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	<title>Property Tribe &#124; A South African Property Blog &#187; Scott Picken</title>
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	<link>http://www.propertytribe.co.za</link>
	<description>The Property Tribe is A South African Blog for anything property related, where the ordinary person has the opportunity to blog their opinion on Property.</description>
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		<title>Lets talk property &#8211; World Cup &amp; its impact on SA Property</title>
		<link>http://www.propertytribe.co.za/index.php/lets-talk-property-world-cup-its-impact-on-sa-property/368/</link>
		<comments>http://www.propertytribe.co.za/index.php/lets-talk-property-world-cup-its-impact-on-sa-property/368/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jul 2010 14:14:42 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Scott Picken</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Property News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.propertytribe.co.za/?p=368</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Sign up to Webinar, 27 July 2010, 5pm &#8211; 6pm
South Africa hosting the 2010 World Cup is history in the making indeed. Many predictions were made and there are still many more to come.
IPS is going to be talking about the impact that the World Cup has had on the South African Property Market. Where [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Sign up to Webinar, 27 July 2010, 5pm &#8211; 6pm</strong></p>
<p>South Africa hosting the 2010 World Cup is history in the making indeed. Many predictions were made and there are still many more to come.</p>
<p>IPS is going to be talking about the impact that the World Cup has had on the South African Property Market. Where are we currently and where to from here? We would certainly like to hear your views,thoughts and comments.</p>
<p>Please do join us for our online webinar,we have Scott Picken, CEO of IPS, as a guest speaker who will be sharing invaluable information with us. Dont miss out on this one we have some interesting information.</p>
<p>Click below on the link to book</p>
<p>https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/525873083</p>
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		<title>USA Housing Vacancies Reach New Record</title>
		<link>http://www.propertytribe.co.za/index.php/usa-housing-vacancies-reach-new-record/352/</link>
		<comments>http://www.propertytribe.co.za/index.php/usa-housing-vacancies-reach-new-record/352/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 17 Jun 2010 18:14:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Scott Picken</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Property News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.propertytribe.co.za/?p=352</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[May 19th, 2010 by HousingPredictor.com
Housing Vacancies Reach New RecordHousing and rental vacancies have hit unprecedented levels. Included in these record vacancy numbers are a plague of abandoned properties fated for demolition, and millions more homes being withheld from market. Of the more than 19 million empty homes recorded by the US Census, just under 2 [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>May 19th, 2010 by HousingPredictor.com</p>
<p>Housing Vacancies Reach New RecordHousing and rental vacancies have hit unprecedented levels. Included in these record vacancy numbers are a plague of abandoned properties fated for demolition, and millions more homes being withheld from market. Of the more than 19 million empty homes recorded by the US Census, just under 2 million are up for sale, many of them in uninhabitable condition.  Even though the economy remains weak and the housing market, in particular, is still years from recovery, some news suggests that stronger growth can be expected as the year progresses.</p>
<p>A record 19.2 million U.S. homes are vacant, representing the highest number of residential properties that are vacant of all-time, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The figure represents 14.5% of all the homes in America.  The dismal figure was issued as part of the Census Bureau homeownership quarterly survey for the first quarter of 2010. A total of 19,230,000 homes are vacant, according to the report. The same study shows that 10.6% of all rental properties in the nation are vacant, also an all-time record.  The report does not differentiate between homes that are inhabitable and those that are not. In particularly hard hit markets, including cities in Michigan and Ohio neighborhoods of abandoned homes are being demolished by wrecking crews hired to clear them. Many cities are considering the option of clearing whole neighborhoods, where vacancy rates top 50%, including Detroit. It costs about $6,000 to $7,000 to demolish a home.  The Census Bureau study estimates that there are about 131-million homes in the country and that nearly 4.5-million are currently for rent. The vacancy rate is the highest in the Southern region of the country at 13.2%. Some areas of the south like South Carolina have been hard hit by companies that have moved out of the U.S. out-sourcing the manufacturing of products.  Metropolitan areas have a higher rate of vacancies than communities outside of big cities, averaging 11.3%. The vacancy rate was the lowest in the Northeast at 7.5%.</p>
<p>However, the study also shows that a massive number of homes, 7,131,000 are being held off the market in limbo for a variety of reasons, which include impending foreclosures , short sales that went awry or homeowners that are unable to sell their properties as a result of other issues.  The foreclosure epidemic has resulted in a lower homeownership rate and continues to decline, showing 67.2% at the end of the first quarter nationally from 69.1% at the peak of the housing boom in 2005. Ownership rates hovered in the 64% range from 1985 through the mid-90s when political pressures and massive campaign contributions were made to Congressional candidates from special interests, including bankers and Wall Street.  Slightly less than 2-million homes are on the market for sale. Many are old and dilapidated, having outlived their usefulness. The blight of old rotting homes troubles inner-cities more than more suburban or rural areas.</p>
<p>Go to <a href="http://www.ipsinvest.com" target="_blank">www.ipsinvest.com</a> for international property opportunities.</p>
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		<title>Should you invest offshore or not? What you need to understand and be careful of?</title>
		<link>http://www.propertytribe.co.za/index.php/should-you-invest-offshore-or-not-what-you-need-to-understand-and-be-careful-of/336/</link>
		<comments>http://www.propertytribe.co.za/index.php/should-you-invest-offshore-or-not-what-you-need-to-understand-and-be-careful-of/336/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 08 Jun 2010 07:12:36 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Scott Picken</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Property News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.propertytribe.co.za/?p=336</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[June 2010
 
Lea Jacobs from Business Day interviews Scott Picken, IPS CEO on investing offshore  

Has there been an increase in South African’s investing in offshore property? If so, what do you believe is driving this?

