A guide to the merits of relocating staff abroad in order to take advantage of an expanding property sector

Global property investment companies may be considering the large scale relocation of staff to specific European areas to take advantage of the wonderful opportunities for expansion.

Recent figures from a leading financial and professional services firm suggest that people are still investing in property despite strain on the global economy.

Investment activity in the first 9 months of 2011 increased by 43% compared to the same period last year.

Companies seem to be understandably attracted to areas where economies remain strong and debt remains minimal.

These regions are seen as ideal places to tie up funds in property, itself still seen as a relatively ‘safe’ investment.

In order to ensure these deals go through smoothly, major property developers and investment companies are relocating staff to different regions.

Regions including France, Spain, Germany, Poland, Russia, and Scandinavia are the main areas involved.

All of these areas have seen steady investment from a variety of global businesses and individuals this year.

Arthur de Haast, Head of the International Capital Group at Jones Lang LaSalle, echoed the positive mood within the industry as well as sounding a note of caution.

“Investors are taking refuge in core, well-lit products in specific markets.” However, he also stated that “the market remains very much sentiment-driven and the mood is cautious.”

It seems that, for now, investors would be best advised to stick to strong, stable regions such as those mentioned above before getting more ambitious with their property portfolios.

Relocation headaches

Of course, any relocation carries a great deal of logistical issues. If these are not handled swiftly or correctly, they can cause real problems for those involved.

Relocation consultants can help with issues ranging from learning about tax/immigration laws to scoping out the best hotels in the area you are travelling to.

Sometimes a company will provide their own help with these issues, but there are places to turn if you feel confused or overwhelmed by a relocation.