The UK property market is in much upheaval and with so many doom and gloom articles, what are the facts? Truth is house prices have dropped for the fourth consecutive month this January, interest rates have been cut and mortgage providers are stricter than ever. For the average boffin, the property market is not looking great, but for shrewd investors - and even first time buyers - it might not be so bad after all.

Increased demand pushes rent prices up 10%

First things first, what are the experts saying about buy-to-let? Well nothing is for certain, however there are a few facts we can rely on. 86% of current investors intend to either expand or keep their portfolios the same. The majority are in no rush to sell and although money may be tight, long term prospects remain strong.

Halifax figures show that there are fewer potential first time buyers in the marketplace, and those who are seeking mortgages are finding it increasingly difficult (providers have tightened their criteria and most have now stopped 100% mortgage deals). This has led to an increasing demand for rental properties and, most interesting to investors, average rents in the UK increased by 10% in October 2007 compared with the previous year. As the Independent reports - the buy-to-let market may just ‘defy gloom’ yet.

Repossession woes mean opportunities for first time buyers

Secondly, although buying property is increasingly difficult, there is hope that falling prices will attract people who have until now being priced out of the market. It won’t be easy though, as mortgage providers are now asking struggling first time buyers for a 10% deposit on all properties.

Still, despite rising rates the Guardian has reported that there has already been some interest from first time buyers at auctions. ‘One man’s loss is another man’s gain’ seems to be an apt description for the UK property market at present - as more people with 100% mortgage deals will struggle to find replacements for their current term when it runs out. Increasing repossessions mean more auction properties and it’s great news for first time buyers as this number is set to increase still further.

Property market clouds with a silver lining

Admittedly it is a difficult time for the UK property market: The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has reported the fastest falling house prices since 1992, and Instant Access Group suggests that prices won’t pick up until 2009 (as reported on Bloomberg).

With the housing market in tatters, buying property now is not for the faint-hearted. However, where there’s a will, there’s a way - this so-called crash could just work out for serious investors with money to burn, or for the braver of first time buyers with the cash for that dreaded 10% deposit.

Water. Cleveland, Ohio, is all about water. Situated on Lake Erie at the mouth of the Cuyahoga River, water defines the city. The lavish fresh water supply supports both industry and residential growth and the waterfronts offer endless opportunities for outdoor recreation.

The city of Cleveland lies in the center of the 16^th largest metropolitan area in the United States, at the heart of one of the most heavily populated regions in the country. It has been a giant of industry, and it has taken its share of knocks too. After two centuries of innovation and change, Cleveland now is recreating itself as a “community of connections.”

From tiny settlement to big city - a brief history of Cleveland

In 1796, General Moses Cleaveland surveyed the townsite at the mouth of the Cuyahoga River. One year later, the settlement celebrated its first wedding and its first birth. The community grew slowly; in 1820, fewer than 700 people called the town home. However, with the completion of the Ohio and Erie Canal in 1832, the population exploded, jumping from just over 1,000 residents in 1830 to around 6,000 in 1840 and by 1850, more than 17,000 people resided in Cleveland, Ohio. The years following the Civil War saw the introduction of major industry in the city: the Cleveland Rolling Mills produced its first Bessemer Steel in 1868; Standard Oil Co. and Sherwin Williams Co. opened early in 1870. By 1900, Cleveland was the seventh largest city in the United States.

A melting pot of industry, sports, art and technology

Today, Cleveland is an industrial city experiencing something of a rebirth and the population of Cleveland’s downtown is growing rapidly. Professional sports teams flourish here, including the Cleveland Indians (baseball), Cleveland Cavaliers (basketball), and Cleveland Browns (football).

The arts too are very much alive in the city: the Cleveland International Film Festival screens hundreds of independent films each March; the Mayor’s “Our City, Our Arts” initiative encourages visual artists to display their work in the Cleveland City Hall Rotunda and Gallery and invites performing artists to the Rotunda; the capital improvement plan includes public arts for buildings, parks and streetscapes.

The city also has plans to bring digital technology to every neighborhood through its Municipal Wireless Network Initiative so that visitors will enjoy access wherever they travel throughout the city.

Connecting Cleveland 2020 Citywide Plan - a strong vision for the future

The city’s Connecting Cleveland 2020 Citywide Plan proposes to make Cleveland a “city of choice” for residents and businesses alike. The plan envisions mixed-use, safe and healthy urban neighborhoods featuring high quality services. It also focuses on the city’s water resources, including Lake Erie, the Cuyahoga River, as well as its trails, parks and open spaces.

