Nakheel Group – Dubai

After a short bus ride, we arrived at the modern and lavish corporate offices of Nakheel Group, a local, major real estate developer. We were welcomed by an HR Rep (Name) who led us into a large movie theater style room where we comfortably sat in lounge chairs for an interactive, and creative presentation. The proceeding 20 minutes highlighted the advances that Nakheel group has made in developing the Jumeriah Islands, the features of the islands and how they were engineered. The presentation also highlighted further projects including the World Islands, and three more manmade land reclamation undertakings Nakheel has envisioned.

It was Shiek Al Maktoum’s vision to increase Dubai’s coast line from the existing 70 kilometers to 1,000 kilometers. Nakheel’s goal is to make this vision a reality and has extended the coastline to 800 kilometers already with the extra 200 on the horizon. A note that the HR Rep (Name) made at the end of the presentation was that Nakheel group was undergoing upper level management change and would shortly become one of many state run corporations, although the details are were not fully given, a new board of directors and chairman were in the process of being implemented.

Post-meeting Nakheel was gracious enough to offer a boat tour of the Palm Jumeriah Islands to our entire group. Although the day was overcast due to turbulent winds and sand interference, the islands are still a sight to be seen. The engineering behind these manmade islands is advanced and intriguing. Now that the work has been completed I only hope that permanent investors will be found.

A recurring theme throughout Dubai is the amount of fleeting foreign direct invest the Emirate is experiencing. To explain, we were informed that the Houses on the Palm Jumeriah Island were sold out within 72 hours; this was before any of them were even built. Investors lined up to get a piece of property on the manmade palm in the Arabian Gulf, but most of the houses were flipped quickly in a fast rising housing bubble. Properties were passed from hand to hand until the value of these properties soon were exceeding 500% of their original value, of course this was halted during the global real estate crash.

But I begin wonder what the long term intentions of these investors are, and whether enough of them plan on becoming a major source of economic stimulus for the economy. Can Dubai become an attractive enough city for a large middle class population to support the infrastructure? From all that I have observed so far, I am beginning to have my doubts. Although the scenery and lavish lifestyle here are attractive, the longevity of this economy comes into question. The opulence of this country is unmatched but I wonder if Sheik Maktoum’s vision of an Emirate entirely supported by tourism will ever be possible.

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Letters From Dubai

After a short bus ride, we arrived at the modern and lavish corporate offices of Nakheel Group, a local, major real estate developer. We were welcomed by an HR Rep (Name) who led us into a large movie theater style room where we comfortably sat in lounge chairs for an interactive, and creative presentation. The proceeding 20 minutes highlighted the advances that Nakheel group has made in developing the Jumeriah Islands, the features of the islands and how they were engineered. The presentation also highlighted further projects including the World Islands, and three more manmade land reclamation undertakings Nakheel has envisioned.

It was Shiek Al Maktoum’s vision to increase Dubai’s coast line from the existing 70 kilometers to 1,000 kilometers. Nakheel’s goal is to make this vision a reality and has extended the coastline to 800 kilometers already with the extra 200 on the horizon. A note that the HR Rep (Name) made at the end of the presentation was that Nakheel group was undergoing upper level management change and would shortly become one of many state run corporations, although the details are were not fully given, a new board of directors and chairman were in the process of being implemented.

Post-meeting Nakheel was gracious enough to offer a boat tour of the Palm Jumeriah Islands to our entire group. Although the day was overcast due to turbulent winds and sand interference, the islands are still a sight to be seen. The engineering behind these manmade islands is advanced and intriguing. Now that the work has been completed I only hope that permanent investors will be found.

A recurring theme throughout Dubai is the amount of fleeting foreign direct invest the Emirate is experiencing. To explain, we were informed that the Houses on the Palm Jumeriah Island were sold out within 72 hours; this was before any of them were even built. Investors lined up to get a piece of property on the manmade palm in the Arabian Gulf, but most of the houses were flipped quickly in a fast rising housing bubble. Properties were passed from hand to hand until the value of these properties soon were exceeding 500% of their original value, of course this was halted during the global real estate crash.

But I begin wonder what the long term intentions of these investors are, and whether enough of them plan on becoming a major source of economic stimulus for the economy. Can Dubai become an attractive enough city for a large middle class population to support the infrastructure? From all that I have observed so far, I am beginning to have my doubts. Although the scenery and lavish lifestyle here are attractive, the longevity of this economy comes into question. The opulence of this country is unmatched but I wonder if Sheik Maktoum’s vision of an Emirate entirely supported by tourism will ever be possible.

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Canadian Homes Pricey But No Bubble

According to BMO Nesbitt Burns’ recent report, home prices in Canada are currently overvalued at approximately 11%. While this may seem high, consider the fact that homes in the U.S. were overpriced by 25-30% before the economic downturn in 2008.

Economists Earl Sweet and Sal Guatieri reported in a research note that “all things considered, the Canadian housing market does not appear to be in a bubble, and is unlikely to suffer a U.S.-style collapse. A key and overriding difference is the quality of loan origination in the past decade, as well as other institutional factors such as mortgage insurance and recourse against defaulters.” (2010, Canadian housing: Pricey, not dicey)

Using their method, they found prices peaked, in terms of overvaluation, at 18 per cent late last year. But a 3-per-cent drop in prices so far this year, along with moderate income growth, cut that to “a less worrisome” 11 per cent in the third quarter.

The report also mentions that homes are still very much affordable due to low interest rates and unless these rates change or a recession were to hit, a significant price change is unlikely to occur. Lowering interest rates could have a negative effect on Canadian homes by inflating housing prices even more therefore causing a real bubble.

The Economist also published findings recently evaluating Canada’s real estate market. Their method compared housing values and rent (versus Sweet and Guatierti’s home values and income) and found the market overpriced at 24%. While this number appears to be a greater cause for concern, Sweet and Guatieri maintain that evaluating home prices against income is a far better measure and more accurate than The Economist’s method.

In the nation’s capital, recent home prices appear to be leveling off as many homes currently listed are going through price reductions. Nonetheless, the Ottawa real estate market is still looked at positively by buyers, sellers, and investor alike due to our strong local economy and thriving workforce.

How to Make Money in a Tough Economy

We’re now officially in a recession. Despite the present administration’s best efforts to spin the truth, we’ve been in decline for a year now and what we’ve all known for quite some time is simply now official. But here’s an interesting tidbit—more millionaires are created during a recession than at any other time in the economic cycle. This is because opportunities are everywhere as the uninformed start to panic. Prices of stocks and real estate fall, people start to hoard precious metals, sales decline so prices drop—the list goes on. The key is knowing how to spot these opportunities, and then knowing how to capitalize on them.

There’s a growing demand today for wealth education. Most people have learned about money from parents or peers who may not be all that successful with money themselves. This is a recipe for disaster. Tips for creative investing can be learned from leaders in their field, as long as you can seek out and access these people. There are many diverse strategies that the wealthy employ to continue building their wealth, even when the economy takes a nosedive. If you’re not aware of these strategies, it’s important that you learn them.

