About Estonia

As with many countries since becoming an EU member in 2004 Estonia’s property market has experienced significant growth, in some regions seeing prices twice what they where in 2000. Now with Estonia’s scheduled to convert to the €uro over the next couple of years, the future of the economical and property markets looks a secure one.

With the increase of positive media coverage, the development and progression of their mortgage market interest from overseas investors has helped Estonia to experience its histories largest growth. Estonia, backed by the increased numbers in the job markets and healthy wage increases is seeing more and more native Estonians able to purchase their own properties, helping to sustain continued growth in the property market.

Although prices in most eastern European countries as begun to level after initial pre-EU growth, unlike some of its counterparts Estonia has the added attraction and buffer to the property market that their economy is booming as well as supply being outstripped by demand from local and external overseas investors for buy to let investment properties and rental accommodation to the growing number of young Estonian professionals.

Further adding to these positive characteristics of Estonia’s economy and real estate investment markets the arrival of budget airline operators such as Easy jet, Al Italia, Air France and other Scandinavian operators, is allowing easy, affordable access from other European countries, increasing Estonia’s tourism and international real estate appeal.

Investors Fact File

• Investors looking to purchase multiple properties can benefit from significant gains and profits tax savings by purchasing through an Estonian limited company
• Since the initial economic and property market boom on joining the EU, Estonia’s growth is levelled to a more predictable, realistic and stable level
• Tourism numbers on the increase, helped by introduction of budget airlines like Easy Jet providing affordable access from other European countries
• Estonia’s domestic tourism saw growth of 16% 2007 compared with 2006
• Demand for quality properties remains strong, as does the growth
• Mortgages available for foreign investors at competitive interest rates, helping to increase affordability and demand
• Estonian average wage increase by circa 11% per year, helping to increase house and rental values

 Key Facts - Estonia

	Climate - Generally the best time to visit Estonia is between May and September. The climate is relatively mild. The coldest months are usually Jan and Feb.
	Cost of Living - Loaf of bread: KR 7 (35p), bottle of beer: from KR 10 (£0.50)
	Currency - Estonian Kroon (EEK). £1 = KR 19.69 EEK
	Getting There - getting to Tallinn international airport in Estonia is very easy from London Gatwick with several operators servicing daily non stop flights
	Time - GMT +2
	Population - 1.3 million