Business & Money | Thursday 9 February, 2017 4:45 am |

When it comes to balancing risk and reward in real estate, cities in Europe, South East Asia and Mediterranean fit into the sweet spot. In terms of house price, local rents and prospective growth - Portugal, Cyprus, India and Pakistan have been crowned as the top markets for buyers hoping to invest in property.

The 13th edition of the International Property Show (IPS) which will be held from April 2nd to 4th this year at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, will offer investors the best in real estate and properties from these markets.

It has been noted that despite the tumbling prices of oil, investors from the Middle East and GCC have continued their steady stream of investments on international soil. Investors from the small, oil-rich nation are focused mainly on hospitality assets in key markets. A report stated that about US$5.2 billion of cash from Middle East has found its way into hotels developments in the United Kingdom and mainland Europe, according to the property broker CBRE.*

International Property Show 2017 will offer the best portfolio of hospitality properties from Europe including Spain, Czech Republic, Greece and Turkey. The Portugal and Cyprus pavilion will see participation from real estate companies featuring the latest developments and residency by investment program. Pakistan pavilion will showcase the finest projects and investments offers to local and international real estate investors and buyers. In addition, India pavilion will be promoting property investment for NRIs.

“If you are planning on making an investment, either for your own home, hospitality or a rental property, these are really good markets,” said Dawood Al Shezawi, CEO, Strategic Marketing & Exhibitions, organizers of the International Property Show. “These areas have seen an increase in returns in 2016 and it is expected that they will continue the positive momentum in 2017. In addition, these markets not only ensure lucrative returns, but also have very little risk of investment,” added Al Shezawi.

It has been noted that the Brexit referendum and the increased stamp duty have not been able to curb the Arab investor spirit. A recent Savills report stated that London remains the world’s most popular destination for cross-border investment into real estate, surpassing its closest competitor, Manhattan, by approximately $12.53 million (Dh46.04 million) in the previous year alone.

Furthermore, it has been revealed that London is the third-biggest residential property market for Middle Eastern wealth after Abu Dhabi and Dubai, according to Savills’ research.

With new real estate projects springing up everywhere in these international markets, the return on investment is certainly high. In addition, these areas are well equipped with modern infrastructure and facilities. Along with recent developments, the shopping is great, the attractions are beautiful and the lifestyle is well-balanced.

“Savvy investors should consider taking advantage of these buoyant markets. These areas are only going to boost demand for property in the coming months, whether for purchase or rent,” added Al Shezawi.

The 13th edition of the International Property Show is expected to be the biggest since its return, with over 200 exhibitors from 50 countries to participate.

The exhibition has been 80 per cent sold out so far, with both local and international exhibitors accounting similar share of space so far.

“Whether you’re looking to put down roots with a family home or to rent out your purchase for yield, the 13th edition of the show offer two things anyone making a home investment should be after - affordability and growth,” concluded Al Shezawi.