For example, with gold and silver prices at an all time high, had you invested in these precious commodities only a year ago, you’re investment would have blossomed. The real estate market has tanked and is continuing its downward trend. Home prices are at an all time low. Does the old adage “buy low and sell high” apply here? You bet it does. Provided of course that you have the capital to buy now and hold the property until the market comes back—which it will.

The new administration is promising a financial incentive package that relies heavily on tax incentives as its foundation. But in order to capitalize on them, you need to understand how they affect your personal situation. To grow and thrive in a down economy, you need to be able to reduce your debt, and to create new wealth. If you’re wondering how to do this, you owe it to yourself to find out. One more thing—if you’re not healthy, none of this matters anyway, so make your personal wellness a life focus.

If you feel like you need help in these areas, do some online research and get the answers you’re looking for. And by the way, there are lots of other people doing the same thing. If you had an automated marketing system that could produce a residual income providing this information, perhaps you too could take advantage of the new recession.

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5 Major Components of the PEI Economy

PEI an island province off the east coast of Canada, known primarily for its red soil and island heroine Anne of Green Gables, is largely unknown by many Canadians. This was obvious in a recent television show where a PEI business person sought capital from some of the riches Canadian investors and most on the panel allowed for the fact that they had never been to PEI. Let me take you there and show you the economy of this island province, the smallest in Canada.

There are 5 major components to the island economy, agriculture, fishing, tourism, forestry and manufacturing, although the first 3 greatly outweigh the last two, manufacturing is on the rise.

Agricultural activities on PEI include the production of potatoes, the operation of dairy herds, cattle and hogs as well as some soft fruit and market gardening. Recently the hog processing plant was shut down and the beef plant in Borden has had some very tough times including financial restructuring and its future is in uncertain. There has been talk of the 3 maritime provinces working together to create one healthy beef processing plant, however this has not come to fruition. Of course agriculture across the country is, and it seems always has been, in a process of survival so its not surprising that there are problems on PEI.

Fishing is another uniquely Maritime economic activity including the harvesting of lobsters, crab, herring, cod and the cultivation of clams, oysters and trout. Approximately half of the PEI fishery is lobster. Fishing is tightly controlled by the Federal Department of Oceans and Fisheries (DFO) and quotas set regarding the amount of any product that can be harvested. Lobster prices have taken a strong hit in the last year and there is a plan in place to buy back a number of lobster licenses and thereby reduce the number of traps which would serve the two-fold purpose of reducing the strain on the lobster stocks and balancing supply and demand. It is hoped this might result in better prices.

Tourism is the second largest industry in the province. Our PEI population of approximately 140,000 swells to over a million in peak periods due to the influx of tourists and summer residents. It is very popular with other Canadians and New Englanders to have a summer cottage here on PEI as the price of PEI real estate is very reasonable when compared with other areas. Most tourists come from Atlantic Canada with a large number from Quebec and Ontario and the New England States. PEI is also very popular with the Japanese; however we receive international visitors from all over the world.

Forestry is not an industry that is obvious here like it is in BC. The forests here are smaller and are most valued for their hardwood concentration. However there is still a thriving forest industry here on PEI.

Manufacturing is growing on the island as well as specialized service industries such as aerospace. There is of course a manufacturing industry concentrated around the fishery, processing fish products, as well as the forestry and wood products; however we are growing in high tech companies as well as the traditional such as chemical, transportation and metal products.

PEI is a great place to live and work and there are jobs to be had on PEI. It’s a safe place to raise a family, a less expensive place to retire given the lower PEI real estate values, as well a place to put your money to work. Anyone looking for a place to relocate or to invest would be well advised to consider PEI.

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Come to PEI for a Visit and you might want to Stay

PEI, an acronym for Prince Edward Island, is Canada’s smallest province and can be found just 13 km off the east coast of Canada. It is situated across the Northumberland Strait from New Brunswick. As the smallest province in Canada it has a full-time population of just over 138,000 people on a year round basis but with the influx of tourists and summer residents that population can exceed a million people at the height of the season.

PEI is a quiet, bucolic land featuring rolling landscape, fields, sunsets and wonderful ocean and river waterscapes. The lifestyle is slower and many people both visit and settle here for that reason; they are looking for an escape from the faster life in the bigger cities and more populous provinces. The island offers beaches of red sand, warm waters, lobster suppers, concerts, festivals, theatre, and good eating. The people of PEI who refer to themselves as islanders are a friendly, if somewhat laid-back people. The government tourism department has branded PEI as ‘the Gentle Island’. PEI does certainly offer a gentler way of life and this may account for the number of people relocating here.

PEI, being an island, and one with a fairly craggy shoreline, with many inlets, waterways and bays, features not only a picturesque coastline but also a very prolific one. This is a distinct advantage to those seeking property on the waterfront. There are a great number of choices in waterfront property types and these range from land right on the ocean through to properties situated on backwaters and small lakes or inlets. With so much to choose from there is something that will suit everyone including their budget. As there is a higher proportion of waterfront to non-waterfront land here than in most provinces, waterfront is quite a bit cheaper here than other places. You can take advantage of this and purchase land to build that little island getaway or choose from the inventory of summer homes or cottages on the water that are for sale.

The PEI economy is made up of 5 sectors, tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, forestry, and fishing. Historically fishing, tourism and agriculture have driven the economy on PEI but with the introduction of aerospace and IT to the mix the island is moving toward a more diversified economy.

You can reach PEI by road, crossing the 13 km Confederation Toll Bridge from New Brunswick to Borden, or using the car ferry from Woods Island to Caribou, Nova Scotia. Alternatively there are daily flights from many Canadian cities and lately from some American cities that land at the Charlottetown Airport.

PEI is still growing and now is a great time to come and stake your claim to this little gem. There are great opportunities to enter the PEI real estate market and own your own home.

Dubai Economy Real Estate Market Affected

Dubai real estate property prices fall by 50% due to lower demand frm buyers.According to reports,

the real estate market in Dubai is falling from 20% to 50%.It is predicted by experts that aparment prices

will fall by an average of 20% .Individual decline between 10% to 50%.Some how it depends on development.

Villa prices will remain stable with an average drop of 10%.United Arab Emirates capital Abu Dhabi suffered a fall of 20% prices since last summer.Qatar suffered a fall of 10%.It has now become a Buyer’s market rather than a Seller’s market.Buyers have more advantage in negotiating prices.

