
www.akbukresortgroup.com
www.arroyoproperty.com
Al Ahly Real Estate
Development Company SAE
Artev Global - Artev Tur.
Yatirim Ins.Tic.veSan.AS
Egypt
Turkey
+2 2580 7600
+90 252 374 5444
www.alahly.com
www.artevhomes.com
B
+34 951 704 304
www.boltpropertygroup.com
Bacolet Bay Resort & Spa
- Bacolet Development
Finance Ltd
Boltons Real Estate - Boltons
Investments Ltd
Grenada, West Indies
+44 (0)207 956 2526
+1 473 439 7692
www.boltonsinvestments.com
UK
www.bacoletbay.com
Buy Berlin Investments Ltd
Barrasford and Bird
Worldwide Ltd F
UK
UK
www.buyberlin.co.uk
+44 (0)208 315 7517
0800 1 303 101
www.bandbw.co.uk
F
Founder Member
10/9/10 12:58:35
Buy in Bulgaria - Memtech
International Ltd F
Crown Acquisitions
Worldwide Plc
Didim Karya Grup
Ins Ltd.Sti
Ireland
Classic Florida Realty Classic Real Estate
Ventures Inc
UK
Turkey
+353 1 2544155
USA
+44 (0)1704 500 405
+90 256 813 2591
www.buyinbulgaria.com
+1 321 559 1259
www.crownacquisitionsworldwide.com
www.karyagrup.com
Cybarco (UK) Ltd
www.classicfloridarealty.com
BW International Barton Wyatt F
CLC Estates - Remisol SA
UK
Didim Sun Properties Didim Gunes Emlak
UK
Spain
+44 (0)20 8371 9700
Turkey
+44 (0)1344 843000
+34 952 669 977
www.bartonwyatt.co.uk
www.clublacosta.com
D
ClickBuyCyprus - Paradise
Marketing (Robinson) Ltd
D’Isanto RE - Planet
House Italia SRL
Direct Property Investments
- Sheridan White Holdings SL
Calabria Property Services
Cyprus
Italy
Spain
Italy
+357 2627 1793
+39 035 36 38 01
+34 952 806 609
+39 0982 82360
www.clickbuycyprus.com
www.planethouseitalia.com
www.directpropertyinvestments.com
Coldwell Banker Feltrim F
C
+90 256 813 4303
www.didimsun.com
www.calabria-property-services.com
USA
Deal Hunter Spain - Clear
Water Properties SL
Dolphin Golf Property Ltd
Cavendish Brooke
International Ltd F
+1 863 353 0011
UK
+44 (0)117 377 1626
UK
www.cbfeltrim.com
+44 (0)795 11 77 503
www.dolphingolfproperty.com
+44 (0)20 7429 0344
www.cavendishbrookeinternational.com
UK
www.DealHunterSpain.com
Colordarcy Investment Ltd
Dream Homes Orlando Ltd
UK
Delocalia SARL
UK
Caversham Barnes (Crete)
+44 (0)207 100 2393
France
+44 (0)1392 278230
UK
www.colordarcy.com
+33 1 49 90 75 56
www.dreamhomesorlando.co.uk
+44 (0)118 948 3202
www.caversham-barnes.com
www.delocalia.fr
Cornhill Overseas
Properties Ltd
Dream Property Dubai Aurora Enterprises UK Ltd
Charles Oliver Ltd
UK
Demari Developers and
Constructions Ltd
UK
+44 (0)161 973 1510
Cyprus
+41 22 776 0838
+44 (0)1275 331199
www.cornhilloverseas.com
+357 2374 4100
www.dreampropertydubai.com
www.charlesoliver.co.uk
UK
www.demaridevelopers.com
Circle Earth Ltd
Countryside
International Ltd
UK
UK
Derin & Derin - Derin Emlak
Insaat Tur Ltd Sti
0800 876 6962
+44 (0)8456 444 747
Turkey
+44 (0)1737 353 005
www.circleearth.co.uk
www.countrysideinternational.com
+90 242 324 8284
www.eastonsinternational.co.uk
www.derinandderin.com
Eastons International Eastons (Banstead) Ltd
UK
E
City and Urban F
Crete Imperial Homes Ltd
UK
UK
+44 (0)20 7275 7878
+44 (0)1449 740128
Des Res - Desirable
Residences Ltd
www.cityandurban.com
www.creteimperialhomes.com
UK
Emerald Monkey - Island
Living Resorts SA
+44 (0)207 586 3566
Panama
CityWest.co.uk Ltd
Croatia Acquisitions Ltd
www.desres.net
+1 281 488 3883
UK
UK
+44 (0)208 814 1110
+44 (0)1883 346 365
www.citywest.co.uk
www.croatia-acquisitions.co.uk
F
www.emeraldmonkey.com
Founder Member
10/9/10 12:58:37
Emerging Real Estate Ltd
UK
Foreign Property
Investments Ltd
Hancock Homes
UK
Global Turkey - NT Grup
Emlak Ins. Taah. Tur. Ihr. Ve
Ltd Sti
+44 (0)1924 364754
www.emergingrealestate.com
+44 (0)845 260 0845
Turkey
www.hancockhomes.co.uk
www.fpi.eu.com
+90 530 551 1301
E-Property Ltd
Spain
+34 956 441 806
www.globalturkey.net
Hassapis - G Hassapis
Holdings Ltd
+44 (0)20 8958 2654
Fox International Property
Consultants Ltd
UK
Green Gem Properties
(UK) Ltd
Cyprus
www.e-propertyltd.com
+44 (0)191 520 4351
UK
www.hassapis.net
www.foxinternationalproperty.co.uk
+44 (0)844 544 2468
UK
Estate Elite Ltd
UK
+44 (0)781 396 5626
G
www.estateelite.com
EU Properties
International B.V.
G&V Hadjidemosthenous
Ltd
www.greengemproperties.com
Highground Property
Investment Ltd
Grosvenor Park
International Ltd
UK
UK
www.highground.net
Cyprus
+44 (0)1323 647 070
Netherlands
+35 726 822 333
www.grosvenorparkinternational.com
+31 226 341 887
www.pafosproperty.com
Exclusive Property Finder
France
Spain
+44 (0)871 218 7066
Brazil
+34 971 701 081
www.garrigae.com
+55 84 3219 4135
Garrigae Investissements
www.exclusivepropertyfinder.com
+44 (0)845 021 0018
HOMEland F
Greece
Grup Imobiliario Natal
Brasil - Administradora
Grup Imobiliario Ltda
www.euproperties.nl
+357 24 815 488
+30 28310 51341
www.homeland-greece.com
I
www.grupnatalbrasil.com
Iacovou Brothers
(Development) Ltd
Gerrards Overseas Ltd
Experience International
- ExperienceBG Ltd
UK
Grupo Cala Montero Lis-Playa SA
Cyprus
0800 988 5958
UK
www.gerrardsoverseas.com
Spain
www.iacovoubrothers.com
0800 612 0901
+357 2482 3777
+34 964 456 248
GFE Epargne Retraite Groupe France Epargne
www.calamontero.com
France
Grupo Inland - Verdelago SA
+66 3836 4843
+33 240 696 119
Portugal
www.iguana-group.com
FDG International
Property LLP
www.gfe-epargne-retraite.com
+351 21 782 6850
UK
Giovani Developers Ltd
+44 (0)115 981 3699
Cyprus
www.fdgip.co.uk
+357 23 833 780
www.experience-international.com
F
Thailand
www.inland.pt
www.giovani.com.cy
First Choice Spanish Homes
Iguana Company Limited
H
Immorent Bulgaria EOOD
Bulgaria
+359 2930 4100
www.immorent.bg
Hadjivasili Bros Co. Ltd
Spain
Girasol Homes Ltd
+357 2681 9719
Imperio Properties - Y.A.M.
