International Health Plans: Why Buyers Need to Beware

Given the choice, would you rather buy an international health plan that is secure and subject to state regulators’ standards, or one that is not?

When it comes to international health plans, consumers often encounter products from “non-admitted” insurers that operate beyond the reach of U.S. state insurance regulations. These offshore plans–also referred to as surplus lines policies-are cheap but should be purchased only after very careful consideration.

What is a non-admitted health plan? Any plan that has not been approved by the state insurance department as health insurance is considered non-admitted even if the administrator or marketing company is located in the U.S.

By law, buyers typically must acknowledge in writing that they are aware that they are buying a plan that does not conform to health insurance regulations. This is a kind of “buyer beware” warning.

Non-admitted insurers are not bound by state financial solvency requirements. To draw an analogy, buying a non-admitted plan can be likened to opening a bank account that is not FDIC protected.

The “rock bottom price” on a non-admitted plan can be a warning of troubles ahead. The cheapest health plan at time of purchase often turns out to be the most expensive in the long run.

When plans from admitted carriers, such as those offered by HTH Worldwide, are an option, consumers are fully protected under the law.

If a consumer files a complaint with the Department of Insurance, the state has direct recourse to the Admitted insurer to demand fair claims payment.

State regulations are designed to protect consumers, making it less likely that buyers will have to confront hidden gotcha’s on waiting periods, harsh exclusions, inside limits, penalties or unusual claims payment procedures.

Policy definitions must be stated in plain English. For example, admitted plans define a pre-existing condition as one that was treated or diagnosed prior to the effective date of the policy. In contrast, non-admitted plans often define it as a condition that was treated, diagnosed, or “could have manifested itself (whether symptoms existed or not)” prior to the effective date. This broad, ambiguous wording often backfires at time of claim.

Those returning from a stint abroad in need of a new health plan have peace of mind knowing that U.S. health insurers will recognize an admitted plan as creditable coverage. Additionally, members returning home are entitled to keep coverage in place for the long haul on certain HTH products such as the Global Citizen plan.

What is the bottom line? Avoid the financial risk and potential headaches that come with non-admitted health plans. Purchase admitted plans protected by U.S. state insurance regulations. You will sleep safe and sound at night.

By Brendan Sharkey
source: http://www.healthytravelblog.com/



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Business Overseas - Vintage Jerez Offers Opportunity for Would-Be Hoteliers

Plenty of us harbour a secret ambition to do a César Ritz and try our hand at hostelry. Jerez real estate agents, Mercers, have two city centre residences on their books which will allow you to do just that. The first is for those who like to work smart and is ready to go whilst the second is for those who like to work hard and is ready for renovation. Both have enough period flair and exquisite detailing to satisfy even the late ‘King of Hoteliers and Hotelier of Kings’.

Most famous for being the spiritual home of flamenco, the birthplace of sherry and a centre for Andalucian dancing horses - Jerez has much to offer the globetrotter. Its ‘Casco Histórico’ with a walled medina concealing cobbled streets, authentic tapas bars and the period palaces of the sherry dynasties draws year-round attention whilst the unblemished beaches of the Costa de la Luz are a swift 20 minute drive.

Easy to reach, for nationals and northern Europeans alike, Jerez’s modernized International Airport is set to serve four million passengers each year by 2012 (up from 1.4 million in 2006) and will crucially have its own AVE (bullet train) station connecting it to Spain’s major cities. Would-be hoteliers have little to fear, Jerez has earned its place on Spain’s cultural tourism map.

In order to hit the (cobbled) ground running Mercer’s recommends JER113, a ten-bedroom turn of the 20th century guest house set in a charming narrow street at the heart of town. Only one minute from Jerez’s central shopping district, Calle Larga, this Parisian-style boutique hotel has been welcoming paying guests for a number of years.

With a tardis-like 506m² constructed area plus a magnificent suntrap roof terrace of 180m² which throws light down into the vestibule via a large skylight, JER113 is a rare find. Excellent value for money considering the city-centre location, the ten bedrooms and six bathrooms are arranged over three floors whilst there is a shady courtyard patio at ground floor level and


private garaging for up to three cars. The recently reduced price now stands at 599,000 euros (down from 850,000 euros).

The kind of renovation project that Michelangelo would’ve liked to have got stuck into, JER137 is a vintage family home dating back to 1858 and the belle of Mercer’s books. One step across the threshold and the typically Andalucian courtyard with its grandiose main staircase, pillars, arches, beveling, cornicing, coving and Frank Lloyd-Wright inspired stained glass will already have the imagination running wild. Inside many of the rooms have Arab-esque stucco detailing, intricate tiling as well as the most incredible hand-painted ceilings with frescoes of countryside landscapes.

Counting at least seven bedrooms, four bathrooms, two kitchens and six iron-railed balconies, this precious part of Jerez’s history is built over 847m² to include a private rooftop terrace with potential penthouse suite. A rear garden and garage complete the scene for an idyllic city centre destination hotel. Although technically priceless, JER137 has been reduced from 1,000,000 euros to a give-away 850,000 euros.

Contact Mercers on 00 34 956 329 572, UK Local Rate 0845 017 7805, email jerez@spanishproperty.co.uk or visit www.spanishproperty.co.uk.

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Live in Chile

Chile is one of the most stable and economically advanced countries in South America. Prior to 1990, the country was ruled by General Augusto Pinochet. The General came to power by overthrowing Salvador Allende's democratically elected, socialist government in 1973. Chile has recovered well from its recent history of living under a dictatorship. It currently nurtures a thriving democracy and a successful free-market economic model.