The property prices will continue to fall for 9 to nine months which resembles a situation in hong kong 11 years ago.The values fell ranging from 20% to 50%.Expert predicted that investors would come back if property becomes more affordable as the asking price now is unsustainable.From international News, projects worth .35 billion are in a dilemma causing great lose to pakistani investors.Although there is no official annoucement about projects development on hold from developers,reporters stated that over 50 building projects can be seen in standstill.Real Estate projects worth .275billion has confirmed to to be cancelled.If this crisis continues,job losses will increase in constrution field which will worsen the situation.Following day,news said that the real extent of the halt in developments in Dubai has been revealed by an international bank which estimates that projects worth £53 billion have now been put on hold.According to HSBC 59 projects have been severely affected by the global downturn and of these eight have been cancelled and the rest put on hold.In a report note the banks says that high end residential projects and commercial developments are those at most risk in the current economic conditions.Hopefully good news will come in coming months.

Yours sincerely,

http://donnieproperties.blogspot.com

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A “Weak” Consumer With Confidence!

Was it good news when Real Estate was up 12% or so again in 2005, and homeownership reached all time highs? Turns out it was not!   

 

I am really glad that people are feeling a little better about themselves and the economy. I give the Obama Administration and Ben Bernanke a lot of credit for this. People are really breathing a little better again, but old spending habits die hard. 

  

 We have been tracking US consumer confidence for over 40 years, and I think when it started in 1968 it had some real value, but now it seems like one of those indexes (like many of our regulations) that has become outdated over time.

 

Over the last 15-20 years, we should have been checking for America’s “over-confidence in over consuming”! The fact that 70% of the economic activity comes from consumer spending is the problem!

 

The US Consumer is still very weak, regardless if he/she is spending.

 

This economic crisis stemmed from too much confidence, and not enough rational thinking.  In addition to horrible risk management, money management and irrational exuberance for things like Stocks and Real Estate. 

 

America really changed last year, and people are starting to save more money.  This trend will continue for a couple of generations to come and an economy where its people are capable of striking a balance between spending and saving should be seen as the good thing! Not just spending! 

 

The US may well become the first balanced economy, in which we save, spend and invest like rational human beings.

 

A lot of people out there are confused right now as well they should be. They have been told that recessions happen because people do not spend enough. On the other hand, the reason that we got into this economic mess is because they spent and borrowed too much. 

 

My advice to them is to save, because money is the new political weapon of the 21st century! In addition educate yourself about investing and personal finance.

 

Once you have learned to save and invest, then learn to spend and enjoy your money like a rational person!

 

If the global economy is going to work, other nations are going to need to consume more and not necessarily the United States. Consumer Confidence in China, India and other BRIC nations are far more important to the US growth (SPY) than our own consumption and confidence.

 

 

With all the debt piling up in the US the last thing we need is need is a lot of confidence about borrowing and spending again.

 

 

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How the credit crunch affect the real estate market

How the credit crunch affect the real estate market

Real estate market has been one of the worst sectors that have been affected by the economic crisis which has hit the globe by the end of 2008. The entire crisis has its roots as well in the real estate market, as it was started by the sub prime lending issue. Banks and lending institutions have seen really worst times and a few have even succumbed to the crisis. The sub prime lending, which was done without much fore sight started showing its ill effects when banks started realizing that it was getting difficult to get back loans which were disbursed as sub prime. Lots of individuals who had taken such loans and intended to sell these properties to make a profit as well as repay loans, were in for a shock, when the property rates fell drastically. This created a situation where these people were unable to repay loans. This scenario forced banks and lenders to stop issuing loans as they no longer had enough liquidity to loan. This is where the credit crunch started.

This shortage of credit forced individuals to either defer or shelve property purchase plans. Only those people who had enough cash proceeded with such plans. Even these people, used this crisis and took advantage of falling property rates to strike good bargains. Real estate developers who had invested millions in land and to develop these were forced to cut back on their plans and wait for the market to revive. In fact, they are still waiting for prices to get back to normal, so that they can start selling at earlier rates.

The effects of the crunch have been far and wide. Almost all countries in the world have seen a drastic fall in rates and this has resulted in most companies having trouble selling and repaying the huge loans that they have taken from banks to start projects. Inorder to pay the interest component of such loans, which itself works out to millions of dollars; these companies have started selling developed properties for much lesser rates than what they were selling a year back. In short, the crunch has brought down property rates. From an individual’s perspective, this is an advantage that the crisis has created for the average first time buyer. There has been no better time to buy than now.

The biggest disadvantage that the crisis has created has been the losses the real estate companies are incurring which is resulting in job cuts and lesser spending on infrastructure projects. The overall development of infrastructure has come to a standstill, which is crippling the industry and development of new areas as housing hubs for the citizens.

Though most governments across the globe are taking corrective measures to spruce up the sector and thereby revive the economy, it might take some time for the market to bounce back to normalcy of pre 2008 era.

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Real Estate Principles for the New Economy (with CD-ROM)

• Provides balanced coverage of both commercial and residential real estate.
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Prepare for doing business in the new economy with REAL ESTATE PRINCIPLES FOR THE NEW ECONOMY and its accompanying CD-ROM! Designed to help you understand real estate from a global perspective, this real estate text covers the fundamentals necessary to understand economy while providing you with the tools you need to succeed. Take advantage of the supplemental CD-ROM that provides you with professional-grade spreadsheets and tools such as chapter study reviews that allow you to practice the fund

Price: $ 132.95

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Obama’S Address Urges Nation To Move Forward

If nothing else, Obama’s address to Congress was a much needed band aid applied to the wounds of the American public, along with a kiss on the forehead, and the promise that “things will be better tomorrow”.

He acknowledged that the economy was in crisis and he was aware of the challenges that every American was facing. His message was built around hope and the promise that “We will rebuild, we will recover, and the United States of America will emerge stronger than before.”

He described the country’s current economic situation as the result of a combination of factors that occurred over a series of years, preceding the market collapse:

- The high cost of healthcare
- Inadequate education standards that have prevented graduates from competing in global economy
- Poor planning for future needs of the country
- Irresponsible lending practices
- Living beyond our means at an individual and government level

His plan of attack works to reverse these wrongs, take steps to prevent them from reoccurring, and eventually create a stronger, healthier nation going forward. In part, the recovery plan includes the following goals:

- Increase job creation by reinvesting in education, health care, solar powered construction industry, mass transit, and law enforcement
- Stimulate the real estate market by providing assistance to lenders
- Offer housing plan designed to assist millions of homeowners threatened with foreclosure
- Hold banks accountable for all monies received. Among other stipulations, they are expected to provide evidence that the funding is increasing lending accounts.
- Health care and Social Security reform
- Tax cuts for 95% of working families. Those making over 0,000 a year will see fewer tax breaks.
- Remove tax breaks for work contracted out overseas.
- Double the country’s supply of renewable energy in the next three years and support research to develop new technologies.

With credit being the basis for the whole economy, this recovery plan is based on giving the public the confidence to get off the fence and purchase that new home or car they’ve been putting off.

Obama goes on to state,”That is why this administration is moving swiftly and aggressively to break this destructive cycle, restore confidence, and re-start lending.”

