Summer Sun

Houses in Brasov combine austere Saxon architecture with more elaborate Romanian styles and large gardens, which benefit from almost uninterrupted summer sunshine.

Its rural culture makes it unique and it is far enough from Western Europe to make it completely different, but is still easily accessible.

Many property investors are comparing the country with the Spain of 20 years ago.

Property Cheap

And they're right. It is very cheap and very close - but as yet undiscovered.

Now is the time to buy before it becomes the Spain of now, where it is still possible to make a profit but such gains will inevitably be more muted.

A well-built village house with running water, electricity and telephone can cost as little as 15,000 pounds. Municipal taxes and utility bills will add around 1,000 per year to your costs.

Huge Price Rises Predicted

Romania is moving towards EU accession in 2007 when it is being predicted prices could rise by as much as 50 per cent.

Foreigners cannot own land in Romania at the moment, which has deterred less adventurous investors. But this will soon be changed as part of the country’s bid to become a full member of the EU.