Primelocation is sponsoring this year’s  International Property Awards in association with Bloomberg Television, the housing world’s answer to the Oscars with a red carpet event to be held on November 25th and 26th this year in central London. 

So could your next home end up with an international gong for its architecture, build quality or a range of other categories?

These awards may not offer the same glamour and stars as the yearly Oscars in Hollywood, but in many ways they are not far off with categories that include best golf development, international property, apartment and interior design.

The event began it began in 1994 and has developed into a global concern with regional heats held across the world during the build up to the final in London. This comes to a glamorous climax at an event attended by the leading lights of the property world and celebrities.

These in past years have included Rick Wakeman of 1970s supergroup Yes, BBC Royal Correspondent Jenny Bond, interiors expert Linda Barker and Location, Location, Location star Phil Spencer. And the awards have high profile sponsors too. As well as Primelocation.com these include newspaper The New York Times, Google, Bloomberg Television and Maserati.

But one thing that doesn’t change is the robust judging process. Every year the world’s industry experts gather to judge - including this time round Primelocation.com’s Nigel Lewis - whether the hundreds of entries from across the globe pass the quality test.

A wide range of residential and commercial properties are judged from grand villas in Dubai to office developments in Budapest, and previous winners have included UK agent Knight Frank, developer Berkeley Homes (for its Sugar House development in London) and the Dunas Douradas Beach Club on Portugal’s Algarve coast. But winners come from a wide range of countries including Panama, Brazil, India, Singapore, South Africa and Cape Verde.

The pundits who wrongly predicted the savage ballet that the euro and pound danced over the past 18 months are now nursing their lessened reputations.

Only a year ago many were sniffily dismissing the weak the pound compared to the gold-standard euro, lauding the prosperity of Europe’s recession proof economies and ribbing us Brits for not joining in. But little did they know that a clutch of countries were hiding very weak economies and mountains of debt.

Will the euro vs pound fluctuations help British home buyers overseas?

Last week all was revealed. The catastrophe that is the Greek economy, plus worrying news from Spain, Portugal and Ireland, have sent the euro tumbling, leading many to hope that the glory days of the overseas property market – which at one point was subsidised by up to 30% through favourable exchange rates – might return.

Many remember how from 2001 until late-2007 buying a home in the euro zone was an exchange dream. £100,000 bought a €140,000 villa or apartment, and it was this advantage that helped British buyers sustain a prolonged coastal holiday home buying boom in hotspots such as Portugal and Spain.

But over the past two and a half years the euro advantage has receded and in February 2008 the Euro almost achieved parity with Sterling. But gloom in Europe has pushed the pound to €1.15 and many are hoping this foreign exchange slide will give a financial boost to British buyers overseas. But what do the foreign exchange pundits think?

“Although there are going to be some short and medium term benefits, the long-term debt problems within the British economy mean it is going to be a long time before the exchange improves enough to make a huge difference to buyers,” says Duncan Higgins of exchange firm Caxton FX.

“Talk of a hung parliament and high rates of government debt in Britain means investors have been avoiding Britain recently so at best I think the rate might climb to €1.20 before falling back again.

Higgins says that market turbulence at the moment means he can predict only one thing at the moment – that despite attempts to bail out Europe’s ailing economies the euro will remains weak, and therefore parity with the pound is unlikely to return soon.

If you’re looking to buy and run a hotel overseas, then there are definite advantages in buying an already established, reputable business.

1. The groundwork is already done.

One of the major bonuses with buying an established hotel is that the groundwork has already been done, so you don’t have the upheaval of buying a property and converting it into a hotel. Even if you want to make changes or do things your own way, it’s still not quite as major as starting a new business in a foreign country from scratch.

2. There should already be a customer base, which you can build on further.

Ideally, the existing owners should provide you with their customer database as part of the sale, which you can use as base for further expansion. Special offers and discounts for existing customers often work well and it’s always good if you can impress previous visitors into continuing to recommend your hotel.

3. The hotel should come with employees.

Not only is it handy not to have to find and recruit a whole load of employees for your business, but it’s also useful to initially have staff who know the ropes. As long as they’re committed to the job and aren’t averse to any changes you implement, it’s good to have workers ready and able.

4. There should already be existing suppliers.

If you’ve managed to negotiate a price for the hotel in which the existing owners hand over their list of current suppliers and existing contracts, you’ll at least be able to get the business up and running quickly. You may well want to change suppliers when the contracts run out, but it’s useful to have some already in place whilst you get to grips with your new business.

5. You can redecorate and refurbish at your own pace.

If you want to make changes gradually, and not affect the running of the hotel too much, it’s easier to redecorate and refurbish a few rooms at a time, than have to shut the whole hotel.  