Imperio Enterprises Ltd
+34 6499 63771
UK
www.hadjivasiliproperties.com
Cyprus
www.firstchoicespanishhomes.com
+44 (0)1974 299055
Cyprus
www.girasolhomes.co.uk
Forbes, Forbes and
Forbes Ltd
+357 25 581005
Halcion Homes - Hamilton
Homes SL
www.imperioproperties.com
UK
Indigo Investments Ltd
British West Indies
+44 (0)1244 893144
UK
+1 649 946 6132
www.halcionhomes.com
+44 (0)208 931 9031
www.forbesrealtytci.com
www.indigo-invest.com
F
Founder Member
10/9/10 12:58:38
Infinity Express - C-S-K Ins
Taah Tic Em. Ltd Sti
Invest in Brazil Ltd
Johal Regan Ltd
UK
UK
LetsGoToTurkey - Tur-Al
Insaat Turizm Tic Ltd Sti
Turkey
+44 (0)845 313 6216
+44 (0)20 8532 2222
Turkey
+90 252 612 8767
www.investinbrazil.co.uk
www.johalregan.co.uk
+90 242 513 2064
www.infinityexpresshomes.com
Innovation Property Group
- Innovation Real Estate
(PTY) Ltd
South Africa
Invest5Star - Woodlands
PMS Ltd
K
www.lgt.com.tr
+44 (0)1980 625 086
Kapital International
Investment Ltd
Livadhiotis Developers
- Lefteris Livadhiotis
& Sons Ltd
www.invest5star.co.uk
UK
Cyprus
+44 (0)1383 417 830
+357 2482 3888
UK
+27 11467 8612
www.innovator.co.za
Island Real Estate
International SL
www.kapitalinternational.co.uk
www.livadhiotisdevelopers.com
Innovative Products
Partnership Ltd
Spain
Karooda Properties Ltd
Lloyd Bailey & Morris Ltd
+34 928 537 870
UK
UK
UK
www.ire-international.com
+44 (0)8454 635 809
+44 7970 698 987
+44 (0)1276 857500
www.ipponline.co.uk
www.karoodaproperties.com
Islands Blue Ltd
UK
Insight Worldwide
+44 (0)870 063 7484
UK
www.islandsblue.co.uk
+44 (0)1603 268080
www.insightworldwide.co.uk
Italian Properties Clare Shipston
Integral Estates SL F
UK
Spain
+44 (0)1400 281876
+34 952 908690
www.italianproperties.org
www.integral-estates.com
Intelligent Property
Network Ltd
Italy Rediscovered Property Worldwide Ltd
+44 (0)845 602 6792
+44 (0)845 3628486
www.italyrediscovered.com
J
International Dreams Ltd
Luz Del Sol New
Properties SL
Spain
La Luz Property Ltd F
0800 112 3503
UK
www.luzdelsol.net
+44 (0)1937 843131
www.laluzproperty.com
M
Landmark Properties
International Ltd
Mainland Europe Estates
UK
+44 (0)1706 354007
+44 (0)1483 243633
www.mainlandeurope.eu
UK
www.landmarkpi.com
Maison Serena
UK
UK
www.intelligentpropertynetwork.co.uk
L
Leaseback - Wealth
Invest Ltd
UK
UK
www.maisonserena.com
+44 (0)1932 858799
+44 (0)20 8940 7000
www.leaseback.co.uk
MAK PP - Mak Property
Partnership LLP
Ireland
Lee Property
UK
+353 21 485 8400
Ireland
+44 (0)8444 438 678
www.propertydealsworldwide.com
+353 23 88 29500
www.makpp.com
UK
Jack French & Associates
+44 (0)20 3239 9430
www.internationaldreams.co.uk
International Property
Solutions Ltd
Jet2Let Property Ltd
UK
UK
Leisurevest Ltd
Spain
+44 (0)203 139 9018
+44 (0)113 313 1000
UK
+34 663 850 608
www.internationalpropertysolutions.com
www.jet2letproperty.com
+44 (0)20 8432 9788
www.marbellapads.com
www.leeproperty.ie
Marbella Pads SL
www.leisurevest.co.uk
JJ Properties Abroad
Marshall DeFliece Ltd
UK
Letsbuy-Algarve Ltd
UK
+44 (0)1730 301989
UK
+44 (0)1274 736833
www.jjproperties.co.uk
+44 (0)7900 521528
www.marshalldefliece.com
www.letsbuy-algarve.com
F
Founder Member
10/9/10 12:58:39
Mecitoglu Homes Mecitoglu Insaat Turizm
San Ve Tic Ltd Sti
N
P
Nirvana International Ltd F
Posh Property
International Ltd
UK
Pafilia Property
Developers Ltd
UK
Turkey
+90 242 7533 910
+44 (0)1189 744900
Cyprus
www.poshproperties.co.uk
www.homeinturkey.com
www.nirvanainternational.com
+357 2684 8800
Medcoast Homes - Medcoast
(Cyprus) Ltd
O
www.pafilia.com
Power Overseas Investment
Properties Ltd
Palladium Advisors Abbo Holdings Ltd
Ireland
BVI
www.poweroverseas.com
+44 (0)1564 778262
Oasis Land
Development Ltd
www.medcoasthomes.co.uk
UK
+44 (0)7767 475 804
+44 (0)1704 544438
www.palladiumadvisors.net
UK
Minoan Homes
+353 58 44007
Premier Off Plan Ltd
UK
www.oasis-land.com
Greece
+44 (0)1283 792392
Pan-Cyprian Properties Ltd
+44 (0)20 3129 0892
www.premieroffplan.com
+30 28240 83000
Ocaso Properties Ltd
UK
www.minoanhomes.com
UK
+44 (0)208 864 7972
+44 (0)845 116 1831
www.pan-cyprianproperties.com
Principal International
- Principal Choice Ltd
UK
Money Choice Pty Ltd
www.ocasoproperties.com
+61 3941 72551
OffPlanPlanet (UK) Ltd
www.moneychoice.com
UK
Paradise Properties Bahia Paradise Group Imobiliaria
LTDA
0800 0121 689
Brazil
Monopoly Property Group
Pty Ltd
www.offplanplanet.com
+55 71 3264 5588
Property Frontiers Ltd F
www.pp-bahia.com
UK
Australia
+61 8 8232 7605
Oracle Property Developers
- Izdog Turizm Tic Ltd Sti
Paradise Property Solutions
www.monopolypg.com
Turkey
Spain
+90 256 813 2470
+34 9664 72595
www.oracleproperties.co.uk
www.paradisepropertysolutions.com
+44 (0)1628 623087
Orbit Alliance SAE
www.montenegroprospects.com
Egypt
Planethouse UK Immoworld UK Ltd
+44 (0)870 423 5633
UK
www.orbitalliance.com
+44 (0)1275 390421
Australia
Montenegro Prospects Ltd
www.pip4u.com
+44 (0)1865 202700
UK
Morgan Forbes (UK) Ltd
+44 (0)1483 748629
www.propertyfrontiers.com
Property Global
Investments Ltd
UK
UK
+44 (0)114 221 3055
www.propertyglobalinvestments.com
www.planethouseuk.com
Property Networks
International - Property
Networks (UK) Ltd
+44 (0)207 515 3933
Orlando Property UK
www.morganforbes.com
UK
Platinum Bay Ventures Ltd
UK
+44 (0)1234 345074
UK
+44 (0)845 057 3586
www.orlandopropertyuk.com
+44 (0)1634 226 495
www.pniproperty.com
MPM Overseas Ltd
UK
www.platinumbay.co.uk
+44 (0)1260 279622
Overseas Connections
www.mpmoverseas.co.uk
UK
Property Prophets Ltd
UK
+44 (0)1603 662288
Plusworld Realtors and
Investment Ltd
Myspanishproperties Margaret Young
www.overseasconnections.co.uk
Nigeria
www.property-prophets.com
Spain
Overseas Property UK Ltd
+34 966 762 960
UK
www.myspanishproperties.com
+44 (0)1347 824800
+44 (0)7595 486206
+234 461 6801
www.plusworldrealtors.net
www.overseaspropertyuk.com
F
Founder Member
10/9/10 12:58:40
Property4Gain Ltd
Reaper International
Rocksure Property Ltd
UK
UK
UK
+44 (0)844 4781919
+44 (0)845 057 3656
+44 (0)1993 823 809
Serenity Homes Turkey
- N.E.D. Tur. Ins. San. Ve Tic.