Economic development will build on the area’s existing assets in higher education and medical research: Case Western Reserve University is counted among the nation’s top 50 institutions of higher learning and the College of Urban Affairs at Cleveland State University is ranked among the top ten. Also, Cleveland Clinic is consistently ranked as the top cardiac care center in the nation and University Hospital is home to one of the nation’s leading pediatric hospitals.

What’s more, community members want to implement a green economic strategy that supports environmental sustainability. To this end, EcoCity Cleveland and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History are partnering to create a new Center for Regional Sustainability.

A city with a neighborhood for every taste

Cleveland’s unique neighborhoods offer something for every taste. Downtown is no longer just a place to work; people come to live and play as well. Shopping, arts, dining, and nightlife make this an attractive setting for many people.

Historic homes that once belonged to some of Cleveland’s wealthiest men; the Cleveland Cultural Gardens; and proximity to University Circle give the Glenville-Forest Hills neighborhood its personality.

North and South Collinwood is characterized by little streets and intimate neighborhoods that overlook the lake, creating an inviting community that has caught the attention of local artists.

St. Claire/Superior sits on 50 acres of lakefront land that makes Lake Erie accessible to boaters and fishing folk. The neighborhood includes a mix of styles that reflect the city’s history and cultural diversity. Asia Plaza offers some of the best authentic Chinese food and goods in Cleveland.

The 37^th largest country in the world, Turkey boasts the type of property prices you would have found in Spain 20 years ago, making it an excellent choice for investing. So, if you’re interested in exploring property opportunities here, where is best to look?

Dominic Whiting, editor of the Buying in Turkey Guide suggests the three hotspot places in Turkey you should be keeping an eye on this year: Dalaman, Bodrum and Cesme.

New Gatwick-Dalaman flight four times a week

Dalaman, on the southwest coast of Turkey, is one of the destinations that Easyjet will commence flying to from the end of March 2008. The service will run from Gatwick four times a week and is expected to boost both tourist numbers and property rental opportunities. New build properties in Dalaman start at about £44,000.

Bodrum - established, and particularly popular with the Brits

Bodrum is already an established tourist location and is one of the most popular areas for British property buyers. In fact, there are about 3,000 Brits already living there. This Turkish port is in the Mugla Province, on the Bodrum Peninsula and offers a good choice of properties. Bodrum has seen many new developments sprout up over the last few years, meaning there are many new property opportunities too. If you’re buying a new apartment, expect to pay from £60,000.

Cesme - for serious property investors or those looking for an authentic Turkish resort

On the west coast of Turkey lies the town of Cesme. It’s a popular place within Turkey, but has - so far - had little interest from foreign buyers. Nevertheless, Cesme’s property market has a real lot going for it. “The Cesme market has been red-hot thanks to strong demand from Turkish buyers, and this domestic popularity makes property in the area a good investment,” comments Dominic Whiting. “It’s also ideal for people who want to be in a real Turkish resort and not surrounded by foreign tourists.” A new apartment in Cesme would set you back about £68,000.

So, why Turkey?

It’s not only Dominic who thinks Turkish property could be a good buy. A feature published in the Telegraph last year, highlighted the county as an emerging property hotspot.

As a country, Turkey has over 300 days of sunshine a year, a great climate, heaps of history and a relaxed lifestyle. Predictions suggest 2008 may bring up to 25 million visitors to the country, which is positive news for investors. Other great reasons to consider Turkey include:

• The low cost of living. A beer costs about £1 and a bottle of water costs 40p.
• Capital growth. It’s been averaging at 21% for the last few years.
• New low cost flights. They’re sure to boost visitor numbers to the country.
• The great coastline. Turkey’s stunning beaches have a never-ending appeal with tourists.
• Government development plans. They’re helping to increase amenities and facilities for tourists.
• Planning controls. There are height limits on new builds, so you won’t unexpectedly find yourself in high rise hell.

So, if you’re planning to invest in overseas property in 2008, Turkey might very well be one of the countries you’ll want to look at for some very interesting property deals.

The experts are predicting Australian investors will shift back to property as the cornerstone of their investment portfolios, in an attempt to protect themselves against the fluctuating stock market.

The Australian economy appeared to be largely insulated from the lending crisis in the US, with a strong resources sector and supply routes to China keeping the economy buoyant. But this confidence was rocked yesterday when Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao forecast new “difficulties and contractions in the domestic economy”. The Australian market responded with a 1.5 per cent drop.

While the medium-term forecast is for a soft landing for the Australian economy, market-watchers are predicting an end to the 20 per cent return on investment seen in recent years, which makes property investment once again a very attractive option.

