Back From Holiday.

Having just returned from California, I was reminded just how much the 'bigger is better' culture has spread throughout the country. Everything is 'supersized' from burgers and milkshakes to children and their parents.

With the Pound holding strong against the Dollar a good deal can be found in the large American property market, by the discerning UK Buyer. America has long been a favorite destination for UK property buyers looking overseas. In particular Florida has always remained at the top of the list due to its popularity as a tourist destination, meaning that a good rental income is achievable.

Buying a home in the US is a lot more straightforward than it is in the UK. In some states including Florida, the majority of purchases can be completed without involving a lawyer and the whole process from offer to completion, could take as little as a fortnight but in any case no longer than 90 days.

Ensure that when you have found the property you wish to purchase the offer is written up on a real estate contract for that particular state and that it contains all the terms and conditions that must be met before the contract becomes legally binding. You will have to pay a deposit of a few thousand dollars so will need access to an American bank account. If your offer is accepted the contract will be signed by buyer and seller and becomes legally binding to all the clauses. If you then decide to back out you could lose your deposit and be forced to purchase the home anyway. However you cannot be gazumped - A nice bonus !

I've listed below some of the places I know personally and examples of the current market prices.

Los Angeles is the main city to be seen in and the country's second largest, a beautiful place for the beautiful people where property tends to be expensive with 2 bedroom and 2 bathroom houses costing around $450,000 going up to $700,000 for a 3 bedroom and 3 bathroom townhouse on the outskirts of the main city.

More British migrants settle in Texas each year than the sunshine state of Florida. With it's big cities, beautiful beaches and lush back country it not just cowboys and deserts. Property prices throughout the state even in Houston and Dallas are affordable and reasonable.
Dallas property prices are around $160,000 for a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom house rising to upwards of $400,000 for a 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom detached house.

In Florida, Orlando is not as expensive as Miami but nevertheless compared to some areas this is still fairly expensive, a 2 bedroom apartment in College Park the up-market quarter of the city will cost $279,000 whilst just outside the main area a luxury 6 bedroom detached property with swimming pool, Jacuzzi and hot tub can be purchased for $350,000.

Wherever you decide to purchase in America you can be sure to save £'s in the current climate. However in all probability, once you have been there a couple of weeks you will be gaining a number of pounds.

Especially if you visit one of my all time favourite shops - Dunkin' Donuts. If only the Americans could produce a nice cup of tea to go with it - I'd be tempted to live there permanently.

I must get out today, maybe in Culbin Forest and take in some of the fresh Moray air, whilst trying to shed some of my recently gained 'Americaness'.

Have a nice day y'all......

Mr Jackson.