International Property Solutions (IPS) has been helping investors invest overseas since 2003, and during these times we have noticed [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: right">June 2010</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline"> </span></strong></p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">Lea Jacobs from Business Day interviews Scott Picken, IPS CEO on investing offshore</span></strong><strong> </strong><em><strong> </strong></em></p>
<ul>
<li><em><strong>Has there been an increase in South African’s investing in offshore property? If so, what do you believe is driving this?</strong></em></li>
</ul>
<p>International Property Solutions (IPS) has been helping investors invest overseas since 2003, and during these times we have noticed significant trends in people investing overseas. Ironically people tend to want to invest overseas when the Rand devalues sharply or there are problems in South Africa and not when the opportunities are present. In an article by Real Estate Web, it reported research which says that over 80% of South Africans who invest overseas actually lose money. I personally believe it is actually higher than this as investors don’t have the right partners, the right knowledge or information. However I believe the most important reason for these losses are that people make panic purchases, rather than strategic investment. In the last 18 months we have noticed a significant increase in people wanting to invest overseas, however I believe for the right reasons. They understand that asset values in first world countries are undervalued, yields are good and the Rand is also strong. Due to economic uncertainty, people are now doing allot more research, getting all the right information so that they can make far more educated decisions. We have noticed a marked increase in demand, but people are still very hesitant to commit, until all their concerns understood and fore filled. I believe this move to strategic investment will ensure not only that investors make money, but that they will achieve their goals of growth, asset preservation, a Rand hedge and most importantly peace of mind.</p>
<ul>
<li> <em><strong>What countries are proving to be the most popular? </strong></em></li>
</ul>
<p>In the last 3 years it has been very interesting to review. In 2008 there was a strong bias to London as the interest rates were lower and so the cost of capital and the yields allowed investors to see cashflow positive returns from day one.  Then towards the end of 2008, with the Global Financial Crisis, there was a significant swing to Australia. Australia was the only economy in the G20 last year to not go into recession and their property market also grew by 8.6% in 2009. For this reason investors strongly sort opportunities in Australia. In 2010, it has returned to a far more even spread of 50 / 50 for London and Australia. They both have key differentiating factors and it ultimately depends on what the investor is trying to achieve which determines the best destination for them.</p>
<ul>
<li><em><strong>What types of properties generate the most interest? </strong></em></li>
</ul>
<p>In London it is apartments in the more established (well known) areas. In the past 12 months there has been a significant interest in existing properties, where there is real value. In Australia, the focus is on 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom houses in the major cities. 85% of Australians live in the middle class and it is the Australian dream to own a home. Based on this, these properties provide the best rental prospects and also the best returns.</p>
<ul>
<li><em><strong>The European economy has been under the spotlight in recent days. In your opinion, is it currently the right time to invest in a property on this continent? </strong></em></li>
</ul>
<p>As with any property investment, it is unwise to look at markets holistically. You need to look at each and every opportunity and analysis whether it suits your investment requirements. Obviously the fundamentals are very important and I would certainly spend a tremendous amount of time understanding all the risks, as there is allot of uncertainty in that market at the moment. As we have learnt recently though, in amongst uncertainty also lurks allot of opportunity if you know how to find it.</p>
<ul>
<li><em><strong>Do property transactions conducted in an overseas country have to be cash based, or can finance be arranged? </strong></em></li>
</ul>
<p>Typically in first world economies you can borrow 70% from local banks in those countries. The lending criteria varies from country to country and you require experts to assist you with this to ensure you get the best financing options. It is not about going to the local bank you have a current account with. In some countries, if you have cash, there can be significant opportunities from being able to act quickly.</p>
<ul>
<li><em><strong></strong><strong>Why should investors consider the overseas property market and not stick to SA properties? </strong></em></li>
</ul>
<p>I am so passionate about South Africa and started IPS, selling South African properties all over the world. I believe we have one of the best emerging economies in the world and with the market fundamentals of growth and the Black Middle Class, I believe there are better opportunities to create wealth in South Africa than anywhere else in the world. I also believe as locals we understand the markets and therefore can manage the risks better. I invest the majority of my wealth in South Africa as I believe I can get far greater growth, but I also believe it is not only prudent, but wise, to invest some of my wealth overseas! Any sophisticated investor would understand that it is essential investment strategy to have some diversification. In my opinion if you are looking for growth and emerging economies then there is no where better than South Africa. However when you are looking for strategic investment, asset preservation, Rand hedge and stable incomes streams, then you need to be focusing on First World Assets, First World Incomes and First World Currencies. This will not only balance your portfolio, but it will give you peace of mind that you are covered for every eventuality. Two final things to say on this, you cannot rush this and make brash decisions when you suddenly panic about something like currency, political or economic developments you are not happy about. You need to plan and make decisive, strategic approaches which ensure you long term future goals. Secondly this is not something which only South Africans have to think about. International Property investment is a trend which has been happening for over 300 years. For years, investors from around the world, especially the British, Irish and Australians have been investing in various international property markets where they can achieve their investment objectives long term.</p>