Ltd. Sti
www.property4gain.com
www.reaperinternational.com
www.rocksureproperty.com
Turkey
Prospecta Development Ltd
Romance of Turkey Ltd
Cyprus
Red Properties - Tas Land
Corp. Ltd
+357 2691 0313
Hong Kong
0800 999 8866
www.prospectadevelopment.com
+852 2380 7777
www.romanceofturkey.co.uk
+90 532 405 1058
Silverhouse Property Ltd
www.redproperties.net
Prudential Palms Realty
- Palms Cascade LLC
+1 941 926 7000
Redd Construction Group
- Redd Insaat Emlak Tur
Ltd Sti
www.prudentialpalmsrealty.com
Turkey
USA
R
+44 (0)871 990 3536
www.serenityhomesturkey.com
UK
ROPUK Network - Roseberry
Overseas Property Ltd
UK
UK
www.silverhouseproperty.com
+44 (0)1604 633 233
+44 (0)845 073 1766
www.ropuk.com
Simply Overseas Independent Property
Agents Ltd
www.reddconstruction.com
S
RA Property Consultants
- Inmobiliaria Ramon
Arenaza SL
Regnum International Regnum Ltd
Sales and Marketing
Solutions
UK
UK
Spain
+44 (0)207 930 8685
+44 (0)191 252 1931
+34 971315411
www.regnumhomes.com
www.sms-limited.com
Richard Immobilier SARL
Sapphire Properties York SL F +30 282 402 23425
France
Spain
+33 5 53 83 30 46
+34 96 671 8507
www.richardimmo.com
www.sapphire-properties.co.uk
RightBuy Homes Casacalida Properties Ltd
+44 (0)20 7731 2200
UK
SAS International - Safe
& Secure Real Estate &
Investments Ltd
Real Wise Property
Investment - Ololade
Olamide Ventures Int’l
Nigeria Ltd
+44 (0)1621 874 716
UK
Sophia Investments
www.rightbuyhomes.com
+44 (0)208 731 5896
UK
www.sasinternationalproperty.com
+44 (0)1235 771340
Nigeria
UK
+234 808 718 4140
+44 (0)161 652 5563
Scandinavian Property
- Swenor Eiendom AS
www.realwiseinvestment.com
www.rivermeadglobalproperty.co.uk
Norway
Spainnext.com Sol Mediter SL
+47 46418592
Spain
Realpoint Property Ltd F
www.scandinavianproperty.net
+34 618 683 000
UK
ROC Investments - Offplan
Property Abroad Ltd
+44 (0)845 331 2812
UK
Selection Property Ltd F
www.realpointproperty.com
+44 (0)845 130 9011
UK
SPC Overseas Realty SL
www.offplanpropertyabroad.com
+44 (0)20 8533 9988
Spain
www.selectionproperty.com
0844 5982929
UK
UK
+44 (0)113 264 2433
www.raineandhorne.co.uk
www.simplyoverseas.com
Snobby Homes - G. KaralakiP. Saunders Ltd
Greece
www.ibiza-ra.com
Raine and Horne
Crossgates - Centurion
Real Estate Pty Ltd
+44 (0)1743 343634
www.snobbyhomes.co.uk
Someplace Else UK LLP
UK
Rivermead Global
www.besomeplaceelse.com
www.sophiainvestments.co.uk
www.spainnext.com
www.spc-overseas.com
F
Founder Member
10/9/10 12:58:41
Spot Blue Overseas
Property Ltd
The Hart Partnership (UK)
LLP
Turkish Home Office Dilcan Emlak Ltd Sti
VR Property UK Ltd
UK
UK
Turkey
0800 678 5550
+44 (0)20 8339 6036
+44 (0)1722 413348
+90 256 811 5893
www.vrpropertygroup.com
www.spotblue.co.uk
www.hartsupport.co.uk
www.turkishhomeoffice.com
Successful Investor Ltd
Two Summers Ltd
UK
The Hotel Investment
Company Ltd
0800 8600 789
UK
+44 (0)1454 615683
Whole World of Property
- Iain Stewart
www.successful-investor.co.uk
+44 (0)1937 541442
www.twosummers.co.uk
UK
www.thehotelinvestmentcompany.com
Sun Direct Group - Euro
Property Centre
UK
U
UK
W
+44 (0)845 026 1067
www.wholeworldofproperty.com
Universal Vacation
Realty Ltd
Windrush Alliance Ltd
+44 (0)1202 258693
The Turkish Property Centre
- TTPC Insaat Emlak Turizm
Ticaret Ltd Sti
www.sundirectgroup.com
Turkey
Cyprus
+44 (0)203 411 8590
+90 252 313 3536
+44 (0)1889 568967
www.windrushalliance.com
www.ttpclimited.com
www.univac.com
The Worldwide Property
Group Ltd
UV10 LLC
World Abodes - Ishik
Consulting Ltd
UK
UK
UK
+44 (0)845 643 1036
+44 (0)1708 545 548
www.uv10.com
www.worldabodes.com
UK
Sun Lifestyles (UK) Ltd
UK
+44 (0)1993 700318
www.sunlifestyles.co.uk
Suncroft Overseas Property F +44 (0)1235 553 569
UK
www.w-wideproperty.com
+44 (0)1245 505853
www.suncroft.com
TM Real Estate Group Torrevinas SL
V
UK
Worldwide Investments Universal Marketing Ltd
V.F.I. Overseas Properties
Real Estate Agent Ltd
UK
Spain
+34 965 71 20 11
Italy
www.worldwideinvestments.co.uk
Tenerife Royale Estate
Agents SL
www.tmgrupoinmobiliario.com
+44 (0)208 0995761
Spain
+34 922 788 305
Topmarks Overseas
Property Ltd
www.teneriferoyale.com
UK
T
Terra Online
www.vfioverseasproperty.com
Worldwide Property
Shop Ltd
Bahamas
+44 (0)23 9259 7001
Valdana Imobiliaria Valdemar Marcalo Santos
Mediacao Imobiliaria LDA
www.topmarksoverseasproperty.com
Portugal
St Lucia
+1758 485 7400
www.terrastlucia.com
+351 289 5155 17
www.worldwidepropertyshopltd.com
Z
www.valdanaimobiliaria.pt
UK
Germany
www.zabel.de
Zabel Immobilien KG
The Abroad Group Ltd
+44 (0)1424 205 417
UK
www.triniti.co.uk
UK
+44 (0)870 7000 445
The Florida Consultancy
- Susandrew Ltd F
+1 242 376 8010
Triniti Business Property
Strategies
Villauno - Martins Property
Service Ltd
www.propsabroad.com
+44 (0)845 833 4725
+49 30 52 00 97 00
+44 (0)1708 520 000
Turkish Connextions
www.villauno.com
Zerin Properties
UK
Malaysia
+44 (0)1772 735151
+603 2092 2008
www.turkishconnextions.co.uk
www.zerinproperties.com
USA
+1 941 309 5140
www.floridaconsultancy.com
F
Founder Member
10/9/10 12:58:42
ASSOCIATE MEMBERS
FINANCE
Banco Santander Totta SA
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UK
+357 238 11788
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Currency UK Ltd
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Chlorakiotis & Floraki LLC
UK
RMC International Ltd F
UK
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+44 (0)20 7738 0777
