The number of searches for international property in November 2009 was double the level of November 2008, signaling that this sector may have turned a corner, according to the latest Primelocation International Search Index.
Primelocation International recorded more than one million foreign property searches in November, taking interest back up to pre credit crunch levels. Almost one third of searches were carried out for property in Spain, which has overtaken rival France to become the most popular country after 12 months in second place.
The highest growth since last month was for homes in the US (47%) and Switzerland (21%), perhaps as disaffected British bankers eye more appealing offshore locations amid the storm over City bonuses. Indeed, several of Europe’s largest hedge funds are considering moving their operations to Switzerland, which may be fuelling interest in property in the country.