http://www.articletrader.com/ Articles at ArticleTrader en-us http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/so-you-want-to-renovate-a-greek-property.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/so-you-want-to-renovate-a-greek-property.html Fri, 10 Apr 2009 06:30:27 -0500 renovation. These older properties are frequently set in idyllic friendly villages, where the locals are welcoming and often ply new home owners with gifts of wine and oranges. Although many of these dilapidated properties are in need of a little care and attention they are full of charm and characters and can usually be purchased at reasonable prices. This makes older properties an attractive purchase for prospective home owners.

Before buying an older property that is in need of renovation there are various aspects that you should consider. Some of the first questions you should be asking yourself include: Are you going to do the building work on the property yourself? Will you be dealing with the work from another country? Or will you need to find somebody local to help you?

Normally, Greek people prefer to build new houses and do not understand why anyone would want to bother fixing up an old property. Consequently, Greek builders are often completely bewildered by the requirements, time scales and expectations of foreigners. It is hardly surprising then, that builders are generally reluctant to renovate older properties. It is also advisable to remember that Greek renovations standards vary considerably, so it is best to ask around for recommended builders.

Dealing with the builders yourself can turned out to be a more daunting task than you first realised. You may prefer instead to find someone in the local area to project manage the renovations of your property for you. This will ultimately give you peace of mind knowing that there is somebody close at hand at all times. Your project manager will be able to oversee the building works of your property on a day to day basis, regularly reporting back to you and thus, ensuring that all goes smoothly. Another important point is that your project manager will also have valuable knowledge of local suppliers and tradesmen. A good level of communication between you and your project manager will make certain that you have plenty of involvement in renovating your home even though you live thousands of miles away.

In either case, it would be wise to ask a builder to look at a property before you buy it. The builder will be able to give an estimate of renovation costs. It is best to have a good idea of the work that you require as this will give you a more accurate approximation of building expenditure. It is also vital to inspect the property for any obvious faults. Most importantly it should have sound walls, without which it may be cheaper to build a new house. Any other problem can be overcome (at a price). It is desirable to have a roof that doesn’t leak ensuring the property is waterproof particularly if funds are limited. It is always better to have a roof replaced rather than repaired. Patch work never proves to be successful and is not cost effective in the long term. Old properties often need damp-proof courses, timber treatment, new windows and doors, re-wiring, new kitchens and bathrooms and central heating. (Yes, it gets cold in the winter even in Greece!) Furthermore, when renovating an old property it is important to have a sensitive approach and keep as many of the original feature as possible reflecting the property’s natural rustic charms. Use local building materials and reflect the local building styles.

The cost of renovation is dependant on the type of work required, the quality of materials used and your budget. Building works such as plumbing, masonry and electrics are charge by the square metre. As a rough guide you should expect the cost of making an old property habitable to equal the cost of purchase. If you are restoring an older property for investment it is easy to spend more than you will get back. On the other hand if you are restoring a holiday or permanent home you can spread the work over a longer period of time.

Planning permissions is required if you plan to make external alteration such as extending the property or enlarging windows and doors. This is obtainable from the local town hall. Never start any building works until you have received official permission.

Having a property inspected and considering the works that you will need before you buy it might prevent you from making a disastrous decision and save you a lot of money in the long run. Take a realistic look at the property you intend purchasing. It is easy to imagine that you have more money to spend on your dream property than you actually have. The cost of purchasing a property and costs of repairs can spiral dramatically without you being prepared for it. This statement is one that should be at the forefront of your mind when you are making your plans.

Providing you do your research prudently you can successfully renovate an old property in Greece. Good luck with the purchase of your dream home and you will soon be sipping wine with the locals. Enjoy your little piece of paradise after all you've earned it.


--
Claire May is a recognized author of articles about property in Messinia, Greece. Her articles aspire to help buyers with their research and assist them through the unfamiliar Greek property purchasing procedures. Claire has also designed a website to provide readers with information about property in Messinia.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/buying-a-property-in-greece-made-easy.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/buying-a-property-in-greece-made-easy.html Fri, 10 Apr 2009 06:21:34 -0500
So you have decided that you want to start looking for a Greek property to suit you and your family. The internet is a useful place to begin your property research.

1. Note The Properties that Are Available: Make notes regarding the types of properties that are available along with their locations. Also note down any that are just below your price range (just below, because you will need some money to pay for taxes, legal fees, and hidden costs of buying property). Then discuss the properties that you have found with your family and friends.

2. Talk About Your Plans: It makes good sense to talk to other people who have already bought Greek properties and are living or working in the area you would like to live in. These people have already been through the property purchasing process and they are one of the most valuable sources of information you are likely to find.

3. Find A Greek Agent: Find out about the area that you would like to live in to see if it suits your requirements. Study maps and guide book descriptions of each preferred location. When you have established what your requirements are contact the real estate agents through the websites you have been looking at. Find out if the online property list is the full list of the properties on offer, quite often agents only advertise a small selection of the properties that they have available. Let the agents know your full requirement (be as detailed as possible) and leave your up to date contact details with them. Ask the agents to let you know when any suitable properties come up. This will make it easier for the agents to narrow down your property search so you do not spend months looking at unsuitable properties.

4. Viewing Greek Properties: If you intend booking a holiday in order to view Greek properties, it is important to let the real estate agent know you are going to be arriving at least a couple of weeks in advance. Tell the agent where you will be staying. Take a mobile phone with you that works overseas, so they can contact you if they need to. The agents will be able to arrange viewing of properties for you while you are in Greece, and hopefully, will be able to find several properties in each area you are interested in.

Be Realistic And Open Minded.

Take a realistic look at the types of properties that are available in Greece. Be open minded and consider all of the property option carefully. For instance, it may be worth considering buying a plot of land, rather than a house that already exists. Design and build properties are easy to find and are a very popular choice. Check if the plot already has planning permission. If it doesn’t, planning permits are easily obtained if the land has road frontage, with all services (water, electric etc) nearby. If the land is within the town planning area it should also be buildable. However, you must always check, and get it in writing. If you plan to build any property in Greece yourself it is important to remember that you have to build to Greek and European building and safety regulations. These are very different from UK regulations. All buildings must be built to withstand earthquakes, for example!

What to do next?