The country shares borders with Peru, Bolivia and Argentina. The Pacific Ocean marks its western border bestowing it with a 4000 mile long coastline. Beyond continental South America, Chile encompasses the Juan Fernández Islands, the Salas y Gómez islands, the Desventuradas Islands and Easter Island. It also claims 480,000 square miles of land in Antarctica.

Chile's long North-South shape has translated into climatic conditions that range from a dry and desolate to alpine and snowy. The country measures 2,880 miles north to south and 265 miles east to west, at the widest part of the country. Traveling down Chile's length means going from some of the hottest temperatures to the coldest in the world.

The imposing Andes run along the western edge of the country. Most of the mineral deposits, including copper, are found in the North. A majority of Chileans live in the central parts where the rich agricultural resources are located. The South is littered with volcanoes, lakes, and virgin forests. The coast at the lowest tip of the country is very close to Antarctica and is dotted with magnificently pristine fjords, canals, islands, and peninsulas.

Santiago, the capital, is located near the center of the country and is home to a little over a third of Chile's 15.1 million citizens. Santiago has enjoyed consistent economic growth for the last couple of decades. This has turned it into one of the most modern South American cities. Rumor has it that visitors to Santiago can treat themselves to skiing and surfing on the same day. The city is close enough to both the Pacific Ocean and the Andes to make such antics possible.

Chile is the world's number one producer of copper. The country also exports timber, a variety of fruits, seafood, and wine. Since the 1990's, Chile's GDP has averaged eight per cent growth per year, according to the 2009 Index of Economic Freedom published by the Heritage Foundation and the Wall Street Journal.

The Index also ranks Chile as the 11th freest economy in the world. Some of the many investment positive aspects of the country include: a fairly transparent financial system and strong private property protection.

Chile's economy has been growing at a stable rate and is expected to continue on the same trajectory in the long term. In addition to a free trade agreement with the U.S., Chile is part of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum. It is also negotiating agreements with other potential trade partners.

Chile has a good business climate under which foreign and domestic investments are treated the same. It doesn't have too many controls on capital transfer and transactions. The country also boasts a well run financial and regulatory systems.

Banks are reliable and citizens and non-citizens alike can open foreign exchange accounts. Contracts are well respected and the judicial system is largely fair. Unlike many countries in the region, and indeed in the world, Chile doesn't suffer from much corruption.

In fact, out of 179 countries, the country ranked 23rd in the 2008 Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index, coming in just four places after the U.S. "Chile is a country of very low corruption," said Dublé.

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The Bahamas Sun, Sea and Stars - Lots $14,000+

Most of us cannot imagine being able to afford to live in the Bahamas. In a place where one is in constant danger of bumping into stars like Johnny Depp or Justin Timberlake, Demi Moore or Tom Cruise, Bill Gates or Madonna one should not expect the privilege of being able to afford to buy property on the same island spaces.

Not true!! Start expecting!

The Bahamian government has introduced a duty free zone to some of the most beautiful outer islands of the chain. One of these is Long Island.

Just two hours boat ride from Great Exuma or a twenty minute flight, Shrimp Hole is a new community situated on the North Side of Long Island. On Long Island you can now build for 34% less than you could a few years ago...that makes a mighty difference to the cost of privilege.

Shrimp Hole lots are located just off the main highway which runs the length of the eighty mile island and are within a short walking distance to a beautiful, white sandy beach with turquoise waters lapping at its shores.

You can start with a 1/4 acre plot for $14,000! Yes I am going to repeat that!

$14,000 buys you a quarter of an acre with access to beach and highway on a Bahamian island complete with sun, sand and that amazing Bahamian turquoise sea. All lots have electrical, water and telephone service available on the lot, and gas can be readily provisioned.


The owner is a local islander born and bred, he says, "For years Long Island has been a well kept secret and with the current legislation that allows all land buyers to build on their plots without having to pay the customs duty on their building materials, now is the time to buy a piece of it and construct. Inevitably the island will start to get busier and prices will rise.. The Duty free status is on the island NOW - a window of opportunity that will only last a short time…."

The area is zoned for one and two storey villas, and you must build your home within 18 months of starting construction.

But who wants to wait?

More Information and to Contact Us

Emily Elizee
Property and Real Estate Liaison

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Investment Opportunities in South Africa

The interest rate cuts this year have had a number of positive impacts, one of which is an emerging trend in the South Africa property market that presages good news for the residential property sector in South Africa.

"The most recent 100 basis point cut comes on top of 250 points in cuts since December last year as the Reserve Bank tries to ameliorate the weakening economy," said Sanett Uys, director at Colliers International Property and Facilities Management.

"The repo rate is now 8,5%, its lowest level since October 2006. For property owners, that means repayments on a bond of R1,5m have dropped from R20,308 in December 2008 to below R16,516, or a saving of around R3,792 every month. Repayments on bonds of R500 have dropped by R1,264, bringing them down to R5,505, and repayments on bonds of R3m have come down by R7,584 to R33,033."

"That's significant," said Uys.

"However, the South African economy is still badly affected by the global downturn – particularly the mining and manufacturing sectors."

Uys pointed out that retrenchments were increasing as companies struggle to keep their heads above water and consumer confidence remains low.

Uys said that negative sentiment was reflected in the retail and motor vehicle sectors as both were severely down and would continue to decline as big expense items remained low on people's priority list. Middle- and lower-income groups are being hit the hardest.

