Friday, September 17, 2010

"Following the Sun"

By Estela Lopez - Project Pegasus Inc

It is no real surprise to find that some of the best investment opportunities are places with the best climate and sunny beaches.

When you mention South Africa, in truth scary crime headlines have managed to keep many away from experiencing the beauty of that country. In fairness to Capetown those statistics are not a fair assessment of the place. As a world traveller I would have to say Capetown still remains one of my favourite cities, and I believe it is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The majestic view of mountains and coastline makes it difficult to find anything without a view. In addition pristine beaches and fantastic weather have long made it a holiday destination.

South African real estate has now finally emerged from almost relative obscurity into the international limelight since being the focus of the recent 2010 World Cup Soccer. International stars, members of elite society and business executives alike, have responded to the beauty of this country and the attractive exchange of the rand, 1 euro=9.38 Rand, and 1USD = 7.16 Rand. Much of the world cup featured the beautiful city of Capetown, and provided visitors with an introduction to fantastic shopping, incredible artworks and artistic creations from jewellery to artefacts, a cultural mix of cuisine, historical dining and accommodation venues, quality Vineyards, and wildlife parks, all adding to an exotic experience.

Now according to both the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Africa’s economy is recovering faster than initially expected from the global economic crash, thanks to higher commodity prices and rising levels of foreign investment. Little wonder savvy investors are starting to take a long hard look at South Africa.

Brazil – As discussed in our last report “Flying down to Rio” is continuing to go from strength to strength. A recent guide written for Property-Abroad.com stated the following. "The middle class is growing rapidly and there is a real shortage of affordable housing. Now, savvy investors from around the world are snapping up low cost properties and filling this void. Joined by thousands more buying holiday homes at massively reduced prices, also with investment potential as Brazil's prestige grows," the report stated. Rio is without doubt one of the most vibrant cities in the world, and the 7,491 km of coastline is unparalleled.

Spain - The story in Spain continues, as mentioned in our report last year “The Campaign in Spain” banks lent at times indiscriminately to developers to build. Many overextended and started projects that are now half completed; they thought the party would never end. Credit and financial crises combined with major oversupply plunged property prices to staggering levels. Banks need to purge their loan books and some have reportedly offered customers and international buyers property for at times as little as 50 cents on the euro.

Spain is as desirable a place to vacation or retire as it has always been. Last year, Spain greeted just under 60 million foreign tourists. Culture, restaurants, beautiful beaches, breathtaking coastlines, mountains, golf, and skiing can all be there at your fingertips. That dream of owning your very own Spanish castle styled home, is actually within reach. Amazing prices under 200,000 euros for ocean view property. Best of all you can now not only profit but buy your Spanish dream home for cents on the euro.

For those that know quality, an amazing and beautiful development we have had the pleasure to visit and represent in Costa Blanca, is known as “Cumbre del Sol. It truly is a savvy investors dream. The location could not be better minutes from Benidorm, and close enough to Alicante and Valencia for day trips. Not to mention the boat trips to Ibiza that leave from the port of Denai. “Cumbre del Sol” boasts spectacular cliff face ocean views, and is a well thought out and planned development, with the right mix of amenities catering for residents. Built by a group of reputable established builders, VAPF has a reputation spanning over 40 years and have built some of the finest properties in Costa Blanca. “Cumbre del Sol” has access to a quiet beach, diving caves, nearby golf, and quaint seaside restaurants nearby. Driving this amazing coast is an experience that is reminiscent of Monte Carlo.

Project Pegasus is an International Real Estate and Community Lifestyle Specialist. We pride ourselves in choosing a select number of projects worldwide. Let us know what destination interests you, and we will provide the information you need for the right investment.