When you have found the property you would like to buy, it is advisable to get a survey done. This is a step that is often missed out in Greece. Some areas are prone to flooding, earth tremor damage, or sink holes (A large hole that suddenly appears in the earth when the limestone beneath is eroded away by water). Save yourself a lot of trouble in the future by paying for a good survey. When you have found a good lawyer (who speaks your language, as well as Greek) and a good accountant (to sort out a tax number for you, and some financial details), you are ready to make an offer on a property.

It is normal to pay a deposit of 10 - 20 % of the agreed purchase price. This seals the contact between the seller and buyer. If the seller pulls out (which is unlikely) he must return the money plus the same amount again. If the buyer pulls out the deposit is forfeit. However, if previously unknown problems are revealed the deposit will automatically be return. Property purchase is generally completed in a short period. It can take as little as 48 hour to 2 weeks. However, if the seller has not collected all the necessary documents for the transaction, it can take up to 3 months. You must not pay the full amount until all the documents are in place and your lawyer has made it all legal!!!

Now you can be happy in the knowledge that buying a property in Greece can be made easy. Good luck with the purchase of your Greek property and your new life in Greece. You will soon be sipping wine with the locals. Enjoy your little piece of paradise; after all you've earned it.


--
Claire May is a knowledgeable author of articles regarding property in Greece and Messinia. Her articles aim to Make buying and selling property in Greece easy and helps buyers with their research and assist them through the unfamiliar Greek property purchasing procedures. Claire has also designed a website to provide readers with information about buying property in Greece.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/your-dream-property-in-messinia.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/your-dream-property-in-messinia.html Thu, 26 Feb 2009 06:09:12 -0600 Messinian properties.



It’s not only the British that are showing an interest in Messinian properties. Each year thousands of foreigners are choosing Greece as the destination to purchase property for permanent homes or as second homes for their holidays. These people are mostly Germans and Americans although there are increasing numbers of other foreigners appearing such as Canadians, Russians, Dutch, Czechoslovakians, Austrians, etc. Despite property prices in the Kalamata area rising by 30 per cent last year, foreigners are snapping up property for sales at bargain prices. There are plenty of old stones houses for sale, full of charm and character, needing renovation or maintenance and can be purchased from as little as £95,000 on the Mani peninsular. New homes on the Messinian peninsular start from as little as £175,000 without swimming pool. Most of the foreigners who are looking for a property in Messinia have visited Greece previously as tourist holidaying on the Peloponnese peninsular. A large number of pensioners have settled and brought homes to live in permanently. However, we are increasingly seeing younger couples or those with young families purchasing property, settling down and making a new live for themselves.



According to the Greek National Land Registry, there are over 2,500 foreigners owning holiday homes or property for permanent residents (a total of 3,200 acres) in the coastal Peloponnese prefecture of Laconia. There are also some 1,750 properties and estates in nearby Messinia that are owned by foreigners. There are already many British people with holiday homes on the Mani peninsular, while there are relatively few that have ventured as far as the Messinian peninsular.


--
Claire May is a recognized author of articles about property in Messinia, Greece. Her articles aspire to help buyers with their research and assist them through the unfamiliar Greek property purchasing procedures. Claire has also designed a website to provide readers with information about property in Messinia.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/the-essential-basics-for-buying-property-in-greece.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/the-essential-basics-for-buying-property-in-greece.html Sun, 29 Apr 2007 00:00:00 -0500
However, many foreigners, who wish to buy a property in Greece, find that the Greek real estate market can be a mind-boggling experience. At first the property purchasing process seems to be a very complex one. Approaching the problem of buying a property step by step shows that it is not that impossible.

Below are some of the essential and basic information foreigners should bear in mind when purchasing property in Greece.

1. COST OF PURCHASING PROPERTY IN GREECE: When buying property in Greece add at least 15 per cent of the purchase price for fees and taxes, including a property-transfer tax of 7 to 11 per cent. Lawyers fees 1-2%, other expenses approx 1% for notary fees and land registry. Local municipal tax or community tax is currently calculated at 3% of the property purchase tax and is paid together with the property purchase tax. Annual taxes are payable in Greece on properties owned over the value of 200,000 Euros. The valuation of properties is carried out by the government which provides published values, announced for every type of property.

2. AFM (TAX NUMBERS): All buyers of property in Greece must have a Greek tax roll number (AFM) which is issued by the tax offices. It’s free and issued on the spot. Greeks and EU citizens must show their ID card. Foreigners living in Greece are required to present their passport or another valid document of identification and their residence permit. Greeks and foreigners who permanently reside abroad can also apply for an AFM. They must submit the application to a special tax office located at 18 Lykourgou St, Omonia

3. OPENING A BANK ACCOUNT: All transactions are in Euros. You will need to set up a Greek bank account to pay for your legal advice, transfer money and pay bills. There are foreign exchange brokers that can transfer large amounts to Greece according to the business rate. Payment of utility bills can be set up very easily by direct debit via the bank, and money can be transferred online.

4. THE “PINK SLIP”: The ‘pink slip’ for wire transfers of money from abroad. If the buyer cannot justify the amount of money they have spent, the Greek tax authorities will assign it as unreported income and the buyer will be assessed income tax.

5. HOLIDAY HOMES: A common mistake made by many people is to over estimate rental potential. Do not count on holiday lettings for your property to tourists during the months you are not there. In the last two years there has been a decline in the tourism in most parts of Greece, and income from letting property has declined with it. To let out rooms legally, you must have a license from the Greek Tourism Board. You must also fulfil fire and safety regulations, and you must pay tax on this income. Authorities are having a clamp down on illegal lets, and fines are enormous!

6. INSURANCE: If you intend to use your home only for holidays, insurance can be arranged through your Greek Bank for fire and storm damage. However insurance for theft may only available if you live in your property throughout the year. There are company's in the UK that can offer full insurance (3rd party for example).

7. LAWYERS ('DIKIGOROS'): Get an English-speaking lawyer: Tel 0030 210 369 2333. The British Consul's provide list of recommended lawyers. Beware of buying a property that belongs to more than three family members. And take photocopies of everything. The lawyer conducts the title search at the relevant land registry.