Returns for risk

A shortage of rental properties has been driven by slow land release by Government, high interest rates deterring first-time homebuyers, and an exodus of investors from the property market in recent years in favour of strongly performing shares. Now, for best return on investment, it is an ideal time for astute investors to get back in the property market game.

According to the Real Estate Institute of Australia’s Market Facts Report, rental vacancy rates have been under 2 per cent in each capital city for almost three years. In Sydney, rental vacancy rates are sitting around 1 per cent.

This demand has driven a rise in rental returns across the market, with the latest Consumer Price Index figures released last week showing rents increased 6.4 per cent in the past year. These are the fastest growth figures since the mid-1990s, providing an opportunity for healthy returns when you consider the capital gains to be had on top of the rental income.

The Interest Rate Story

While the US Federal Reserve is slashing interest rates in an attempt to rev up the economy, Australia is facing higher-than-ideal inflation, which is putting upward pressure on interest rates.

In addition, some major banks have responded to the global credit crunch by increasing interest rates beyond the cash rate suggested by the Reserve Bank of Australia.

Although debt is getting more expensive, investors need to weigh the benefits of property investment and the regular income it produces, over the exposures involved in the increasingly volatile stock market.

Location! Location! Location!

As rising interest rates drive higher mortgage defaults amongst homeowners who are too highly geared, there are some bargains to be had.

South-western Sydney has seen a 2 per cent drop in property values in the last year. Data released last week by Australian Property Monitors showed Sydney residential values grew overall by just five per cent in the last year.

House prices in Canberra jumped 15 per cent in the past year, with APM expecting the heat will come out of the market mid-2009.

Meanwhile, Melbourne and Perth continue to be on the up-and-up. Melbourne saw a 25 per cent growth in the median property price in the last year, with no end in sight, which means there’s no time like the present to get a foothold in the market.

Off Plan Property Exchange, the Off Plan Property Investments website, has announced a significant enhancement that automatically converts real estate prices to the currency of the viewer. The website allows property developers, real estate agents and individuals to easily advertise their preconstruction real estate for sale across the globe reaching thousands of property investors.

The new service feature is an enhancement to the existing property listing service, and is available free of charge. Property developers, real estate agents, property clubs and property investors can all list their off plan property for sale in the currency of the location in which the development is built. The website converts the real estate pricing into the currency of the viewer, enhancing the user experience and easing the buying process.

For example: A property developer in Chicago would list properties for sale in US Dollars on the www.offplanpropertyexchange.com site. Property investors in the UK viewing the Chicago lreal estate listing will see the purchase price listed in both US Dollars and Pounds Sterling. Investors in France, Germany, Spain, Italy and across the European Union will automatically see the Chicago property listed in both US Dollars and Euros.

“The response to the site has been exceptional; we hadn’t scheduled to develop international markets until early 2009.’ says Stuart Atkinson, a project manager of the Company. ‘We have reacted to demand by not only offering international real estate, but also enhancing the user experience. Feed back we have received from some of the worlds largest property developers prompted us to introduce the multi currency service now”.

“This is a service that international property developers have been asking for and really appreciate. Converting listings from one currency to another can be a pain for property investors looking to buy abroad. Our enhanced currency conversion service removes that problem”.

Off Plan Property Exchange is a unique service operating in the pre-construction, new build property sector. It provides a cost effective advertising service to real estate developers, real estate agents, property investment clubs and individual property investors, who create and manage their own listings. Prospective purchasers make direct contact with the seller by email or phone.

Gurgaon is the new destination for those in search for a suburban neighborhood or dealing with real estate. Due to a close proximity to Delhi and being the next developing suburb it is one lucrative destination for almost everyone. As a matter of fact, in India Gurgaon is one of the few investment-worthy places. As per speculations, the town will continue with its charm over the next three years.

Renowned Real Estate Developers

The town on one side offers apartments, state-of-the-art office spaces and on the other a wide range of residential properties to accommodate the middle class segment as per their needs and paying capacities. With scores of people settling there day in and out, many renowned real estate developers can be seen investing in new construction and projects and developing mass dwelling sites. Few of the advantages that Gurgaon benefits from are-

• Connectivity to the international airport.
• Availability of housing at reasonable prices.
• As compared to other metros, the quality of construction in Gurgaon is better.
• Gurgaon is seen as the initiator of luxury segment within affordable prices.
• High end projects, hottest real estate investment destination.
• Innovative additions to the buyers making the deals look more lucrative.
• A competitive market.