<ul>
<li><em><strong>What are the pitfalls in investing overseas? </strong></em></li>
</ul>
<p>As I said, more than 80% of people who invest in overseas markets lose money.  I have explained the reasons for this, but without a strategic investment approach, the right information and the right partners, you are destined to make mistakes and unfortunately they are often in first world currencies which hurt allot more. Bottom line is the risks are allot higher and the losses therefore allot more. It is complicated and you need to either partner with the right people or know what you are doing.</p>
<ul>
<li><em><strong>What are the benefits? </strong></em></li>
</ul>
<p>As I have explained for me the major benefits are growth, asset preservation, Rand hedge, income streams in first world currencies, but nothing is as substantial as peace of mind knowing that you have a cohesive, strategic investment strategy which plans for all eventualities.</p>
<ul>
<li><em><strong>How long have you been involved in selling foreign property? </strong></em></li>
</ul>
<p>I have been involved in foreign property investment since 1999, when I moved to London. Although I have been involved and passionate about international property all my life. My visions is that property is going global and I did my undergrad thesis at UCT (1998) on how IT was revolutionizing the property and construction industry, providing a global platform and in the 1990’s creating a paradigm shift. We are developing a solution at the moment for International Property which we believe will do to property what Google did to the internet!</p>
<ul>
<li><em><strong>You obviously conduct a great deal of research by visiting various countries. In your opinion which country is currently offering the best opportunities? Why?</strong></em></li>
</ul>
<p>That is an impossible question to answer. It all depends on the investor and what they are trying to achieve. Each country has its own nuisances and based on these and understanding the investors intention, one can help to devise a strategy which suits those requirements. The beauty with the property going global is that there are so many more opportunities!</p>
<ul>
<li><em><strong>Should investors consider “going it alone” or should they ensure they use a reputable international real estate broker?</strong></em></li>
</ul>
<p>I think I have explained this in depth above, but the bottom line is that most people lose their money when they invest internationally. You can’t use your tried and tested “gut feel” as your South African gut doesn’t understand the international markets. You also have to be very careful about your partner. Are they a company who specialize in selling international property or an estate agent who offers it as supplementary solution. Do they work with “Best of Breed” partners in the respective country to ensure you are getting the maximum returns from that local market? How much research do they do, how much do they spend on research and how often do they travel to those countries to fully understand the markets? Finally do they have local representation and a sophisticated after sales service to ensure you are provided with a key executive who will help you right through the international property investment cycle, not someone who is just focused on the sale? For international property, there is also an international body called AIPP, which is the Association of International Property Professionals to regulate this industry and ensure that clients receive the value they are promised. IPS was the first South African company to join this organization, which is based out of London.</p>
<ul>
<li><em><strong>We have heard a number of horror stories about investors being taken for a ride, what dangers are associated with buying foreign property?</strong></em></li>
</ul>
<p>The biggest issues are if you are paying the market related value, managing the purchase process, getting a mortgage (if you are reliant on this) and then I believe the biggest risk is where the tenant demand is going to be. An example of this in the last 2 years, is that many South Africans invested in Manchester and Leeds in the UK. They were promised that there would be significant tenant demand as BBC would be relocating to Manchester and that there was significant student demand. Well the BBC never moved and the students don’t want to live 15km from campus. Therefore there are over 2000 units standing empty, values have dropped 60%, there are no tenants and no bank will provide mortgages. This is a classic example of the wrong information and the wrong partners.</p>
<ul>
<li><em><strong>How do SA foreign exchange control regulations affect foreign property investment?</strong></em></li>
</ul>
<p>As a South African you are allowed to take out R4 million per person, as part of your direct foreign allowance. As long as your tax affairs are in order, you apply to the Reserve Bank and they will provide you permission to externalize this capital. You can then use this money to invest. Also people involved in property companies can also apply for their FDI( Foreign Direct Investment) and they are allowed to externalize up to R500 million into a profitable offshore business.</p>
<ul>
<li><em><strong>Could you please discuss the effects the recession has had on property markets around the world highlighting the areas most affected. In your talk you mentioned that Las Vegas had borne the brunt of the slump in the US while New York had emerged relatively unscathed. Would it be possible to give the readers some figures, indicating which other areas have been severely hit by the recession and whether these areas have potential for foreign investment?</strong></em></li>
</ul>
<p>I do not know how much detail you want me to go into here and so I have 3 of my latest reports. Please contact adele@ipsinvest.com to get copies of them:</p>
<ul>
<li>USA Property Report</li>
<li>AcadHPI – latest UK report</li>
<li>RP – Data – Australian market report</li>
</ul>
<p>These are all on our website &#8211; <a href="http://www.ipsinvest.com" target="_blank">www.ipsinvest.com </a></p>
<p>I look forward to assisting you.</p>
<p>Thanks</p>
<p>Scott Picken</p>
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		<title>UK House prices in February rose by 1.9%</title>
		<link>http://www.propertytribe.co.za/index.php/uk-house-prices-in-february-rose-by-1-9/283/</link>