8. A CIVIL ENGINEER ('POLITIKOS MICHANIKOS'); may be hired to review a specific plot and to ensure that boundaries are within the description in a title document. They can also be consulted regarding specific building restrictions in place in your chosen area.

9. PUBLIC NOTARY (SYMVOLEOGRAPHOS): The notary public is independent of either the seller or the purchaser. He draws up the contract for transfer of property and the various terms and conditions contained therein.

10. REAL ESTATE AGENT: The Real Estate Agent's fees are usually paid by the seller and the buyer. The exact amount of commission is a matter between the agent and the client. All expenses for the conclusion of the final contract, including the tax on property transfer will be borne by the buyer. Each party will pay the fees of their legal representative who must be present at the signing of the contract; this is required by Greek Law.



--
property in Messinia.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/property-prices-soar-as-new-championship-golf-course-development-in-messinia-gets-under-way.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/property-prices-soar-as-new-championship-golf-course-development-in-messinia-gets-under-way.html Thu, 23 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0600
The opening of the course at Romanos will be in spring 2008 and is set to be a grand affair with many public personalities and it will also be televised. The construction of the second Phase at Pylos will commence in spring 2008 and the third phase at Rizomilo will begin in spring 2010. Achilles Constantakopoulos, the Managing Director of TEMES has stated that by 2015, Navarino will be Greece’s premier golf destination. There will be seven courses within half-an-hours drive of each other. In fact it will be the largest golf resorts in the whole of the Balkans and Mediterranean.

A large amount of land surrounding Romanos and Pylos has already been brought up by the ship owner who is developing the courses. A total of approximately 1.2 million m2 of land has been acquired from 1,300 individual holders of deeds. As a consequence it is becoming harder to find building plots and houses near the golf courses. Those that are left are commending very high prices.

In the passed year property prices near Romanos and Pylos have increased rapidly and the trend is set to accelerate still further. Government studies have shown that more than 200,000 visitors to Greece annually are potential golf tourists. It seems that many of these golfers are looking for property near the courses and are adding to the frenzy of property hunter that are now flocking to the area.

As property near the courses at Romanos and Pylos grows ever scarcer property hunters are being forced to search further a field than they anticipated. The areas that are benefiting most from increased interest are Methoni, Evagelismos and Finikounda.

The private sector investors have been buying large parcel of land in Messinia and have been building holiday rental units. It is estimated that over the next 3 year the seaside town of Finikounda alone will have accommodation for over 2000 tourists. Tourists will also benefit from a new Thalasso therapy centre (seawater treatments) that will soon be completed.
Evagelismos a beautiful authentic Greek village which centres around its whitewashed church, cafes shaded by trees, a fountain and several shops creating a lively atmosphere. With its beautiful views across the surrounding countryside and of the islands that are scattered along the southern coast line has become a hotspot for people looking for property at affordable prices.

Currently it takes approximately 3.5 hours to drive to the new golf resorts from Athens, but this time will be reduce to under 3 hour when new road are in place. In accordance with the government’s guidelines for the ‘Good Road Plan’ a new motorway is under construction from Tropoli to Kalamata and is nearly completed. Another new major road is planned between Kalamata and Methoni further opening up the area. There is also talk of expanding Kalamata airport although nothing has been confirmed yet. However, demand for flights is already outstripping availability so it is only a matter of time before flights to Kalamata are increased.

Messinia is one of the most beautiful locations in the whole of Greece. This lesser know region is full of cultural history, important archaeological sites and is rich in colourful, traditional towns and villages. It has an abundance of outstanding natural beauty and some of the best beaches in the whole of Greece. It is hardly surprising, therefore, that Messinia has become an area of interest for golf enthusiasts and their families.


For further information about the Messina region of Greece and previous articles about the golf courses follow the link http://Blog.r-and-c-pms.biz



--
Claire May is a recognized author of articles about property in Messinia, Greece. Her articles aspire to help buyers with their research and assist them through the unfamiliar Greek property purchasing procedures. Claire has also designed a website to provide readers with information about property in Messinia.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/buying-property-in-greece--frequently-asked-questions.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/buying-property-in-greece--frequently-asked-questions.html Mon, 06 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0600 property in Greece. This list of questions and answers has been compiled to give you a starting pointing and aims to help you with the necessary research that is involved when buying a property in Greece,

What types of properties are available to buy in Greece?

There are many different types of properties available to buy in Greece: Cottages, villas, village houses, town houses and apartments. There are old properties to renovate or you can buy a plot of land and design and build a new home. There is usually something for everyone’s tastes and budget.

Are foreigners welcome in Greece?

Yes, The Greek people are among the friendliest in Europe. There is now a large number of citizens from all nationalities living in Greece.

Do I have to have my finance in place before my inspection visit?

It’s advisable to have your finance in place before your inspection visit. If you see your dream home you will be able to purchase it without any delays. This way you will not miss out.

I’ve found the house I wish to purchase in Greece – now what happens?

Choose an English-speaking lawyer. The British Consul's provide lists of recommended lawyers. Tel: 0030 210 369 2333.

You can sign a proxy in order that your lawyer can represent you; obtain your tax number (AFM). You need this to complete your purchase; check title deeds and ensure there are no problems; and to sign the contract on your behalf. In this way the property can be signed over to you and it’s not necessary for you to make extra visits. Your lawyer will also deal with the Public Notary on your behalf. The Public Notary is responsible for drawing up your contracts, witnessing the signatures / payments and registering the new ownership of your property. When this process is complete the lawyer will provide you with a copy of the deeds. The original is placed with the land registry department.

All transactions are in Euros. You will need to set up a Greek bank account to pay for your legal advice, transfer money and pay bills. There are foreign exchange brokers that can transfer large amounts to Greece according to the business rate. Payment of utility bills can be set up very easily by direct debit via the bank, and money can be transferred online. The Leki Bank is connected to the HSBC and accounts may be open in the UK.

The ‘PINK SLIP’ for wire transfers of money from abroad. If the buyer cannot justify the amount of money they have spent, the Greek tax authorities will assign it as unreported income and the buyer will be assessed for income tax.

Do I have to pay a deposit?

Yes, it is normal to pay a deposit of 10 / 20 % of the agreed purchase price. This seals the contact between the seller and buyer.