The implications of buying any business shouldn’t be taken lightly, and it’s especially so when buying abroad. Any legal issues may be different in other countries and issues you took for granted in the UK, may be handled in a completely different way in other countries. So always research a foreign business purchase thoroughly, stay in a hotel before you buy it to suss it out and get relevant professional advice.

Hotels on the market

Here’s a taster of some foreign hotels on the market.

A 13 bedroom country hotel in the province of Seville, in Spain – £890,802 

A nine bedroom hotel in the Ronda area of Malaga in Spain – £1,982,875.

A three star boutique hotel and Italian restaurant in Lecce, Italy – £989,780.

A 15 bedroom hotel in a mystery location in France – £2,963,730.

If you’re interested in buying a property overseas, here are some useful tips to keep in mind when searching for and buying your holiday or investment property.

1. In the first instance, clearly decide what sort of property you’re looking for (a house, villa, apartment or farmhouse) and what sort of environment you want it to be in (a town, city, in a village, near the sea, in the countryside or in a gated community).

2. Think carefully about the areas you’re interested in – having too wide a focus may give more variety, but could get complicated when you’re trying to view everything. A narrower focus, within a certain mile radius, is better – although too narrow could be limiting – so try and get the balance right from the outset.

3. Also consider how you’re going to use the property – will it be a holiday home, an investment property, somewhere to retire to or rent out?

4. It may sound obvious (and is surprisingly overlooked by some buyers), but do thoroughly research the area in which you wish to buy before parting with your cash. Avoid the urge to randomly pick a location off a map without ever visiting it.

5. Find out where the current hotspots, or popular areas, are – both with locals and tourists – and suss out any areas that may be benefitted by new developments, such as new airports, flight routes, train routes, tourist developments or schools.

6. Set a budget for your purchase and sort out any financing issues. Don’t forget to take buying costs into consideration too, so you know where you stand; these vary depending on which country you’re buying property in, but could add up to 10% to the cost.

7. Find reputable estate agents through a website like Primelocation.com. It helps considerably if they speak English, especially if you’re not up on the local lingo.

8. If you’re planning a trip to the country to go and see the properties, contact estate agents and arrange your viewings in advance, so you don’t turn up and find nothing much is available to see.

9. Be clear about exactly what’s included in the purchase price and, if it’s an apartment, don’t forget to check out potential service or upkeep charges.

10. Before you purchase the property, make sure you fully understand the buying process in the country in question. Seek independent advice from a qualified solicitor and surveyor.

Most of us want to be happy in our work and life, so I was interested to see that Rough Guides have a new book out called the Rough Guide to Happiness. Last week in The Times the author, Dr Nick Baylis, rounded up 10 of the happiest places to holiday and find contentment, both in the UK and abroad.

It would be fair to say that if you’re looking to buy a holiday home abroad for relaxed, inspiring and happy weekends and holidays, then some of his recommendations could be worth a shot, even though happiness is partly dependent on what you make of it. So based on this, here’s a look at three varied international destinations that could, in their own way, provide happiness and contented times.

Norway

Norway is one of the world’s most stunning countries and is perfect if your ideal holiday getaway features fresh air, mountains, glaciers, skiing, nature and fjords. Western Norway boasts several world famous fjords, including the Geirangerfjord and the Nærøyfjord, which are both on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

In the Arctic Circle area, the sun doesn’t set during the summer months, producing the famous midnight sun, and in the winter months there’s the magical northern lights phenomenon to see – if you’re lucky. If you simply want to relax, unwind and breathe in the pure air, or get out and about, actively exploring or skiing, Norway offers plenty of options to keep you happy.

New York

It’s a stark contrast to Norway and features less of the natural phenomenon, but if your idea of happiness is to be in a city that’s alive day and night, then New York could fit the bill. Buzzing with nightlife, culture, shops galore, a global array of restaurants and, of course, good old Broadway, you can’t fail to be bored in this city.

Whether you want a to live like a native New Yorker for a while, or follow the tourist trails, then owning your own property in the city or suburbs allows you the freedom to visit without the expense of shelling out for hotels or other accommodation.

Toulouse

The capital of the Midi-Pyrenees region is located in the heart of Southern France, about halfway between the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. Nicknamed the ‘La ville rose’ (rose red city), due to its distinctive buildings made from red bricks, the city is ideal for those seeking a European holiday home base that’s not too far from the UK, but far enough to feel like you’re on holiday.

This modern city has retained plenty of its historical charm, which is seen in its many architecturally impressive buildings, and has a wide cultural appeal. You could unwind in one of the many quaint cafes, explore the regular outdoor markets or take a tour of its historic buildings.