He emphasized the analogy that out of every tragedy comes something positive, and sited the example of a town in Greensburg, Kansas that was destroyed by a tornado.

“The tragedy was terrible,” said one of the men who helped them rebuild. “But the folks here know that it also provided an incredible opportunity.”

Recently, The Wallstreet Journal reported that the combination of declining home prices and low interest rates in many markets, are making it more attractive to own a home than rent. Green Street Advisors, a real estate firm in Newport Beach, California, reported that in the last 18 years, mortgage payments averaged between 26 and 66% more than rent. By the end of 2008, the average monthly rent for the key 50 metropolitan areas was ,045, compared to the after-tax mortgage payments of ,300 – a difference of only 24% more than rent payments.

If interest rates fall to 4.5%, which a number economists are predicting, then mortgage payments would only be 14% higher than rent payments.

American’s have been so overwhelmed by this crisis, that many, unfortunately, can’t see the opportunities that may be sitting in front of them. Obama’s recovery plan may not solve all the nation’s problems, but it may provide the boost that American’s need to get back in the ring.

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How To Survive In A Bad Economy

                              HOW TO SURVIVE IN A BAD ECONOMY

How do you survive in a bad economy? Become the entrepreneur you were born to be! I realize that not everyone will become the entrepreneur they were born to be, but I truly believe the key to surviving in this economy is to utilize your gifts and talents, to obtain revenue streams in your own business. Multiple cash flow streams are critical in a bad economy. Allow me to share some of my experiences. Before I became an entrepreneur, I utilized my college degree in computer science to obtain several great career opportunities with major corporations, like US Air, Marriott, MCI, UNISYS (Sperry /Univac), EDS Electronic Data Systems, Perot Systems, Standard Federal Bank, Freddie Mac, Rail Inc. etc.  I made a good six figure income in computers. I worked with computers for more than 20 years, designing and developing software, utilizing PCs and Mainframes.

 I was laid off 3 times, mostly based on yearly budgets. That led me to do some research. I found that most companies do a budget every year from October through January meaning that one year you or I just might not be in the budget. Also, I found that after working a job for forty (40) years, only about 4 out of every 100 people can retire without depending on family, friends or the government. Meaning, that most people retire broke or below their means after forty (40) years of service. So they retire, only to go back to doing something part- time, which turns into another fulltime job until age 75. What kind of life is that?

 I realized after doing my research that working a job would just pay the bills and was not the answer to financial freedom. Also, that I had no control over budget cuts. Along, with a path that was most traveled, but not successful by the age of 65. At that point, it was time to take control of my destiny. So, I walked out on a six-figure income, never to look back again.

Yes, I left Corporate America to pursue what the Lord had called and purposed me to do. I stepped out on faith and the rest is history. I always had a burning desire to run my own company. At this point I’m not trying to impress you, but to inspire you. Once again, not to impress you but to impress upon you, that you can do it too, or a lot more. Most of you are already there and much further. 

 When I became an entrepreneur I made a six-figure income 2 times, first with computer contracts, and second by opening a learning institute. My third entrepreneurial venture was investing and teaching real estate, where I created a seven (7) figure net worth. Ladies and gentlemen, I should have cashed out before the big bomb. But I wanted to live my life  like it was golden, so I continued to invest and reinvest to take that seven (7) figure to eight (8) figures. Not trying to be greedy, but to obtain financial resources to send my kids to college, create financial freedom, and to be able to bless people who are in need.

I don’t think Oprah Winfrey or Donald Trump would have cashed out either!

 I invested in all kinds of real estate, single- family homes, condos, water front property, golf course community properties, etc.  

I lived in almost a 7,000 square-foot gated home with a total of five cars in the garage and drive way, within a golf course country club community. With the real estate bomb it felt like I lost almost everything overnight! But, I never stop moving and shaking although my cash flow, began to get low and slow. 

I continued to motivate and educate. Just with a much smaller budget. My faith in Jesus Christ pulled me through that test, along with my good friend Willie Jolley’s, book; a setback is a setup for a comeback and my good friend Les Brown’s book; it’s not over until I win.

 I always knew if you held the recipe and had the right ingredients you could get it all back and a lot more. Most of the time, double for your trouble.  You learn so much from your first experience that the next time around you’re so much more: wiser, skillful, and knowledgeable.   

 In life, you must be able to take a punch! Even if you get knock down, you must be able to get back up off the canvas of life and continue to throw punches. Sooner or later you’re going to hit your target and WIN!  

Well ladies and gentlemen, I’m on may way back. I’ve just written my third book, launched my brand new TV SHOW, and I’m working on a ,000.000 project!  

Let me share with you a few strategies, techniques, and tips on how to survive, thrive, and keep the dream alive in these economic times. Then get ready to change your life in the next 90 days! 

Realize your only one deal away from being financially free; one idea, one phone call, one email, one fax, one contract, one break , one hand shake.

 2. Try Auto University, The way to obtain a free degree!  You can obtain motivational and educational College knowledge, right from the comfort of your own vehicle.  Get your certificate today. Utilize time spent in your vehicle wisely, by listening to motivational and educational materials. A perfect method to enhance and advance your education. The motivation continues to build self-esteem and the education helps you to fulfill the dream!

3.Try Motivation and Education, the perfect combonation! Motivation and Education, are the keys for success! It’s like gasoline to a car, It’s like water to a flower, and                           It’s like food to the body

4. Cut Your Expenses ASAP,put your pride to the side; it’s not the time to worry about what other people will  say or think about you based on your new situation and lack of revenue. Give back that stolen vehicle if you have not paid your car note in the last three months or been given an extension. You might have to downsize your home. Stop eating out every day or night. Stop spoiling the kids and show tough love; quit buying them everything.  

5. Focus on Multiple Streams  of Income! When one stream dries up, there should be another stream ready to open up!  Some times  God closes one door, because he’s ready to open up a double door! A door that will close no more!  

6. Finding Your Purpose And Passion, it’s time to cash in on your passion! It’s time to step into your greatness. If you don’t use it, and if you abuse it, you just might lose it!      

7. Start Your Own Business  

A.    Choose your product or service. It should line up with your purpose and passion.
B.    Develop a business name
C.    Develop a business plan
D.   Get your business registered
E.    Get a license if needed
F.    Get your EIN #
G.   Find financing
H.   Get a bank account
I.     Develop a web-site
J.    Get started today!  

8, It’s Not Going To Be Easy, friends are going to talk about you. Your family will ask why you left that good government job. People are going to think  you’re crazy. Sometimes you’re going to think  you’re crazy!  

9. You Can Never Quit, Donald Trump’s father told him a story about his friend, who loved soda. He had developed a new soda business. First he called it Second Up, then Third Up, then Fourth Up, then he stopped at Fifth Up, he came back for Six Up, and then he quit. Then, somebody came out the next year with Seven Up, and it BLEW UP! One man said failure is the price tag for success! You can never quit! You can never throw in the towel! 

