Property investment market continues in full swing

A survey commissioned by EBS building society, in conjunction with Gunne Residential, found that only 5% of investors would expect their property portfolio to decrease in the next five years.

Despite negative press on the “Credit Crunch”, over 93 % who invested in property as a buy-to-let strategy will hold on to their investments in the next five years, with 54% planning on increasing the number of properties they own.

Demand for rental accommodation continues to grow according to over half of those polled, with 47% of landlords reporting an increase in their income from rental properties.

Sara Romera analyst for Propertyshowrooms.com states: "January 2008 has seen an unusually high influx of Irish property investors into our network, primarily looking for low-entry level buy-to-let opportunities in emerging locations such as Egypt, with a noticeable trend for touristic real estate."

Morgan Stanley’s head of European equity strategy has advised clients to pile back into the market on valuation grounds. Teun Draaisma believes equities look attractive “on a tactical three to six month basis” and Irish investors seem to agree. The Survey commissioned by EBS and Gunne found that the majority of investors are now looking at property as a medium to long term investment, with the objective in many cases being retirement provision.