If the seller pulls out (which is unlikely) he must return the money plus the same amount again. If the buyer pulls out the deposit is forfeit. However, if previously known problems are revealed the deposit will automatically be return.

How long does the purchase process take?

Property purchase is generally completed in a short period. It can take as little as 48 hour to 2 weeks. However, if the seller has not collected all the necessary documents for the transaction, it can take up to 3 months.

Will I have to pay tax on the property that I purchase?

Yes. The custom in Greece is to keep down the declared value of the property to reduce legal fees and property taxes. The one time purchase tax (which is the Greek equivalent of our stamp duty) is calculated at between 9% and 11% of the assessed property value for plots of land. For apartments and houses the charge is between 11% and 13%. The Inland Revenue will base their assessment on special tables issued by the Greek Ministry of Finance. The tables help determine the value of the property according to its merits, i.e. location, nature, quality of construction etc. The assessed value will usually amount to around two thirds of the true purchase price.

What other costs can I expect?

Other costs include the following:

Union fees: 1% of the taxable price of the property up to €44,000 and then 0.5% on the remaining taxable property price.

Lawyer’s fees: Lawyers charge between 1% and 2% of the assessed value as recorded on the contract of sale.

Public Notary fees and registration charge: The Notary Public fee is between 1% and 2% of the assessed property value

To the above cost of purchasing your property you should make an allowance for either buying furniture or appliances in Greece or transporting your furniture and household effects from the UK.

Do I have to pay a fee for finding a property?

Yes, commission is usually paid by the seller and the buyer in Greece. Fees and are normally 2% - 5%. After sales services are often available and will also incur an additional charge. Fees are generally fixed in accordance to the services that you require.

If something happens to me will the property automatically go to my next of kin?

Yes it will go to next of kin. Death duties are payable on property up to £100,000. This can be avoided if the property is made a “Parental Gift” to children. If there are no children a will should be made.



Now you can relax and enjoy your new property in Greece, you have earned it!



Please Note
This information is provided in good faith and believed to be correct at the time of writing. However, its accuracy cannot be guaranteed.




--
Claire May is a knowledgeable author of articles regarding property in Greece and Messinia. Her articles aim to help buyers with their research and assist them through the unfamiliar Greek property purchasing procedures. Claire has also designed a website to provide readers with information about property in Messinia.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/buying-property-in-greece.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/real-estate/buying-property-in-greece.html Fri, 20 Oct 2006 00:00:00 -0500 property in Greece. or even just thinking about it you will need a guide to help you though the potential minefield. Whether you dream of a beach villa, village house or an apartment in the town, it is important to avoid the pitfalls of buying a property in Greece in order to make your dreams come true.



The Dream Verses Reality

In your favourite daydream you have decided to leave your present home behind you and settle in another country. You pack your belongings and leave your country behind. You can imagine the little table, chair and parasol on your terrace overlooking the beach. You are watching the sun set peacefully into to azure sea, while drinking a glass of local red wine and eating olives hand picked from your own trees. You are relaxing away from the stresses and strains of your current life and enjoying a life that you so rightly deserve……….

Well, we all have fantasies but, this is the real world and things are simply not always that easy. Are you planning to book a cheap package holiday for a week or two, spend a couple of days looking around, and then buy the perfect little house on the spot? Or have you really thought about what’s involved in purchasing a property in Greece.? Have you done your homework, research and planning? Do you know where you want to live when you reach your dream destination? A little forward planning will help you achieve your goal of living the dream. It’s much better than leaving things to chance.



What do I really want from a property in Greece?

The first question you should ask yourself is exactly why you wish to purchase property in Greece. For example, are you looking for a retirement or holiday home? Do you want a summer, winter or permanent home? Are you seeking a sound investment or do you wish to work or start a business? Probably you will find that there are a number of reasons you wish to buy a property in Greece. If this is the case there are many more factor to take into consideration then just buying a holiday home. Take some time to decide what kind of property you would like to purchase, and then discuss your ideas with your partner and family. If you are at all unsure of what or where to buy, the best decision is usually to rent for a while first.

When buying a property you need to consider where you would like to live. Resorts are lively in the summer, but may be crowded with tourists. However, in the winter they may be completely closed, with nothing in the way of facilities or shops. In the mountains or villages a few kilometres in land you will probably be a part of a friendly village community, but if the village is remote no-one may speak your language, so you will have to learn theirs quickly. Another option is to excel at mime. You can make many friends among the villagers this way and have great fun too.



Financial Considerations

One of the most important aspects of buying a property in Greece and living there is finance, which includes everything from transferring and changing money to mortgages and taxes. If you are investing in property or a business it is important to consider the exchange rate. Take a realistic look. It is easy to imagine that you have more money to spend on your dream property than you actually have. The cost of purchasing a house and costs of repairs can spiral dramatically without you being prepared for it. If you need to borrow money to fund your dream property, be careful where you borrow the money from. Many mortgage companies will not lend money for property overseas. It may seem trivial to mention, but always remember that if you borrow money to buy property, or to rebuild it, you have to pay the money back! This statement is one that should be at the forefront of your mind when you are making your plans. It’s advisable to have your finance in place before your inspection visit. If you see your dream home you will be able to purchase it without any delays. This way you will not miss out.

Do not count on holiday lettings for your property to tourists during the months you are not there. In the last two years there has been a decline in the tourism in most parts of Greece, and income from letting property has declined with it. To let out rooms legally, you must have a license from the Greek Tourism Board. You must also fulfil fire and safety regulations, and you must pay tax on this income. Authorities are having a clamp down on illegal lets, and fines are enormous!

If you are planning to move permanently to Greece, unless you have enough private income for you to live well on, you must consider employment in the place you are going to live. You must ensure that this will be possible before you buy a house. What kind of job can you really expect to do? What are your qualifications and experience? Are they recognised? Do you speak fluent Greek? Unless your Greek is fluent you wont be completing on equal terms with the local workforce (you wont anyway, but that a different issue!). Most Greeks aren’t interested in employing people who do not have a good knowledge of the Greek language unless it deals exclusively with foreigners. Are there any jobs in your profession or trade in the area that you plan to live? Answer to these questions and others can be quite disheartening. However, it is better to ask them before moving to Greece, rather than afterwards.