A number of other factors were affecting the property market, not all of them good, said Uys, noting that in some cases inexperienced agents were still overpricing stock in the hope of securing mandates.

Uys also noted that correctly priced properties take an average of 180 days to sell; banks are under pressure and re-evaluating approved finance – Standard Bank says households owe banks around R1,1 trillion, the bulk being in mortgage advances; and that Colliers agents were reporting an upswing in show house attendance in some regions, particularly from investors, cautious though they may be.

"It's important to note that there are still active investors in the market, even globally, and they are looking for opportunities," said Uys.

"Property owners looking to sell will find buyers if their price accurately reflects realigned values, and investors will increasingly find buyers who have correctly priced their properties for sale, inexperienced agents notwithstanding."

Colliers research indicated that the best investment opportunities were:

- Where there is predicted population growth;
- Where rental growth is consistent and strong, with the result that the capital and rental return or yield is good;
- Where employment growth rate is growing, which serves as a form of security; and
- Where there is an investment infrastructure.

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Beachside Development in Brazil - demand outstrips supply in Pipa Village

Thanks to a compelling combination of soaring popularity and stringent planning regulations, development land in the centre of Pipa village is rare to the point of near extinction. But, with the acquisition of a site once occupied by a tumbledown villa, www.uv10.com is able to offer its clients the chance to own holiday and rental property right in the heart of Pipa, in one of the six apartments at ‘Pipa Beach’.

Short of pitching a tent on the sands it would be impossible to get closer to Pipa’s main beach. This gated project of one and two bedroom properties is just ten short metres from the white sands and turquoise waves fronted by calm natural lagoons. And, unusually for this stretch of northeast Brazilian coastline, there are no steps or sheer drops to negotiate, just a simple same-level stroll – making it especially interesting for the less able. And, with the best of Rio Grande do Norte’s restaurants, beach clubs, bars and boutiques on the doorstep, the projections for rental income are particularly attractive.

Samantha Gore, Head of Sales & Marketing for Brazil property experts www.uv10.com, comments, “Pipa village conforms to the old investment adage – demand outstrips supply. With the local authorities being so protective of their rich natural environment very few build licenses are dished out in this area and ‘Pipa Beach’ is one of a select, fortunate few. Based on research from Pipa town itself, where the average annual rental occupation is around 65%, one bedroom apartments in Pipa Beach could command 200 reais (70 euros) a day in high season, that’s from December to March plus July and August, and 300 reais (110 euros) a day for two bedrooms. This would drop slightly to 150 reais (53 euros) and 250 reais (90 euros) respectively in low season. With full rental management and a choice of furniture packs on offer, these sorts of rates are perfectly achievable.”

With a choice of one or two bedrooms, apartments at Pipa Beach enjoy private balconies with front row sea views as well as rooftop solarium shared exclusively between the six homes complete with two plunge pools. Ideal for sundowner cocktails or surf and turf barbecues with tasty local produce. Off-street parking is available and the rental management scheme will maximise your income when you’re not in town. Natal’s Augusto Severo International Airport is just 80km to the north of Pipa and one of the largest airports in the world is currently under construction close to the city.

Prices at Pipa Beach start from €93,000 euros (approx £81,000 gbp) for a one bedroom apartment and from €110,000 euros (approx £96,000 gbp) for a two bedroom. Completion is expected by October 2010.

Contact uv10 on info@uv10.com

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Invest Overseas: Falling Property Prices Open Door For New Investors

In recent months, analysts in some of the fastest-growing overseas property destinations have observed and predicted steep falls in asking prices. But on the other hand, a new wave of investors have entered the market.

Property in Bulgaria, once the darling of the overseas property investment world, has dropped in price across the board to levels equivalent to the beginning of 2007. The drop is said to have affected all areas of the country, from the tourist havens of the Black Sea coast to the ski resorts and even the capital, Sofia. Combined factors of a drop in available mortgage funding, the global recession draining confidence and the sudden disappearance of Russian middle-class buyers are behind a large part of the drop in process, along with a likely market correction of some overvalued properties.

Meanwhile in another investment hotspot, Dubai, experts are predicting the possibility of even steeper drops in prices. A recent report released by Swiss banking group UBS has predicted that prices in the emirate could ‘bottom out’ at 70 per cent less than their peak in the final quarter of 2008. In research note, the company said, “In our view we are still in relatively early stages of the property down cycle in the UAE. We believe risk-reward profiles are not yet compelling for investors to consider market re-entry hence continued price declines are expected.”

UBS also said they expected the population of Dubai to fall by around ten per cent in the next two years as job cuts take effect and those losing their jobs are forced to leave the country as their visas are cancelled.

However, with adversity there is opportunity. There are cash buyers out there in the market who are waiting to call the bottom of the market and buy up properties at below what they see as the realistic market value. Once that happens and the wheels of the market once again begin to turn, mortgage finance should again begin to appear and more buyers can come into the market.

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Property Investment in Dubai Delayed due to Lack of Investor Confidence

Lack of investor confidence could delay a recovery in the Dubai real estate market until late 2011, according to the latest property analyst report.

The recently introduced law granting foreign property investors a six month renewable residency visa if they invest a minimum of 1 million dirhams is unlikely to aid a recovery, says the report from EFG Hermes.

Analysts at the Egypt based investment bank described the new law as 'self destructive'. It had expected recent clarifications from the UAE government on home ownership to improve investor sentiment but the new law was unhelpful.