		<comments>http://www.propertytribe.co.za/index.php/uk-house-prices-in-february-rose-by-1-9/283/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 13 Apr 2010 16:44:49 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Scott Picken</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[International Property]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.propertytribe.co.za/?p=283</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[- House prices in February rose by 1.9%  Page 4
The average price of all residential property  transactions completed in England &#38; Wales in February 2010 was 1.9%  higher than in January. This is the tenth month in succession in which  AcadHPI has increased on a monthly basis. This figure is at [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>- House prices in February rose by 1.9%  Page 4</strong><br />
The average price of all <a href="http://www.privateproperty.co.za/0_property_for_sale/south_africa.htm" class="kblinker" title="More about residential property &raquo;">residential property</a>  transactions completed in England &amp; Wales in February 2010 was 1.9%  higher than in January. This is the tenth month in succession in which  AcadHPI has increased on a monthly basis. This figure is at odds with  other indices which show a fall, a point we explore later.</p>
<p><strong>- Annual price increase is 9.7% Page 4</strong><br />
On  an annual basis, in February, the average price of all residential  property transactions in England &amp; Wales was 9.7% higher than a year  ago &#8211; a significant market recovery. It is the fourth consecutive month  in which the annual rate of change in house prices is positive.</p>
<p><strong>- January housing transactions fall by  more than 50% from December levels Page 3</strong><br />
The housing market  in England &amp; Wales got off to a very slow start in January 2010 with  an estimated 36,000 transactions in total. This is a fall of 52% from  the December 2009 level of activity and is the second lowest level of  sales in January in the last 16 years.</p>
<p><strong>Dr Peter Williams,  Chairman of Acadametrics, said</strong><br />
“The average price of a home rose  again in February 2010 and, at £222,008, is back to where it was in  April 2007, three years ago. The increase of 1.9% is the tenth in  succession and a further step up from the previous month of January at  1.4%. Given that the two lender mortgage approval based indices for  February showed falls of -1.0% and -1.5%, we have a clear tension as to  what is really happening in the market. The AcadHPI for the latest month  is forecast on a mix of data but, as prior months show, when more data  becomes available is impressively stable and reliable. In seeking  answers to the current divergence we would stress AcadHPI is a  completion based measure, it covers England and Wales rather than the UK  and it includes all properties sold including cash purchases and homes  sold for over £1 million. All of these will be factors in explaining the  difference.”</p>
<p>Click below to download the full document&#8230;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ipsinvest.com/News_196_UK_Property_Report_Grew_by_19_in_Feb_10.aspx">http://www.ipsinvest.com/News_196_UK_Property_Report_Grew_by_19_in_Feb_10.aspx</a></p>
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		<title>USA Property Report &#8211; Feb 2010</title>
		<link>http://www.propertytribe.co.za/index.php/usa-property-report-feb-2010/212/</link>
		<comments>http://www.propertytribe.co.za/index.php/usa-property-report-feb-2010/212/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 01 Mar 2010 15:45:03 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Scott Picken</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Property News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.propertytribe.co.za/?p=212</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There are significant concerns about the USA economy and also the USA property market, but in amongst all this turmoil are also some fantastic opportunities. As with any overseas investment, an investor two most vital things are Information and Partners. What Scott Picken, IPS CEO, has tried to do here, is give you an overview [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>There are significant concerns about the USA economy and also the USA property market, but in amongst all this turmoil are also some fantastic opportunities. As with any overseas investment, an investor two most vital things are <strong>Information</strong> and <strong>Partners</strong>. What Scott Picken, IPS CEO, has tried to do here, is give you an overview of everything he found on his extensive trip around USA. This is the information so that you can make educated and intelligent decisions. Obviously it is a massive country and a massive market, but this was his opinion of everything he learnt. Scott says, “<em><strong>I believe there is significant opportunity in USA, but one has to be very careful or people could make financially disastrous decisions. I believe it is all about having the right partners on the ground to maximise on the opportunities available!”</strong></em></p>
<p>Click here to download the rest &#8211; <a href="http://www.ipsinvest.com/News_193_IPS_USA_Property_Report_Feb_2010.aspx">http://www.ipsinvest.com/News_193_IPS_USA_Property_Report_Feb_2010.aspx</a></p>
<p>Watch our USA Report – Movie &#8211; <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TA3Kch6f2xQ" rel="shadowbox[post-212];player=swf;width=640;height=385;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TA3Kch6f2xQ</a><br />
• Scott Picken sitting in Time Square and explaining everything he found in USA (5 minutes)</p>
<p>Go to <a href="http://www.ipsinvest.com/">www.ipsinvest.com</a> for more information.</p>
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		<title>5 things you have to know and ask before you invest offshore?</title>
		<link>http://www.propertytribe.co.za/index.php/5-things-you-have-to-know-and-ask-before-you-invest-offshore/204/</link>
		<comments>http://www.propertytribe.co.za/index.php/5-things-you-have-to-know-and-ask-before-you-invest-offshore/204/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 16 Feb 2010 20:56:19 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Scott Picken</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[International Property]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Property Investment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Property News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.propertytribe.co.za/?p=204</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Dear Potential Offshore Investor
Napoleon said, “Information was nine tenths of any battle.” The challenge is do you have the right information, are you choosing the right partners, making the right investments and most importantly asking the right questions?