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+44 (0)20 7960 6026
00357 2693 4300
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0845 195 0002
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www.kyprianou.com.cy
+44 (0)1736 335250
+351 289 399 963
www.torfx.com
www.alexandrapereira.com
The International Property
Law Centre LLP
Trafalgar Square
Overseas Ltd
Birchall Blackburn LLP
UK
UK
+44 (0)1482 224900
UK
+44 (0)161 236 0662
www.internationalpropertylaw.com
Ireland FX Ltd
+44 (0)208 870 8787
www.bboverseas.co.uk
UK
www.trafalgarsqoverseas.co.uk
First Rate FX Ltd
UK
HiFX Plc F
Michael Kyprianou & Co
UK
+44 (0)1753 859159
www.hifx.co.uk
Cyprus
+357 269 30 800
+44 (0)2890 998 578
www.irelandfx.com
F
Founder Member
10/9/10 12:58:43
MARKETING
MEDIA
SERVICES
Ash Communications Ash Associates
Communications Ltd F
A Place in the Sun APITS Ltd
OPP Media Ltd
UK
Intasure - Blenheim
Park Ltd
UK
+44 (0)208 439 9496
UK
UK
+44 (0)203 207 2920
www.opp.org.uk
+44 (0)845 111 0680
+44 (0)20 7925 1714
www.aplaceinthesun.com
www.intasure.com
Premier Exhibitions Ltd
www.ashcommunications.com
Daily Mail Ltd F
UK
Duplex Real Estate Branding
- DPLX Ltd
UK
+44 (0)191 520 4366
OPJ - Estate Agency
Personnel Ltd
+44 (0)20 7938 6000
www.premier-exhibitions.co.uk
UK
Malta
www.dailymail.co.uk
www.duplexmalta.com
+44 (0)20 7540 5353
Property Investor Media Ltd
+356 9947 4281
Kyero.com - Portal47 Ltd
www.overseaspropertyjobs.com
UK
Property Tax
International Ltd
Spain
+44 (0)20 8877 0610
Intelligent Partnership The Intelligent Partnership
(UK) Ltd
+34 917 905 432
www.propertyinvestor.co.uk
UK
+44(0)845 3628486
LandOrProperty.com Destra Software Ltd
www.intelligent-partnership.com
UK
+44 (0)1908 308538
Survey Spain SL
+44 (0)787 052 3797
www.rightmoveoverseas.co.uk
Spain
Ireland
www.kyero.com
Rightmove Overseas Rightmove Group Ltd
+353 1635 3722
www.ptireturns.com
UK
Onplan Marketing CCA 3D Ltd
www.landorproperty.com
UK
+44 (0)1932 841999
Magnolia Properties Property Web Solutions Ltd
www.onplanmarketing.com
UK
- Wyndham Worldwide Plc
+44 (0)844 745 1990
UK
www.magnoliaproperties.co.uk
+44 (0)208 762 6681
Tideway
Communications Ltd F
+34 952 923 520
www.surveyspain.com
www.theregistrycollection.com
UK
+44 (0)20 8878 0787
Wincham Investments Ltd
www.tidewaypr.com
UK
+44 (0)1260 299 700
www.winchamiht.com
Visit www.aipp.org.uk for a fully up-to-date list of AIPP members
F
Founder Member
10/9/10 12:58:49
AIPP • MEMBER PROFILE INDEX
AIPP MEMBER
PROFILE INDEX
Need more help with your property purchase?
We’ve given our members a chance to tell you more...
Brazil
Grup Immobiliari Natal Brasil (p49)
SPC Overseas (p53)
Two Summers (p55)
uv10 (p55)
Cape Verde
Spain, inc. Canary Islands
myspanishproperties.com (p51)
Sapphire Properties York (p52)
Tenerife Royale Estate Agents (p54)
Thailand
Iguana Company Limited (p50)
Two Summers (p55)
Cyprus
clickbuycyprus.com (p48)
Two Summers (p55)
Egypt
Orbit Alliance (p51)
Florida, USA
Coldwell Banker Feltrim (p48)
The Florida Consultancy Group (p54)
Greece, inc. Crete
Crete Imperial Homes (p48)
Snobby Homes (p53)
Two Summers (p55)
Italy
Windrush Alliance (p55)
Turkey
Black Lion Property Services (p48)
Derin & Derin (p49)
Didim Sun Properties (p49)
Landmark Properties International (p50)
Mecitoglu Homes (p50)
Oracle Property Developers (p51)
Redd Construction Group (p52)
Romance of Turkey (p52)
Spot Blue Overseas Property (p53)
Turkish Connextions (p54)
Worldwide
Property Frontiers (p52)
Other services
A Place in the Sun (p56)
Chebsey Law Limited (p56)
Intasure (p56)
Rightmove Overseas (p57)
The Registry Collection (p57)
Portugal, inc. Madeira
Morgan Forbes (p51)
10/9/10 12:58:56
AIPP • MEMBER PROFILES
Black Lion Property Services
Coldwell Banker Feltrim
Yaliboyu Mah. 3 Nolu Sok. No. 7
07960 Kalkan, Antalya, Turkey
Tel: 0871 9902077 & +90 (0)242 8441345
Web: www.2blacklions.com
116 Polo Park East Blvd,
Davenport, FL 33897, USA
Tel: USA +1 863 353 0011 or UK +44 (0)1270 219549
Web: www.cbfeltrim.com
Who we are
Who we are
BLACK LION is a specialist Anglo/Turkish real estate agency based in the
pretty harbour town of Kalkan on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast. Kalkan with
its beautiful mountain backdrop, stunning sea views and cosmopolitan
atmosphere, is one of Turkey’s best kept secrets, attracting upper market
tourism throughout the summer months from European holiday-makers.
As specialists for Kalkan property since 2001, we are Kalkan’s leading estate
agency, and best-placed to assist you in your property search, whether you
are looking for a holiday home, property investment or retirement home.
Please contact Bridget or view our website for further details.
Established in 1999, Coldwell Banker Feltrim is headquartered in Central
Florida and is one of the 3,500 individually owned Coldwell Banker offices
in North America. All of our sales professionals are fully licenced realtors with
the necessary credentials and training to ensure that we provide the most
comprehensive service in a non-pressurised environment.
The first stop for every purchaser or seller of property in Central Florida
should be Coldwell Banker Feltrim because of our professionalism, service
levels and local knowledge. Also our established reputation underlines that
we strive for “total client confidence” at all times. We look forward to being
of service.