The Greek equivalent of the English Job Centre is the OAED which has a special department for Europeans seeking work, although you should expect it to be easy to find a job. Unemployment rates in mainland Greece is generally high. It is higher still on the islands. Some islanders can only find work during the summer season, when tourists visit. This means they either have to save enough money when they are working to live on during the winter, or learn to survive on unemployment benefit in the winter months. Unemployment benefit is only paid if they have enough national insurance stamps credited to them over eighteen months. Working one summer season will not earn you enough to be paid benefits. If you are self employed in Greece you are not entitled to benefits at all.



Looking For Your Dream Property

After you have answered all these question and more your will be ready to start looking for a property to suit you and your family. Now do your research. The internet is a helpful tool. Listed below are links to relevant articles and information about property and the prefecture of Messinia which will help with your research.

Take notes about the kind of properties that are available and their location. Also note down any that are just below your price range (just below, because you will need some money to pay for taxes, legal fees, and hidden costs of buying property). Discuss the properties that you have found with your family and friends. Find out about the area to see if it suits your requirements. Study maps and guide book descriptions of each location. When you have established what your requirements are contact the real estate sites you have been looking at. Find out if the online property list is up to date, quite often agents only advertise a small selection of the properties that they have available. Let the agents know your full requirement (be as detailed as possible) and leave your up to date contact details with them. Ask the agents to let you know when any suitable property comes up. This will make it easier for them to narrow down the search so you do not spend months looking at unsuitable properties.

If you intend booking a holiday in order to view properties, it is important to let the real estate agent know you are going to be arriving at least a couple of weeks in advance. Tell the agent where you will be staying. Take a mobile phone with you that works overseas, so they can contact you if they need to. The agents will be able to arrange viewing of properties for you while you are in the country, and hopefully, will be able to find several properties in each area you are interested in.

Be open minded, it may be worth considering purchasing a plot of land, rather than a house that already exists. Design and build properties are easy to find and are a very popular choice. Check if the plot has planning permission. It is often automatic if the land has road frontage, with all services (water, etc) nearby. If the land is within the town planning area it should also be buildable, but always check, and get it in writing. Prefabricated buildings are available in Greece now, they can be built by the manufacturers, or by yourself. If you plan to build any property yourself you it is important to remember that you have to build to Greek and European building and safety regulations. These are very different from UK regulations. All buildings must be built to withstand earthquakes, for example!

When you have found the property you would like to buy, it is advisable to get a survey done. This is a step that is often missed out in Greece. Some areas are prone to flooding, earth tremor damage, or sink holes (A large hole that suddenly appears in the earth when the limestone beneath is eroded away by water). Save yourself a lot of trouble in the future by paying for a good survey. When you have found a good lawyer (who speaks your language, as well as Greek) and a good accountant (to sort out a tax number for you, and some financial details), you are ready to make an offer.

It is normal to pay a deposit of 10 - 20 % of the agreed purchase price. This seals the contact between the seller and buyer. If the seller pulls out (which is unlikely) he must return the money plus the same amount again. If the buyer pulls out the deposit is forfeit. However, if previously known problems are revealed the deposit will automatically be return. Property purchase is generally completed in a short period. It can take as little as 48 hour to 2 weeks. However, if the seller has not collected all the necessary documents for the transaction, it can take up to 3 months. You must not pay the full amount until all the documents are in place and your lawyer has made it all legal!!!



Good Luck with the purchase of your dream property in Greece. Enjoy your little piece of Paradise, you've earned it.



--
Claire May is a recognized author of articles about property in Messinia, Greece. Her articles aspire to help buyers with their research and assist them through the unfamiliar Greek property purchasing procedures. Claire has also designed a website to provide readers with information about property in Messinia.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/a-guide-to-the-pylos-and-the-surrounding-area.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/a-guide-to-the-pylos-and-the-surrounding-area.html Fri, 20 Oct 2006 00:00:00 -0500 Messinia

Messinia lays on the southern part of mainland Greece, now divided from the mainland by the Corinth Canal. The peninsula hosts some of the most important and impressive ancient sites in Greece. It has a warm winter, it’s not too hot in summer and boasts some of the best and cleanest beaches in the whole of Greece. Even in the height of the summer holiday season there are no more than a handful of people to be seen on them.

The mountain landscape of the Messinian Mani is simple stunning and is dominated by Taygetos, one of the largest mountain ranges in the Peloponnese. Whereas the Messinian peninsular has rolling hills and fertile valleys considered to be the market garden and wine centre of Greece.

It is an ideal place to relax and go for walks. Wander off the beaten track into the old hill towns and discover the true beauty of the region. A world apart from the islands, the beautiful and sparsely populated the Peloponnese is a bastion of disappearing Greek village life. The rural villages in this area are beautifully authentic, traditional and spread out. The local villagers are friendly and welcoming, often plying new tourists with gifts of wine and oranges.

The small town of Pylos is on the south western tip of the Peloponnese. It is 50km from Kalamata and 11km from Methoni.

Pylos

The town of Pylos is undoubtedly one of the most attractive coastal towns in Greece. It is built in an amphitheatre on a hill side above the bay of Navarino. In the centre of the port there is a rock with breakwaters know as Marathonisi or Chelonaki. This rock is the historical islet of Sfaktira. Pylos has vivid colours, snow-white two-storey houses with courtyards drenched in flowers. The arcaded streets make you think you've been transported to an island. The main square is situated on the water front. It’s ringed with pastry shops, has two large cannons and is sheltered by enormous, centuries-old plane trees. The Ancient town of Pylos was frequently mentioned in history and Mythology. The present town was built in 1829, according to the plans of French architects of General Maison’s.

The TurkoVenetian fortress, known as Neokastro, dominates the west side of town. One of the most attractive in the Peloponnese, it is called that to distinguish it from the ancient fortress to the southwest, named Paliokastro or Palionavarino. The fortress was built by the Turk in 1573 and restored by the French after the Battle of Navarino. On the southern side of the ramparts its towers reinforce it wall defences. There is a marvellous view of the bay from here. A hexagonal fort forms the inner bastion and chirping crickets have replace the battle cries and roar of firing canons. A museum to the left of the entrance sells gifts and souvenirs.