Do you have memories of your happiest ever holiday? And where would your happiest place for a holiday home be?

If you fancy a change of scene for a few days away, or a long weekend break, owning your own city pad can make quick retreats all the more easier. With no accommodation to find at short notice, all you need to organise is your transport and tickets, and you can be on your way in no time.

Choosing to buy an apartment rather than a house can work out well if you’re intending to use it yourself, as there’s generally less upkeep to be done and less to worry about when you’re not around. Plus, if you do decide to let it out in the future, apartments in city centres stand a good chance of being rentable, both on a short and long-term basis.

Here are some ideas for prime pads in desirable cities.

Paris

It’s got to be one of the top city locations for a weekend away, especially the romantic kind, and is easily reachable from the UK. Whether you want to enjoy some sightseeing, or while away time drinking coffee and watching the world go by, there’s plenty of variety in Paris.

If the café culture meets your approval, then this two-bedroom apartment in a period building has a café almost on your doorstep. Set in the heart of the trendy Marais area of Paris, with its designer boutiques, it’s been recently renovated and is on the market for £656,838.

Lisbon

The capital of Portugal stakes its claim as being the westernmost capital in mainland Europe. Compared to other capital cities in Europe, it’s relatively small, but that makes it perfect for exploring.

If you fancy living in an historic building, then this 18th century palace has been sensitively converted into contemporary, designer flats. Benefiting from river views, there are two bedrooms and great transport links nearby.

Budapest

Hungary’s capital has had a strong reign in the property investment stakes over the years and remains a popular location for tourists. It’s serviced by a variety of airlines, including several budget airlines, which makes getting there relatively easy.

Five star hotel services are on hand at this luxury waterfront development in District 13 of Budapest. The two-bedroom apartment, overlooking the water, have hotel services on tap – perfect for weekend breaks where you don’t have to do anything.

In comparison to the most expensive cities in the world where you can buy property, Global Property Guide have also recently highlighted the world’s least expensive markets in 2009. If you’re after a real estate bargain and aren’t too fussy where you buy your property, then perhaps one of these areas may take your fancy.

The prices are based on the average cost of purchasing a 120sqm apartment, in good condition, in a city centre location and the price quoted is the average price per square metre.

The least expensive place to buy property in the world was found to be Cairo, in Egypt, where it would set you back a mere $574 per square metre (approx. £404). Next up was Bangalore in India, where the cost is $657 (approx. £462). The third least expensive city was found to be Concepcion in Chile, where the property cost was $669 (approx. £471).

The rest of the countries making up the top 10 least expensive international cities to buy property were found to be:

4. Quito, Ecuador – $820 (approx. £577).
5. Chengdu, China – $999 (approx. £703).
6. Managua, Nicaragua – $1,080 (approx. £760).
7. Jakarta, Indonesia – $1,102 (approx. £776).
8. Amman, Jordan – $1,150 (approx. £810).
9. Lima, Peru – $1,154 (approx. £812).
10. Santiago, Chile – $1,221 (approx. £860).

It’s true that slick digs in desirable cities often come at a price, but some more than others. Most people are concerned with where you can pick up international property for reasonable prices, but to help you discover where your money won’t stretch quite so far, Global Property Guide have revealed which cities in the world are the most expensive to buy property.

Top of the list of the most expensive cities to buy property in 2009 is Monte Carlo, in Monaco. According to Global Property Guide, the average price per square metre, based on a 120sqm apartment in good condition in the city centre (priced in US dollars), is $47,578 (approx. £33,521). Second on the list – but only just – is Moscow, in Russia, where the cost per square metre averages at $20,853 (approx. £14,676). Closely following on its heels and despite of the global economic effects, is good old London, where the average price was found to be $20,756 (approx. £14,611).

The rest of their top ten is made up of:

4. Tokyo, Japan – $17,998 (approx. £12,670).
5. Hong Kong, Hong Kong – $16,125 (approx. £11,352).
6. New York, USA – $14,898 (approx. £10,484).
7. Paris, France – $12,122 (approx. £8,530).
8. Singapore, Singapore – $9,701 (approx. £6,826).
9. Rome, Italy – $9,166 (approx. £6,450).
10. Mumbai, India – $9,163 (approx. £6448).

It’s 20 years since the infamous Berlin wall came down, reuniting east and west and transforming life in the city of Berlin, Germany.

A recent episode of Channel 4’s Location, Location, Location, saw Phil Spencer and Kirstie Allsopp helping a couple look for a home in the UK and an investment property in Berlin. In typical Location, Location, Location fashion, despite looking at some great properties in Berlin, the couple eventually decided that perhaps they wouldn’t buy in Berlin just yet after all. But if it’s piqued your interest and got you wondering about the benefits of Berlin, then here’s a brief rundown.