10. You Must Be Able To Comeback , you must be able to comeback bigger and better stronger than ever. The key is, can you endure to stormy weather?

TYLER PERRY (COMEBACK),

OPRAH WINFREY (COMEBACK),

T.D. JAKES (COMEBACK),

LES BROWN (COMEBACK),

MICHAEL JORDAN (COMEBACK),

BOB JOHNSON (COMEBACK),

NELSON MANDELA (COMEBACK) 

11. You Must Invest In Yourself, Les Brown, (Speaker, Trainer & Author) “People invest more in entertainment than empowerment”

Robert Kiyosaki, (Author Rich Dad, Poor Dad)  “There are three types of education:  Academic, Professional & Financial”  (The most important education is,  FINANCIAL!) Invest in financial education!  

12. You Must Have A Team, it takes a team to fulfill the dream! Teamwork makes the dream work! A great man wrote, individuals win games, teams win championships! It’s a lonely road to the top without a team. Don’t leave home without one.  

                                                     Job Finding Tips  

A. When going to a job fair, always get there at least one hour early, while the company is setting up, and establish a relationship with the staff before everyone gets there. Give them your resume and get their business card, office location, web-site and title.  Follow up within 48 hours.  

B. Create an email address with the same name as your job  title.  

C.  Find five aggressive head-hunters (job seekers!) ASAP!

D. Query the Yellow Pages or Map Quest on line, for the job industry you are looking for and write down the names and numbers of 100 companies. Call the operator and find out the manager’s name and the  department, then mail your resume directly to them.

Use a red or purple envelope only with a bow and a thank you card along with your resume inside. This will get your resume noticed. If this does not work go to the company and make the delivery yourself. But, this time you must use a large yellow envelope. I have a package for  John Dow, (Your Resume!) or take it to the mail room. Do not dress up, play the part! It’s time to be humble.

Question by Sibe Husky: What do you think of Sarah Palin lying repeatedly in her new book?
I have not read the book yet, however AP did some fact checking :

PALIN: Says she made frugality a point when traveling on state business as Alaska governor, asking “only” for reasonably priced rooms and not “often” going for the “high-end, robe-and-slippers” hotels.
THE FACTS: Although travel records indicate she usually opted for less-pricey hotels while governor, Palin and daughter Bristol stayed five days and four nights at the $ 707.29-per-night Essex House luxury hotel (robes and slippers come standard) overlooking New York City’s Central Park for a five-hour women’s leadership conference in October 2007. With air fare, the cost to Alaska was well over $ 3,000. Event organizers said Palin asked if she could bring her daughter. The governor billed her state more than $ 20,000 for her children’s travel, including to events where they had not been invited, and in some cases later amended expense reports to specify that they had been on official business.

PALIN: Boasts that she ran her campaign for governor on small donations, mostly from first-time givers, and turned back large checks from big donors if her campaign perceived a conflict of interest.
THE FACTS: Of the roughly $ 1.3 million she raised for her primary and general election campaigns for governor, more than half came from people and political action committees giving at least $ 500, according to an AP analysis of her campaign finance reports. The maximum that individual donors could give was $ 1,000; $ 2,000 for a PAC.
Of the rest, about $ 76,000 came from Republican Party committees.
She accepted $ 1,000 each from a state senator and his wife and $ 30 from a state representative in the weeks after the two Republican lawmakers’ offices were raided by the FBI as part of an investigation into a powerful Alaska oilfield services company. After AP reported those donations during the presidential campaign, she gave a comparative sum to charity.

PALIN: Rails against taxpayer-financed bailouts, which she attributes to Obama. She recounts telling daughter Bristol that to succeed in business, “you’ll have to be brave enough to fail.”
THE FACTS: Palin is blurring the lines between Obama’s stimulus plan — a $ 787 billion package of tax cuts, state aid, social programs and government contracts — and the federal bailout that Republican presidential candidate John McCain voted for and President George W. Bush signed.
Palin’s views on bailouts appeared to evolve as McCain’s vice presidential running mate. In September 2008, she said “taxpayers cannot be looked to as the bailout, as the solution, to the problems on Wall Street.” A week later, she said “ultimately what the bailout does is help those who are concerned about the health care reform that is needed to help shore up our economy.”
During the vice presidential debate in October, Palin praised McCain for being “instrumental in bringing folks together” to pass the $ 700 billion bailout. After that, she said “it is a time of crisis and government did have to step in.”

PALIN: Says Ronald Reagan faced an even worse recession than the one that appears to be ending now, and “showed us how to get out of one. If you want real job growth, cut capital gains taxes and slay the death tax once and for all.”
THE FACTS: The estate tax, which some call the death tax, was not repealed under Reagan and capital gains taxes are lower now than when Reagan was president.
Economists overwhelmingly say the current recession is far worse. The recession Reagan faced lasted for 16 months; this one is in its 23rd month. The recession of the early 1980s did not have a financial meltdown. Unemployment peaked at 10.8 percent, worse than the October 2009 high of 10.2 percent, but the jobless rate is still expected to climb.

PALIN: She says her team overseeing the development of a natural gas pipeline set up an open, competitive bidding process that allowed any company to compete for the right to build a 1,715-mile pipeline to bring natural gas from Alaska to the Lower 48.
THE FACTS: Palin characterized the pipeline deal the same way before an AP investigation found her team crafted terms that favored only a few independent pipeline companies and ultimately benefited a company with ties to her administration, TransCanada Corp. Despite promises and legal guidance not to talk directly with potential bidders during the process, Palin had meetings or phone calls with nearly every major candidate, including TransCanada.

PALIN: Criticizes an aide to her predecessor, Gov. Frank Murkowski, for a conflict of interest because the aide represented the state in negotiations over a gas pipeline and then left to work as a handsomely paid lobbyist for ExxonMobil. Palin asserts her administration ended all such arrangements, shoving a wedge in the revolving door between special interests and the state capital.
THE FACTS: Palin ignores her own “revolving door” issue in office; the leader of her own pipeline team was a former lobbyis
Source : Yahoo News http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20091113/ap_on_el_pr/us_palin_book_fact_check

Best answer:

Answer by Townshend is God (a liberal)
The republicans are terrible liars.

Add your own answer in the comments!

Interview with Canadian Real Estate Expert Don R. Campbell, on the latest update in the Canadian Real Estate Marketplace. Discover the best places to buy Canadian Real Estate www.realestateinvestingincanada.com

SOLD This wonderful terrace home is set over 3 levels in the heart of Surry Hills. Built from glorious sandstone and fitted throughout with timber windows this presents a fabulous opportunity to purchase a very convenient home or investment opportunity. A very light and spacious bedroom is located on the top level of the home which can also be used as a retreat, study or lounge room. The entry level of the home features a bathroom, a cupboard laundry and the master bedroom with built in robes and a lovely balcony which overlooks the private courtyard. There is carpet throughout the home and a secure front door with security grill. The lower level of the home features an electric kitchen and a lounge room which flows to the paved courtyard. The home is extremely tidy and well maintained and you have the opportunity to move straight in or renovate and redecorate to suit your own taste. This sort of property is rarely offered and is a wonderful chance to own a prime piece of city real estate in one of the most sought after locations for buyers and tenants alike.

