Sicily's star is rising for property investors

Monday December 15th , 2008

Sicily is becoming more popular with investors after the arrival of a host of famous faces, it has been claimed.

According to the Daily Mail, the Italian region has shaken off its negative connotations of the Mafia and is now recognised as an area full of culture and history.

Uma Thurman, Jennifer Lopez and Tom Cruise are some of the big earners who have chosen to buy property in areas such as the islands of Panarea and Pantelleria.

The region is suitable for those who prefer to avoid over-built areas, as there are many baroque and neo-classical buildings ready to be converted into apartments.

However, potential buyers are warned that English-speaking estate agents are scarce.

The newspaper reports that several new developments are in the pipeline, with a new Marriott hotel planned for the town of Sciacca, along with a Rocco Forte resort.

Meanwhile, property specialists InCalabria have said that the market in southern Italy is looking positive for 2009.

Director Dennis Ostenk has said that the area's good weather, attractive coastline and strong rental potential will continue to encourage people to buy there.
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