Each office is independently owned and operated
Key market covered
• Turkey
Key market covered
• Central Florida
Paradise Marketing (Robinson) Ltd
Crete Imperial Homes
PO Box 60137, Paphos 8100, Cyprus
Tel: +357 26271793
Web: www.clickbuycyprus.com
Contact: Geoff Robinson
Carriageways, High Street, Bildeston,
Ipswich, Suffolk, IP7 7EX, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1449 740128 or +44 (0)7904 334506
Email: [email protected] Web: www.creteimperialhomes.com
Contact: Chris Smith
Who we are
Who we are
Based in Paphos offering a wide range of properties in Southern Cyprus,
from land, commercial property and businesses, off-plan, bespoke, turnkey
and resales. The developers we use are reputable, family orientated, reliable
companies offering guaranteed title deeds and resales with title deeds.
The lawyers we recommend are AIPP approved. We also have a mortgage
consultant, offering our clients a comprehensive service to give peace of
mind throughout the buying process and after-sales service.
We at Crete Imperial Homes are a family run business, specialising in helping
you build a new house or villa, buy a plot of land, find a holiday home, and
make your dream property in Crete come true.
We have a beautiful home in Metoxi, Maleme, built by the very architect
and builders we work with today. So we know, firsthand, that our services can
be of help to you.
We are passionate about Crete and are confident that we can work with
you to realise your vision within a realistic budget.
Key market covered
• Cyprus
Key market covered
• Western Crete
048-057 Member Profiles AIPP10.i48 48
8/9/10 12:04:48
Derin & Derin
Didim Sun Properties
Fener Mah, Falez cad, No:44/5, Antalya, 7160, Turkey
Tel: +90 537 799 44 48 or +90 242 324 82 84
Tel UK: 0871 711 8990
Web: www.derinandderin.com
Efeler Mahallesi, Ege Caddesi No 112a,
Didim, 09270, Aydin, Turkey
Tel: UK +44 (0)207 193 3584, Turkey +90 256 813 4303
Email: [email protected] Web: www.didimsun.com
Contact: Kelly Macfarlane BSc(Hons) MPA
Who we are
Who we are
Derin & Derin is an Australian/Turkish company based in Antalya and
Kusadasi. We offer a wide range of properties and the most extensive and
diverse ranges of before & after-sale services in the country. Turkey is one of
the most beautiful countries in the world. It has a dramatic coastline edged
by deep blue sea and surrounded by spectacular countryside. We have been
recommending this impressive region to our customers for many years now
and they return to us time and time again. So come and see us, let us be your
guides and friends, helping you every step of the way as we introduce you
to the experience of Turkey.
Didim Sun Properties is an award winning, independent, ethical real estate
agency based in Turkey. The company owners are bi-lingual British Turks who
manage the business - offering a professional, customer-focussed service.
The company was appointed title of Best Agent (medium size) in the AIPP
Awards 2010.
The company aim is “to provide complete peace of mind, before, during
and after the sales process” - a tall order that we take very seriously.
Products range from £18,000 to £250,000 and no matter what the
budget, clients will receive the same quality of service and attention to detail.
Key market covered
Key market covered
• Turkey
• Turkey
Grup Immobiliari Natal Brasil
Avenida Praia de Ponta Negra 9176, Ponta Negra, Natal/RN, 52092-100, Brasil
Tel: +55 84 32194135
Email: [email protected], [email protected]
Web: www.grupnatalbrasil.com
Key contacts: John Broad (+55 84 9942 0267), Bella Petersen (+55 84 9981 9464)
Who we are
Grup Immobiliari Natal Brasil, winner of the AIPP Best Developer for the Americas award, is
a group of companies whose focus is on sustainable real estate investments and development
in Natal in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, Brasil. Different companies within the group
handle land purchases and rezoning, project management, project development and
marketing, local and international sales, property furnishings, rental management and
property management. With over 20 years of experience in Real Estate investments our
core business is the development and sale of residential developments. Our target markets
are low, medium and high income Brazilian families looking for a primary residence, overseas
investors and purchasers of holiday homes in Brazil.
Why us
We are a solid and professional company with highly experienced and multi-lingual (English,
Portuguese, Spanish, German, French, Dutch and Catalá) staff who can offer sound investment
advice regarding property here, as well as excellent local knowledge. With Brazil’s burgeoning
middle class and its economy going from strength to strength, local demand guarantees an
excellent exit strategy.
Key market covered
• Brazil, for the local low and medium income families
“We provide an outstanding service to our
partners, investors and end-users in building
and selling real estate while improving
the standards of living of local low-income
Brazilian families.”
8/9/10 12:04:52
Iguana Company Limited
Landmark Properties International Ltd
306/54 Chateau Dale Complex, M.12 Thrappaya Rd.
Jomtien, Chonburi, 20150 Thailand
Tel: +66 (0)81 949 1680 or +66 (0)84 873 1117
Email: [email protected] Web: www.condo-for-sale-in-pattaya.com
Contact: Jery Jeritza or Richard Lynch (International Sales Managers)
3000 Cathedral Hill, Guildford,
Surrey, GU2 7YB, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1483 243633
Web: www.exclusivelyturkey.co.uk
Who we are
Who we are
Condominium and villa developer in Pattaya, Thailand with over 90 years
combined experience in the construction and development market in and
around Pattaya. We have completed five developments and have four more
under construction. We sell off-plan, partially constructed and completed
units starting from only one million Baht (£21,000). We have created some of
the best and most advanced investment opportunities seen in Pattaya.
If you are looking to diversify your portfolio with more international
locations Iguana Company is the one to choose. With prime locations in
Pattaya and Jomtien our company aims to ensure a return on investment and
a steady curve of increasing value to our customers by value of location as
well as style. With a proven track record it is hard to go wrong with Iguana.
In 2008 Landmark Properties International Ltd introduced the “Exclusively
Turkey” brand to focus on the Turkish property market offering key-ready,
land-and-build and resale properties. We partner fellow AIPP member
companies to offer legal and mortgage services for Turkey. We ensure we
have a full understanding of our clients’ criteria before introducing a range
of suitable properties. Our offices in Turkey tailor viewing trips around our
client requirements.
Clients choose us because we introduce them to respected developers with
a proven track record. We cover Turkey’s Aegean and Mediterranean coasts and
offer coastal, golf and countryside locations. Prices from £30,000 to over £1m.
Our aim is to provide a comprehensive, impartial and ethical service that
enables our clients to make a well informed buying decision.
Key market covered
• Thailand
Key market covered
• Turkey
Mecitoglu Homes
Kemer Mah. YSS Blv. 1613 Sok. No:3, Side Antalya, Turkey
Tel: +90 242 7533910 UK: 0800 0787007
Web: www.homeinturkey.com, www.mecitogluhomes.com
Contact: Ezgi Fitos (Architect & Head of Sales and Marketing)
Who we are
As the largest property developer in Side, Turkey, Mecitoglu Homes offers a range of prestigious
properties in Side and a reputation for market leading initiatives in areas such as professional
after sales and rental management services of properties.
By dealing with Mecitoglu Homes, you will be spoilt for choice amongst high quality property
in Turkey at stunning locations and extremely competitive prices. We aim to offer the highest
possible return on your property in Side, Turkey with our exceptional off-plan opportunities.
Why us
CNBC 5 star award winner, reliable and well known company with over 15 years of experience in
building and with over 30 years of experience in the building materials sector.
• Full after-sales service offered by the builder itself
• High quality of building materials & first class architecture
• Two year guarantee for our workmanship and materials. Major structural
defects guarantee for 15 years
• Subsidised inspection trips
Key market covered
• Turkey
“The greatest selection of prestigious developments
in Side Turkey. Live the perfect harmony of history &
nature at your home in Side whilst reaping returns on
your investment with our rental programme.”