• Germany as a whole has a strong culture of renting property, rather than buying. Berlin is no different and there’s a low percentage of property ownership – over 80% of Berliners are tenants, rather than property owners. This offers good possibilities for buy-to-let investors, who want to purchase Berlin property for rental purposes.
• The rental culture means that many people rent on a long-term basis, rather than short-term, so you may be able to get a tenant who stays put for a while, reducing the hassle of regularly having to find new tenants.
• There are also opportunities for short term corporate rentals too. Many large companies are based in Berlin and, where they used to house employees in hotels for a short-term basis, the increase in tourism has boosted hotel prices. So, small furnished apartments on short leases are proving a good alternative for business use.
• Some of the prime areas to buy include the up-and-coming central eastern districts, as explored by Location, Location, Location, such as Prenzlauer Berg, Friedrichshain and Kreuzberg.
• Other more established and affluent areas of Berlin, with more expensive properties, are the central western parts, such as Charlottenberg, Wilmersdorf, Mitte and Schoneberg.
• In the central parts of Berlin, there are mostly flats and apartments available – in old historic buildings, as well as some new builds. If you’re interested in houses, you may need to look towards the leafy suburbs, on the outskirts of the city.

See something you like? Take a look at properties for sale in Berlin.

Being in a royal sort of mood today, I’ve kicked off our keyword search series with ‘castle’. Punching it into our international property search, these are the little gems we’ve uncovered.

£16,842,000

Parma, Italy

Built circa 846AD, this castle in Parma, Italy has a few noteworthy features, including an internal courtyard with columns made of Botticino marble, an entire floor dedicated to wine distillation, and of course an underground torture chamber with matching prison cells. These charming original features were presumably requested by the original owners, the bishops of Parma. So… they seem like nice guys.

£16,656,150

Haute Vienne, France

This medieval chateau (build in 1179) would do nicely for an aging rock star or celebrity chef. Features include a professional kitchen, grand hall with seating for 1,000 people, 16 bedrooms, a working tavern, lifts, central heating, six additional houses, five barns, five lakes, 200 hectares of land (meadow and woods), private cinema in a vaulted cellar, chapel, billiard room, smoking room (!), music room, library, breakfast room, dining rooms and an eight-hold gold course. Jeepers.

£1,586,300

Palazzo Cardinali, Mondavio, Italy

Or there’s this little gem if you’re on a budget. Perfect for someone who loves art and history, Palazzo Cardinali has 22 bedrooms and features a library with fireplaces and frescoed arched ceiling.

£3,172,600

Baroque chateau, Czech Republic

Just two hours’ drive south of Prague, this massive 38-bedroom baroque chateau was originally built for the Archduke Franz Ferdinand and features a 20-hectare park filled with statues. The agent suggests it would be good for a hotel, country club or casino. If you’ve been meaning to build that casino you’ve always wanted but your day job just keeps getting in the way, now’s your chance.

Offers in the region of £210,525

Schloss Wiesenburg, Brandenburg, Germany

If you’re not quite ready or able to fork out several million pounds for a castle of your own, you could always share one. Within the historic walls of Schloss Wiesenburg are several ultra-modern, high-tech, designer apartments for sale. You’ll get your own pad with all the trimmings, plus direct access to the castle’s public park, and communal areas that include a terrace, garden hall, sauna with whirlpool and ‘relaxation area’, whatever that means.

P.O.A.

Kinnitty Castle Hotel, Kinnitty, Ireland

This Neo-Gothic castellated mansion currently functions as a hotel – a pretty big one too, with 37 bedrooms, 38 bathrooms, 10 reception rooms, a banqueting hall, two restaurants, a couple of bars, and 61 acres of landscaped gardens, grassland and forest. However, the lucky buyer of Kinnitty Castle could make it even bigger if they wanted to – it’s not just any castle, it’s a castle with planning permission. For a conference centre. Plus you can convert the stables if you want. You know, do a Kirstie Allsopp, break through a wall or two, make a new bathroom. Think of it as a fun weekend project.

P.O.A.

Crabbenburg Castle, Brussels, Belgium

This is my favourite. Built between 1821 and 1823, Crabbenburg Castle is set on 17 acres of landscaped grounds with ponds, and features include a library, eight bedrooms, eight bathrooms, caretaker’s residence, indoor swimming pool, gallery and workshop. Gallery and workshop! Think about it! You could get yourself a beret, a paintbrush and a slightly temperamental disposition and hey presto – you’re an artist, and you know you are because you’ve got your own gallery and workshop to prove it.