Top 5 Investment Destinations Chosen by Brits
British investors have long favored Europe as holiday destinations and investment opportunities. Its proximity to the UK offers many climates to choose from, as well lifestyles and cultures. While Spain, France and Italy rank among the top favorites, Cyprus and Portugal are quite popular as well.
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Deciding Where To Buy Properties
Deciding where to buy an investment property is complex; many factors should be considered. Firstly, the need should be determined. Several questions come to mind. Will you use the property yourself as either a full-time residence or as a vacation home? Do you intend to rent it out when you are not using it? Is it strictly an investment? Will you be doing much travelling to other countries?
Climate, lifestyle and the type of property are also major factors. Another aspect that is of major importance is assessing the financial viability of purchasing a property in certain countries. The recent global economic crisis and the fluctuating housing market trends should be part of the assessment.
Where Brits Buy and Why
Cyprus and the Greek Islands
Cyprus is the 3rd largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. Regular flights to the UK and short travel times continue to make this a favorite.
Recently, the Greek government’s efforts to save its economy has forced it to increase property taxes. As a result, this action has fared poorly for the Greeks. Alternately, this has created an opportunistic market with huge discounts for foreign investors. Many Greeks have not only had to put up their homes for sale, but also their second vacation homes. Properties are currently undervalued by up to 40%.
Spain and the Canary Islands
Located off the coast of Spain on the outermost tip of Europe, this country along with her group of islands maintains a sunny subtropical climate, with stunning volcanic landscapes. Vast real estate opportunities make this a popular choice for emigrating Brits. who flock to the resorts to buy a second home or permanent residence and other Costa locations. Spain’s easy lifestyle, friendly people, historically rich culture and slow economic recovery continues to appeal to many investors, in particular the Brits.
France
When you ask a Brit why they would choose to live in France, their answer is simple: they just prefer the French way of life and values. Once immersed in the culture, may Brits have chosen the French way of life. Investments opportunities are not quite as plentiful in France as some of the other European countries as prices continue to rise. Many low-cost airline carriers have cancelled may routes into France.
Italy
Due to the eurozone crisis, Italy’s financial woes are boosting their popularity among British investors and second home buyers as prices continue to slip. Italy has some of the most magnificent villas overlooking the Mediterranean for sale. Brits continue to enjoy the culture, food and weather Italy has to offer.
Portugal
The recent spike in crime rate, high unemployment and outside factors affecting the UK has caused the ethnic working class population seek residence in other countries, such as Portugal. Although Portugal is a conflicted country, the Portuguese are known for being delightful to foreigners. Their heritage and culture is rich and has much to offer.
Based in Spain, I am an online marketing consultant who manages marketing campaigns for local businesses on the Costa Blanca. I am also a keen investor, and over the years have made some excellent returns investing in the property market in Spain. 