Gurgaon Will Bloom

Thus, it is not surprising that Gurgaon will bloom and overbloom in the next two years which obviously means higher property rates and even higher profits. However, developers like Emaar MGF are planning to set up mega residential projects and luxury segments, it seems that the rate of demand for luxury flats won’t increase on an exponential rate but will remain moderate. With 300 new units being added per month, an addition of 10,000 more luxury flats in the nest 2 years won’t be an overstatement!

In the last few months, the Canadian dollar has been stronger than ever - stronger than it’s been in over 30 years. Canadians are now enjoying a dollar that is right around par with the US dollar and many Canadian businesses, anticipating the trend will stick, are introducing “new Canadian pricing.” In other words, Canadian sellers are passing on some of the benefit of their suddenly-wider profit margins to consumers.

Average House Prices Have Risen Between 10% and 11%

So what about the real estate market in Canada? Average house prices have risen be-tween 10% and 11% in each of the past three years. Smaller city markets like Calgary and Saskatoon are booming off the charts. If you purchased a home in either of these markets three years ago, it’s likely doubled in value by now. Great for Canadian homeowners, but if you haven’t bought anything yet, you might not be able to afford to get in. If you’re looking to upgrade, don’t expect to be able to buy back the house you’ve just sold in two weeks time without getting a new mortgage.

Discounted Prices

Luckily, property developers across Canada are sharing their wealth too. Buyers looking for a new build can often enjoy discounted prices in many of Canada’s growing markets. You can lock in a price at the ground floor and reasonably expect your new home to be worth at least 20% more by the time it’s ready for you to move in.

Wondering Where These Growing Markets Are?

Wondering where these growing markets are? Sit down with a map of Canada, close your eyes, and wherever your finger lands is likely a good bet (except for maybe a de-serted island in the arctic). Now is a great time for both Canadian and international investors to put a bid on their piece of the pie. Go to www.mls.ca to get an idea of the wide variety of properties available in Canada right now.

Mortgage-Free With a Healthy Lump of Cash Left Over

Many Canadians are also choosing to move to different parts of Canada to stretch their dollar even further. If you own a home in Montreal or Vancouver, you could sell it and purchase the full value of a new home anywhere in Saskatchewan and some areas of Ontario. While the move may sound daunting, being mortgage-free with a healthy lump of cash left over in the bank certainly does not. Not only that, but as the bigger cities in Canada become crowded and cost-prohibitive, Canadian urbanites are starting to give the smaller markets a chance.

A Great Place to Live

The amazing thing about Canada is that no matter where you choose to buy, you’ve probably chosen a great place to live. Canada is home to breathtaking scenery, great schools, great health care, low crime, diverse culture… the list ambles on as far as the Rocky Mountains. The extra bonus these days is that right now, you’re almost guaranteed to be investing in a piece of property that will be worth more tomorrow than it is today.
For some great Canadian homes and views, visit some of the following sites:
www.sasktourism.com
www.vkisaskatchewan.com/
www.vancouver.com/real_estate/
montreal_driving_tour.htm

Canadians and international investors alike have been worried that Canada’s future in real estate may be adversely affected by the current economic trends of its neighbours to the south. However, while it’s certainly no secret that the Unites States is facing some serious problems in this aspect of its economy, Canada can afford to be a little optimistic. As February approaches and Canadians look forward to spring weather, it looks like their real estate market can expect a sunny forecast, as well.

Confidence in The Strength of Canadian Real Estate

In 2007, the US residential housing market Fell by a staggering 13%. American home sales haven’t fallen by that much since 1982. By contrast, Canada’s residential sales rose by a temperate 7.6%. Experts say that this number reveals buyers’ overall confidence in the strength of the Canadian real estate market . It’s a confidence that’s well-founded; although housing prices have risen dramatically in many of Canada’s cities, the Bank of Canada has dropped interest rates accordingly, in an effort to keep purchasing a home affordable.

A Valuable Lesson from The United States

It seems that Canada has learned a valuable lesson from the United States: it’s important to temper growth and keep mortgages within reasonable reach of residential buyers. While it’s true that Canadians have seen some price spikes in the last year, it’s expected that housing prices will level off in 2008 or, in many cases, actually decline. It’s not a bad thing; the real valuation of houses and mortgages means that Canada’s real estate market should correct any over-inflated prices in due course. Any Canadian who finds that the value of their home is currently decreasing has also likely experienced abnormally high growth rates in value over the last two or so years. For example, a young Canadian’s condominium that went from $100,000 to $220,000 in two years and is now dropping in value to around $175,000 is likely an indicator of real estate market health, not decay.

