Property analysts are predicting that Hungarian property prices could enjoy further growth of around 15 per cent to 20 per cent, especially within the rapidly maturing buy-to-let sector.

Hungary's long-term economic future remains positive, according to leading market experts. A recent poll concluded that the majority of analysts remain upbeat about Hungary's outlook over the next 12 months and are optimistic that the country's government will introduce a number of reforms aimed at boosting economic and social development. The research, conducted by MTI, also revealed that many economists believe that Hungary will continue to experience annual growth increases as well as reducing current deficit levels. Such economic improvements could help establish Hungary as a major market for overseas investors, especially as Hungarian authorities remain committed to joining the euro zone before the end of 2012, a move likely to simplify the process of buying investment property in the region.

Whether you choose to purchase your property on the coast, or in the mountains, the lakes or the ski resorts the process now that Slovenia has joined the EU has never been easier. Until recently Slovenian banks did not grant mortgages for non-residents to purchase property, but now some banks will grant mortgages of 70% of the property value, on a repayment basis. Once you have agreed the price of your property and like most places a bit of bartering over the final price is quite normal, you would be expected to pay a deposit of 10% to secure the property and a preliminary contract is issued If buying through an agent a further 4% plus vat @ 20% is usually payable, this is split between the purchaser of the property and the seller.

Once this has been agreed the main property sale contract can be drawn up. As with all purchases abroad, we recommend that you engage an independent legal advisor to check the property purchase contract you will be asked to sign, and assist you with the translation of the Land Registry documents.

Istria: Easy and inexpensive access, including by public transport from Italy. Istria is often called the Croatian Tuscany - there are lovely historic coastal towns (Porec, Rovinj, Pula) whilst the interior is very picturesque. The climate includes warm summers and cooler winters. Property is quite expensive due to high demand and Istrias proximity to the rest of Europe.

Kvarner Riviera: The main town is Rijeka, which has an airport on the nearby island of Krk and also has reasonable access from Zagreb (bus/train journey is just over 3 hours). Lovely coastal resorts include Crikvenica (one of the Croatians' favourites), Kraljevica and Novi Vinodolski. The climate is warm in the summer but some winter days can get quite cold. Bargains are hard to find as this area is close to the Croatian interior and therefore popular with many Croats.

Nothern Dalmatia: Some lovely historic towns (Zadar, Sibenik, Trogir) with small coastal resorts between them. Warm in the summer with mild winters, although some strong winds occasionally. Some bargains to be had, particularly in the smaller towns! Southern Dalmatia The main town is Split, with good transport links by ferry to the Italian port of Ancona. Rather long journey times if travelling to/from Zagreb by bus or train.

Until a few years ago, Bulgaria was relatively unknown to the property investment market and yet today is drawing in more and more bargain-property hunting Brits, with many people keen to buy before they’ve even visited this diverse country.