As a result, they are predicting that a market recovery in Dubai could happen as late as the end of 2011, rather than its earlier prediction of the second half of 2010.

Analysts also said property prices in Dubai were continuing to slide and were now down 35% since the start of 2009.

The latest study on the emirate's real estate market added that prices were 40% off their peaks of 2008 while transaction values and volumes were also subdued during April.

The total value of transactions amounted to AED31.8 billion during the first quarter of 2009, compared to AED73.4 billion in the fourth quarter of 2008 and AED110 billion in Q3 when the property market was at its peak.

This represents a 72% drop off in market activity from the highs of the previous year, EFG Hermes added.

And analysts forecast that the slump in Dubai house prices would continue until they fell up to 60% from their 2008 highs.

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Packing Tips for Relocation

Firstly there is no absolute right way or wrong way to go about packing and unpacking when you’re about to move house. What works as a strategy for you may not be any good at all for somebody else and vice versa. However, what many of us who have experienced a house move will have in common is that we’ll have all learned little tips along the way to make packing and moving out run a bit more smoothly or which has saved us time. Here are just a few ideas you will, no doubt, have many more of your own.

All About Boxes

All boxes need to be lifted so you should never fill any kind of box to contain more than 50lb in weight. It’s also better to pack heavier items at the bottom of the box. If boxes are not full, they can benefit from putting extra ballast inside to stop things moving around and so socks, scarves, pillow cases etc are ideal for this purpose and saves space too. Don’t overpack a box and, if you have lots of smaller boxes, it’s quicker to move them out of the house if you put them into one much larger box. You should be able to close all boxes comfortably at which point they can be sealed so that they are flat. Depending on what they contain, don’t forget they may need to be marked ‘This Way Up’ or ‘Fragile’ and you should mark them anyway with what they contain and which room they are designated to go as then it will be easier to find everything and get unpacked at the other end. Once you have marked all of the boxes, by writing them down on a sheet of paper, you can use this as an inventory at the other end to ensure that all the boxes have been offloaded safely.

To Speed Things up at the Other End

You’ll be overwhelmed with boxes once you reach your destination but there will be boxes that can wait and others that will contain essential everyday items – kettle and tea bags springs to mind! Therefore, to make sure you can find essential items quickly, you should label these boxes “load last, unload first”. Hopefully, you’ll have packed boxes room by room and marked the boxes by the different rooms they’re intended to go. This will also speed up the whole unpacking process.

Furniture and Larger Appliances

You should draw up a plan of your new home and have marked out exactly where each piece of furniture or larger appliance is going to be put and give a copy to the removal men so that they’re not held up waiting to ask you where you want each item to be set down.

Keep a Small Set of Tools on You

There’s every likelihood that when you’re in the process of unpacking, you’ll encounter nuts and screws falling off items or some component separating from another on a particular item, not forgetting all the items you disassembled – fridge handles, PC pieces etc so you’re going to need a basic set of tools on you at all times. In fact, it’s often useful to wear a joiner’s belt as you’ll be called to bring your screwdriver every few minutes.

Beds First

In terms of reassembling items, it’ll have been a long day so, apart from getting the kettle on the go, make sure all the beds are at least assembled once you reach your new place. The rest of the reassembly can wait until the following day.

Get the Kids Involved

You’ll probably have that many boxes to offload at the other end that the more hands on deck, the quicker the job will get done so enlist the help of your kids, if you have any, by drawing up separate lists for what each of them will be required to do. And, if you throw in some kind of ‘incentive’ such as a sliding scale of additional pocket money the quicker each of them can tick off their list or offer them a group incentive whereby they’ll get ‘such and such’ as a reward if all the lists are ticked off within X number of minutes, then you might be amazed at the speed of their help once you start to unload.

Other Handy Tips

Here are a few more tips that will make moving easier and will speed the process up at the same time:

•Moving day is about ‘moving’ not packing so make sure the packing is all done in the days leading up to the move
•Get everything moved from A to B first and only then start to unpack
•One large expensive removal van will make for a far quicker, less stressful move than 20 or so trips using cars or a smaller van
•For packing you need less helpers but for moving you need more
•The earlier you start to move out the quicker it will be completed as there will be less traffic on the roads
•In managing your time schedule, remember that it generally takes 3 to 4 times longer to pack a removal van than to unpack it.

If you look upon packing and moving as a sort of ‘military option’ where everyone has a role to play and knows what’s expected of them, then the less stressful the event will be.

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Win an Estate Agency in South Africa

If you fancy doing something a little bit different this year, how about running an estate agency business in South Africa - Century 21 is giving away three franchises in their Golden Opportunity competition - in the hope it will help to rejuvenate the country's struggling property industry...

Property competitions are nothing new - there have been handfuls of people running raffle draws and quizzes of late in order to sell their credit crunched property in a more creative manner, but this competition has a twist.

Century 21, the world's biggest property group, is giving away the chance to win and then run one of three ten-year franchises, offering a ‘groundbreaking event in an industry that needs to be kickstarted.'

The competition is aimed at people with ‘strong independent principals, exceptional estate agents and smaller brands.' Entrants will be judged according to a number of criteria and the lucky winners will take on the franchises, which are worth around £15,000 each.

Colleen Gray, Managing Director of Century 21 South Africa, said, "Difficult market conditions call for innovative solutions and we believe the ‘Golden Opportunity' competition will make a difference in the industry.

"There are many deserving agencies and agents out there who have the know-how, the business savvy and the acumen to grow their businesses. Moreover, they are keen to become part of a global brand.