1. Information – like water, the right information makes you finically healthier, but the wrong information is like [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Dear Potential Offshore Investor</strong></p>
<p>Napoleon said, “Information was nine tenths of any battle.” The challenge is do you have the right information, are you choosing the right partners, making the right investments and most importantly asking the right questions?</p>
<ol>
<li><strong>1. </strong><strong>Information</strong><strong> – like water, the right information makes you finically healthier, but the wrong information is like poison.</strong>
<ol>
<li>80% of people who invest offshore lose money and the investment becomes a tremendous headache in a short space of time! According to Real Estate Web -<a href="http://www.realestateweb.co.za/realestateweb/view/realestateweb/en/page206?oid=54920&amp;sn=Detail%20">http://www.realestateweb.co.za/realestateweb/view/realestateweb/en/page206?oid=54920&amp;sn=Detail</a> – you could also make far better returns in South Africa.</li>
<li>The reason for this is that people make decisions without the right information.  Sure the sales person gives them allot of information, but invariably they will give people what they want to hear?</li>
<li>An example of this is in the last few months South Africans have bought $184 million on the Gold Coast in Australia. They think they are getting a real bargain, but when you talk to Richard Dunn, OzInvest Acquisition Manager, a company who spends millions on research, says, “We get offered opportunities on the Gold Coast every day! At the moment we would never offer these to our investors as there are huge vacancies and the property values are in real trouble.” Similar examples are Manchester or Leeds, where South African investors believed they were buying real value (perceived huge discounts) and yet there is huge oversupply, banks are not lending and there are huge rental problems. Do we need to talk about the information presented on Dubai and how that has changed?</li>
<li>The questions you need to be asking:
<ol>
<li> i.      “How much do you spend on your research monthly?”</li>
<li> ii.      “Can you show me how you have communicated this research over the last couple of years, so that I can see you really understand your market?”</li>
<li> iii.      “Can I see the research from an entity that doesn’t have a vested interest in selling something to me and who substantiates this information?”</li>
<li> iv.      If someone is based in South Africa – “How often do you travel over to the investment country to understand the market and make sure you are keeping up to speed with current trends?”</li>
</ol>
</li>
</ol>
</li>
</ol>
<ol>
<li><strong>2. </strong><strong>Partners</strong><strong> – the key to the vault of success!</strong>
<ol>
<li>In life there is a saying, a chain is only as strong as its weakest link.</li>
<li>Investors often underestimate how important the choice in your partner is to your long term success. Dr Dolf DeRoos, the World Famous International Property Investors says, “You are only as strong as your team.”</li>
<li>Many investors invest because they like the salesmen, they have been referred by a friend or they associate with a brand. This can be catastrophic to your success!</li>
<li>The questions you need to be asking:
<ol>
<li> i.      “How long have you been helping people invest internationally?”</li>
<li> ii.      “How many people have you assisted to invest in this specific country?”</li>
<li> iii.      “Is this your core business, or something which is supplementary to your estate agency business where you help people buy homes?</li>
<li> iv.      “Are you a property investor yourself and have you bought international property?”</li>
</ol>
</li>
</ol>
</li>
</ol>
<ol>
<li><strong>3. </strong><strong>Rentals</strong><strong> – the life blood of property investment!</strong>
<ol>
<li>Property Investment fundamentals live and die on cashflow. Experienced property investors understand this and it is why they succeed in all property cycles. Inexperienced investors are always chasing the bargain, and yet often they find a great bargain or focus on capital growth, only to realise there is no rental market. This often destroys the investment and in many instances them financially.</li>
<li>Examples of this are Manchester where you can get 60% discounts but there are 2000 units oversupplied on the market. Dubai which is also at a 60% discount, but has massive oversupply problems (The numerous developers who offered rental guarantees who have gone bust are testament to this). And then Las Vegas which is 70% down, but there are 5000 families leaving a month as tourism is down by 60% and there are 32 000 homes on the market.</li>
<li>If there is one thing you have to be certain on is the rental market and where this demand is going to come from. You need to ask:
<ol>
<li> i.       “How can you ensure me of the demand for my property when it is ready to rent?”</li>
</ol>
</li>
</ol>
</li>
</ol>
<ul>
<li>I am not talking about a 1 or 2 year rental guarantee from the developer, which has often been included in the price. I am talking about me receiving long term sustainable rental income at market related rates from the demand which exists.</li>
</ul>
<ol>
<li> ii.      “Are you prepared to put your money where your mouth is based on this guarantee or assurance?”</li>
</ol>
<ul>
<li>How would you sustain this long term if you were wrong?</li>
</ul>
<ol>
<li><strong>4. </strong><strong>Local &amp; International Offices</strong><strong> – geography is so NB!</strong>
<ol>
<li>Many salesmen will travel to South Africa with a suitcase, put on a classy presentation, meet you in a hotel, sign you up, take your money and then leave in a couple of days. This is where all the problems start and you can’t get hold of them or find out what is happening, etc. and this is how a “great investment” (supposedly) turns into a lemon.</li>
<li>To be successful you need to ensure the partner you choose to invest with, not only has offices in the foreign country, but also offices and a physical presence in South Africa. It makes such a difference when you can speak to a local South African on the phone, on the same time scales and if needs be come and see them in their office whenever it suits you.</li>
<li>Questions you need to be asking:
<ol>
<li> i.      “Where are you offices in South Africa and in the country I am investing in?”</li>
<li> ii.      “If you don’t have offices in South Africa, how can I ensure that you will still be here in a couple of months or years when I need help with the investment I have bought?”</li>
<li> iii.      “I would like to visit the property. Who is going to show me around overseas?”</li>
<li> iv.      “How do you understand the market unless you have someone who is permanently looking for opportunities and living in the property market?”</li>
</ol>
</li>
</ol>
</li>
</ol>
<ol>
<li><strong>5. </strong><strong>After Sales Support</strong><strong> – the helping hand you need! Trust me!</strong>
<ol>
<li>Most investors only focus on the purchase of the property and they forget how important it is to manage the sale. Salesmen are also only interested in closing the sale, but most importantly not to help you right through the process, when you are investing from afar. Many companies claim to provide the full service to you, but where are they based and how are they going to do it?</li>
<li>Questions which you need to ask:
<ol>
<li> i.      “How big is your aftersales team and who will be assisting me personally making sure the property transfers timeously into my name?”</li>
</ol>
</li>
</ol>
</li>
</ol>
<ul>
<li>Sorry I am not talking about the salesmen, I want an Aftersales Professional who has been dealing in this for many years and understands the nuances between South African property and overseas property.</li>
</ul>
<ol>
<li> ii.      “What happens when the property is ready? Who will be assisting me with transfer of the property, inspections, etc?”</li>
<li> iii.      “Can I see referrals from people who were happy with your service?”</li>
</ol>
<p>With these simple questions you can ensure you don’t buy lemons and you can take advantage of the significant opportunities. It is not only wise it is prudent to invest some of your wealth in foreign markets. In the Real Estate article above it talks of the tremendous opportunities locally. We completely agree with this and continue to make great money in South Africa, through the use of strategic partners as they suggest. However once you have made this money, it is essential, if not irresponsible not to, to take some of this wealth and invest overseas. To achieve your goals of Asset Preservation, Capital Growth, a Rand Hedge, Diversification and Positive Cashflow in first world currencies – you need the right information and partners and most importantly to be asking the right questions!</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p>Scott Picken</p>
<p>IPS CEO</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ipsinvest.com/">www.ipsinvest.com</a></p>
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		<title>UK Property is up 0.7% in Jan 2010 &#8211; 9th consecutive month of growth!</title>
		<link>http://www.propertytribe.co.za/index.php/uk-property-is-up-0-7-in-jan-2010-9th-consecutive-month-of-growth/199/</link>
		<comments>http://www.propertytribe.co.za/index.php/uk-property-is-up-0-7-in-jan-2010-9th-consecutive-month-of-growth/199/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 14 Feb 2010 09:40:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Scott Picken</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[International Property]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.propertytribe.co.za/?p=199</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ House prices in January rose by 0.7% Page 4
The average price of all residential property transactions completed in England &#38; Wales in January 2010 was 0.7% higher than in December. This is the ninth month in succession in which AcadHPI has increased on a monthly basis.