The Battle of Navarino Bay

Pylos was the site of the battle of Navarino which was not even supposed to be a battle. In fact it was the result of what the British King George IV called a “terrible mistake”. However, it became the turning point in Greece’s War of Independence. The 26 British, French and Russian fleets under the command of Admiral Codrington took up position around Pylos bay on 28 October 18 27 and ‘accidentally’ sank 53 ships of Ibraham Pashas combined Turkish, Egyptian and Tunisian fleets.

Although meant to be a warning for the Turkish ships to leave the bay. At the first sight of the Allied ships canon fire it trigged a response form the Turko-Egyptian fleet. The end result was that those ships lost are still there to this day and can be seen in the clear waters. Thus the Peloponessos was liberated and the Peleponisos became the nation of modern Greece.

The Island of Sfaktira

The medieval fortress of Paliokastro perches on magnificent cliffs on the north side of the island. An underground passage connect it the Nestor’s cave where the King of Pylos is supposed to have shelter his cattle. At the foot of the fortress there is a funeral monument in the memory of the 540 French sailors who lost there lives in the battle of Navarone.

Gialova and Voidakilia

Gialova is a small village surrounded by fruit and olive trees and has several good beaches, including Golden bay and Voidakilia. However, voidakilia is one of the most spectacular in the whole of Greece. The bay of Voidokilia with its sandy beach extends from the base of the old fortress. A dirt road leads to Gialova lagoon one of the most important ecosystems in Greece. This wide expanse of water is home to over 250 species of birds. The dense vegetation provides cover for chameleons and logger-head turtle, while many species of fish thrive in the safe waters. It is a favourite place for birds migrating from the north to frolic in the reeds.

Nestors Palace

The Mycenean Palace of Nestor, one of the best preserved of all Mycenean palaces. It stands on a hill top amid a sea of olive trees. It was one the palaces of a hero from the Trojan Wars. There are a group of 3 buildings surrounded by high walls which was built in the 13th century BC. The main building originally had two floors, residential quarters and store rooms. Older building stood to the southeast and to the northeast lays the ruins of a complex of workshops and more storerooms. Many of the frescos and artefacts found here, including pottery, jewellery, various bronze and ivory objects are now in the archaeological museum in nearby Chora.

For further information about Messina follow the link http://Blog.r-and-c-pms.biz
R & C Property Management Services blog provides a wide range of information regarding property and the Messinia Prefecture of Greece. It aims to help buyers though the minefield of purchasing property in Greece by giving general advice, information and tips on buying property as a home or for investment. For new home owners there are introductions to services, professionals and trades people in the Messinia region. There is also plenty of information about holiday rentals for owners and renters. It also service as a guide to the local area of Messinia providing information for sightseeing. To help other people with an interest in Messinia we invite you to leave your advice, comment and experiences of the region.
http://r-and-c-pms.biz.html


--
Claire May is the owner of R & C Property Management Services which offers full property management and real estate services including; building maintenance and renovations. We can care for your holiday home and for your holiday guests. Or simply find you a property to rent for your holiday. For more details about our services look at our website. http://r-and-c-pms.biz.html

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/methoni-and-finikounda.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/methoni-and-finikounda.html Fri, 20 Oct 2006 00:00:00 -0500 Messinia

Messinia lays on the southern part of mainland Greece, now divided from the mainland by the Corinth Canal. The peninsula hosts some of the most important and impressive ancient sites in Greece. It has a warm winter, it’s not too hot in summer and boasts some of the best and cleanest beaches in the whole of Greece. Even in the height of the summer holiday season there are no more than a handful of people to be seen on them.

The mountain landscape of the Messinian Mani is simple stunning and is dominated by Taygetos, one of the largest mountain ranges in the Peloponnese. Whereas the Messinian peninsular has rolling hills and fertile valleys. It is considered to be the market garden and wine centre of Greece.

Messinia is an ideal place to relax and go for walks. Wander off the beaten track into the old hill towns and discover the true beauty of the region. A world apart from the islands, the beautiful and sparsely populated, the Peloponnese is a bastion of disappearing Greek village life. The rural villages in this area are beautifully authentic, traditional and spread out. The local villagers are friendly and welcoming, often plying newcomers with gifts of wine and oranges. The small town of Methoni is on the south western tip of the Peloponnese. It is 60km from Kalamata 11km from Pylos. The neighbouring town of Finikounda lays 68km south-west of Kalamata, 12km from Methoni and has 626 inhabitants.



Methoni

Methoni is dominated by its impressive fortress which stretches out into the sea and is separated from the town by a wide (and now dry) moat. Methoni fortress joins those in Crete and Cyprus as a stepping stone on the pilgrim route to the holy land. Methoni was also an important commercial port throughout the Middle Ages.


Homer called Methoni "rich in vines" and tradition maintains that the town is so called because the donkeys (oni) carrying its wine used to get drunk (metho) from the heavy aroma. Homer also mentioned that Methoni was one of the seven cities that Agamemnon offered Achilles in order to alleviate his anger.

The pretty town of Methoni is built in an amphitheatre. Its pleasant old houses with their wrought-iron balconies shelter behind the fortress. The cobble streets and alleyways meander down the hillside into the flower clad square by the beach. There are numerous shady courtyards fully of hibiscuses, roses, geraniums and grape vines. Methoni has a delightfully lazy Greek atmosphere.


Methoni beach lies below the fortress and is well known for its magnificent, uncrowded, long stretch of sand and shallow sea. It was awarded a blue flag in 2001 and is ideal for families. In season there is a good selection of traditional Greek tavernas, restaurants, bars, banks and supermarkets.

The Fortress of Methoni

The fortress is the best preserved in the entire Mediterranean. As you enter the fortress there is a coat-of-arms and inscription on the wall that represents the lion of Saint Mark. Evidence of past visitors includes the remnants of a Venetian cathedral and a Turkish bath. Also inside the fortress is an entire medieval town. There are some enormous Venetian wells whose marble rims have been furrowed by the pressure of huge ropes over the centuries. Out side the fortress the Venetians dug a ditch and built a wooden bridge which was later replaced by a stone one with 14 arches. You can literally spend hours wandering around.

