The current strength of the UK pound is making American property an attractive prospect for overseas investors

Sunny Florida, and particularly the 25 miles of white sandy beach along the barrier islands of Tampa Bay, has long been a favorite destination for both European and Canadian buyers. Tampa's International airport provides easy access from cities around the globe. Just 30 minutes to some of the award-winning white sandy beaches and balmy Gulf of Mexico, property owners find that the convenience of Clearwater, St Petersburg, as well as Tampa itself, offers an amazing wealth of fine dining, international shopping and world class entertainment. On top of that, professional sports venues, active sport fishing, top level golf and a wide variety of water sports (including a simple stroll on the beach) makes this area unique in Florida.

There is no better time to take advantage of the current Florida market and actually live the Florida lifestyle as prices for luxury waterfront properties have rolled back to 2003 levels. At the same time, the weaker dollar adds tremendous value to purchases made with British pounds, Euros, or Canadian dollars. In a study by the National Association of Realtors last year, Florida was the top destination for foreign buyers, accounting for 26 percent of all transactions, ahead of California at 16 percent, Texas at 10 percent and Arizona at 6 percent. In fact, the soft market combined with the stronger foreign currencies has triggered a spike in activity, along with the indication of an upturn in the market. Real estate is a localized phenomenon.

The Tampa Bay area, according to Forbes Magazine, is the "number one city forecasted to bounce back" as the market turns. In fact, the time is now for foreign buyers to discover Tampa Bay and take action. Don't be left behind during this amazing period of opportunity. Top tips for buying property in Florida Purchasing a residence in Florida is a huge step toward living the Florida lifestyle... one that comes with some serious decisions Is this the time to buy in Florida? Investors flocked to the Florida housing market in 2004 and 2005, resulting in highly inflated price appreciation making ownership for the end user more and more costly.

With the recent market adjustment and record inventory levels, the prices have rolled back in many cases to 2003 levels. Simultaneously, the pound, euro and Canadian dollar are at record highs against the US dollar. Prices are a bargain. Foreign buyers are in a prime position to take advantage of this market. How do you plan to use your home?

With the increasing popularity of owning a second (or even, third) home, the flexibility of European holiday schedules and the ease of access directly to the international airport of Tampa; Florida offers an ideal warm weather Mecca when the temperatures at home drop below freezing. At today's prices, it makes sense to take advantage of the immediate equity you can realize.

When investing in property in Florida, the high percentage of tourism in the area can result in using rental income to offset some carrying costs. Consult a real estate professional now. Using a professional realtor offers much more than simply presenting properties. Look for seasoned individuals knowledgeable about the market... both its advantages and pitfalls. Choose someone you trust, who has your best interest at heart. Contact The Purtee Team today.

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Featured Property www.redingtonshoresyachtclub.com
Redington Shores Yacht & Tennis Club is unique on this stretch of barrier islands along the coastline of Tampa, Florida. RSYT is a brand new gated community, combining custom built homes with waterfront condominium residences ranging from 2,000 sq ft to this designer 4,000 sq ft penthouse.