 Annual price increase is 5.4% Page 4
On an [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong> House prices in January rose by 0.7% Page 4</strong></p>
<p>The average price of all <a href="http://www.privateproperty.co.za/0_property_for_sale/south_africa.htm" class="kblinker" title="More about residential property &raquo;">residential property</a> transactions completed in England &amp; Wales in January 2010 was 0.7% higher than in December. This is the ninth month in succession in which AcadHPI has increased on a monthly basis.</p>
<p><strong> Annual price increase is 5.4% Page 4</strong></p>
<p>On an annual basis, in January, the average price of all residential property transactions in England &amp; Wales was 5.4% higher than a year ago &#8211; a significant market recovery. It is the third consecutive month in which the annual rate of change in house prices is positive.</p>
<p><strong> December transactions are the highest for two years, helped by the stamp duty holiday Page 3</strong></p>
<p>This was a strong end to 2009 which had seen the lowest number of annual housing transactions in England and Wales since the Land Registry began computerising its records in 1995. The market in December was assisted by an increase in the sale of properties valued below £175,000, with purchasers seeking to take advantage of the stamp duty holiday which ended on 31 December 2009.</p>
<p><strong>Dr Peter Williams, Chairman of Acadametrics, said</strong><br />
“The average price of a home rose again in January 2010 and, at £215,016, is almost back to where it was in January 2007, three years ago. The increase of 0.7% is the ninth in succession, suggesting a recovery that is now well entrenched. However, the rise from 0.4% in December to 0.7% in January is modest, and it is hard to draw firm conclusions, given that the monthly increase had been slowing since September and there are strong regional variations in the recovery story. Without doubt, year end activity was heightened by the anticipated end of year closure of the stamp duty holiday for properties up to £175,000 which had been in place since September 2008 as we discuss later. This factor, along with historically low interest rates for some borrowers and much else, adds layers of complexity in trying to anticipate what the market might do next.”</p>
<p>“The average price of a home in England &amp; Wales is now £215,016. At this level, it is still down £16,812 or 7% from its peak in February 2008 of £231,828, but prices have recovered significantly and the index is showing a 5.4% increase over the last twelve months. The fact that there remain strong regional variations in this reported trend does mean that household experience will vary considerably, although prices in all regions are currently moving in the same direction &#8211; upwards.</p>
<p>“It is clear that, with average monthly increases of 0.6% over the last three months compared to double that (1.2%) over the previous three months, price increases have been moderating, and it is too early to say with any confidence as to whether this trend will continue. Published house price forecasts for the year vary from plus 10% to minus 10%, which gives a clear sense of the current uncertainty. Total mortgage lending for 2009 was £143.5 billion gross and £11.5 billion net, down from £254 billion gross and £41 billion net in 2008. The latest Trends in Lending report published by the Bank of England in late January noted some improvement in credit availability and for higher loan to value ratios. The evidence supports the view that the thaw continues, but there is little to suggest there will be a sharp recovery in mortgage volumes. Furthermore, the recent statement by the Council of Mortgage Lenders concerning the need for continued governmental assistance for lender funding sends a clear warning of possible consequential future mortgage constraint, raised interest rates and falling house prices. Uncertainty alone will restrain the market.”</p>
<p><strong>HOUSING TRANSACTIONS</strong><br />
“Overall, the number of housing transactions in England and Wales has increased by 51% during Q4 2009 (October–December 2009) compared with the same three months in 2008. The year began on an all time low of 27,637 monthly transactions, representing a 60% reduction on the 15-year average for January of 67,378 monthly transactions. However, during the year the monthly transaction count rose, with December sales reaching an estimated 76,000, the highest level since December 2007 – a figure which will have been influenced by the year end cessation of the stamp duty holiday for homes costing up to £175,000. Some might say of the year – in like a lamb and out like a lion!</p>
<p>“The 51% increase in annual transactions has two distinct underlying trends. The first trend is of a North/Midlands/South gradation in the increase in the number of homes sold. In the Northern regions and Wales, the average increase in housing transactions has been 34% or less; in the Midlands the increase has been between 42% and 56% whilst, in the Southern regions including London, there has been an annual increase of 66% to 68% in the number of properties sold.</p>
<p>“The second trend is one of different activity levels by property type. Over the three months October–December 2009, compared with the same three months in 2008, increases in the numbers of properties sold have been as follows: detached 69%, semi-detached 61%, terraces 46% and flats 26%.</p>