The site was fortified as early as the 7th century B.C., and in the period between 395 A.D. and 1204 A.D. was used as a Byzantine fortress. The area was dominated by the Franks for a very short period and in 1206 was captured by the Venetians who strengthened the fortification, incorporating the pre-Christian defensive structures. In 1500 Methoni was captured by the Turk Bayazit Pasha, again came under Venetian occupation from 1685 until 1715, and was for a second time dominated by the Turks who kept it under their control until 1829, when it was liberated by the French general Maison, along with other towns of the Peloponnese.

For many years the buildings of the fortress have been restored by the Archaeological Service. The most important monuments of the site are:

 The fortress and remains of a secular, religious buildings inside the fortified area.
 The Byzantine church of Aghia Sophia (Holy Wisdom).
 The remains of Turkish Baths.
 The ruins of a house which was used as the residence of Ibrahim Pasha in 1826, and of General Maison after the liberation.
 The church of the Metamorphosis (Transfiguration). A single-aisled church built in 1833 by the French liberation army.
 The remains of structures from the Second World War. The Cisterns and remains of the cemetery of the British prisoners.
 "Bourtzi" . A fortified islet at the south end of the fortress, occupied by an octagonal tower with isodomic wall masonry


Finikounda

Finikounda is the “Finkous Limin” that was mention by Pausanias. Ancient ruins can still be seen scattered around the areas of Analipsi and Anemomilos.

Finikounda is one of the most picturesque fishing villages in Greece. It is located in a beautiful sheltered bay built almost at the point where the wave lap at the shore. It nestles in a lee anchorage opposite the Islet of Shciza. Caiques and fishing boats moor in the shelter of its harbour and anchor all along its sandy shore. The seafront is lined with tavernas serving their freshly caught fish.

Finikounda is famed for its excellent sea and the town has a golden sandy beach with shallow azure waters ideal for swimming. To the east just beyond the rocky jetty is Paradise beach. Anemomios beach to the west of Finikounda is another popular beach with a broad stretch of golden sand and is back by wild sandunes. There are many other excellent beach nearby to explore.

Every Year the Municipal beaches are awarded the European Blue Flag. Finikounda also offers water sport such as wind surfing and sailing in the summer season.


The Inousses Islands

This group of 4 islands is scattered along the coastline and has been included in the Natura 2000 programme. These islands include; Sapienza, Agia, Marina, and Schia. The islands are inhabited by pheasants, partridges, wild goat, sheep, and are supervised by rangers.

South west of the island of Sapienza there is and abyss called the well of Inousses which is the deepest point of the Mederterian with a depth of 5,121. Scientists of the Nestor Project are currently carrying out research. The results are providing signification information about past and future of the universe.

A sunken settlement has been discover on the bottom of the ocean between the island of Sapienza and Methoni. It has prove to be of great archaeological importance. There are also an abundance of shipwrecks from all ages shattered across the seabed making it excellent for driving. Boat trips around these islands can be taken daily.

Evagelismos

The old main road climbs gently up the rolling green hills. There are stunning views of the coastline below. Half way between Methoni and Finikounda the road brings you to the village of Evagelismos, one of the largest villages in the area. Evagelismos is an authentic Greek village with narrow streets, shops, cafes, and brightly painted houses with courtyards full of colourful flowers. In the mornings the village has a lively atmosphere. The locals busy themselves with daily chores or sit in one of the cafes and watch the world go by. After the peace and quiet of siesta time the village once again awakes.

Other Villages Near Methoni

There several other colourful, traditional villages to explore in the municipal of Methoni including Kamaria, Varakes, Kenourgio, Horio, Finiki and Lahanada. They are to be found clustered among the green hills and each has a character of their own.

Methoni and Finikounda conjure up romantic images and are the stuff that dreams are made of. Visitors will fall in love with this area taking away many treasured memories and will want to return again and again.

For further information about the Messini region follow the link below:

http://Blog.r-and-c-pms.biz

About Our Company

R & C Property Management Services blog provides a wide range of information regarding property and the Messinia Prefecture of Greece. It aims to help buyers though the minefield of purchasing property in Greece by giving general advice, information and tips on buying property as a home or for investment. For new home owners there are introductions to services, professionals and trades people in the Messinia region. There is also plenty of information about holiday rentals for owners and renters. It also service as a guide to the local area of Messinia providing information for sightseeing. To help other people with an interest in Messinia we invite you to leave your advice, comment and experiences of the region. r-and-c-pms.biz/


--
Claire May is the owner of R & C Property Management Services which offers full property management and real estate services including; building maintenance and renovations. We can care for your holiday home and for your holiday guests. Or simply find you a property to rent for your holiday. For more details about our services look at our website. http://r-and-c-pms.biz.html

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/holiday-destinations-the-city-of-kalamata-messinia-greece.html http://www.articletrader.com/travel/destinations/holiday-destinations-the-city-of-kalamata-messinia-greece.html Fri, 20 Oct 2006 00:00:00 -0500 The Prefecture of Messinia

Messinia lays on the southern part of mainland Greece, now divided from the mainland by the Corinth Canal. The peninsula hosts some of the most important and impressive ancient sites in Greece. It has a warm winter, it’s not too hot in summer and boasts some of the best and cleanest beaches in the whole of Greece. Even in the height of the summer holiday season there are no more than a handful of people to be seen on them.

The mountain landscape of the Messinian Mani is simple stunning and is dominated by Taygetos, one of the largest mountain ranges in the Peloponnese. Whereas the Messinian peninsular has rolling hills and fertile valleys considered to be the market garden and wine centre of Greece.

Messinia is an ideal place to relax and go for walks. Wander off the beaten track into the old hill towns and discover the true beauty of the region. A world apart from the islands, the beautiful and sparsely populated the Peloponnese is a bastion of disappearing Greek village life. The rural villages in this area are beautifully authentic, traditional and spread out. The local villagers are friendly and welcoming, often plying new tourists with gifts of wine and oranges.