"However, taking advantage of the opportunity to acquire this calibre of franchise support requires capital and that's a scarce commodity right now," she added.

Check out the website www.century21.co.za for more information and make sure you get your entry in before May 31st, when the competition closes.


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Property in Bulgaria to get Enforced Facelifts

Anyone who owns property in the Bulgarian Black Sea resort of Bourgas will soon be required to restore and redecorate the exterior of their home – as part of a bid by the Government to improve the city centre. Legal action will be taken against anyone who fails to comply.

The Mayor of Bourgas, Dimitar Nikolov, has said that the new rules are an essential part of the area’s restoration and rejuvenation programme and will apply to Bulgarian properties in the central pedestrian streets particularly along Alexandrovska and Bogoridi. Some of the first phases of the work will begin in Troikata Square.

Owners will be given a ‘decent time frame’ in which to conduct the necessary work. In case they fail to do so, the municipality will renovate the buildings with its own resources, after which it will collect the funds through legal action, if the owner fails to pay.

The completion time for the refurbishment of Tsar Simeon Street and the area between Bulair and Cyril and Methodii has been brought forward and new pavements, tarmac, green belts, alleys and parking spaces are to be completed by the end of the month.

If you own a property in Bulgaria that has a cultural monument status, you will also be required to renovate the home’s exterior. Before doing so, special documents must be obtained from the National Institute of Cultural Monuments.

Bourgas is more of an industrial and business centre than a ‘proper’ resort, although there are a few beaches, but this work is hoped to change that and attract more tourists.

The international airport is a starting point for tourists visiting the Black Sea and also a popular focus for British property investors so they may well be enticed to stay on in Bourgas.

Surrounded by the coastal Bourgas Lakes and located at the westernmost point of the Black Sea, Bourgas can also lay claim to the largest and most important Bulgarian port.

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Investing in French Rental Property

The Loi Scellier (named after the French politician who proposed the idea) offers a reduction in income tax of up to 37% of the acquisition cost of a French rental property.

The approach is a significant change of direction from existing tax breaks for new property rentals (known as 'Robien' and 'Borloo'), built as they are on the principle of charging a percentage of the acquisition cost against rental income.

The tax relief gained from such schemes is directly proportional to the marginal rate of taxation of investors, benefiting most those on the highest marginal rates. These schemes will be phased out by the end of the year.

In future, investors will be able to claim a direct reduction in their income tax bill, which has made these rental schemes far more attractive to those with lower marginal rates of taxation.

Clearly, however, as the schemes only grant a reduction in French income tax (and not a tax credit), it is not going to be of interest to those who pay no or little income tax in France!

Income Tax Reduction
The level of the reduction in income tax will depend on the year of acquisition of the property, and the controls the landlord is prepared to accept on the income of the tenant and level of the rent.

A basic reduction of 25% will apply to those properties purchased in 2009/10, reducing to 20% for a property purchased in 2011/12. No information is yet available on the rate for those properties acquired in later years.

The price basis on which the tax break can be granted cannot exceed €300,000, so for 2009/10 the maximum reduction in income tax is €75,000, and for the subsequent two years it is €60,000.

The reduction in income tax is available for nine years, which means a maximum reduction per year of €8,333 for property purchased in 2009/10, and €6,666 for a property acquired in 2011/12.

Where you are unable to make use of all of the reduction in tax in a single year, then any surplus can be rolled over for the subsequent six years, thereby making the income tax relief available for up to 15 years.

Thus, an investor who has a right to a reduction in tax of €3000 in a year, but who only has a liability of €2000 in that year, can roll over the surplus €1000 to the following year, and so on.

Maximum Rents
There are controls on the maximum rental that can be charged, but as these limits are generally above local market rents they rarely pose a problem for a prospective investor. In Paris, Cote d’Azur and Geneva it is around €21m², whilst in the provinces it varies from €12m² to €15m².

A landlord who is prepared to let the property to a tenant within a maximum income threshold and at a maximum lower rent also benefits from a supplemental reduction in income tax of 2% for an additional six years, provided the income threshold and rental conditions continue to be met . This brings the total reduction to 37% on the price of the property purchased in 2009/10 (32% for 2011/12).

The maximum annual income thresholds for tenants are generous, around €65K for a couple in Paris, and around €45K in the provinces.

The maximum level of the rent in such cases varies according to the location of the property. In Paris, Cote d’Azur and Geneva it is around €17 per m², whilst elsewhere it varies from around €10m² to €12m².

Accordingly, neither in terms of the income of the tenant, nor the rent you can charge, are you being asked to be social landlords.

In return, the landlord undertakes to let the property for a minimum of nine years. The first letting must take place within 1 to 3 years of completion, depending on the rental controls the landlord is prepared to accept on the letting.

The property must also be the main home of the tenant, who cannot be a member of the owner’s household.

All types of new residential property are eligible under this scheme – newly built properties and off-plan developments, as well as newly renovated properties. New self build properties are also eligible. In all cases the dwelling will need to achieve minimum energy performance standards.

Geographic Limits
Crucially, the scheme is only available in designated areas of the country, and is mainly restricted within these zones to towns and cities with a population of at least 50,000 residents. Some smaller coastal towns are also eligible.

This marks a significant change from the previous regimes, where tax breaks were more generally available across the country, with the result that many schemes were driven by the tax incentives they offered, not by the local demand for rental property.

By tightening the geographic boundaries of the new schemes, the government hopes to ensure that new developments will not sit empty, and that a satisfactory return will be available to investors.