Question by sam s: Why doe Sahara Palin lie so much?
She criticizes President Barack Obama for pushing through a bailout package that actually was achieved by his Republican predecessor George W. Bush — a package she seemed to support at the time.
A look at some of her statements in “Going Rogue,” obtained by The Associated Press in advance of its release Tuesday:
___
PALIN: Says she made frugality a point when traveling on state business as Alaska governor, asking “only” for reasonably priced rooms and not “often” going for the “high-end, robe-and-slippers” hotels.
THE FACTS: Although travel records indicate she usually opted for less-pricey hotels while governor, Palin and daughter Bristol stayed five days and four nights at the $ 707.29-per-night Essex House luxury hotel (robes and slippers come standard) overlooking New York City’s Central Park for a five-hour women’s leadership conference in October 2007. With air fare, the cost to Alaska was well over $ 3,000. Event organizers said Palin asked if she could bring her daughter. The governor billed her state more than $ 20,000 for her children’s travel, including to events where they had not been invited, and in some cases later amended expense reports to specify that they had been on official business.
___
PALIN: Boasts that she ran her campaign for governor on small donations, mostly from first-time givers, and turned back large checks from big donors if her campaign perceived a conflict of interest.
THE FACTS: Of the roughly $ 1.3 million she raised for her primary and general election campaigns for governor, more than half came from people and political action committees giving at least $ 500, according to an AP analysis of her campaign finance reports. The maximum that individual donors could give was $ 1,000; $ 2,000 for a PAC.
Of the rest, about $ 76,000 came from Republican Party committees.
She accepted $ 1,000 each from a state senator and his wife in the weeks after the two Republican lawmakers’ offices were raided by the FBI as part of an investigation into a powerful Alaska oilfield services company. After AP reported those donations during the presidential campaign, she said she would give a comparative sum to charity after the general election in 2010, a date set by state election laws.
___
PALIN: Rails against taxpayer-financed bailouts, which she attributes to Obama. She recounts telling daughter Bristol that to succeed in business, “you’ll have to be brave enough to fail.”
THE FACTS: Palin is blurring the lines between Obama’s stimulus plan — a $ 787 billion package of tax cuts, state aid, social programs and government contracts — and the federal bailout that Republican presidential candidate John McCain voted for and President George W. Bush signed.
Palin’s views on bailouts appeared to evolve as McCain’s vice presidential running mate. In September 2008, she said “taxpayers cannot be looked to as the bailout, as the solution, to the problems on Wall Street.” A week later, she said “ultimately what the bailout does is help those who are concerned about the health care reform that is needed to help shore up our economy.”
During the vice presidential debate in October, Palin praised McCain for being “instrumental in bringing folks together” to pass the $ 700 billion bailout. After that, she said “it is a time of crisis and government did have to step in.”
___
PALIN: Says Ronald Reagan faced an even worse recession than the one that appears to be ending now, and “showed us how to get out of one. If you want real job growth, cut capital gains taxes and slay the death tax once and for all.”
THE FACTS: The estate tax, which some call the death tax, was not repealed under Reagan and capital gains taxes are lower now than when Reagan was president.
Economists overwhelmingly say the current recession is far worse. The recession Reagan faced lasted for 16 months; this one is in its 23rd month. The recession of the early 1980s did not have a financial meltdown. Unemployment peaked at 10.8 percent, worse than the October 2009 high of 10.2 percent, but the jobless rate is still expected to climb.
___
PALIN: She says her team overseeing the development of a natural gas pipeline set up an open, competitive bidding process that allowed any company to compete for the right to build a 1,715-mile pipeline to bring natural gas from Alaska to the Lower 48.
THE FACTS: Palin characterized the pipeline deal the same way before an AP investigation found her team crafted terms that favored only a few independent pipeline companies and ultimately benefited a company with ties to her administration, TransCanada Corp. Despite promises and legal guidance not to talk directly with potential bidders during the process, Palin had meetings or phone calls with nearly every major candidate, including TransCanada.
___
PALIN: Criticizes an aide to her predecessor, Gov. Frank Murkowski, for a conflict of interest because the aide represented the state in negotiations over a gas pipeline and then left to work as

Best answer:

Answer by Mistydawɳe MBW
she is a media hoe, that’s why

Add your own answer in the comments!

LEASED ‘Soumershell’, the ultimate deep waterfront lifestyle on the pristine Port Hacking, fuses contemporary cutting edge “no expense spared quality and an amazing list of inclusions. Architect designed living on 1183sqm, this is an all season’s indoor/outdoor entertainers home. Contact: Michael Marquette on +61 433 170 170 or Christine Watson on +61 414 352 680 of Marquette Turner Luxury Homes
Video Rating: 3 / 5

Tampa Bay’s real estate economy, or Everything you need to know about six counties in sixty minutes

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Riding the 2nd Wave of Foreclosures

Driving South on Interstate 75 in Marietta, GA everyone on their way to work looks up to see the big realty company sign that tells how many listings are on the market, waiting to be sold.  The numbers have finally made it back in the 70,000 range which is what we used to call “normal” when referring to the then thriving Georgia Market.  We may be tempted to give a sigh of relief that things are finally returning to “normal,” but the numbers portray a false security.
May’s foreclosure statistics reported the third largest number in history of U.S. properties with foreclosure activity.  Although the number was down 6% from April, still 321,480 homes showed filings for foreclosure, notices of default, or were marked for auction and repossession.  May also was the third straight month of national foreclosures exceeding the 300,000 homes mark.  According to a report put out recently by RealtyTrac®, 1 in every 398 U.S. homes received a foreclosure filing in May.  Georgia is currently ranked 7th in properties with foreclosure filings.  In Georgia, 1 in every 377 homes is involved in foreclosure activity, a figure slightly under the national average.
Though there may seem to be signs of less homes on the market, and thus the return of a healthy, more stable real estate economy – the problem lies in the reality of a flood of foreclosures that has been dammed up by various state regulations and the Obama administration’s requests in the form of an imposed moratorium since October 31, 2008.  That moratorium was lifted March 31st, and now banks and mortgage companies are aggressively engaging their previous process and policies of foreclosure regarding delinquent homeowners.  We haven’t seen the effects of the flood yet because evictions and notices take time.  But be assured, it’s coming. RealtyTrac’s executive officer James Saccacio stated this month “We expect REO activity to spike in the coming months as foreclosure delays and moratoria implemented by various state laws come to an end.”
Many people have been living in their homes for 6 months to a year without making payments, and without so much as a peep from their mortgage company.  Many lenders had slowed or stopped their foreclosing on borrowers waiting for clarification on Obama’s housing-rescue plan introduced in February, and the possible incentives accompanying it.  Other mortgage companies delayed foreclosures simply trying to deal with and strengthen their own programs to withstand the onslaught of the first wave and to comply with the changes in state laws.  But now with the moratorium lifted, the dam has begun to crack, and the force of the waters behind it is great – and these guests who have overstayed their welcome are being told to pack their bags — quickly. 
The effects of this 2nd wave of foreclosures on the real estate industry and the economy at large are uncertain.  Some experts expect more than 2 million homes to be foreclosed on in 2009 and that this flood of properties may cause further decline in home prices of up to 20%. So, I guess it’s fair to say we’re not out of the woods yet.  At the same time though, it’s not all doom and gloom.  With the second wave of foreclosures on the way, the agents who have survived through grit and professional determination, savvy investors, and homebuyers have a chance to ride the wave — this time with more experience, more opportunity, and potentially more incentives than ever before. I have hope that, although the real estate industry led the way in getting us into this mess, it will also lead us the way out.
Lee Graham is an Associate Broker and owner of The Graham Group, a premier team of real estate professionals specializing in <a rel=”nofollow” onclick=”javascript:_gaq.push(['_trackPageview', '/outgoing/article_exit_link']);” href=”http://www.atlantagrouprealestate.com/”> Atlanta Real Estate</a>.  Their areas of expertise include Residential, Foreclosures, and Short-Sales.  View more information at http://AtlantaGroupRealEstate.com.