The City of Kalamata

Kalamata is positioned at the head of the crystal clear Messinian Bay, between the Mani and Messini peninsulas and Sparta to the north. This makes Kalamata an ideal base from which to explore the beauty of the surrounding areas. The capital and chief port of Messinia, Kalamata is the land of the Kalamatianos dance and the silk kerchief. Of succulent black olives, honeyed figs and the sesame-covered sweet called pastelli, which can all be sampled at the immense new market near the bus station. Kalamata market is a collection of meats, cheese, and fruit shops as well as a daily farmers market

Kalamata has three districts; the seafront, the residential quarter with its strict grid plan and the old town with its wandering narrow streets. The seafront has all the attributes of a resort: hotels, cafes restaurants, ice cream parlours and bars, but it is fairly low key compared to other towns. The beach is clean and the water is clear and safe for swimming in. Another lovely attraction is the train park at the end of Aristomemous street. It has shady trees, cafes, a performance area, a duck pound, and ice cream parlour in the converted station. Antique trains are displayed on the tracks. Just off the water front is the Kalamata School of Fine Arts which exhibits the work of Greek Artists. The residential quarter was rebuilt after the 1986 earthquake that killed 20 people and left 12,000 homeless

The charming old town is dominated by the 13th century Frankish fortress built by Geoffrey de Villehardouin which rises above Kalamata. On the north side of the citadel there is a small Byzantine church, dedicated to the Virgin of Kalomata (of the good eye), from which the town may have acquired its name.

From the fortress you can survey the expanse of sea below with its sandy and pebbly shores or turn your gaze upon the deep green plain, the "happy land" of the ancients.

The old city with its busy streets and shops reaches out underneath the fortress. Here you will find the Byzantine church of the Virgin Ypapanti and the convent of the Kalograies, where the nuns are famous for weaving and embroidering the Kalamata silks.

There are many churches in town, the oldest being the historic church of Agii Apostoli (13th c.), where the Greek Revolution against the Turks was formally declared on March 23, 1821. And the Benaki Museum displays the archaeological remains from the War of Independence. It also presents a small collection of folklore and fine art exhibits and a library containing 60.000 volumes.

Every summer cultural events like concerts featuring jazz, rock and classical Greek plays put on by the Kalamata theatre are held in the amphitheatre of the fortress. In the evening, the town comes alive, especially along the waterfront which is lined with tavernas, seafood restaurants and rotisseries serving local dishes and drinks, fresh fish, roast suckling pig and chicken, sausages, cheese, olives, retsina and ralki.

Other Useful Information

 Tourist office in Southern Peloponnese 9699500
 Main language/s Greek
 To dial from Southern Peloponnese call 00
 To call to Southern Peloponnese dial 30
 Emergency phone number/s
 British Embassy: (1) 723 6211 Police: 100 Fire: 199 Tourist Police: 171 Auto road assistance - ELPA: 104 Auto road assistance – Express, hospital 0721-85203/25555
 Lost travellers cheques: Thomas Cook: 00-800-4412-8366
 Lost credit cards: Mastercard freephone number: 00-800-11-887-0303 VISA: call collect 24 hours a day 410 581 9994
 Electricity supply 220V, 50Hz
Food: There's a predictably wide choice of seafood and the ouzo is cheap and very good.

Nightlife: The nightlife in Peloponnese resorts tends to be low key and centered around a few bars and clubs, though some tavernas have live music. The emphasis in this area is concentrated on good company and wine.

Shopping: Local arts and crafts, wine and clothes are good buys.

Days out: Hire a boat for a trip around the Messinian Gulf, or rent a car and travel around the Messinia peninsular
Events: Arrange to watch a show at the internationally acclaimed Kalamata Dance Festival, held every summer at the Kalamata Castle, above the town. Check local tourist information. Or for further information call (UK) +44 (020) 7734 5997.

Travel Information

How to get to Messinia

Kalamata airport is served by charter flights from the UK, currently on Sundays, from Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, Newcastle and East Midlands. Alternatively you can fly to Athens and take an air-conditioned coach to Kalamata (four hours).

The drive from the south of England to here takes about four days with ferry from Ancona to Patras being the easiest. A great drive!

Travel Suggestions

There are many different website and discount travel companies who offer cheap charter flights. You can simply type “charter flights to Kalamata” into a search engine on the website or try some of the sites or companies listed below. The charter flights run from beginning of May to mid October and go from Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, Newcastle and East Midlands.

Scheduled flights to Athens go mainly from Heathrow, Gatwick and Luton although there are flights from many regional airports (mainly with British Airways). You can book online at their website www.ba.com and they often have competitive fares. www.easyjet.com is also often very competitive with fares from Luton and Gatwick. Olympic airlines are also very good and you can book direct with them at ww.olympicairlines.com

To give you an idea of cost for travel midsummer, a return charter flight from Gatwick to Kalamata averages £230. A return flight on Easyjet to Athens is around £140. A scheduled return flight to Athens on British Airways averages £170. Prices do vary, dependent on how much in advance you book and the time of year you travel. Bargains are often available!

Buses: Buses from Athens to Kalamata run every hour in the mornings and every 2 hours in the afternoon, costing approx. €15 one way.

Car Hire: It is possible to book car hire in advance which may be collected at either Kalamata airport or Athens airport.

Taxis: There are always numerous taxis waiting at Kalamata airport and Athens airport to take you to your holiday accommodation. Taxis from Athens cost approx. €70 from Athens to Kalamata (although you may have to share with other people.

Train: The train station is at the west end of town, between the fortress and the waterfront. Five trains a day to Athens. Three a day to Patra. 0721-23904

Companies to try for competitive priced flights:

www.flycheapuk.com
www.go-nowtravel.com
www.wecanbookit.com
www.greektourismtravel.co.uk
www.mytravellite.com
www.lastminute.com
www.cheapflights.co.uk
www.charterflights.co.uk
www.skydeals.co.uk (tel: 0800 298 0912)
Argo Holidays 0870 0667070

The Greek National Tourism Organisation has a website with useful information: www.gnto.gr

For further information about Messina follow the link http://Blog.r-and-c-pms.biz

About Our Company

R & C Property Management Services can help you look for the prefect holiday rental accommodation for your dream holiday in Messinia, Greece. We have a selection of holiday rentals in the Kalamata area. To view our website for further information click the following link. http://r-and-c-pms.biz/


--
Claire May is the owner of R & C Property Management Services which offers full property management and real estate services including; building maintenance and renovations. We can care for your holiday home and for your holiday guests. Or simply find you a property to rent for your holiday. For more details about our services look at our website. http://r-and-c-pms.biz.html

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]>