Judging by the early results, it seems to be bearing fruit, for developers such as Kaufman & Board, Nexity and Bouygues Immobilier are reporting a significant increase in the level of sales in these schemes for February and March.

As always, however, if you are looking to invest, you need to do your homework on the level of local demand for rental property, on the market price for similar property in the area, and the likely return on your investment. Just because the scheme offers a tax break does not necessarily mean it is an attractive commercial proposition.

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Working Overseas - Volunteer Teacher in Nepal

Nepal is one of the poorest countries in the world, and there are many opportunities to combine a holiday with some voluntary work. Volunteers experience life in both a rural and urban area. VSSN is a Non government organization which places volunteers in schools and orphanages for two to five months also short stays are arranged. An initial fee covers all food and accommodation, and includes an orientation course with lessons in Nepali, cultural tours and lectures, and social events. Most people in Nepal can't afford to travel, and in the villages there is little chance of contact with the outside world. Volunteer teachers enable students to form relationships with someone from another culture, and the local teachers can learn different teaching methods and techniques.

Mainly, volunteers assist the regular school teacher so volunteers do not need to have any teaching background. Volunteers are also welcome to teach different subjects e.g. mathematics, history, science, geography, computer, technologies, music and other subjects. All higher education in Nepal is in English, so it is vitally important that children must learn English to continue further higher education. A trained teacher is committed to raising standards in schools in Nepal, and with an adult literacy rate of 51% for men and 24% for women there is plenty of room for improvement.

Volunteers in the Teaching Program teach English for two to four hours a day or more, 5 to 6 days a week. You will teach conversational English Language to the school children. Depend on school size there are 100 to 300 studenst, aged 6 to 18 years. VSSN is placing volunteers in the school, which are located in semi rural places and they are about 15 kilometers away from Kathmandu city.

Upon your arrival you will receive orientation and training appropriate to the length of your stay. During orientation, you will receive an intensive training that covers Teaching English as a Foreign Language, communicative Nepali, cultural information, project description and travel information etc. During your orientation phase you will be staying in Kathmandu with either a Nepali host family or in a Hotel. After completion of your orientation phase you will be escorted to your assigned placement. You will be accommodated with a Nepali host family nearby work location that will provide you with meals.

Program Fee: One month: 380€
For additional month: 150€

The program fee covers administrative charge, training, accommodation and meals during your training and placement, transportation for volunteers and supervision. We also provide scholarships to needy children and donate funds to the schools we are affiliated with.

What is not included: Your flights, Visa (a 60 day tourist visa costs only 21€ (US$ 30), the extensions are 21€ (US$ 30) per 30 days with three renewals possible), vaccinations, travel insurance and corresponding airport departure taxes. You will need a weekly budget of up to 15€ to cater for all your other expenses like bottled water, personal items, beverages and entertainment.
Visit: http://www.volunteer-nepal.org

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UAE Expats to Benefit from Entry Visa Changes

From June 1st, the new multiple-entry visas for expatriate property owners will be issued in the United Arab Emirates in a bid to better regulate the real estate sector by allowing expatriate property owners to obtain multiple entry visas valid for six months...

The new decree - which applies across all emirates in the UAE - states that, in order to qualify for the visa, the apartment or villa must easily accommodate the family of the property investor and must be worth at least £180,000.

Many of the country’s seven emirates liberalised UAE property ownership laws in recent years and officials hope less stringent visa standards will encourage further investment and attract more foreigners.

Requirements for the new visa also ask that the expat obtains the title of the property from the registration authority in the respective emirate. The property must also be ready to move into and the investor must have a minimum monthly income of £1,800 or equivalent in foreign currencies. The new visa does not permit the property owner to work.

Brigadier Nasser Al Awadhi Al Minhali, Acting Director-General of the Naturalisation and Residency Department says that the decree standardises the rules and will help to stimulate the economy.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum said, “We are very keen to ensure convenient conditions for expat property owners.”

The new decree reads, ‘The multi-entry permit can be renewed only after an owner leaves the UAE.

‘Owners of built-up properties can stay for six months from the date of entry into the country.

‘On the expiry of this period, the owner pledges to depart for his homeland or any of the GCC countries.

‘He will only be allowed to enter the country again after meeting the required conditions but can include a spouse and children on the application and enter with them,’ added the decree.

But, whilst it may sound good in theory, according to industry experts, the new decree remains confusing and is unlikely to have any real impact on the UAE’s ailing property market.

They argue that the visa extension won’t have the desired impact as it prevents expats from working in the emirates. Some are also arguing that the required monthly income level is far too high and will exclude many expats from obtaining the new visas.

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Financing Homes in Mexico - Baby Boomers are starting to get it

For those that want to stretch their equity, there are now options for USA financing of Homes in Mexico. Baby Boomers can sell their current homes and place only a portion of the proceeds into their home in Mexico as a down payment. Monthly payments will often be much less than their current payment on their “Raised the Children In” home.

When choosing vacation properties for the intention of making it a retirement home, however, the results are a bit surprising. One might assume that many people will choose golf course locations or beach side resorts. While this is still a popular option, many Baby Boomers are choosing their property based on the availability of quality health care. The Baby Boomers who participated in various studies cited that rural areas where they could get affordable health care quickly was more important than the proximity to their favorite past time. However, as this generation throughout their lives has become accustomed to, they want it all. In Mexico, they get it all. Access to affordable high quality medical facilities as well as the beach lifestyle that they have been looking for. Many are choosing to settle in residential resort communities in Mexico that are only a short drive from the USA like Rosarito Beach, Ensenada, San Felipe and Puerto Penasco, for that additional peace of mind.