Lower Selling Prices Mean Good Deals

With housing prices dropping to reasonable levels that more accurately reflect property values, home buyers and investors alike should be celebrating. 2008 will likely be a great time to buy all over the country. Lower interest rates and lower selling prices mean good deals and the occasional hidden gem for buyers. For now, it appears that Canada’s real estate market is all blue skies and sunshine.

The American Southwest is an almost magical region, a blend of cultural traditions and geography that invite discovery. No place are those special qualities shown to better effect than in the state of New Mexico. New Mexico truly is a Land of Enchantment, as promised on the state’s license plates. Rolling plains, forests and deserts combine to create a landscape that is stunningly beautiful. New Mexico’s people are a fascinating blend of American Indian, Spanish, Mexican American and cowboy cultures. Ancient peoples created sophisticated civilizations here. Despite their harsh treatment of indigenous peoples, Spanish missionaries introduced European culture to societies along the Rio Grande. Situated on the Rio Grande, nearly in the middle of the state, lies the city of Albuquerque, rich in history and favored by climate and location.

Great Deals for Homebuyers

There is good news for investors seeking opportunities in Albuquerque’s vital real estate market today: at long last, the market has become favorable for buyers. Make no mistake, people are still purchasing property in the city. The current softer market follows a period of rapid appreciation in real estate, affording some great deals for homebuyers as well as for those who want to purchase real property as an investment. And who wouldn’t love to have a place in Albuquerque?

Sunny Winter Weather Invites Skiers

Albuquerque is New Mexico’s largest city, centrally located at the junction of two major interstate highways, I-40 and I-25. The name of the city’s airport, Albuquerque International Sunport, says it all: the sun shines more than seventy-five percent of the time here. The sunny winter weather invites skiers to enjoy the slopes at Sandia Peak, while gorgeous summer days attract visitors who shop and dine their way around historic Old Town. And the first week in October, Albuquerque’s International Balloon Fiesta attracts thousands of visitors, and hundreds of balloons, from around the globe.

Home to a Rich Collection of Neighborhoods

Albuquerque is home to a rich collection of neighborhoods. Downtown Albuquerque is the city’s business and financial center; each summer, Civic Plaza plays host to Summerfest, an annual celebration of New Mexico’s diverse cultures that showcases regional ethnic food, music and dance. Here, home buyers and investors will find elegant lofts, chic townhouses and historic homes. Nob Hill and the University district are characterized by an eclectic architectural mix that feature galleries and coffee houses attractive to the college crowd. Sandia Heights, at the foot of the pink granite Sandia Mountains, offers a variety of opportunities for outdoor adventures, including hiking trails and launching points for hang gliders. This neighborhood is also the site of many of the city’s wealthier, more upscale communities. In Northeast Heights, buyers will find family neighborhoods built around parks and schools.

Sandia National Laboratories Attracts Researchers

The city is just right for those who want an urban lifestyle on a more intimate scale. Home to approximately 820,000 people, it is supported by a diverse and healthy economy. The University of New Mexico, with more than 26,000 students and a large work force, adds millions of dollars to the local economy. The School of Medicine attracts businesses and manufacturing related to the health care industry. The manufacturing sector includes high tech firms and representatives of the air and space industry. Sandia National Laboratories attracts researchers from around the world to explore new forms of science-based technology. And Albuquerque’s location in the center of the state provides access to the state’s many attractions.

Located at the southern side of China, Hong Kong comprises of almost 250 islands. With tropical settings Hong Kong is a beautiful destination. The city looks over new horizons with a booming economy and as a developing business centre. It gives you a mix of cultures, the amalgamation of eastern philosophies and western values with markets of China and India close by.

Hong Kong - One Of The Priciest Economies in The World

It has gained popularity not only as educational center or as a tourist heaven but also has gained centre stage as one of the fast developing economies of the world with a business booming greatly. Such reasons attract many foreign and domestic investors from all around the globe to invest in big real estate projects in the country. Not only that, Hong Kong is also one of priciest economies in the world which makes it all the more suitable for investors. Another reason for it to become one of the hottest destinations is because of the fact that due to its novelity it is being developed as a posh and organized place. The exclusive areas of the region are nonetheless the best to make an investment in the real estate. This also gives dealers accessibility to trade and huge profits.

Properties Sell Like Cup Cakes

This has attracted many developers, builders and counselors to establish their business in the city making it easier for anyone to acquire property in the country. Companies like Jones Lang LaSalle which has been functioning in the market since 45 have been taking over the market with their experience. If you look back some years you will find that the property market in Hong Kong has been hot and still properties have been selling like cupcakes or hotdogs. Due to the booming economy people don’t shy away from luxurious apartments which other nations might not afford. There is ample of space making it easy but profitable investment market.