Interview and discussion with the Chairman of US News & World Report, Mort Zuckerman. He talks about commercial real estate economy. (Bloomberg News)
Video Rating: 5 / 5

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The New Commercial Real Estate Economy is Here

Clearwater, FL (Vocus) August 22, 2010

As the “new” commercial real estate economy continues to trudge forward on its hopeful path to recovery, proof of a new way of doing business is evidenced by reports which show that the total workout activity (loan modification) for distressed commercial real estate loans during the first half of 2010 reached $ 29.2 billion. That is an increase of $ 14 billion of restructuring activity over the $ 15.2 billion for the first half 2009.

Ira J. Friedman, Chief Operating Officer for Guardian Solutions, a commercial loan modification firm based in Florida, said “What we are seeing on the part of lenders and special servicers is an increased openness to address the restructuring of CMBS loans when presented with professionally crafted proposals. Due to the ongoing deterioration of the market, and because of our regular dealings with lenders and special servicers, we are now more able to quickly move through the process of commercial loan restructuring.”

The continued stabilization of the real estate market has become increasingly dependent on the re-pricing and deleveraging of property positions, the Real Estate Research Corporation (RERC) reported recently.

Broader issues such as limited gross domestic product growth, continued high unemployment rates, and the likelihood of new federal regulations will force the market to further evaluate the long-standing formulas and assumptions they have traditionally used to price commercial real estate. The special servicers, who handle (CMBS) commercial properties in or facing default, have similarly, had to reevaluate their usual way of transacting with distressed properties that come into their hands.

Major challenges lay ahead for commercial real estate, including the uncertainty related to the use of valuations such as cap rates and comps; the manner in which these metrics are employed, directly affect the outcome of proposed commercial loan restructures and subsequently will influence a market recovery.

“The types of mortgage restructuring we are seeing get approved include both term extensions and mortgage discounted buyouts, added Friedman…while we obviously take into account the needs of the property owner, we clearly address the concerns of the special servicers in order to get these deals completed—it has to be a win-win result..”

Because of the changing landscape of commercial real estate and other factors that have evolved in the capital markets over the past several years, the approach to analyzing, investing, managing and restructuring loans for commercial properties will also need to evolve beyond the status quo of previous years.

For commercial loans from 2006-2008, the lax underwriting standards of that time period, lack of amortization, low capitalization rates, the disastrous domino effect of the weakened economy and reduced market liquidity will all probably to lead to higher loss severities.

The commercial loan modification process is very selective, with some banks, lenders and special servicers electing to take back properties, sell them at a loss and take them off their balance sheets. But other properties which meet the new criteria for loan restructuring, and are represented with the submission of compelling workout proposals, will be modified and kept on the books.

“Property owners are increasingly experiencing the fallout of this damaged economy and are faced with two options: holding onto a non-performing asset or foreclosure. Guardian Solutions is able help commercial property owners restructure their loans by first properly evaluating an owner’s asset performance and market potential. Based on that information and other analytical data we compile, and our first-hand experience getting these modifications completed, we create a comprehensive restructuring proposal,” concluded Friedman.

About Guardian Solutions

Guardian Solutions is the one of nation’s largest commercial loan restructuring companies and is committed to helping commercial property owners save their properties. The company’s knowledgeable mitigators are experienced in a variety of disciplines to provide customized restructuring solutions. For more information, visit http://www.GuardianSolutions.org

Contact:

Jamie Sene

Vice President, Marketing

Guardian Solutions

727-442-8833

jvs(at)guardiansolutions(dot)org

http://www.GuardianSolutions.org

###

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Turkey Property Market Analysis Report

The Turkish economy is growing with fast rates since the beginning of 2000, and up to now the property prices have increased 2 to 3 times, while usually, a property value can double within the timeframe of 9-10 years. In September 2002 a sales index for real estates on the Turkish market (REMI) was introduced, making Turkey the first country in the Central and Eastern Europe to introduce such national index for real estate sector. This index is considered to be a solid indicator of property investment activity and development in the country. There are several main factors that contribute to the advance of the Turkey Real Estate market, which include the stable political situation, the improvement of the infrastructure, the increasing popularity of the sea and ski resorts, the low cost of living and the influx of foreign investment. Also, the real estate related services and bank services, including mortgages conditions, are constantly improving in order to meet the high criteria of the EU countries. Generally, the demand for properties in Turkey is high and stimulates the construction of new residential complexes and commercial buildings.

Turkey Market Analysis and Forecast

Real estate is constantly picking up in Turkey, with prices growing far more dramatically than expected as foreign investors pour in. Thanks to the near EU accession of the country, low prices and a swathe of ongoing new developments on the southern coast and in leading ski resorts, the odds were always high that Turkey’s long-neglected property sector would pick up. For example, starting from May 2009 it has taken off faster and more dramatically than anybody anticipated, thanks to the ever-acquisitive British and Irish investors, which are leading the way, and estate agents targeting foreign buyers springing up even in smaller towns and cities. The developers are planning more shopping malls in and outside leading Turkish cities, and with demand for quality office space high, commercial property is starting to look a good bet. All this, together with the EU promising to pump some 6,6 billion euro into Turkish infrastructure over the next five years, investing in the Turkey’s southern sunny cities such as Antalya and neighbouring resorts of Belek, Side, Alanya, Kemer, Kas, Kalkan and Fethiye are going to start looking rather smarter.