Savvy developers have imported the technology of “Residential Resort Lifestyles” - a true-blue American concept -into the country, with the result that for Baby Boomers, a home in a resort in Mexico is truly a home away from home. These residential resorts are typically located by the seaside with all amenities that one can imagine-swimming pools, a community center, recreation hall, easy commuting distance to a golf course, theater, bar and restaurants, pizza, shopping mall, launderettes, and wi-fi internet service. With the ocean before them, water sports are of course emphasized. These facilities ensure that a residential resort home owner need not really step out too far from their door for socializing, relaxation and enjoyment.

Homes in these residential resorts are usually custom-designed and well constructed. While planning the home design, architects and building contractors are required to follow strict guidelines that adhere to the best U.S. standards of construction, including height regulations thereby respecting their neighbor's ocean and mountain views. People who may have spent their life in cramped conditions, or perhaps had to adjust with rented homes while working in cities get the chance to let their imagination soar and bring to reality their dreams about the seaside home they have always wanted.

Ownership of residential land in Mexico for non-nationals is thought a vehicle known as “Fideicomiso”. The Fideicomiso is akin to an USA Living Trust, whose basis is the Trust whose basis is the Trust system of ownership. It is through a Fideicomiso that Baby Boomers have been acquiring absolute ownership rights to Property in Mexico. Baby Boomers need to make sure that by a professional title insurance company that takes could possibly and conceivably arise. This protects the nest that takes into account all the issues and eventualities that could possibly and conceivably arise. This protects the nest that the Baby Boomers is so assiduously building for themselves, post retirement.

It has begun to happen-Prospective retirees are buying their dream houses along the serene and peaceful coasts of Northwest Mexico. While waiting for the big day when they actually retire, these Baby Boomers snatch long weekends from their hectic schedule and can drive to their seaside vacation home. The moments spent at the waterfront are so relaxing and rejuvenating.

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Spotlight on Italy - Star Studded Rome

You may not think that Rome needs any help attracting tourists, with hoards flocking to the eternal city each year, but now, some of Italy’s most famous stars are joining forces to create a promotion video for the city, which will showcase ancient and contemporary Rome at its very best.

The legendary Franco Zeffirelli will direct the film, which will feature all of Rome’s best known landmarks, including the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona.

Mayor of Rome Gianni Alemanno announced that the film would go ahead yesterday and said that screen siren Monica Bellucci and opera singer Andrea Bocelli would also be involved in the project.

As well as showcasing the ancient aspects of Rome, the 16-minute film will also focus on Rome as a modern city, with much on offer for younger people aside from sightseeing.

Mayor Alemanno said, “I am leaving all the details of the video in Zeffirelli’s hands, who is donating his time to the project.”

Meanwhile, Zeffirelli, who has directed Romeo and Juliet and The Taming of the Shrew said, “Don’t ask me how long it will take to make this video.

“I want it to be a work of art. My only fear is that loving Rome as much as I do, I’ll ignore its flaws,” said the Tuscan-born director who has lived in Rome for many years and owns a villa on the Appian Way.

Actress Monica Bellucci, who has appeared on the silver screen in films such as The Passion of the Christ and Matrix Reloaded, lives in Paris but owns a property in Rome that she visits as often as possible.

According to Franco Zeffirelli, Monica will be playing the part of Tosca in the short film – Tosca is one of Puccini’s greatest works and is ‘an invincible symbol of Rome.'

She will feature in the promo film alongside opera singer Andrea Bocelli, who has sold around 65 million albums worldwide. Bocelli will also sing at the Champions Cup final at Rome’s Stadio Olimpico on May 27th this year.


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Brazil Property Investment - More Good News

Brazil had one of its best years ever in 2008 when the country’s GDP growth was among the highest in the world. After a slower start to this year, recent statistics for April show that Brazil is also firmly on track to lead the world’s economy in 2009.

Statistics for April, just released by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC – one of the United Nations’ five regional commissions), prove that Brazil’s economy is doing more than well. According to ECLAC, Brazil’s stock market is buoyant, exports grew by nearly 15% last month when the country also registered a very healthy trade surplus of US$3,700 billion.

In addition to this trio of positive statistics – which most countries would give their eye teeth for in the current economic climate – Brazil has just announced the extraction of the first barrel of oil from the Tupi oil fields in the Bahía de Santos. The Tupi fields and those in the surrounding area are believed to be among the largest in the world and when extraction begins in earnest in 2010, Brazil expects to produce some 1.8 million barrels of oil a day.

Brazil is already a world leader in the so-called ‘green energies’ and the biofuel sector has seen vast investment. The huge oil reserves are also expected to attract major investment interest and have led Brazil’s President, Lula da Silva, to claim Brazil’s economy is entering a ‘new era’.

“Things are certainly looking very good for Brazil at the moment,” comments James Gonzalez, Market Analyst at Obelisk Investment Property. “The combination of excellent economic statistics for April and the first successful extraction of oil come at a time when many countries are struggling in difficult conditions. Brazil is the exception to the rule and this tendency looks set to continue for the rest of the year.”


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Another Dream Job - Get Paid to Backpack around Taiwan

Fresh on the heels of one of the best publicity campaigns in recent years for Australia, Taiwan has launched its own version of the ‘best job in the world’ in a bid to promote the country to tourists…

Do you remember the story about the Best Job in the World, offering applicants the opportunity to spend six months as caretaker of a tropical island in the heart of Australia’s stunning Whitsundays?