<p>“Comparing Q4 2009 with Q3 2009 these trends appear to be changing. The increase in the number of housing transactions in London over the period is 0.2%, whilst in the rest of the country the increase has been an average of 6%. The volume of flats, terraced and semi-detached homes sold has similarly increased by 6% over this period, whilst sales of detached properties have increased by a more modest 1%. The mini-boom in the purchase of detached properties in the southern counties would thus appear to be over, at least for the time-being.”</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ipsinvest.com/News_187_UK_Property_is_up_07_in_Jan_2010_9th_consecutive_month_of_growth.aspx" target="_self">Download the full document here -http://www.ipsinvest.com/News_187_UK_Property_is_up_07_in_Jan_2010_9th_consecutive_month_of_growth.aspx</a><a href="http://www.ipsinvest.com/News_187_UK_Property_is_up_07_in_Jan_2010_9th_consecutive_month_of_growth.aspx"></a></p>
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		<title>2010 – Learn, Invest, Hold or Watch others?</title>
		<link>http://www.propertytribe.co.za/index.php/2010-learn-invest-hold-or-watch-others/183/</link>
		<comments>http://www.propertytribe.co.za/index.php/2010-learn-invest-hold-or-watch-others/183/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 05 Feb 2010 14:32:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Scott Picken</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Property News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.propertytribe.co.za/?p=183</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Dear Property Investor
After my 3 week trip to USA and the UK, I have some fascinating information to share about what is happening in those markets, where they are going and how they are going to effect the South African market and international markets.
There is so much to go into about and I will be [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Dear Property Investor</p>
<p>After my 3 week trip to USA and the UK, I have some fascinating information to share about what is happening in those markets, where they are going and how they are going to effect the South African market and international markets.</p>
<p>There is so much to go into about and I will be covering them at the various presentations. (<a href="http://www.ipsinvest.com/Events.aspx">click here to book</a>). Things which we will cover, are in the <strong>USA</strong> is the Double Dip – the possibility of another crash; property prices in Vegas being 70% down; the commercial market and its serious problems; or the most expensive house being $74 million in California, yet how the state is bankrupt; the fact over 90 000 USA are coming to South Africa for the world cup or that 21% are behind on payments and this could be as high as 50% by the Summer; Unemployment being the same as the Great Depression; &#8211; There is just so much you need to read the USA report or in our USA movie. (Posts coming)</p>
<p>In the <strong>UK</strong>, the market is recovering – 8 straight months in a row of growth; hundreds of Eastern Investors have invested in London in recent months; there is a buying frenzy and some companies went to Hong Kong, etc 23 times last year; Central London has recovered completely and some agents in the best suburbs had their best months ever; other parts of the UK are in dire trouble; what the future holds with 0.1% growth and unemployment problems. We do have some great opportunities to take advantage of the perfect timing!</p>
<p>In <strong>Australia</strong>, my partner Brad went to explore that market and it continues to boom, being the only country in the G20 to have positive growth in 2009 and with the fundamentals in place to allow for long term demand and growth. We have live events and opportunities from all over the country and this is something you need to seriously consider in 2010.</p>
<p>Finally to the most important country and that is <strong>South Africa</strong>. Our World Cup has finally arrived and there is a noticeable increase in optimism in the country which is awesome. It was great to see the enthusiasm and demand from expats in London at our latest event in Jan! This will be an unforgettable year in this country and put South Africa on the World Stage – a catalyst which will bring huge returns in the future!</p>
<p>Scott Picken<br />
IPS CEO<br />
<a href="http://www.ipsinvest.com/">www.ipsinvest.com </a></p>
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		<title>Want to know what is happening in Australia &#8211; watch this live presentation!</title>
		<link>http://www.propertytribe.co.za/index.php/want-to-know-what-is-happening-in-australia-watch-this-live-presentation/29/</link>
		<comments>http://www.propertytribe.co.za/index.php/want-to-know-what-is-happening-in-australia-watch-this-live-presentation/29/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 20 Oct 2009 13:40:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Scott Picken</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[International Property]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blog.localhost/propertytribe/?p=29</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Click here to download the recorded presentation
Scott
Picken, CEO from International Property Solutions (IPS) runs through everything in the Australian Property
market and we also have Richard Dunn, Oz Invest&#8217;s Acquisition Manager,
live from Australia (3:30am in the morning) to tell us exactly what is
happening in the property market.