8/9/10 12:04:55
Morgan Forbes
myspanishproperties.com
Avenida Arriaga n° 75, Conjunto Monumental Infante
3° Andar Sala 302, 9000 - 060 Funchal, Madeira
Tel: +351 291 001 000
Web: www.morganforbes.com
Tel: +34 966 762 960 or +34 689 162 912
Web: www.myspanishproperties.com
Contact: Margaret Young (Mags)
Who we are
Who we are
Morgan Forbes is an investment company based in Funchal, the capital of
Madeira. The company’s directors have a combined experience of over 50
years in the property and leisure sectors. Our aim is to ensure our clients
maximise their property portfolios and personal wealth. Our concept is
exclusive, seamless and affordable. Our performance, commitment, integrity
and attention to detail are unquestionable. We identify all costs to investors
from day one which ensures transparency, clarity and ultimately success all
round. Consistency and attention to detail ensures that all our clients have
access to relevant resources, keeping them informed on market trends and
relevant industry news.
myspanishproperties.com was created to bring back the feel-good factor
around the property business in Spain. Selling a house is not enough, it’s
about caring for clients before, during and after the purchase process.
Margaret Young has been selling houses in Spain for the last nine years
and has built up a reputation of being honest, fair and very reliable.
She works with local, national and international companies to ensure
the properties offered ‘For Sale’ are marketed to as wide a possible
audience around the world.
She works one-to-one with buyers across the Costa Blanca and Costa
Calida areas of Spain.
Key market covered
Key markets covered
• Madeira Island, Portugal
• Costa Blanca & Costa Calida, Spain
Oracle Property Developers
Orbit Alliance
Ataturk Bulvari, No233/1, Altinkum, Didim, Turkey
Tel: +90 256 813 2470 Fax: +90 256 813 3641
Web: www.oracleproperties.co.uk
Contact: Izzet Donmez (MD)
The Seedbed Centre, Vanguard Way,
Shoeburyness, Essex SS3 9QY, UK
Tel: +44 (0)870 423 5633
Web: www.orbitalliance.com
Who we are
Who we are
Oracle Property Developers is an established British/Turkish company for over
25 years, and we now have over 1200 satisfied British customers who have
purchased their properties. We offer full rental management and excellent
after-sales service with our in-house company Oracle Travel providing
customers with all the services they need ranging from airport transfers,
rent-a-car, flight tickets and exchanging money.
The company has a wide range of freehold property choices, from
apartments, holiday complexes and retirement homes to luxurious detached
villas, golf villas and apartments, all within a reasonable price range. We are
the largest landowner in the area.
Orbit Alliance are the master selling agent for the developments constructed
by the Orbit Group of companies. The group’s main ethos is to deliver the
best quality products in the very best locations. The Orbit Group’s latest
hotel development is located in the Golden Mile, Hurghada, Egypt. Samra
Bay Marina & Spa Resort will be the group’s fifth completed development
and third five star hotel resort. It will contain a mixture of residential and
hotel investment properties with fixed periods of guaranteed returns.
To view our current portfolio and previously completed developments
please see our website.
Key market covered
Key markets covered
• Egypt
Only operating in Turkish resorts of Akbuk • Altinkum • Bodrum • Kusadasi
10/9/10 12:51:43
Property Frontiers Ltd
Redd Construction Group
Frontiers House, 102 - 104 St. Aldates
Oxford, OX1 1BT, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1865 202700
Web: www.propertyfrontiers.com
Ataturk Blv. 22/7, Didim-Aydin, 09270, Turkey
Tel UK: 0871 990 3536
Tel Turkey: +90 256 8136750, Fax: +90 256 8136751
Email: [email protected], Web: www.reddconstruction.com
Contact: Rachel Basar
Who we are
Who we are
Property Frontiers is the UK’s leading property investment agency, dedicated
to supporting investors in the global property market. For our clients,
we analyse, identify and select the most attractive property investment
opportunities around the world. At the same time, we use our unique in-house
research and analysis capabilities to provide informative and educational
commentary on the international property market. We support our clients at
all stages of the investment process, helping them create portfolios that best
suit their objectives.
An unparalleled network of partners gives us expert intelligence about
global market trends and new opportunities. Property Frontiers is unique in
providing a property focused, client-centred wealth management solution.
We are a British/Turkish overseas property development company operating
in Turkey. We have been designing and building excellent properties for
hundreds of British clients whose dream was to own a property in Turkey.
We build unique, high-quality holiday and investment properties.
Our key activities include land acquisition, planning, architecture, design,
build management, sales & marketing and after-sales services. We conduct
our business with honesty and transparency. We do not make wild claims
about our development properties nor do we inflate the potential returns
on our investment products. We simply report the facts.
Contact us to find out more.
Key markets covered
Key markets covered
• Turkish Aegean & Mediterranean coastline
• Global; wherever the best investment opportunities lie, including Turkey,
Grenada, USA, Brazil, Eco-investments, UK (Student Accommodation)
Romance of Turkey Ltd
Sapphire Properties York SL
First Point, Buckingham Gate, London Gatwick Airport
West Sussex RH6 0NT, UK
Tel: UK 0800 999 8866 or Turkey +90 (0)242 513 2880
Email: [email protected] Web: www.romanceofturkey.co.uk
Contact: Len Orford, Sue Gardiner, Louise Acar
Apdo 1155 Ciudad Quesada,
03170 Rojales, Alicante, Spain
Tel: UK 0845 388 0051 Spain +34 965 725 478/ 966 718 507
Web: www.sapphireproperties.co.uk
Who we are
Who we are
ROMANCE OF TURKEY are independent property consultants specialising in
properties throughout Turkey. We are the only wholly British-owned real estate
agency based in Alanya on the Turkish Mediterranean. Romance of Turkey
covers the Mediterranean coast from the beautiful town of Alanya, through
Side, Belek to the city of Antalya and works closely with our two partner
companies who cover the coast from Antalya through to Kusadasi.
The UK operation is based at Gatwick Airport and our Turkish operation
is based in Alanya. We operate through our own direct involvement and an
accredited network of professional agents throughout the UK & Europe.
Sapphire Properties is owned and run by Allan and Angie Nicholls. We have
been living and working in Spain as property consultants for over ten years,
during which we have built a second-to-none knowledge and experience
both of the area and of properties in the Costa Blanca, Costa Calida and
Murcia regions. We are totally independent consultants and have an extensive
portfolio of both new and resale properties.
So whether you are looking for a coastal, rural or golf course property,
for holidays, investment or permanent living, we can find you the ideal
home. With one-to-one personalised no-pressure viewing visits and a fully
comprehensive after-sales service - including regular progress reports and
photographs - we offer an unparalleled professional, yet personal service.
Key market covered
• Turkey
Key market covered
• Spain
8/9/10 12:05:00
Snobby Homes
Spot Blue Overseas Property Ltd
73006 Kolimbari
Crete, Greece
Tel: +30 28240 83097
Web: www.snobbyhomes.co.uk
Link House, 140 Broadway,
Surbiton, KT6 7HT, UK
Tel: +44 (0)20 8339 6036
Web: www.spotblue.co.uk
Who we are
Who we are
Snobbys are the best value new-build detached houses you’ll find in Crete.
We only build in the region of Kolimbari, western Crete with just a handful of
homes on each development. Snobbys are traditionally styled with beamed
ceilings, stone features, pantiled roof, spacious private walled garden – an
amazing specification and the price includes all purchase costs and legal
fees too. With prices from €99,000, you cannot better a Snobby.