Well, here’s an update. The job, which paid a salary of more than £68,000, unsurprisingly attracted more than 35,000 applications from people desperate to nab the chance of a lifetime.

The candidates have now been narrowed down to a shortlist and Tourism Queensland will announce the winner tomorrow - May 6th, with the six-month posting beginning on July 1st.

If you missed out on this Aussie job, don’t despair – Taiwan now has plans to launch its own dream job in a bid to promote tourism to the country, having seen the publicity generated for Australian tourism with the campaign.

The Taiwanese Tourism Bureau plans to select 50 teams of two backpackers to visit Taiwan for four days and will pay each person £135 a day.

Liu Hsi-lin of the Tourism Bureau’s international affairs department, said, “These 50 pairs should travel around Taiwan and create blogs to describe Taiwan’s scenic sites.

“From the 50 pairs, we will select one pair and pay them £20,000 to travel around Taiwan for one month and post their findings on their blog every day, so that people around the world can see the articles and photos,” he said.

Their blogs will have to be written in English. The Tourism Bureau plans to nominate 25 pairs and let online voters select the other 25.

People from all countries, regardless of gender and age, can apply, except mainland Chinese candidates, as under Taiwanese law, mainland Chinese can only visit Taiwan as part of a tour group.

The Tourism Bureau plans to set up a website for applications on June 1st this year.

In a funny coincidence, the current favourite to win the Australian ‘dream job’ is a Taiwanese interpreter called Clare Wang.

Wang has won the most votes from visitors around the world. In her application videotape, Wang describes herself as ‘good at breaking the communication barrier, curious and adventurous.’

She says she likes swimming, diving, mountain climbing and bungee jumping. That she has never been to the Great Barrier Reef is ‘one more reason you should vote for me!'

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Real Estate Investment - Mexico Beachfront

Beachfront Property in Mexico has always been a popular real estate investment option. There is a plethora of real estate investment opportunities in Mexico . The perennial hotspots are Mayan Riviera which covers Cancun, Tulum, Akumal, Puerto Aventuras, and Playa del Carmen, which is the fastest growing city in the region. Playa del Carmen, was originally a sleepy fishing village, but has now been transformed into a cosmopolitan city for tourists from United States, Europe, South America and Canada. The Mayan Riviera region has over 100 miles of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Coupled to it are the ancient Mayan ruins which give the area a one more reason to be visited.

Mexico Real Estate investment is bucking the trends of US recession and many markets pundits that the boom is here to stay for long time to come. This can be gauged from the facts that foreign investors are still lapping up the projects been undertaken by world's best and biggest international developers. Europeans and other investors have now become even more active in the region because of economical beachfront properties in Mexico.

The current prices of Property in Mexico are still low when compared to similar properties in US and other regions of the world. Mexico is now firmly on road to development. The gap between the developed countries and Mexico in terms infrastructure and standard of living is fast closing. Everyday many American style Malls, recreational centers, multiplexes and hospitals are opening up. Americans can now access almost luxuries in Mexico previously available only in US. Real Estate in Cancun, Playa del Carmen Real Estate and other destinations are low risk and high gain investment opportunities. The properties bought during pre construction phase are cheaper and once the project is fully developed the prices appreciate considerably. And the industry is seeing increase in property prices every year.

The tourism industry is still witnessing growth. Tourism industry is one of the mainstays of Mexican economy with Yucatan peninsula contributing 70%. Mexico Villa Rentals, Hotels have high occupancy rates and still more hotels are been developed to cater to this rush. No doubt, real estate market in Mexico is flushed with optimism. There are many projects underway south of Cancun . This presents an exciting opportunity for investment in the region. In next decade many more destinations like Mahajual and Xcalak will be put firmly on tourist map of Mexico.

All these point to one fact - Investment in Mexican Real Estate is a wise option. It is clear that the there are numerous investment opportunities still available in Mexico and will continue to be for years to come.

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Residency in Dubai - New Laws Proposed

Government officials in Dubai are in talks to introduce a new law that would clarify the rules on issuing residency visas to property buyers in Dubai - and it could be introduced as soon as this year...

Traditionally, there has been confusion around the promise that buying a freehold property in Dubai came with a 99-year residency visa included as part of the deal.

Although there was no law to back this up, many property companies were using it as a sales tool and it helped to seal many deals from international investors keen to nab a UAE visa as part of their property package.

Now, Government officials have said that the property companies didn't have the right to offer the visa promise and that new laws are needed to clear up any lingering confusion.

Hamad Buamim, Director General of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry said, "We believe this has to be cleared up.

"We raised it to the Government and the Government came back and said there is a law that will come very soon and we feel it has to come.

"The law will clarify who deserves a visa in terms of their investment in the real estate," he added.

Although there are rumours that the law will be passed this year, it may well be a long drawn out process as it has to come through a decree issued by the Government, seconded by the Ministry of Interior and then approved by the immigration authorities.

It is clearly very important to get this matter clarified as soon as possible as many people are still under the impression that purchasing a freehold property is all they need to do in order to secure a residency visa for Dubai, but that is not the case and there are no laws backing that claim up.

Hisham Abdullah Al Shirawi, Second Vice-Chairman of the Dubai Chamber said, "I do advocate the concept that we should have an official spokesman, who addresses these issues in a very clear and transparent manner," he said.


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