The real estate market has always involved a high degree of risk; development projects should always be based on accurate calculations and as precise estimates of future market and economy trends as possible.

One of the key tasks of traders on the real estate market is to monitor the segments and provide investors with quality information. Based on such information, they decide on how much, when and where to invest.

The traders’ role is therefore crucial to the investor. Increasing numbers of people are deciding on how to invest their resources. They have to weigh various risks and recognise opportunities.

As a real estate agent, I meet investors on a daily basis. Taking a look at the investment structure, you can distinguish several groups, i.e., investors interested in certain market segments. In previous years it was seemingly enough to watch your segment.

However, it is evident nowadays that you have to spread your portfolio properly. So what are our recommendations? If you are one of those investors who want to make the most of their investment, then invest in areas that will bring you profit as well as delight at long-term cultivation.

The most relevant and attractive investment today includes hotels and golf developments and the related facilities. Investment in the hotel business, particularly in hotels in mountain resorts, has been slumping for some time. The prices are low and are sure to go down a few per cent in negotiations.

Why, the biggest hotel chains tend to experience the most dramatic booms in times of recession. Another viable option is golf developments focused on the middle-class player, competing with their lower operating costs and thus prices.

The golf membership base has grown by nearly 10,000 players since 2006. The increment, representing 11%, is double the European average, being 5% annually. Another 120 golf courses are anticipated in the Czech Republic until 2016. One of the greatest plusses is the fact that this is a sport for every income category and, even more importantly, every age group.

And, speaking of golf investment, you can accompany the transaction with additional activities in support of such decisions: develop facilities linked to the golf industry. These include golf resort facilities, accommodation and other relaxation services, inseparably linked to the sport by now (at least, abroad).

Investing in golf, therefore, you can earmark some of your investment for the so-called accompanying services and facilities. If you decide to invest in this cultured and social sport, your investment is sure to bring the expected profit as well as increasing your credit among business partners, thus providing attractive business opportunities.

After all, the execution of the first golf course with residences right on site in the Czech Republic, in which we have been involved in the last three years, speaks for itself.

Richard Watzke, Exkluzivita.CZ, Select Real Estate.

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