The Internatinal audiance has started investents in the area such as, the Mardan Palace Hotel the worlds most expensive hotel costing .4 billion that recently opened doors in Antalya on june –by the Azerbaijani billionaire Telman Ismailov, chairman of Russia’s biggest property developers AST. The world’s biggest Disneyland is on way to Turkey in 2012 –The Disneyland project will cost 700 million euros and expected to employ over 5,000 workers. Antalya is one of the world’s most important tourism centers and expecting a huge increase in the annual number of tourists to mention from 9 million to 15 million by 2013.

Turkish Real Estate Sector Information

The Turkish property by Western European standards is very cheap, and since Turkey has so much to offer, it is not surprising it is quickly getting more popular as an alternative country for property investment from the traditional European destinations. Some shrewd investors who bought in Turkey two years ago have seen the value of their property increase dramatically, but still, there is much potential, peak real estate deals at the sea side. During the last years demand was higher than supply, because of the increased supply of mortgage loans, and to the consistent migration of workforce from inside the country to sea resorts and big coastal urban centers like Alanya and Antalya where more jobs are available. According to National Statistic Institute of Turkey, the quarterly real estate prices growth rate is 12,5%, and yet, Antalya is the most expensive real estate market with 2,8% increase followed by the towns of Belek (23,7%), and Kemer (16,8%).

Information For Investors – Turkey Business Climate

Thanks to the stable economy as well to the drive for a fast and smooth leading process to EU membership, an upsurge in Turkish economy as well as a better investment rating for the country, making the macro-economical indexes very stable, which are as follows:

- Five year average GDP growth of 4,9%
- Budget surplus, low inflation, currency TL to EUR
- 80% private economy
- The stock market has tripled in the last two years

Also during the last years, Turkey had made great progress in creating a non-discriminatory regime of national treatment for foreigners performing economic activities. In the fall of 2002, the Parliament has approved changes to the Foreign Investment Act, which aimed at treating domestic and foreign investors on an equal footing and reducing the time spent on administrative issues, so as you see Turkey is a country, which has a lot of potential and with determined effort could overcome obstacles to an improved business environment.

Turkish Property Investment Funds

Recently, there has been a very significant increase in the level of indirect investment in real estate sector in Turkey. The investors are mostly represented by limited partnerships, as well as offshore unit trusts, but the traditional base of property investors in these vehicles has expanded. Now they include not only institutions and life companies, but also private equity, high net worth and non-resident investors. By investing in property through a managed fund, the risk of loss is reduced through the fund’s ability to diversify across a range of different property sectors, such as commercial, office, industrial, hotel and retail, and also the advantages of investing in property fund include:

- Strong capital growth
- Regular income
- Reduced risk through diversification where the fund invests across different property sectors

The number of property funds is increasing constantly, causing a bit of a stir in the Turkish property market. Most of these products are global property funds, a relatively new asset class for local investors, which mainly invest in Real Estate Investment Trusts, which are securities that sell like a stock on the major exchanges and invest in real estate directly, either through properties or mortgages.

Turkish Property Rental Fields

With 300 days of sunshine in Turkey the rent reimbursement from properties is exceptionally attractive, since it is close to 12%, making the annual reimbursement from real estate investment almost 5 times higher than in the United Kingdom. The increased demand for properties is the biggest reason for the rise of the rents, and according to the last official statistics, Turkish properties, both residential and commercial, bring 10-13% annual reimbursement from rent, depending on the characteristics and the location of the immovable. These numbers place Turkey in the lead in the whole of Central and Eastern Europe with regard to reimbursement coming from rent, so some new developed real estates in Turkey as the apartments in Sunny Beach resort offer very promising perspective to long term returns on investment.

Turkish Property Investors Opportunities

The property market in Turkey offers one of the leading opportunities for the investors looking to buy residential or commercial buy-to let property, so many of the experts often compare Turkish property market with the Spanish one in terms of potential. Even at the hot spots like the sea and mountain resorts the prices are one of the cheapest in Europe, even more – there are a lot of off-plan developments which are preferred by the investors for their price. The improving bank services are also a factor that draws investments to the Turkish property market, since now mortgages with good interest rate can be arrange to buy a property in Turkey and some real estate agencies offer extended payment terms for their properties. The future EU membership of Turkey has also a positive effect on the Turkish property market, since this accession means that the infrastructure will be significantly improved. Another factor contributing to the investors interest in Turkey is the low cost of living, because the salaries in Turkey are much lower than in the EU countries, and also the cost of a holiday in Turkey is much cheaper than in any other EU country.

Turkish Facts and Figures Information

- The population of Republic of Turkey is 72 million people, with territory that covers an area of 880,265 square kilometers, equating to a population density of 72 people per sq km
- The official language is Turkish, though English is widely spoken, particularly amongst the younger generations
- The neighbours of Turkey are Bulgaria to the north, Greece and Italy to the west, Cyrpus to the south, Turkey to the south east, and Mediterranean sea to the east
- Life expectancy in Turkey is 69 years for men and 75 years for women
- Turkey is a Parliamentary Republic.
- In December 2006 the unemployment rate stood at 9,12%, while at the end of 2006 the rate of inflation stood at 6,5%.
- The percentage of literacy rate is 98,5
- The Mediterranean sea coastline to the east measures 850 km
- The lowest point is sea level on the Mediterranean sea coast, while the highest one is Mount Ari within 2925m
- The principal religion in Turkey is muslim, and some christians.
- Turkey’s domain country code is TR
- The President is Abdullah Gul, and the Prime Minister is Recep Erdogan
- Turkey has been a member of NATO since March 1957
- In 2006 Turkey’s GDP grew by 8,1%, but still at the end of 2006 Turkey’s GDP (per capita) amounted to just 26% of the average.

 Turkish Real Estate Prices

The prices of the properties in Turkey are among the lowest in Europe, so even the cost of a good quality property in a popular destination as the Mediterranean sea or mountain resorts is affordable for most of the property buyers. For example, and an old house in the countryside may cost less than 15,000 euro. The deals with off-plan properties are also preferred by the buyers for being very profitable, so just in the last two years the estates prices have increased with more than 50%. The trend for the next years is that the prices will continue to rise with around 10-15% per year – a moderate, but systematic increase of Turkish property prices before the EU membership and maybe some time afterwards. Here are some examples for the prices of the properties:

- An old rural house with 4 rooms near a historic town with need of repair and without water inside will cost less than 15,000 euro
- Seafront apartment with 2 rooms near within 30 km from the international airport will cost 45,000-65,000 euro.
- Luxury architect designed villa on the Mediterranean sea cost with pool and garden may cost up to 200,000 euro
- Double room apartment near in the beach will cost about 20,000-30,000 euro
- New flats neat a golf playground are usually sold for about 30,000 euro