I admit it; I hate housework and I doubly hate ironing, but when I iron, I watch HGTV. I was watching an episode where someone from Europe was buying a vacation home in another country near a beach. The country was tropical with beautiful beaches and swaying palm trees. I have been watching this international home buyers program for several weeks so I knew the prices were going to be expensive. My husband happened to walk in and he went into shock. He just couldn't understand why anyone would buy such shoddy houses at such high prices. Some of the houses in Greece were in such bad shape...they were almost unlivable. Others were not even in safe areas; part of the association fees which were high paid for 24 hour security guards. "Who wants to live like that," my husband asked? I guess some do but do they know about our beautiful beaches? Do they realize (except for isolated incidents) how safe they are at our resort areas? Our properties are absolutely palatial compared to the international market. Do any of you market to the international communities?
In relative terms, we have a stable government, environmental standards, and proximity. Its a good combination for investing right here at home.
I agree...I begin watching thinking that they are moving for a "better value"..and BAM those listing prices and can you imagine how much they spend just to improve the property??
I would love to market in Europe, but it is a lifetime away. The location for hard-to-find properties with big demand and low supply makes the price go UP.
Linda, I think everything is relative no matter what country you live in. You have to make adjustments accordingly, just like we do.
I was told by a friend who travels alot that the reason properties are so expensive is the land. Countries do not have the landmass. I have never traveled to Europe but it is hard to justify (in my mind) a stick built house with very few amenities priced oceanfront $2,000,000 and it still needs work when I know at our beaches you can buy gorgeous oceanfront for around $1,000,000 in move in condition. You won't have to pay high HOA fees for security.
By the way, I was going to buy property in the Caymans several years ago, only to find out, you cannot own it in just your name. You have to own it with a local partner which may be the bank. Think what happens if nationalized!!!
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