Italy 'better than emerging markets'

Sunday November 4th , 2007

Established property markets such as Italy could be a better investment than emerging markets, according to experts.

Foreign Property Buyer stated that attention had recently moved away from recent hotspots such as Bulgaria in favour of more stable and traditional destinations.

Italy was highlighted as an example of this, partly because it was seen as a more steady and reliable investment that eastern European market.

The website commented: "Many property investors are looking towards more stable economies with good infrastructures already in place combined with heritage and culture."

Foreign Property Buyer added that some people were wary of emerging markets because they were not guaranteed to meet these criteria.

In addition, it stated that the Italian government had legislated to prevent the country becoming overdeveloped, therefore preserving the factors that attract visitors and drive the property market.

This comes after British newspaper the Telegraph reported that the Calabria region was becoming increasingly fashionable among foreign property buyers, while remaining affordable.