[euroburo]

With international property markets in turmoil, the risks of dealing with dodgy developers and the uncertainty as to where to invest - then consider Austria. I read with horror the experiences of some people who have been ripped off in one way or another.

Austria is different. Why ?

The property market has never inflated like Spain or England. Prices have remained steady and government policies make sure that properties are treated as homes to live in and enjoy and not as speculative asetts. (Apart from gin palaces in Kitzbühel bought by the international jet set). Otherwise, it is a steady, reliable market and estate agents are VERY strictly controlled by law. The land registry is totally reliable, title is absolutely assured and whilst you won't make pots of speculative money, you will at least have a safe haven in which to invest and be able to sell again when you want to. The market here has always been slow and traditional so you won't re-sell overnight, but you will be able to sell again as we sell to clients from all over the world.

Bank accounts here are secret and that secrecy is ensgrined in Austrian law. It would take a two thirds majority in parliament for anyone to get access to your bank account. Austria welcomes investors from EU countries. It has recently abolished inheritance tax completely so you can pass on your assetts to your children. There are many advatages to buying here and there are particularly advatageous perks for wealthy individuals. (Ask us !)

Prices are far lower than you night expect for properties that you can use both in summer and for winter skiing. We have nice little apartments for sale from about 60,000 Euros in quite spectacular locations.

Mortgages are no problem but you will need 40% deposit - for unlike the world banks who have got themselves into trouble, the Austrian banks have always been cautious and prudent and are generally not affected by the recent turmoil.

We run a very respectable family estate agency business based in Bad Ischl and our fully bi-lingual staff are always around to offer reliable advice. See
www.deltaimmo.com - yes we trade in German because it is an Austrian based business but we also have an English language marketing company which advertises property for a great many Austrian estate agents and there is lots to see and read on our main website. www.euroburolimited.co.uk

Forget the 'hotspots' of the property market. You will only end up in tears.

Consider Austria. You may well be surprised.

David.