Cape Verde Property: Benefits for the Potential Investor

Cape Verde, off the west coast of Africa, is quickly rising up the table when it comes to excellent foreign property investments. There are many reasons why people choose to buy property here, and as increasing numbers of people are choosing Cape Verde as a good foreign location to either move to or to invest in, the information below provides a backdrop to why Cape Verde has become so popular in recent years.

History

It was only in the 15th century that Cape Verde became inhabited, when Portuguese settlers became the first official people to arrive in 1462. It was initially used as a key post in the transatlantic slave trade, and after the slave trade disappeared it took on a new significance as an important supply point for ships.

Due to its history of slavery and colonialism, many of the residents found in Cape Verde are of mixed African and Portuguese descent, and the islands consist of a real melting pot of different cultures and traditions that only adds to its attraction. It also has a long and rich musical heritage that has developed ever since it was first colonized, which the inhabitants are very proud of, and visitors to the islands are sure to get experience this during their trip.

Geography and Climate

Cape Verde is situated about 350 miles off the West African coast. There are ten islands in the archipelago, and nine of these are currently inhabited. Of these, Santiago is the largest island, and it is here that the capital city, Praia, is found. The landscape of the islands varies widely, from sandy beaches to active volcanoes to salt flats. Each island has a different feel to it, making for a wide range of options for property buyers.

The climate is one of the main reasons that people choose to invest in Cape Verde property. Whether buying a home for themselves, or investing in a property to rent to tourists, anyone would enjoy the high temperatures on offer from the year-round sun, which rarely drops below 20 degrees, but never exceeds what is comfortable. This means that tourists continuously arrive throughout the year, making year-round rentals a real possibility.

Flight Information

One aspect that appeals to property buyers is the availability of direct flights to Cape Verde from the UK and Europe. These are operated by a number of airlines, including TAP Portugal, TUlfly, Astraus and TACV, the latter of which is the national airline of Cape Verde.

The two main airports in Cape Verde are Amílcar Cabral in Santa María on Sal and Francisco Mendes in Praia on Santiago. Direct flights from the UK leave from Gatwick, Manchester and Stansted, and there are also direct flights from Paris and Lisbon. Flights are also operated by TACV between the individual islands of the archipelago, making transport relatively hassle free.

Tourism

There are so many different attractions on offer that tourists flock to the islands throughout the year, making it one of the most important factors for the economy. Besides the fabulous weather, the great beaches and the historical features of the islands, Cape Verde also offers high-quality diving experiences and numerous water sports, as well as options for fishing, hiking and taking historical tours. The musical scene is also a big draw to the islands, with one of the annual highlights being the Baia das Gatas music festival on Sao Vicente, which takes place in August each year.

With so much on offer throughout the year, Cape Verde property owners are not restricted by the seasons and can enjoy continuous rental possibilities throughout the year, making it an ideal investment.

Cape Verde Property Prices

A constant tourist season throughout the year is hugely beneficial, but what makes Cape Verde stand out as hugely interesting for investors are the low property prices. With prices being what they currently are, it is possible to acquire a new apartment for €50,000, and a two-bedroom villa for between €100,000 and €150,000.

With a little bit of searching it is possible to find great deals on all types of property at prices that would be unthinkable in the UK. These prices tend to attract serious investors who are either looking for a place to rent to tourists, or seeking a holiday home or retirement home for themselves. But on top of all this, the Cape Verde property market is still in its early stages, making it the perfect time to invest.

Homes Abroad Cape Verde are an established and experienced estate agent offering a wide range of cape verde property for sale. Please visit their site for their latest property listings and for more information on what the islands have to offer.