Don’t take our word for it. See what Tommy Walsh – TV’s favourite builder
- has to say about us, in our See Snobby–See Crete DVD. Send for our
comprehensive Information Pack today!
Based in south-west London, we are a leading Anglo-Turkish estate agent
specialising and only selling property in Turkey. We have a network of offices
in all the main locations in Turkey and because of our extensive experience
and local Turkish knowledge, we offer serious buyers honest, unbiased advice
and a complete range of properties, whatever their budget. We have a fully
protected independent legal purchasing package and ensure all our clients
have a secure and trouble-free buying process in Turkey.
Key market covered
• Turkey
Key market covered
• Western Crete, Greece
SPC Overseas
Plaza Los Faroles 2, Planta 1, 29670 Malaga, Spain
Tel: +34 952 853054, or UK 0844 5982929
Web: www.spc-overseas.com
Contact: Anthony Fernandes
Who we are
I’m Anthony Fernandes, founder of SPC Overseas. I remember making my first investment in
Brazil, full of anticipation and expectation. Let’s say I learned the hard way and things could
have been easier! My mission is to ensure that you have a superior property buying experience
from the outset and that you are fully aware of all the pitfalls as well as the benefits of
investing in Brazilian property. We have become a specialist Brazil property company; we
offer investors assistance with inspection visits and have professional partners covering
all aspects of property, visa, legal and taxation matters.
Why us
We are regular visitors to Brazil and know our stuff. We won’t try to sell you anything, instead we
provide you with the opportunity to make smart investment decisions. If you want an easy to
understand, plain speaking explanation on investing in Brazil, feel free to talk with us.
Key market covered
• Brazil
“Don’t buy property in Brazil, until you read
our comprehensive market report.”
8/9/10 12:05:03
Turkish Connextions
Tenerife Royale Estate Agents S.L.
Aegean House, 418 Blackpool Road, Preston, Lancs, PR2 2DX, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1772 735151 N. Ireland +44 (0)289 085 2293 or
Turkey +90 (0)256 813 5056
Email: [email protected] Web: www.turkishconnextions.co.uk
Contact: Jayne Schofield
Centro Comercial Vistaur, Local B35, Avenida Las Americas 10
Playa de Las Americas, 38660, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
Tel: +34 92 788 305
Web: www.teneriferoyale.com
Who we are
Who we are
Turkish Connextions Estate Agency and Construction Company is a fully
licensed company both in the UK and Turkey, and now operates out of
Northern Ireland. The company has been established since 2002 and still
continues to provide its customers with an excellent sales and comprehensive
after-sales service.
Our property portfolio covers all the regions of Turkey, from the
Mediterranean to the Aegean. Whether you want a holiday home, or wish to
make Turkey your new home; whether you want an apartment or a villa, our
experienced staff are on hand to help.
Turkey remains one of the top hotspots, so why not book one of our
specially-tailored one-to-one viewing trips?
Tenerife Royale Estate Agents S.L. is one of the leading independent
estate agents in Tenerife, marketing freehold residential, land and
commercial property to an international customer base. We are not
tied to any developer or chain which means we offer impartial advice
and opinions on all property matters. Our comprehensive service
includes arrangement of inspection visits through to independent
legal advice, financial, property management and post-sale, on-going
support and advice.
Key market covered
• Tenerife, Spain
Key market covered
• Turkey
The Florida Consultancy Group
UK address: 268 Bath Road, Slough, SL1 4DX
Tel: +44 (0)1753 728625
USA address: 1990 Main Street, Suite 750, Sarasota, Florida 34236
Tel: +1 941 302 2151
Email: [email protected] Web: www.floridaconsultancy.com
Who we are
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Real-estate consultants licensed by the State of Florida
Based in south-west Florida on the Gulf Coast
Specialise in working with foreign nationals
Help buy or sell homes, businesses and investments
Manage legal process through to completion
Assist with mortgages, insurance, foreign exchange, legal and management matters
Manage investment funds aimed at capital appreciation from real estate
Why us
•
•
•
•
Qualified, licensed, professional, experienced real-estate consultants
Experienced investors in real estate in the US and UK
Understand differences in systems between Florida and the UK
Detailed knowledge of real-estate market on Florida’s Gulf Coast
Key market covered
• Florida
“Please feel free to contact us for an informal
chat about your property needs in south-west
Florida. You will find that we are knowledgeable,
friendly and able to assist in many ways to fulfil
your dream of owning a Florida home.”
8/9/10 12:05:06
Visit us
online at
5XP4VNNFST
for your dream home abroad
coupled with sound investment
International Property Ownership
Two Summers Ltd
Ashley House, 46 Gloucester Road
Almondsbury, Bristol, BS32 4HA, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1454 615683
Web: www.twosummers.co.uk
www.aipp.org.uk or www.aipp.ie
Whether you are a buyer or from the industry visit our website
to find the most up-to-date list of AIPP Members plus the
latest news and research about the overseas property market
Who we are
Two Summers Ltd was established in July 2004 by Geoff Pike. Geoff’s
background is financial services with over 36 years’ experience. As a result
one of Two Summers’ strong points is that it is able to discuss the financial
aspects of a purchase, including mortgage requirements. Two Summers is
based in Bristol and will shortly be opening an office in Limassol, Cyprus.
To support their foray into the Brazilian market, maybe in readiness for the
next World Cup, to be held in Brazil, Two Summers now has Brazilian staff to
assist with translation, and to give local knowledge.
Key markets covered
• Greece • Cape Verde • Cyprus • Brazil
The industry body. The industry voice. The industry standard.
uv10
Windrush Alliance Ltd
145-157 St John Street
London, EC1V 4PY, UK
Tel: +44 (0)845 643 1036
Web: www.uv10.com
1-5 Lillie Road, London SW6 1TX, UK
Tel: +44 (0)203 411 8590
Web: www.windrushalliance.com
Who we are
Who we are
Winner of ‘Best Small Agent 2010’ in the AIPP Awards, uv10 is a Brazil
property specialist with extensive connections in the northeast, especially
Natal and the resort of Pipa. As investors into the country, uv10 has an
unparalleled knowledge of the buying process and the best areas to invest
in at any given time. uv10 encourages potential investors to look not only
at the glorious beachfront holiday home opportunities, many exclusive to
the company, but also to consider the booming domestic market driven by
an acute housing shortage of 8 million homes. A global power of the future,
Brazil currently has the eighth largest economy in the world and the World
Bank has predicted that it will boast the fifth largest when its Olympic Games
open in 2016.
Windrush Alliance is one of Europe’s leading international property investment
companies specialising in new and resale property and has identified the Italian
market, especially the southern region of Calabria, as an outstanding investment
and lifestyle choice.
Our aim is to deliver excellent long term returns on your investment by
selecting property developments in the most desirable locations. Windrush
uses an innovative and unique approach to the overseas property market which
focuses on exceptional customer service and product innovation, backed up by
the fact that we only use the most reputable builders & developers who have
been fully certified by our in-house legal department. Furthermore we pride
ourselves in offering a full unique service from beginning to end, which is why we
work closely with our Italian Partners, Apple Consulting. They currently specialise
in all aspects of the aftersales process.