Richard goes through some very exciting opportunities in the pipeline, [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.internationalpropertysolutions.com/Documents/2009-10-14%2019.01%20Offshore%20Investing%20_%20Focus%20on%20Australia.wmv" rel="shadowbox[post-29];width=640;height=385;"><strong>Click here to download the recorded presentation</strong></a></p>
<p><strong>Scott</strong><br />
Picken, CEO from International Property Solutions (IPS) runs through everything in the Australian Property<br />
market and we also have Richard Dunn, Oz Invest&#8217;s Acquisition Manager,<br />
live from Australia (3:30am in the morning) to tell us exactly what is<br />
happening in the property market.</p>
<p><strong>Richard </strong>goes through some very exciting opportunities in the pipeline, including all major cities like Sydney.</p>
<p>If Offshore Investment is something you are interested in, and Australia<br />
is something you are considering, then this is not a presentation to<br />
miss.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.internationalpropertysolutions.com/Documents/2009-10-14%2019.01%20Offshore%20Investing%20_%20Focus%20on%20Australia.wmv" rel="shadowbox[post-29];width=640;height=385;"></a>Come join us live on the 27th of Oct in JHB and the 5th of Nov in Pretoria. Click here &#8211; <a href="http://www.ipsinvest.com/Events.aspx">http://www.ipsinvest.com/Events.aspx</a></p>
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<enclosure url="http://www.internationalpropertysolutions.com/Documents/2009-10-14%2019.01%20Offshore%20Investing%20_%20Focus%20on%20Australia.wmv" length="126021269" type="video/x-ms-wmv" />
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		<title>Aus Property prices to rise by 23 percent, says QBE LMI</title>
		<link>http://www.propertytribe.co.za/index.php/aus-property-prices-to-rise-by-23-percent-says-qbe-lmi/34/</link>
		<comments>http://www.propertytribe.co.za/index.php/aus-property-prices-to-rise-by-23-percent-says-qbe-lmi/34/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2009 13:54:04 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Scott Picken</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[International Property]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blog.localhost/propertytribe/?p=34</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Watch the video &#8211; http://money.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=875432
Go to www.ipsinvest.com for more opportunities in Australia.

By Emma Thelwell, ninemsn Money
Property prices across Australia are expected to grow by as much as 23 percent over the next three years, as upgraders and investors pile back
into the market.
Low interest rates and a shortage of affordable housing, coupled with growth in rental [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Watch the video &#8211; <a href="http://money.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=875432">http://money.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=875432</a></p>
<p>Go to<a href="http://www.ipsinvest.com"> www.ipsinvest.com</a> for more opportunities in Australia.</p>
<div id="article_body">
<p>By Emma Thelwell, <strong>ninemsn Money</strong></p>
<p>Property prices across Australia are expected to grow by as much as 23 percent over the next three years, as upgraders and investors pile back<br />
into the market.</p>
<p>Low interest rates and a shortage of affordable housing, coupled with growth in rental rates, will continue to drive up house<br />
prices &#8211; despite the threat of higher borrowing costs, according to the QBE Lenders&#8217; Mortgage Insurance (QBE LMI) Housing Outlook 2010-2012.</p>
<p>Adelaide, where property is the most affordable, is expected to see the strongest price gains, clocking a 23 percent rise over the next<br />
three years.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, housing shortages in Sydney and Melbourne should drive growth of 21 percent and 19 percent respectively, LMI predicts.</p>
<p>Recent strong growth in Darwin will be tempered by the weakness in the resources sector, although homes should still enjoy price surges<br />
of up to 17 percent.</p>
<p>Price growth in Brisbane and Hobart is expected to be dampened by risks to the local economy, with property in both cities seen rising in value<br />
by 15 percent.</p>
<p>Perth is expected to continue to suffer as the mining sector slows, and the stalling job market could hit Canberra, leading to more modest property price rises of just 12 percent over the next three years in both cities.</p>
<p>Ian Graham, chief executive of QBE LMI said the outlook was particularly good for first home buyers who have recently joined the housing ladder, and should also lure more investors back to the market.</p>
<p>&#8220;The surge in first home buyer demand is now slowly permeating through to greater demand from upgraders who are trading over to their next dwelling after selling to the buoyant first home buyer market,&#8221; he said.</p>
<p>&#8220;The strong rental environment and stabilisation of prices is also beginning to attract investors back into the market.&#8221;</p>
<p>Activity from both groups should pick up over the remaining months of 2009, said Mr Graham, propelling demand next year and picking up the slack in first time buyer demand after the First Home Owner Grant ends in December.</p>
<p>While low interest rates have helped the property market back to its feet after heavy losses last year, Mr Graham warned that a fragile economy and the continued high cost of borrowing will limit short term price gains.</p>
<p>Prices are not expected to pick up speed until the latter half of 2010, looking ahead to 2011 and 2012.</p>
<p>Plus, the danger remains that as the RBA looks to raise interest rates in coming months, the banks will push up their mortgage rates accordingly.</p>
<p>The gap between the variable mortgage rate and the cash rate has widened from an average 1.8 percent in June 2007 to a current 2.85 percent, according to LMI.</p>
<p>While interest rates are expected to hover around 3.5 percent in 2010, Mr Graham warned that banks may hike their rates further in an effort to protect their profit margins as the costs remain tight.</p>
<p>&#8220;The possibility still exists that banks could raise their housing variable rate independently of any increase in the cash rate by the RBA prior to this, reflecting the increased cost of external funding and the need to maintain their margins,&#8221; he said.</p>
<p>The number of first time buyers is expected to drop back from an all time high of 200,000 in 2009, to 150,000 next year, as borrowing costs and house prices climb.</p>
<p>LMI expects interest rates – currently set at 3.25 percent &#8211; to rise from 3.5 percent in June 2010 to 4.25 percent by June 2011, before settling at 5 percent by June 2012.</p>
<p>The variable mortgage rate will rise accordingly, from 6.3 percent in June 2010 to 7.45 percent by June 2012, LMI predicts.</p>
<p>&#8220;There is a risk that housing stress will be experienced by this group when interest rates eventually rise&#8221;, Mr Graham warned.</p>
<p>While first time buyer demand will drop back, a &#8220;clear recovery&#8221; is beginning to emerge in lending to upgraders and investors, Mr Graham said.</p>
<p>&#8220;Which is likely to continue to gather momentum in the coming months, and take up the baton as the main drivers of demand once the First Home Owners&#8217; Grant expires at the end of 2009.&#8221;</p>
<p>Go to<a href="http://www.ipsinvest.com/"> www.ipsinvest.com</a> for more opportunities in Australia.</div>
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