Key market covered
• Brazil
Key market covered
• Italy
8/9/10 12:05:08
AIPP • ASSOCIATE MEMBER PROFILES
APITS Ltd
16 Winchester Walk, London, SE1 9AQ, UK
Tel: +44 (0)20 3207 2920
Web: www.aplaceinthesun.com
MAKING THE MOST OF OVERSEAS PROPERTY
A Place in the Sun magazine | A Place in the Sun Live exhibitions | aplaceinthesun.com
Who we are
A Place in the Sun first aired on Channel 4 in 2000, helping to drive popularity of owning a
home overseas. It has since spawned the UK’s best-selling overseas property magazine, the
best-attended overseas property exhibitions and more recently the website aplaceinthesun.com
Why us
A Place in the Sun magazine packed full of properties for all budgets, expert advice, in-depth
country features and columns from the television presenters Amanda Lamb, Jasmine Harman
and Jonnie Irwin.
A Place in the Sun Live the perfect place to view thousands of properties from over 40 countries around the world. With free seminars and the chance to quiz the stars of the TV show, it’s
the perfect place to research your overseas home.
aplaceinthesun.com search thousands of properties for sale around the world, receive daily
news on overseas properties and read country guides and expert buying advice on mortgages,
investment, currency, emigration, retirement, tax and legal issues.
Key markets covered
• Worldwide
“A Place in the Sun is the UK’s best-known
overseas property media brand, helping UK buyers
to purchase their dream home overseas.”
Chebsey Law Limited
Intasure
51 London End,
Beaconsfield, Bucks, HP9 2HW, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1494 670440
Web: www.chebsey.com
Suffolk House, George Street,
Croydon, CR0 1PE, UK
Tel: +44 (0)845 111 0680
Web: www.intasure.com
Who we are
Who we are
UK solicitors with five offices who also specialise in all aspects of Spanish
law including property, litigation, probate and small businesses. As UK
solicitors we are regulated by the higher standards required by the Solicitors
Regulation Authority. We have also gained Lexcel practice management
standard, which is only awarded to solicitors who meet the highest
management and customer-care standards.
In the Spanish department we have both Spanish lawyers who understand
UK law and English lawyers who have studied Spanish law in Spain. All lawyers
in the Spanish department have over 15 years experience dealing with Spain.
Intasure is a niche market insurer of homes and holiday homes overseas
and in the UK. Intasure has years of experience in the insurance industry
and an enviable track record in creating new products to meet the needs
of specialist markets. Intasure is building a significant international brand
by offering a range of innovative insurance products and services that
combine locally-tailored cover with the highest standards of UK knowledge
and support. Intasure can now cover more than 40 different countries. Our
products combine flexibility with comprehensive cover and the reassurance
of being underwritten by Lloyds of London and other international insurers.
All policy documents are in English and clients talk directly to a UK-based
English-speaking support team.
Key markets covered
• Spain • UK
Key markets covered
• Worldwide
8/9/10 12:05:12
AIPP • ASSOCIATE MEMBER PROFILES
Rightmove Overseas
Grafton Court, Snowdon Drive
Winterhill, Milton Keynes, MK6 1AJ, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1908 308532
Web: www.rightmove.co.uk/overseas
Who we are
Part of the UK’s number one property website*, Rightmove Overseas is one of the most
visited sites in the UK for people buying abroad, investing in overseas property or looking
to buy a holiday home. Rightmove’s massive audience (*according to Hitwise, Rightmove
has more traffic than all the other property related sites in the UK put together) offers
advertisers huge market exposure, averaging 1.6 million searches a month for overseas
property. Our site has powerful selling tools to help your properties and brand stand out
from the crowd and our buyers club and email campaigns help you reach serious buyers.
Why us
Listings include instant online access to manage your properties and leads and unlimited
photographs. There are no hidden charges or commissions and our support is free. Great
discounts are available if you have lots of properties or need more time. Pay in advance
to get our best prices!
Key markets covered
• Spain • France • USA • Italy • Portugal • Cyprus • Greece • Turkey • Australasia
• Caribbean • South America • North Africa
“Our rates and packages are flexible to match
your needs and budget. We want to work with you
to help you sell your property online.”
Kettering Parkway, Kettering, Northants, NN15 6EY, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1536 314462
Web: www.theregistrycollection.com
Contact: Nick Turner
Who we are
Arcos Gardens Golf Club &
Country Estate in Cadiz, Spain
The Registry Collection provides developers of high-end fractional residential leisure properties
with exclusive membership services to offer to purchasers, giving their product greater value
and advantage.
The Registry Collection pioneered fractional property exchange on its US launch in 2001. It
went global in 2004 with an affiliated property network across Europe and South Africa. Giving
fractional owners the opportunity to exchange stays in other properties of the same high quality
around the world lies at the heart of the programme. Members of The Registry Collection also
enjoy other exclusive benefits such as 24/7 concierge services.
We offer developers
• The world’s largest fractional exchange network with more than 175 fractional properties
globally, either available for exchange or under development
• Guidance every step of the way, from site selection and feasibility studies to operation
• The widest variety of extraordinary experiences, exclusive destinations and superlative
quality holidays to offer to the purchasers and owners of fractional properties.
Key markets covered
• Worldwide
8/9/10 12:05:14
AIPP • TEN THINGS YOU SHOULD NEVER DO
TEN THINGS
YOU SHOULD
1
NEVER DO WHEN BUYING ABROAD
Use a lawyer who’s also working for, or has a close relationship
with, the agent or developer. Not only is it vital to use a lawyer, but make
sure the one you choose is independent and has no conflict of interest with the
agent or developer from whom you are buying.
2
Confuse a lawyer with a notary. Easily done, as notaries aren’t part of the
3
Sign a contract without independent legal advice. This is especially
crucial when buying an off-plan property and during inspection trips, when you
might feel pressured into signing something. A good lawyer will always be available
by email/fax to check a contract.
4
Rely on something unless it’s in the contract. Rental guarantees,
5
Turn a blind eye to additional buying costs. In some
countries taxes and fees can add another 15% on top of the
purchase price – bear this in mind when budgeting.
6
conveyancing process in the UK whilst in most popular overseas destinations they
must, by law, rubber-stamp all property transactions.
in particular, are often promised verbally but strangely absent from the
contract. Ensure your contract is watertight.
Ignore the effect of fluctuating exchange rates.
Remember, the buying power off your Pound decreases or increases
as the value of the Euro or Dollar fluctuates.
7
Overstretch your finances. It’s a dangerous strategy to rely solely on
8
Ignore the local taxation system. Get advice about your tax obligations
9
Under-declare the purchase price. It was common practice on the
Continent and some locals still consider it acceptable BUT don’t be tempted
– it’s fraud and could land you behind bars.
10
Let your heart rule your head. The vast majority of overseas property
rental income to cover your monthly mortgage repayments. Always have
funds in reserve.
and never assume things are done the same as in the UK, especially when it
comes to inheritance issues.
purchases run smoothly, but your dream property could soon turn into a
nightmare if you fail to do your research and safeguard your own interests
from the outset.
058 Pitfalls AIPP10.indd 58
7/9/10 13:05:18
For a full and updated list of
AIPP members, or for more
information about the work
of AIPP, visit our website:
www.aipp.org.uk
059 IBC Quote AIPP10.indd 2
7/9/10 13:07:17
Property Professionals is a trade
association for the international
property industry.
AIPP is a not-for-profit organisation
and does not sell property.
The industry body.
The industry voice.
The industry standard.
Association of International Property Professionals Ltd
St Clements House, 27-28 Clements Lane, London EC4N 7AE
Tel: +44 (0)20 3207 9095
Fax: +44 (0)20 3207 9182
Web: www.aipp.org.uk & www.aipp.ie
UK Company Number: 5677417
060 Back Cover AIPP10.indd 1
7/9/10 18:45:00

WHAT TO BUY - Association of International Property Professionals

Transcription

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